Official Transfer of the John G. Eman Building to Monumentenfonds Aruba

Aruba Bank N.V. on Mon, 29 Dec 16:00:54 PM GMT

An important milestone has been reached in the restoration of the historic John G. Eman building on Caya Betico Croes in Oranjestad, with the official transfer of ownership to Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba (SMFA).

The transfer took place in the presence of Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and Primary Sector, Geoffrey Wever, representatives of Aruba Bank, members of the Eman family, and the Board of Monumentenfonds Aruba. The moment is especially significant as it coincides with Aruba Bank’s 100th anniversary. Aruba Bank was represented by Sharon Frankel – de Cuba and Marleen van der Borgt.

A lease agreement was also signed for the future use of the restored building by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), Aruba, and the Social Economic Council (SER). Discussions are ongoing regarding a hospitality space, ensuring public accessibility alongside office functions.

The project is supported by a subsidy from the Government of Aruba and a low-interest loan from the Nationaal Restauratiefonds, co-financed with Aruba Bank. The next phase includes the building’s designation as a protected monument and the start of design and preparatory work. Restoration is expected to begin at the end of 2026 and be completed between 2027 and 2028.

With its distinctive 1930s architecture, the John G. Eman building holds significant historical value. This transfer marks a key step toward preserving Aruba’s heritage while contributing to the revitalization of downtown Oranjestad.