Wallblake House: A Glimpse into Anguilla's Past

Wallblake House, nestled in The Valley, Anguilla, is a significant historical landmark offering a window into the island's past. Constructed in 1787 by William Blake, a sugar planter, it is considered the oldest structure on the island. The name 'Wallblake' is believed to be a distortion of William Blake's name.The house witnessed the French invasion in 1796, during which a crippled Anguillian, Hodge, was executed by French soldiers after seeking shelter in its cellar. The property was subsequently gutted. However, it was rebuilt and later fully restored in 2004. The restoration project cost EC$250,000 (approximately US$92,000) and was supported by the Catholic Church, local enthusiasts, and NGOs.Today, Wallblake House serves as a museum annex, displaying artifacts that reflect traditional Anguillian furniture, lifestyles, and customs. Visitors can explore glimpses of industries such as cotton cultivation, salt production, garment-making, and decoration. The site includes the main building, kitchen complex, stables, and slave quarters. The house is set behind a white picket fence and is owned by the Catholic Church. Tours can be arranged to explore this unique heritage site.