Linden Guyana is a town in the Upper Demerara-Berbice region of Guyana, that is known for its mining industry since the early 20th century. However, recent developments have put the town in transition, as it seeks to diversify its economy and improve its infrastructure.
+ Originally known as Mackenzie, the town was named after Alexander MacKenzie, a Scottish explorer who arrived in Guyana in 1825. Linden is today a vibrant township known for its rich history and resilience. With a population of approximately 30,000 people, Linden, Guyana is the economic, entertainment, and primary social services hub in the region.
According to local historians, the town’s early development was driven by the need for lumber, as the surrounding forests were rich in valuable timber. The British colonial government established a sawmill in the area in the late 1800s, which attracted a number of settlers and workers.
One of the most notable aspects of Linden is its connection to the bauxite industry. According to the Guyana Chronicle, Linden is home to several bauxite mining companies, including Bosai Minerals Group and Rusal Guyana.
The industry has provided employment opportunities for generations of Linden residents and has been a major contributor to the country’s economy. However, the industry has also faced challenges in recent years, including declining global demand for bauxite and environmental concerns.
History of Linden
Originally known as McKenzie, Linden was established in the early 20th century as a center for bauxite mining. Bauxite, a key ingredient in aluminum production, was discovered in the region in the early 1900s, and Linden quickly became a major producer of the mineral. The town is said to be named after the then Governor-General of British Guiana, Sir Gordon James Lethem Linden, as well as Guyana’s first executive President, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham.
Christianburg, located on the west bank of the Demerara River is Linden’s first settlement, and was known as Stabroek in the 19th century. Originally a Dutch settlement, the inhabitants were mostly involved in balata and rubber bleeding and later the planting of sugarcane.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Linden experienced significant growth as a result of the bauxite industry. However, the collapse of the industry in the 1990s led to an economic downturn that has persisted to this day. Despite this, Linden has remained a resilient community, with its residents working hard to diversify the local economy and improve their quality of life.
Despite these challenges, Linden has continued to thrive. In recent years, the town has seen significant investments in infrastructure, including the construction of a new road linking Linden to the capital city, Georgetown. Additionally, the government has announced plans to establish a new industrial park in Linden, which is expected to attract new businesses and create additional employment opportunities for residents.
One of the key figures in Linden’s development was an American businessman named Edward A. Baker, who arrived in the town in the 1920s and established a number of successful businesses, including a hotel, a cinema, and a taxi service. Baker was also instrumental in establishing the town’s first electrical power plant, which provided electricity to Linden and the surrounding areas.
During the 1970s, Linden became a center of political activism and labor organizing, with workers in the bauxite industry demanding better wages and working conditions. In 1979, the town was the site of a major protest known as the “Linden Shutdown,” which saw workers in the bauxite industry go on strike for several weeks.
Economy of Linden
Today, Linden is a hub of economic activity in the region, with a number of thriving businesses and industries. In addition to bauxite mining, which remains a key sector, the town is also home to a range of small businesses and cottage industries. These include businesses involved in agriculture, manufacturing, and services such as transportation and retail.
Linden, Guyana is also home to a number of educational institutions, including the Linden Technical Institute and the Linden Foundation Secondary School. There are plans to turn the Linden Concert Hall and School, popularly known as Lichas Hall, into a modern-day music academy. These institutions provide training and education to the town’s residents, helping to ensure that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s rapidly changing economy.
And for those of you who love nature. Linden, Guyana boasts some stunning bluewater lakes, including the popular Kara Kara Blue Lake. With crystal-clear water and lush surrounding greenery, the lakes offer a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
