The St. Eustatius Center for Archaeological Research (SECAR) foundation was established in 2004 to provide a permanent archaeological presence on St. Eustatius with the goal of protecting and developing the historical resources located on the island in full cooperation with local residents. This is achieved through the combined efforts of both staff and volunteers. The organization consists of two archaeologists and a board of six members. Our main office is located on Road to English Quarter. Here, we are able to house students and volunteers for our field schools, process finds, store equipment, and write our reports. Anyone who is interested in the archaeology and in the history of the Caribbean’s ‘Historic Gem’ can visit us; we are always happy to introduce people to the fascinating past of our beautiful island.

Our Goals:

1. To educate the local, national and international public regarding the prehistoric and historic archaeological history of St. Eustatius and the Caribbean;
2. To develop innovative technologies and methods to improve underwater and terrestrial archaeological site recording and identification, and artifact recording and identification;
3. To protect underwater and terrestrial cultural heritage resources;
4. To enhance the interpretation of underwater and terrestrial cultural heritage resources;
5. To assist local, national and international governments as well as non-governmental organizations, academic institutions and the public in obtaining underwater and terrestrial cultural heritage resource protection goals;
6. To assist local, national and international governments as well as non-governmental organizations, academic institutions and the public in developing underwater and terrestrial cultural heritage tourism goals;
7. To assist local, national and international governments as well as non-governmental organizations, academic institutions and the public in fulfilling local, national and international legislation and treaty obligations regarding cultural heritage resources wherever they may be found.