Preserving Our Cultural Heritage
Welcome to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Indigenous People Association (SIPA)
Championing Indigenous Culture, Community, and Progress
SIPA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, particularly in the communities north of the Rabbaca Dry River. We are here to celebrate traditions, empower communities, and advocate for a future where indigenous voices are heard and their contributions are recognized worldwide.
Exploring the Carib Communities of St. Vincent
Welcome to a journey through the rich history and enduring spirit of the Indigenous communities of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Nestled along the island’s rugged northeastern coast, the villages of Orange Hill, Over Land, Sandy Bay, Point, Owia and Fancy stand as living testaments to resilience, tradition, and cultural heritage. From breathtaking landscapes to historic landmarks, each village holds a unique story shaped by generations of its Indigenous people.
A Glimpse of the Villages (North to South)
Fancy – The northernmost village of St. Vincent and closest to our neighbouring island St Lucia, Fancy is known for its strong fishing and farming traditions. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and the vast Atlantic, it remains a cornerstone of Carib heritage.
Owia – Home to the famous Salt Pond, Owia is a village rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. It was the most northerly location where the British established a plantation, marking its role in colonial history. Owia is also home to the Gunpowder Magazine, a military structure built by the British between 1773 and 1776. This magazine was strategically used to store gunpowder and munitions during conflicts with the island’s Indigenous peoples and played a crucial role in military operations, during the First and Second Carib Wars. Today, Owia remains a site of cultural importance, preserving its Garifuna and Kalinago heritage while offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
Point – Point – Perched on a high coastal outcrop, Point served as a strategic lookout for approaching vessels. It is one of the smallest communities.
Sandy Bay – As the largest village north of the Dry River, Sandy Bay was once on the northern edge of the historic Orange Hill Estates. It remains a vibrant community deeply connected to its indigenous roots.
Overland – Overland is a small but historically significant village within Carib Country, deeply connected to the traditions of the Garifuna and Kalinago people. Despite its modest size, the village remains an integral part of the Carib cultural landscape, preserving the legacy of resilience, farming, fishing, and traditional crafts.
Orange Hill – The southern gateway to Carib Country, Orange Hill was home to the plantation owners of the renowned Orange Hill Estates, a stark reminder of colonial history in the region.
Preserving a Legacy
The Carib villages of St. Vincent hold an invaluable place in the island’s history, blending indigenous traditions with the echoes of the past. As we explore these communities, we honor the resilience of the Garifuna and Kalinago people who have shaped this land for centuries.