November 9, 2026
A Royal Visit to Mark the Restoration of Government House in Antigua
The Harrison Foundation was part of an historic occasion as Their Majesties The King and Queen visited the newly restored Government House in Antigua and Barbuda during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) this month.
Sir David Harrison, founder of the Harrison Foundation, and trustee Daniel Harrison MBE were among the team welcoming Their Majesties to the historic building, where they were able to see the results of the extensive restoration project and visit the new Government House Museum.
The visit was a proud moment for everyone involved in bringing Government House back to life, recognising the importance of preserving Antigua and Barbuda’s heritage and creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
The Harrison Foundation was the principal funder of the restoration, but Sir David’s involvement went considerably further than financial support. As a member of the Board overseeing the entire project, he played an active role in guiding its development and helping to ensure that the ambitious plans became a reality.
Government House had suffered significant deterioration over the years, and its restoration represented an important opportunity to protect one of the country’s most significant historic buildings. Working alongside the Heritage Trust Antigua and Barbuda and the wider project team, the restoration has transformed the property into a renewed national landmark, retaining its important role as the Governor-General’s official residence while opening up new opportunities for public engagement with the country’s history.
During their visit, Their Majesties were welcomed by His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Lady Williams, alongside representatives of the organisations and individuals involved in the project.
The museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore the history of Antigua and Barbuda, bringing together stories, artefacts and exhibitions that celebrate the people, events and influences that have shaped the nation.
Sir David said seeing the completed restoration and welcoming Their Majesties was a particularly meaningful occasion.
“Being involved in Government House has been a very special experience. From the outset, I believed this was about much more than restoring an historic building. It was about protecting an important part of Antigua and Barbuda’s identity and ensuring that future generations could enjoy, learn from and take pride in this remarkable place. Having served on the Board overseeing the project, it has been incredibly rewarding to see the vision become reality, and to share the results with Their Majesties was a truly proud moment.”
Harrison Foundation trustee, Daniel Harrison, MBE added: “It was wonderful to welcome Their Majesties and see them experience the building and the new museum for themselves. The restored Government House and museum will benefit the community for many years, preserving the country’s heritage while providing an educational and cultural resource for young people and visitors. These are exactly the projects that the Harrison Foundation is proud to support”
The Harrison Foundation’s support for Government House reflects its wider commitment to projects that create meaningful and lasting opportunities. Alongside protecting an important piece of Antigua and Barbuda’s architectural and cultural heritage, the restoration has helped develop local skills, support employment and create opportunities for knowledge transfer in specialist restoration and conservation.
Government House now stands as a renewed symbol of Antigua and Barbuda’s history and identity, with a future that will benefit generations to come.