Turning history into 21st Century gold
The cannons that disappeared from Panama’ historic fortresses at San Lorenzo and Portobelo have been recovered … in a container destined for South Korea.
A symbolic gift for a country that has been developing close relations with Panama, particularly in the contentious area of mining? Certainly not much use against the nuclear armed northern neighbor.
Whatever the reason, the theft of the ancient weapons might just be the wakeup call that Panama needs to start preserving and utilizing its historic heritage. But don’t hold your breath. Preservation as seen through the eyeglass of most politicians ranks somewhere behind education, and with Panama’s world ranking in that field at ground level, Henry Ford’s famous statement “History is bunk” has the ring of truth for legislators. Of course Henry (1863- 1947) is himself, history.
In my previous report on the missing cannons I suggested that the fortresses could prove an opportunity for creating jobs, awakening interest in the colorful history of the Isthmus and … attracting tourists.
Here are some ideas that might start warming the pot, even if it doesn’t reach boiling point.
Dig out some old plans of the gun carriages used to mount the Spanish cannons, and begin building them while another team works on refurbishing the guns, and finding or remaking some of the balls they once fired … a starting point for a local hands on industry.
At the same time, under archeological supervision, repair the embrasures for the cannons so, when mounted, they can point out to the sea, instead of to the skies. Work could begin on refurbishing the ammunition storage sites, and soldiers’ accommodations, so that in time visitors can get a glimpse of what life was like for the men who fought Drake and his successors. A revitalized Custom House with working representation of how bullion was received, registered and shipped on to Spain or (via the pirateers) to other treasuries.
Meanwhile a recruiting campaign to create a “defending army” in period costume, to man the fortresses, guide the tourists and play their role in sol et lumiere re-enactments of night battles with marauding vessels, who would return fire from platforms moored in the bay.
Dreaming? It’s the sort of event that could attract big tourist dollars to Colon, and get the attention of entrepreneurs willing to build hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops. It’s been done in Europe, the US and Canada. Maybe it’s Panama’s time.
It’s not an overnight project and needs a dedicated believer to draw up a master plan and start to implement it.
Attempts to reach a previous tourism manager, got me as far as a secretary who handed me
travel brochures.
The idea’s on the table, feel free to pass it on.
