Plymouth was the capitol of Montserrat until it was buried by pyroclastic flows and volcanic lahars. The city served as the center for social, political, and economic activity for the Montserratian community. When Plymouth was lost, many islanders felt a loss of identity and were unsure where to build a new capitol to replace Plymouth.

46- year-old Senior Security Aviation Officer:
“…some have expressed a desire to go back to Plymouth or go back to their old homes…”
“Plymouth was taken by the volcano”

A middle-aged female radio personality:
“So I, I look over the port of Plymouth…”

A middle-aged male photographer and store owner:
“Because I mean I guess if it was, if it was in my mind or if I was thinking about it I would never have built a house in Plymouth myself.”

*Note: All pictures are of Plymouth post-eruption

 

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