Fire destroyed at least one building on the compound of the Archives Department this morning.
Senator Dr Shantal Munro-Knight, Minister with responsibility for Culture under whose portfolio the Archives fall, said Block D, which was the home of some of the most historic documents, was lost in the blaze.
An assessment was still being done, she added, and later broke down in tears.
In addition to the firefighters, Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Abrahams, was also on the scene.
Several curious onlookers also went to the Black Rock, St Michael location as the blaze was being brought under control.
As a result of the fire, the Archives are now closed to the public today and tomorrow, but members of staff are still asked to report to work as usual. (PR/SAT)
Very sad news. So much history. Hopefully the loss is minimal.