The Government recognizes the legacy of the Werleman family and their contribution to Aruba’s culture and community
Prime Minister Mike Eman officially placed the protected monument shield on a typical Aruban house at Alto Vista 12. With this act, the house officially becomes part of Aruba’s historical heritage and will be preserved for future generations.
The ceremony brought together various members of the Werleman family, representing several generations who grew up, lived, and formed part of the house’s history. During his speech, Prime Minister Eman highlighted that the recognition is not only for the building, but also for the human, cultural, and community legacy that the house represents.
More Than a House
According to Prime Minister Eman, the house at Alto Vista 12 symbolizes important values such as perseverance, determination, a sense of family, and commitment to the community. Eman emphasized that, along with the house, Aruba also preserves the history of a family that has left a profound mark on the community. Special attention was also dedicated to Antonio “Toni” Werleman and his wife, who during their lives contributed significantly to the culture, music, and social development of Aruba.
According to the Prime Minister, Toni Werleman was known as a person always willing to help others, with a positive attitude and a constant dedication to making Aruba a better place. His love for his family, his community, and his country means that many people still remember him today with appreciation and respect.
A Legacy in Culture and Community
During the ceremony, the important role that Toni Werleman played in promoting Aruban music and preserving cultural identity was also highlighted. His leadership, commitment, and love for his community left an impact that is still felt to this day.
For the Prime Minister, the history of the Werleman family is an example of how through effort, hard work, and dedication, a humble family can contribute significantly to the progress of a community and the country. The legacy passed down from generation to generation forms part of the history of Alto Vista and of Aruba itself.
Shared Responsibility
With the placement of the official shield, the house receives a special recognition as a protected monument. This recognition comes with a shared responsibility to conserve, care for, and preserve this heritage for the future.
The Government expressed its gratitude to the Monumentenbureau Aruba (Aruba Monuments Bureau), the Werleman family, and everyone who contributed to making the official protection of the house possible.
More Monuments for Aruba
The installation of the shield at Alto Vista 12 is part of a broader effort to strengthen the protection of Aruba’s historical heritage. During the same afternoon, Prime Minister Mike Eman also placed a protected monument shield on another historical house at Alto Vista 69.
Last week, the official shield was installed on Kapel Emanuel (Emanuel Chapel) in San Nicolas, which recently received protected monument status. These actions are part of an ongoing program to identify, recognize, and preserve buildings and locations that hold special value for the history, culture, and identity of Aruba.
More houses, buildings, and other heritages of historical importance will receive this recognition in the future. In this way, the Government, driven by Prime Minister Mike Eman, continues to work to conserve the cultural heritage of our people and to ensure that the history of our island remains preserved for coming generations. The house at Alto Vista 12 will continue to tell the story of a family, a neighborhood, and Aruba itself, serving as a symbol of the values, perseverance, and commitment that helped shape our country.
