A historic moment unfolded on Saturday, November 15, 2025, as residents and supporters gathered atop Buffalo Hill to break ground on the Roy Caldwood Buffalo Soldier Heritage Museum. Photo: Provided

103-year-old Buffalo Soldier Roy J. Caldwood speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony on Jost van Dyke on November 15, 2025. Photo: Provided

Roy J. Caldwood’s daughter, Diane Royer, right, shared the broader vision for the Roy Caldwood Buffalo Soldier Heritage Museum. Photo: Provided

Second District Representative Hon Melvin M. Turnbull speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Roy Caldwood Buffalo Soldier Heritage Museum on Jost van Dyke on November 15, 2025. Photo: Provided

Second District Representative Hon Melvin M. Turnbull described the ceremony as a defining milestone for the District, commending Caldwood as a man whose generosity and love for his birthplace has made an impact. While a portion of the museum will highlight Caldwood’s extraordinary journey, Hon Turnbull said that he is also happy that the achievements and resilience of the wider Jost van Dyke community will also be displayed.

“Roy loves Jost van Dyke, and I am pleased to be the Representative of this District to celebrate a man who is 103 but acts like he is 46. I commend Roy and his family for this initiative,” Hon Turnbull shared.

Fulfillment of a dream

Shelley Chinnery-Antoine of the Jost van Dyke Advancement Team (JVDAT) reflected on the project as the fulfillment of a dream long held by Mr Caldwood, who was instrumental in establishing JVDAT itself—a further testament to his legacy of community-building.

The Miss World BVI Committee, a partner in the project, also highlighted the museum’s potential to inspire Virgin Islanders, strengthen cultural pride, and deepen the island’s historical foundation.

For many attendees, the groundbreaking marked the culmination of decades of anticipation. Terrence and Christopher Royer, Mr Caldwood’s grandsons, recalled visiting the property as children with their grandparents, who often spoke of its future potential. Seeing Buffalo Hill finally prepared for development, and the unveiling of the sign; Christopher said, was profoundly meaningful. Their sister, Racquel Royer, expressed confidence that the museum will showcase the outstanding achievements of Jost van Dyke descendants past and present, bringing well-deserved recognition to the Territory.

The most emotional moment of the day arrived when Roy J. Caldwood addressed the gathering. In a brief but heartfelt message, he said, “I thank you all. I never thought I would see this day.”

A landmark for generations

Caldwood’s daughter, Diane Royer, shared the broader vision for the museum. She mentioned that three architects will collaborate on the design to ensure a historic, quaint, and culturally resonant structure that will stand as a landmark for generations. Plans are also in motion to form the Roy Caldwood Buffalo Soldier Heritage Museum Foundation, which will manage donations, oversee project development, and work alongside experienced museum curators including Dr Angel Smith and international partners affiliated with the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. These collaborations will help shape the exhibits, replicas, and educational features once the project budget is finalised.

The museum will also highlight other notable figures from Jost van Dyke, including Private Samuel Hodge VC of the 4th West India Regiment—the first Black soldier ever awarded the Victoria Cross for his extraordinary bravery during the 1866 capture of Tubabacollon in the Gambia River.

Once completed, the Roy Caldwood Buffalo Soldier Heritage Museum will serve not only as a cultural landmark and source of community pride but also as a significant addition to the island’s tourism landscape. Most importantly, it will ensure that the heritage, accomplishments, and stories of the people of Jost van Dyke continue to be remembered, celebrated, and shared with the world for generations to come.