THE ANGUILLLA PHILATELIC BUREAU
PRESENTS
"FOUNTAIN CAVERN CARVINGS"
A UNIQUE ISSUE OF STAMPS
AND
FIRST DAY COVERS
HIGHLIGHTING THE RELIGIOUS CUSTOM
AND CREATIVITY OF THE
AMERINDIAN SETTLERS
RELEASE DATE: 17 NOVEMBER 1997
ANGUILLA'S FOUNTAIN CAVERN CARVINGS
The Fountain Cavern is considered one of the most significant Archeological in Anguilla and indeed the region. In recent years archeological expeditions have revealed the Cavern to be not just a geological wonder, but also a shrine rich in religious history.It was in this sanctuary that the early indigenous inhabitants, the Amerindians performed their religious rituals dating back as early as AD 300 and up until the early 15th century. The Cavern also served as a fresh water source for the Shoal Bay inhabitant apart from being a ceremonial centre for the entire island if not the region.
With continued focus being placed on the Fountain Cavern to develop the cave and its environs into a major National Park and Tourism related attraction, the Anguilla Post Office has risen to the occasion to assist in the venture by issuing a set of postage stamps depicting four of the more significant Petroglyphs (rock carvings) found on the hallowed walls of the Fountain Cavern.
The art work for this issue of stamps was graciously contributed by Nez Graulke and Clair Twaron native Texans through their agent Robert (Bob) Twaron. The three are friends of Anguilla and visit regularly.
-Jocahu-"The Creator"
The top section of a giant 12ft high stalagmite situated adjacent to one of
the pools of spring water has been carved into an enormous head thought to
represent the Taino Creator - God "Jocahu". Jocahu was revered by
the Amerindians as the: "Giver of Cassava" one of their staple crops.
-Cap Juluca-"Rainbow Deity"
Another striking Petroglyph found in the fascinating Cavern is Cap
Juluca - "The Rainbow God". This emblem carved into the limestone
column facing east is essentially an arc with solar orb flanked by chevron
lines.
One of Anguilla's leading and internationally acclaimed resorts had taken it's
name and emblem from this Amerindian god.
-"Solar Chieftain"
Intricately carved on the base of a stalagmite surface next to a crystal water
source is a long face with four feathers forming a crown, a tribute to the sun
god whom the worshippers believed illuminated their sanctuary with arc of brilliant
sunlight which kept evil forces at bay.
-"Lizard with Front legs extended"
Dedicated perhaps to the "God of Fertility" this carving is one of the few
zoomorphic Petroglyphs found in the Fountain Cavern. The reptile like carving appears
as if it wants to leap off the stone on which it is carved.
It is thought that this symbol represents the Perptuity of the Amerindian race.