By Antonio Salgado. On October 21, 1994, the Santa Cruz City Council convened an ordinary meeting where they examined the file concerning the definitive names of the various paths within the García Sanabria Park. They resolved to name one of the promenades, stretching from Doctor Navieras Street to the monument of García Sanabria, as Paseo Arístides Ferrer. Allow me a brief digression.
As illustrated in the book *Los 100 años de Cotime (1908-2008). Remembranzas de la Escuela de Comercio*, Don Arístides always greeted students with the poetic interjection, “Salve!” More than merely an idealistic institution, it embodied a familiar presence. Many graduates in commerce and trade were fortunate to know him in that grand mansion, often referred to as the School of Commerce, a gift from Imeldo Serís, Marqués de Villagura, which is still adorned with the medallions of Viera y Clavijo and Agustín de Bethencourt. Regrettably, until a few years back, it was in a state of disrepair. Thankfully, due to the cultural initiatives of our municipal corporation, led by José Manuel Bermúdez Esparza, we are witnessing efforts to restore this building, which was recognised as BIC in 2004.
We hope that one day we will witness the full revival of the original splendour of this architectural gem, which faced significant damage and distortion decades ago. The lush surrounding foliage has concealed these regrettable alterations. Once the rehabilitation work on this mansion is completed, many residents of Tenerife will be able to appreciate its historic value both day and night, rediscovering the heritage that has often gone unnoticed, including the disappearance of the central medallion of Serís. To conclude this historical digression, it is worth noting that this palatial building was designed by the architect Manuel de Cámara y Cruz, a associate of Imeldo Serís, who was also responsible for the Masonic Lodge on San Lucas Street, another architectural treasure (BIC) that once suffered from prolonged neglect.
Continuing with the legacy of Don Arístides Ferrer, his economic geography lessons are still fondly remembered; he transformed his eager students into enthusiastic “Marcopoles” despite the absence of ships, luxurious cabins, trains, or aeroplanes. They excitedly mapped out regions and divisions with nothing more than a faded map, accompanied by his calm, gentle voice of an esteemed guide. Don Arístides was not overly passionate in his teaching; instead, he strategically avoided the mundane, a tactic that certainly paid off. His guiding principle was: clear accounts. He was consistently immersed in the intricate world of checks, credits, and insolvencies, bravely navigating the perilous terrain of deficits, depreciation, balances, and blocked accounts.
Possessing a scholarly intellect, his character was further enriched by a unique humour and charm that remain unforgettable, culminating in his passing at the age of eighty-four on February 24, 1995.
For those of us who knew him well, it brings joy to envision him in the García Sanabria Municipal Park alongside a Bengal Fig, an Ombu, a Carrasco pine, a Kaffir Apple, a Major and a Ceiba. Adding to this lovely setting, hidden among the trees on the Paseo Arístides Ferrer, is the original sculpture of Oscar Domínguez, *El Gato*. What more could one desire?
Don Arístides must take great pride in sharing these surroundings with his esteemed friends from the past, who also have promenades named in their honour, such as Juan Marichal, Domingo Pérez Minik, Agustín León Villaverde, Francisco Borges Salas, Manuel Bonnín Guerín and the teachers José Blasco Roble.
During the Ordinary General Meeting held on April 7, 2005, by the Illustrious Official College of Commercial and Business Degrees of Tenerife (Cotime), chaired by Antonio Pérez Viera, the Arístides Ferrer honour was established. This accolade pays tribute to the unforgettable professor and figurehead of the School of Commerce (situated in one of the city’s most prestigious urban areas, the neighbourhood of hotels, specifically on July 25 Street). Our memorable figure also served as president of Cotime from 1963 to 1980. The purpose of creating this honour is to recognise the efforts undertaken to promote commercial education, as well as to foster and consolidate professional and business activities.
*Member of the Totulia Friends of July 25*
