The Cayman Islands National Museum is proud to announce the opening of its newest exhibition, ‘Kiemanos: The Ira Thompson Collection Exhibition. The exhibition explores’s CINM’s nucleus collection, its history, and the individual who developed the collection. The exhibition will officially open to the public on Thursday 2ndApril 2026 and will run until August 2026.
The exhibition invites visitors into the world of Ira Thompson, a taxi driver, hobbyist, birdwatcher, and well-loved member of the community, whose remarkable collection laid the foundation for the Cayman Islands National Museum.
Thompson began collecting objects in the 1930s, and his personal museum, known as the Kiemanos Museum, first opened near Church Street in George Town before later relocating to Crewe Road. It quickly became a beloved attraction for both locals and visitors, offering a glimpse into an evolving Caymanian society. In 1979, the Cayman Islands Government acquired Thompson’s collection, forming the basis of the Islands’ first National Museum.
The exhibition brings together a rich combination of artefacts from the Museum’s nucleus collection alongside personal belongings generously loaned by the Thompson family. The exhibition offers a more intimate understanding of the man behind the collection, highlighting not only his dedication to preservation but also his identity as a proud Caymanian deeply committed to his country and community.
“The Ira Thompson Collection is intrinsic to the story of CINM, and to the story of the Cayman Islands. This exhibition allows us to honour Mr. Ira’s legacy, while offering visitors with a deeper understanding of the man behind the collection” - Megan Arch, Curator of Collections.
The exhibition is curated by Megan Arch, Curator of Collections, and designed by Brian Watler Jr., Communications Manager, with contributions from our entire Staff and Volunteer team.
The Cayman Islands National Museum is dedicated to preserving the tangible and intangible cultural and natural heritage of the Cayman Islands. Established under the Museum Act (1979, revised 1999), it is mandated to collect, conserve, research, interpret, and display objects relevant to the Cayman Islands, of historical, cultural, environmental, artistic, and scientific significance, both terrestrial and underwater, for the benefit of current and future generations. Since opening to the public in 1990, it has served as guardian of Caymanian heritage, responsible for researching and sharing all aspects of local culture. Through its programmes, exhibits, and collections, the Museum provides a vital link to the Islands’ past and encourages continued appreciation of Cayman’s unique natural and cultural legacy.