Distillery 1707
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The Sugar Mill at Hofi Mango: From ‘Money Devil’ to Protected Monument
Before Curaçao’s plantations blossomed with a variety of crops, sugar cane quietly shaped the island’s early agricultural history. Grown in select swampy areas—including what is now the Santa Cruz plantation—sugar cane never reached large-scale production, but it found its purpose in another form: rum.
By 1707, the locally distilled spirit had earned a name of its own. Father Schnabel referred to it as ‘money devil,’ likely a nod to its strength and its role in local life. While no one knows exactly when rum production came to an end, its impact lives on through one of Hofi Mango’s most striking historic features—the old sugar mill.
Today, this remarkable structure is a legally protected monument, with its carefully restored exterior honoring Curaçao’s colonial past. Ongoing archaeological research by the Archaeological Working Group has revealed masonry remains that may have once been part of the original distillery, offering valuable clues about early rum-making on the island.
The story doesn’t stop there. Restoration efforts continue, including plans to rebuild the mill’s original hood with blades, bringing the structure back to life while preserving its authenticity.
More than a historic landmark, the sugar mill at Hofi Mango represents the resilience and resourcefulness of the island’s people—and stands as a powerful reminder of Curaçao’s rich cultural heritage.
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Discover Nature at Hofi Mango
Step into the natural heart of Curaçao at Hofi Mango, where every path leads to something beautiful. Surrounded by native trees, vibrant plant life, and local wildlife, the park offers a peaceful escape into the island’s rich ecosystem.
