Official sign
KRALENDIJK--The Public Entity of Bonaire OLB unveiled an official name sign for Plasa Machi Mimi. Commissioner Dennis Martinus did the honours in the presence of her family and the Acting Director of Spatial Planning and Development.
It regards a well-known historic site in the centre of Kralendijk. The plaza bears the name of Bernabé Dominga Evertsz, better known as “Machi Mimi.”
For many years she was a familiar fish vendor at this location. Fishermen brought their catch there and residents gathered at the spot.
Later, fruit and vegetables were sold there as well. In this way, the plaza became a cherished place for generations of Bonaireans.
Machi Mimi’s family kept her legacy alive and had previously placed a sign at the plaza themselves. With the new official sign, the name now also gains a permanent and visible presence.
Martinus highlighted the importance of preserving Bonaire’s heritage. “A people that knows its history knows where it comes from. This sign helps us continue telling the story behind the name and recognises the people who have contributed to Bonaire.”
Her grandson Max Erwin Juan de Grijze also shared memories of his grandmother and his childhood around the plaza. Among other things, he recounted how he learned to swim behind the plaza.
With the official name sign, OLB wants to ensure that a part of Bonaire’s history remains alive.
