Address: | Weststraat 15 |
Year Built: | 1860 |
Open to Public: | Yes |
Ownership: | Monuments Fund Aruba |
The Yellow House * 1860
Category: Oranjestad
This monument is not in its original location. It was moved to Weststraat from Caya Betico Croes, formerly known as Nassaustraat, Oranjestad’s main shopping street.
It was originally constructed by a Frenchman in 1860 and it underwent a significant transformation in 1908, as indicated by the year inscribed above the central entrance. This transformation took place following its acquisition by Richard John Eman. One of his daughters married banker Gerard Eman, the founder of the John G. Eman bank, which became the Aruba Bank. The John G. Eman Bank building was constructed next to the aforementioned town-country house.
In 1998, disturbing news emerged that Aruba Bank, located in the Caya Betico Croes, intended to demolish this house. This was a disheartening development for both the Monuments Office and the Monuments Fund, as this building represented one of the last remaining town-country houses on Oranjestad’s main shopping street. Most of the historic buildings there had already been replaced by modern structures.
At the time, potential monuments were not yet protected by law.
To save the building, the monument boards decided to relocate the property, ultimately choosing a site on Weststraat. This involved relocating portions of the house.
The walls, made of natural stone, were cut into sections, packed in wooden crates and thus moved to their new location. Other parts were replaced.
The project commenced in 2000, and was concluded December, 2001. It is the first and – so far – the only monument ever moved on Aruba.
It was opened with the Numismatic Museum occupying this unique monument. When that had to close, other businesses have moved in as tenants, like Patio 15 Restaurant.
Currently, The Yellow House is occupied by The Moonshine Daiquiri & Paint Co.