Members of the public are being asked to help identify Anguilla’s past boat captains and seafarers so they can be recognised on a commemorative plaque.
The Ministry of Health, Tourism and Sports is inviting residents to help honour maritime workers who served at the Blowing Point Ferry Terminal in Anguilla before the year 2000.
Numerous people have facilitated the movement of passengers to and from Anguilla for both transportation and tourism purposes, the ministry said in a press release on 8 March.
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“These individuals played a significant role in Anguilla’s tourism history, contributing to the island’s cultural and economic development through their dedication and service at sea,” it added.
Families, friends or community members with information about individuals who served, are encouraged to visit the ministry at the Caribbean Commercial Complex to complete a short submission form.
The form will request the name of the captain or seafarer, village, estimated year(s) of service, and whether they are still living or if the nomination is being made posthumously.
The submission period is from 10 to 20 March. All submissions will be reviewed and vetted by the ministry to ensure accuracy and eligibility before any official recognition is granted.
“Members of the public are encouraged to participate in this effort to ensure that these important
contributors to Anguilla’s maritime and tourism heritage are properly acknowledged,” the ministry said.
The names of the recognised captains and seafarers will be permanently displayed on a commemorative plaque at the Blowing Point Ferry Terminal in honour of their contributions to Anguilla’s history.
Dear Anguilla Focus,
I fondly remember the ferry from Anguilla to St Martin back in the early 70s. I cannot remember the captain’s name but along with the passengers, he carried great sacks of lobsters and they would creak and shift as we watched them. It often rained during the crossing and the passengers would duck down to the small saloon but quickly dash back up feeling sea sick accepting the problem of getting wet.
The ferry schedule required a 8am departure but a 12pm return thus making the time available on St Martin very short. If you missed the ferry you had to get on the seat of the island hopper to get home.
I hope someone can remember the captain’s name and he can be added to the commemoration
Stirring times never forgotten.
Regards,
Peter Wakeham