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What to Do in Stanley
The Cemetery
The inscriptions on some of the tombstones are a remarkable record of the
spirit and courage of the early settlers. Immediately to the north of the
cemetery is the Cross of Sacrifice, commemorating Falkland Islanders and
others who gave their lives in two world wars.
Jubilee Villas
These were built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee.
They are typical examples of British terraced town houses of that era,
making a curious contrast to the rest of Stanley's architecture.
Christ Church Cathedral
The foundation stone of the world's most southerly cathedral was laid in
1890 and the building consecrated two years later, although lack of funds
prevented completion of the tower until 1903.
Whalebone Arch
Adjacent to the cathedral is the Whalebone Arch, constructed in 1933 from
the jawbones of two blue whales to commemorate the centenary of continuous
British administration in the Islands.
Victory Green
Created to commemorate the First World War. On the Queen's birthday a
twenty one gun salute is fired and the Union flag and Royal Standard are
flown. The mizzen mast from the SS Great Britain is positioned on the
Green.
St. Mary's Catholic Church
This attractive example of a Victorian kit building, typical of many
colonial structures, was erected in 1899.
The Tabernacle, or United Free Church
This is another interesting example of a Victorian kit building erected in
1892.
Colonists' Cottages
The 150 year-old colonists' cottages, sent out from Britain as
pre-fabricated "kit" houses for pioneer families, can be seen on
Pioneer Row and Drury Street. They include Cartmell Cottage owned by the
Museum and National Trust, entry to which is included in the Museum
admission charge.
1982 Memorial
Designed by a Falkland Islander, the memorial was built as a tribute to
the British forces and civilians who lost their lives during the 1982
Falklands conflict. Each year a ceremony is held here on June 14 -
Liberation Day - a time of mixed emotions and great pride. Behind this
memorial is the Secretariat, the main government administration building.
Adjacent to this is the blue-roofed hospital and across the playing field,
the imposing building of the Community School.
Government House
Built in the 1840s to a design by Governor Moody, the house has been added
to by successive Governors over the years, resulting in a rambling, but
elegant residence.
Battle Memorial
This memorial on the headland west of Government House commemorates the
Naval action between the British and German fleets at the Falkland Islands
on December 8, 1914.
The Falkland Islands Museum
Wide-ranging displays tell the story of a community which began with a
cattle industry before the late 19th century development of sheep farming.
It also shows how the community was caught up in two world wars and later
in the dramatic conflict of 1982. Displays include a Victorian kitchen and
a 1930s community store, plus displays of Falklands wildlife in the
Natural History Room which is constantly dveloping under the expert eye of
the museum's resident taxidermist. It is a charming and informal museum
full of fascinating artefacts that paint a vivid picture of the way of
life in a pioneering community.
Debbie Summers
Tourism Development Manager
Sulivan Shipping Services Limited
Published in the Penguin News Visitor's Guide 2005/6 sponsored by the
Falkland Islands Tourist Board
www.penguin-news.com www.tourism.org.fk
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