Design Anguilla Issue 17 - Anguilla @ 50 by DO Media Ltd.

P E O P L E · C U LT U R E · A R C H I T E C T U R E · F A S H I O N · L I F E

CELEBRATING THE ISLAND’S GOLDEN JUBILEE

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OVE RS E A S Bearing the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva, this timepiece is the ideal companion for an extraordinary voyage that reveals a unique perspective on the world. It is the only watch of its kind.

CRAFTING ETERNITY SINCE 1755

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Our tourbillon ensures highest rate accuracy.

1815 TOURBILLON

The tourbillon is one of the most amazing inventions in watch-

with equal precision. However, this proved to be a horological problem

making. It neutralises the effect of gravity to which the oscillator

that remained unsolved for over 200 years. In 2008, Lange finally

of a mechanical timepiece is exposed and thus increases its rate

presented the solution: the patented stop-seconds mechanism

accuracy. To benefit from the accuracy gain, the watch must be settable

for the tourbillon made it possible to precisely halt and set a watch

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Now you can also set it with absolute precision.

Tourbillon with stop-seconds and ZERO-RESET mechanism

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be exactly positioned and the watch to be restarted to the second.

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The precise interaction of the mechanisms is rounded out with a

of the Zero-Reset function, the seconds hand jumps to the zero

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Investing in priceless heirlooms is child's play... at Jewels by Love We proudly announce the opening of a world-class Patek Philippe Boutique at our watch and jewelry salon on 69B Front Street, Philipsburg. Patek Philippe watches have rightfully earned an unrivalled reputation and are widely considered the finest, most investable timepieces in the world. Over the past 175 years Patek Philippe has come to represent all that is best in the world of fine watchmaking. This position is owed to the quality and beauty of their timepieces. But it also reflects the “Patek Philippe Spirit”. A culture embodied in ten core values that the company has upheld faithfully and passionately since 1839:

Many famous people have chosen Patek Philippe to keep the time of their lives. This notable list includes a plethora of leaders in their respective fields: Tsar Alexander, Queen Victoria, Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso, John F. Kennedy, Madame Marie Curie, Leo Tolstoy, Elizabeth Taylor, Paul McCartney, Duke Ellington, Dalai Lama... the list is endless!

Independence

enables them to pursue their long-term objectives

Tradition

always commands their respect

Auction results are witness to the fact that Patek Philippe watches not only retain their worth but often appreciate in value, frequently setting new world records, in virtually every category of watchmaking. Some examples of such world record breakers read as follow (approx. prices in US$):

Innovation

is a part of their tradition

Quality and Workmanship are a commitment to their ideal

Rarity

is the essence of a piece of art

Lasting Value

is both, material and emotional

Aesthetic Perfection is something they always strive for

Service

an interest is maintained throughout the life of every watch

Emotion

a Patek Philippe watch reveals something about the owner

Heritage

Always living by the ideals that built their reputation

• Time only watch, sold in 2016 – US$ 1,445,000 • Time only observatory wristwatch, sold in 2012 – US$ 3,990,620 • Nautilus Automatic wristwatch, sold in 2013 – US$ 821,370 • Chronograph, sold in 2004 – US$ 2,203,500 • Chronograph wristwatch, sold in 2015 – US$ 4,987,383 • Perpetual Calendar, sold in 2008 – US$ 4,137,000 • Perpetual Calendar Chronograph, sold in 2010 – US$ 6,259,000 • World Time in platinum, sold in 2002 - US$ 4,026,500 • Split Seconds Chronograph in yellow gold, sold in 2014 – US$ 2,965,000 • Monopusher Split Seconds Chronograph, sold in 2015 – US$ 3,280,000 • Perpetual Calendar Chronograph sold in November, 2016 – US$ 11.1 million! A World Record for any wristwatch ever sold! (original price in 1943 - US$ 2,265) • Henry Graves Super Complication pocket watch, sold in 2014 – US$ 24 million! A World Record for any timepiece ever sold!

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MISCELLANY CONTENTS In This Issue...

MISCELLANY

12 Table of Contents 14 From the Editor 16 Bits & Pieces 66 Directory 68 Island Map & Advertiser Index 70 Last Word

WHO PERSONALITIES 18 Best Laid Plans

Confetti Dust Studio

22 Reaching for the Stars

Deanna Mussington

24 Making Unique Anguilla Memories

Tara Lomonte

28 To Anguilla... With Motherly Love

C O V E R F E A T U R E | Anguilla at 50 For these couples, Anguilla provided the perfect setting for their special day

Wilma Vanterpool

FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50 34 The Revolution

The beginnings of the anguilla we know today was shaped by the events of fifty years ago.

40 The Early Years

While we tend to focus on the events of May 30th to the British invasion 2 years later, much of what has shaped the Anguilla we know today happened in the formative years from 1969 through the 1980s.

46 Boat Racing Jubilee

18 P E R S ON A LI T I E S |

22 Confetti Dust

Twyla Richardson-Thomas and Latoya Scarbro team up to create a leading party-planning company

P ER SO NAL IT IES |

Deanna Mussington

Local girl seeks to shoot to stardom on the ITV reality show, “The X-Factor UK”.

The annual around-the-island boat race on Anguilla Day is in its 35th year and is sure to be as exciting as it always has been.

WHERE PROPERTY

50 No Place Like Home

Piano prodigy Emily Bear and her family choose Anguilla, and Topaz Oceanview Residences, as their go-to place to unwind.

60 Market Looking Up

The Anguilla Government has reduced stamp duty on the transfer of real estate. Local property experts talk about what this will mean for the property market.

64 Luxury Travel Trends

48 ANGUILLA 50 |

52 Boat Racing

A breathtaking view, flawless decor, amazing clothing and accessories.

PROPERTY |

Topaz Oceanview Villas

Piano prodigy Emily Bear and her family choose Anguilla, and Topaz Oceanview Residences, as their place to unwind.

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

Property manager and concierge, Kenroy Herbert of Leviticus Lifestyle and Travel, shares the latest developments in the luxury travel market.

Two Luxury Villas. One Amazing View. Celebrations for up to 80 guests + lodging for 20 family and friends at a private two-villa estate on Pelican Bay!

MISCELLANY FROM THE EDITOR DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE ISSUE 17 May 2017 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Orrett Wynter CONTRIBUTORS

Andy Connor Montague Kobbe

PHOTOGRAPHY

Benjamin Bear Josveek Huligar Orrett H. Wynter

COVER IMAGE Anguilla’s Golden Jubilee

A Golden Occasion

s a lover of historical dramas, as well as old war movies, I’ve always wondered what a big-screen adaptation of the events of the Anguilla Revolution would be. It has all the elements that make for a compelling story: heroes – Anguilla’s revolutionaries led by Ronald Webster; villains – the St. Kitts government, Robert Bradshaw, and the British government; there’s context and a backstory – a struggling island still grappling with the devastation wrought by Hurricane Donna; there’s conflict, tension, international intrigue, plotting and scheming and, in the end, the “good guys” actually win. As it is, it’s probably still too fresh in the minds of far too many people with opinions and recollections divided such that it might end up simply being controversial. There’s an element of finality that Leader of the Anguillian Revolution, James Ronald Webster, passed away a few months before the 50th anniversary. It is regrettable, in that he never lived to see the island reach the half a century milestone but, if nothing else, it offers the chance for true introspection in the midst of celebration and revelry. His passing – along with that of most of the other revolutionary leaders over the years – definitively passes the baton on to a new generation of Anguillian leaders. In this special issue of Design Anguilla, we join the rest of the island in celebrating 50 years since brave Anguillians stood up and said enough was enough and that they wanted to be free from the oppression and neglect that they had endured for countless decades. Our cover feature examines the events leading up to May 30th, the flashpoint, and the years after, when Anguilla declared herself independent, albeit briefly, until Britain intervened with a show of force. We then look at the decades after the invasion, when Anguilla finally got the attention that it had fought for. The foundations built then, continue to be the bedrock on which the present nation stands. It’s entirely fair to say that all that Anguilla is today, can be traced back to those events 50 years ago. Thanks for reading, and in helping Anguilla celebrate her 50th birthday. Orrett H. Wynter Editor P.S.: I really would love to watch the movie.

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Contact P.O. Box 5050, The Valley Anguilla, BWI e-mail: info@designanguilla.com web: designanguilla.com phone: (264) 584 8886 / 9503 facebook: designanguilla instagram: designanguilla twitter: designanguilla youtube: designanguilla Advertising Inquiries sales@designanguilla.com designanguilla.com/advertise Subscriptions subscriptions@designanguilla.com designanguilla.com/subscribe Read Online designanguilla.com/digital Acknowledgements

Thanks to everyone who helped, in some way, shape or form, to make this issue of Design Anguilla a possibility. A heartfelt thanks to the following people: Twyla Richardson-Thomas, Latoya Scarbro, Deanna Mussington, Davon Carty, Ivan Berry, Tara Lomonte, Wilma Vanterpool, Colville Petty, Andy Connor, The Bear family, Scott Hauser, Adrian Kobbe, Jackie Pascher, Elaine Hearn, Kenroy Herbert. For anyone who got missed, we love you just the same! Design Anguilla Magazine is published four times a year by DO Media Ltd., and is distributed at hotels, villas, restaurants and ports of entry in Anguilla. This publication has been compiled and reproduced with the utmost care to ensure that the information is up to date and accurate. However, the information may contain inaccuracies or typographical errors. The publisher accepts no responsibility for such typographical or other errors. No part of Design Anguilla Magazine may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent. The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of Design Anguilla Magazine.

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MISCELLANY BITS & PIECES ELEMENTAL BEACH PARTY Nat’s Palm Grove on Savannah Bay in the east played host to the free event packed with a unique lineup of performances and activities. Family friendly activities during the day, including a skydiving demonstration were followed up by a night of fire-dancing, juggling, a magic show, and music provided by renowned DJs Natty Rico and DJ Outkast.

The annual “all things of the sea” festival celebrated its 10th staging on Easter weekend, April 15-16. High winds caused the cancellation of the Class “A” and “B” boat races, but other events: fishing and swimming competitions as well as model boat races we held as scheduled. Musical accompaniment to the extensive seafood menus on offer included The Mussington Brothers, Natty and the House and Control Band from St. Maarten.

ANGUILLA FASHION EXPO 2017

Models and designers from Anguilla teamed up with their counterparts from around the region for the fourth staging of the Anguilla Fashion Expo’s Regional Runway Show at Paradise Cove on February 24. The festival weekend came to an end with the Island Vibes Musical Festival and Beach Party on Sandy Ground Beach.

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

IMAGES Josveek Huligar / Huligar 360 Photography

FESTIVAL DEL MAR 2017

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WHO PERSONALITIES Confetti Dust Studio’ Latoya Scarbro (left) and Twyla RichardsonThomas have built up a reputation of being a top event planning company in Anguilla.

Best Laid Plans

L I F E L O N G F R I E N D S , T W Y L A R I C H A R D S O N -T H O M A S A N D L AT O Y A S C A R B R O , T E A M U P T O C R E AT E O N E O F T H E L E A D I N G PA R T Y - P L A N N I N G C O M PA N I E S O N T H E I S L A N D .

riends since childhood, Twyla Richardson-Thomas and Latoya Scarbro are like two peas in a pod. They finish each other’s sentences, hang out together in their free time and are rather inseparable. They also figured out pretty early that they wanted to start a business together. What that business would be wasn’t clear, and they briefly flirted with the idea of a travel agency. Thankfully that didn’t happen. Their days working together in numerous service clubs and planning committees, from prom to graduation, meant that “fundraising and planning were always a part of our daily life,” Latoya explains. That planning experience came in handy when a friend asked them to plan her baby shower. It was a success, which led to even more requests for baby showers and small events for other friends and family. Five years after that first baby shower, they were asked

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

to plan that same child’s birthday party. By this time, Twyla and Latoya were beginning to take this side gig seriously and used the opportunity to start figuring out their pricing. Still, when they decided to get the business formally started, they had no capital, so they borrowed $2000 from Travel Lite, the baby equipment rental and supply company Twyla runs with her husband, McMillan. With that they made their first purchase for their fledgling company. “Two round tables and twenty white Chiavari chairs,” they recollect in unison, laughing. There was a lot of excitement surrounding this first big purchase. They were put to use at a restaurant party, which was a pretty big deal for them. They were so nervous they enlisted the help of family and friends to set up for the event. continued on page 20

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WHO PERSONALITIES

BELOW The duo take a very handson approach to executing their party visions.

continued from page 18 The party was a success and it gave them the confidence to keep going. “We just set sail after that.” Capital continued to be a challenge in the beginning. Fortunately, they were able to get funding through the Department of Youth and Culture’s new GetSet entrepreneurial programme in 2015. Latoya discovered the BASH Conference in Phoenix, Arizona and the Department enabled them to attend. It was a massive event and they made a lot of contacts with bloggers, party planners and party stylists, which helped them build the capital they needed for their business. As with any partnership, they each have their strengths. Latoya enjoys meeting with clients, learning what they want and need, and figuring out how to best use the resources they have to get it done. She keeps everything on track. Twyla handles the details and makes sure everything turns out perfectly. She is also the people person, so she handles most of the contact, while Latoya prefers to work in the background. The biggest challenge with bringing these parties to life is Anguilla’s limited resources. Most of the party supplies need to be imported, so if they’re working with limited time, they must take things into their own hands. “It’s a challenge and an opportunity as well,” Twyla explains. “We have to get creative. It forces us to think about things differently and use the materials that we can source locally.” Having to get creative also keeps them on their toes, which is a good skill to have when competing with other planners in the area. As they’ve grown their business and become more successful, they’ve also been recognized and celebrated by the community. In Anguilla’s first ever National 20

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“[working in Anguilla] is a challenge, and an opportunity. We have to get creative and think about things differently —TWYLA RICHARDSONTHOMAS

IMAGES Kevin Archibald / KSharp Photography

ABOVE Confetti Dust’s parties usually based on the children’s personalities, like this fashion themed party for a five year-old.

Youth Awards Ceremony in 2014, Twyla and Latoya received the award for Outstanding Youth in Entrepreneurship. And while their business continues to grow, they always wanted to give back to the community that lifted them up. In December 2016, they launched the Give Love campaign, where they partnered with the community and other business vendors to surprise a deserving child with a memorable birthday celebration. The public was able to vote on finalists to decide which deserving child would win a birthday bash. The winner was a child who “had always asked his mom for a party, but he had another sibling that was ill for some time, and the focus was always on that child. “ Unfortunately, by the time the winner was chosen, it was discovered that his birthday had just passed, so now they’ve decided to make it a graduation party later in the year, instead.. Going forward, these entrepreneurial ladies plan to continue growing their business and expand beyond Anguilla to the wider Caribbean. And as they expand, they look forward to the days they will start speaking at conferences and meeting new entrepreneurs. They truly hope to inspire others who are just starting out in the same way that they are inspired by more seasoned planners. Latoya’s favorite quote is, Hold the vision, trust the process. “It will happen.” AXA

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WHO PERSONALITIES “Deanna is beautiful, talented, and she’s from an island of 13,000 people, how cool is that for a TV moment?” —IVAN BERRY

Reaching for the Stars

L O C A L G I R L S E E K S T O S H O O T T O S TA R D O M O N T H E I T V R E A L I T Y S H O W, “ T H E X - FA C T O R U K ”

ust under 100 people turned up at The Reef Hotel’s Beach Bar & Grill on Merrywing Bay to watch Deanna Mussington’s final performance on home soil (for a while at least). For an hour, they were treated to her silky, soulful renditions of her originals and some R&B classics. In May, Deanna sets off for London to audition on the popular show The X-Factor. Daughter of Darvin Mussington, former frontman of The Mussington Brothers, Deanna has been singing since she was four years old. By age ten, she sang in concerts and competitions, which she often won.

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

The X-Factor, though, is a much bigger proposition. She’s approaching it with wide-eyed enthusiasm and willingness to learn, qualities that attracted music industry veteran Ivan Berry to her. The two were introduced in 2014. Ivan, CEO of C2W Music Limited, spent years working in A&R (artists and repertoire) for Sony BMG in Toronto, Canada. While there, he worked with a range of artists including Ke$ha, Chanté, Wyclef, Shawn Desman, and The Rascalz. For Deanna, their partnership has been nothing short of a revelation. “He’s an amazing manager! I don’t think I would have been where I am without his input,” Deanna says about Ivan. “He’s introduced me to a lot of people in the industry… people who really know the ins and outs of music.” Aside from her obvious talent, Deanna’s work-ethic, passion and humility have helped Ivan develop her as an artist. To get in front of influential people in the music industry, Deanna did a musical showcase at The Place on Rendezvous Bay in 2014, then released several songs and music videos. Her development hasn’t gone unnoticed. Thanks to Ivan’s industry connections, Deanna has crossed paths with industry executives from Universal Music Group, Def Jam, and Epic Records. Multiple record labels expressed interest in signing Deanna, but the X-Factor UK opportunity was too good to pass up. Footage from her amazing performance at the St. Kitts Music Festival got attention from U.S. producers, who encouraged her to audition in London, instead. Ivan saw it as an opportunity to grow a substantial fanbase.

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ABOVE Deanna and her team are hoping that her enthusiasm, coupled with her raw talent will give her a great shot at winning. OPPOSITE PAGE AND RIGHT Deanna thrills her audience at the Reef during her fundraising dinner.

“We discussed it, and it’s a tough decision, because we have a shot at what we’ve been struggling for – a major recording contract,” Ivan explains. “Now we’re saying we should do the X-Factor first. But, if Deanna does well, you’re talking millions of followers on her social media platforms.” Deanna will travel to London for the first round of auditions on May 27th, where she will sing untelevised, for the show’s producers. From there, she hopes to progress to a second round of auditions, which would open the door to performing live on the show. If she wins – and her raw talent and honed stage presence give her a great shot – she’ll receive a lucrative recording contract offer, along with a cash prize. Even if she doesn’t win, there is still the opportunity to kick-start her career. Many acts, like platinum-selling band One Direction, didn’t win the top prize but became hugely successful. No matter the outcome, it’s a win, and Ivan can barely contain his excitement. “Deanna is beautiful, talented, and she’s from an island of 13,000 people, how cool is that for a TV moment?” Her appearance on the show is sure to introduce Anguilla to a whole new audience. Just like Tessanne Chin (Season 5 winner of The Voice in 2013/14) gained the same great exposure for Jamaica during her run on that show. The team is also working on removing the restrictions on Anguillians voting for the contestants at home, which would massively boost her chances. At the end of it all, Deanna is guaranteed to have 13,000+ supporters at home, and countless others around the world as she embarks upon this journey. AXA

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WHO PERSONALITIES

Making Unique Anguilla Memories TA R A L O M O N T E C H A N N E L E D H E R L O V E O F A N G U I L L A I N T O A L I N E O F L U X U R I O U S , H I G H - E N D J E W E L L E R Y.

“People love Anguilla, and they want something they can keep for life to remind them of the island.” —TARA LOMONTE 24

visit to AXA Signature Jewellery’s Facebook page is enlightening in its specificity: all the photos are, in a way, of Anguilla. For owner Tara Lomonte, the island is central to her mission: to create luxury, handcrafted jewellery that keeps Anguilla close at heart. Born in Canada, Tara felt out of place until she moved to Toronto and discovered the many Caribbean-immigrant communities that exist in the multicultural metropolis. She realized that she’s Caribbean at heart, and now jokes that she was simply born in the wrong place. In the 90s, she’d missed out on a trip to Anguilla with her mother, and although she didn’t realize it at the time, the photos and videos from that trip would come to shape her life. When her mother passed away after losing her

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

battle with cancer, Tara took her own trip to Anguilla, which felt like a spiritual revival: “I’ve always felt connected to the island.” That sense of belonging kept Tara coming back, and her trips became longer each year. Eventually she decided to open a business on Anguilla, planning to use her background as a licensed aesthetician to provide mani-pedis and facials and support her extended vacations. Fate had other plans. Four years ago, Tara slipped and fell after an ice storm, breaking her wrist – the day before she was scheduled to leave for a several month visit to Anguilla. The injury sent her on a rollercoaster of emotions, as Tara’s entire livelihood had been built on doing things with her hands. Even worse, her Anguilla plan was now in jeopardy. While recovering in Toronto, she came up with a new plan: designing jewellery. “I would always want to take souvenirs home. There were some jewellery items, but a lot weren’t made in Anguilla, and they wouldn’t last very long,” she says. So she created some designs, and brought them to a jeweller in Toronto she’d been introduced to by a friend. “He assured me that he would be able to get me some pieces by the time I was to leave for Anguilla.” But when she went to pick them up, Tara was disappointed. “They were unpolished, and the edges were pretty rough,” she remembers. Refusing to sell poorly finished pieces to her clients, Tara spent the next two years trying to recover part of her investment. A hard lesson learnt, she took a full year searching for a new partner, eventually choosing one of Canada’s top jewellers. The time Tara spent looking for a new partner was well spent, and resulted in a productive relationship over the last few years. Tara’s pieces are handmade, and individually designed. Some of her designs are continued on page 26

IMAGES Courtesy AXA Signature Jewellery

LEFT Tara has always had a fondness for Caribbean culture, and fell in love with Anguilla the first time she visited.

WHO PERSONALITIES TIMELESS PIECES

continued from page 24 challenging, and the process is done largely by hand, rather than by machines. For example, the incredible new collector’s piece: a map of Anguilla in solid 10 karat gold. One of Tara’s most popular items is her “All Coordinated” necklace: a gorgeous gold bar pendant with Anguilla’s GPS coordinates hand-engraved on two sides, and the island’s latitude and longitude on the other two. As her brand’s biggest advocate, Tara adorns herself with her jewellery daily, wearing them in the ocean, in the shower, and doing other daily activities for quality control. “I want to know if there’s a flaw or defect before I put it out there for others to buy,” she explains, even going as far as redesigning some of her earlier pieces to make them better. “Anything you do, you have to put your all into it. People can tell if you care or not. If I’m not loving it, I’m not putting it out there. Quality speaks for itself.” Three years in, people are starting to take notice. The company gets numerous requests for custom-designed pieces. Also handmade, these can take anywhere from four to six weeks to be finished. Thanks to her reputation for outstanding customer service, Tara’s clients are more than willing to wait, often ordering additional pieces in a different metal. These requests, along with a backlog of designs waiting to be created, mean Tara and her company have lots of room to grow. What does the future hold for Tara and AXA Signature Jewellery (ASJ)? On a personal level, “Ms. CANguilla”, as she calls herself, hopes to move to the island permanently. Businesswise, she plans to expand to the wider Caribbean region, starting with neighbouring St. Maarten. She’s already working on SXM pieces that should be available later this year. The goal is to create a global brand that has its roots in Anguilla, reflecting the endurance, strength, and creativity of the island and it’s people. To this end, ASJ has also focused its efforts on supporting culture and the arts, sponsoring local musicians or events such as the Anguilla Fashion Expo, and the recent eleMENTAL Beach Party. “People love Anguilla, and they want something they can keep for life that reminds them of the island,” Tara says, and that’s the whole idea behind her company: “You love Anguilla and this is your keepsake to remind you of all the memories you made here... forever.” AXA 26

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

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WHO PERSONALITIES “I have a gift to connect with individuals, and make them better. I like being able to impact their lives.” —WILMA VANTERPOOL

To Anguilla... With Motherly Love W I L M A VA N T E R P O O L’ S A N G U I L L A -T H E M E D , B O L D FA S H I O N S A R E I S L A N D K E E P S A K E S AT I S L A N D C O U T O U R I E R . 28

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

It doesn’t take 5 minutes of sitting down with Wilma Vanterpool for the conversation to be punctuated by folks stopping at her store in Blowing Point to say “hi,” and trade hugs and kisses. “I love hospitality,” the former restaurant hostess and concierge, now owner of Island Coutourier, says in her trademark Southern drawl. “I love putting a smile on people’s faces.” Wilma came to Anguilla on vacation in 1986 and fell in love, buying a plot of land the following year. By 1989 she’d moved into her home in Island Harbour. “I saw peace and tranquility here,” she smiles. Anguilla is a long way from Birmingham, Alabama where an 18-year old Wilma and over 2500 men, women and children were beaten, blasted with fire hoses, and attacked by police dogs before being jailed during the very effective Birmingham Campaign. Organized by The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the Campaign was a flashpoint in the Civil Rights movement during 1963 that led directly to the desegregation of Birmingham. Choking back tears as she recalls the horrific treatment she and her fellow protestors endured, her pain is interrupted by the arrival of another client to her store, looking for a t-shirt to wear for Anguilla Day. “They’ll be coming next week in droves,” she laughs. She’s a distinctly matronly presence, referring to everyone as her “babies”, and they all refer to her as “Mommy”, making her husband Ernest Broaden, ostensibly, “Daddy.” continued on page 30

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continued from page 28 She fostered 6 children in Birmingham before that magical trip to Anguilla, and her motherly instinct has served her well on the island. As a concierge, she played host to a long list of A-listers such as Jay Z and Beyonce, Magic Johnson, Bob Johnson, and Denzel Washington during their visits to Anguilla at Cap Juluca, where she spent 14 years, until she retired in 2014. Having also stepped down as executive director of the Anguilla Chamber of Commerce, she was in search of something to do. “I couldn’t just sit at home,” she says. “I thought I’d just go set up on the beach down at Da’Vida on Sundays.” That small idea took off after she launched in 2014 with her signature bedazzled/rhinestone tees, and dog tags. She’s steadily grown her collection to now include kids’ and adult tees, as well as dresses, bags, and caps. Her designs are beloved as much by visitors as they are by locals. National pride is high this year, and her “Anguilla 50” collection, celebrating the fifty years since the Anguilla Revolution in 1967, is flying off the shelves. Wilma designs, and creates all the pieces in her collection, applying the designs with a heat press. She’s enjoying her newfound freedom to create happiness. “I’m enjoying the process,” Wilma says. “I’ve always enjoyed dealing with people.” As her years in the ADB brought her together with dozens of locals who needed help with their businesses, she has also volunteered at the local prison mentoring some of the inmates. Many of these “babies” have gone on to become very productive members of society, and have not re-offended. “A touch can save a life,” she says very deliberately. “I have a gift to connect with individuals, and make them better. I like being able to impact their lives.” AXA

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FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50: THE REVOLUTION

ANGUILLA’S

GOLDEN JUBILEE THE BEGINNINGS OF THE ANGUILLA WE KNOW TODAY WAS SHAPED BY THE EVENTS OF FIFTY YEARS AGO.

Words: Montague Kobbe

rom the 1930s to the 1960s the West Indies underwent a period of unrest and reorganization that promoted the emergence of both national identities and a collective sense of self-awareness. It was a time of struggle but it was also an exhilarating moment of seemingly endless potential during which a future distanced from the colonial motherland was, for the first time, seriously contemplated. Anguilla, ever the exception in the region, was not immune to the sentiment, but given its size, scant population and complete absence of industry, it remained a passenger through most of the process. At least, that is, until the experiment that was the

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

Federation of the West Indies threatened to perpetuate the pairing of Anguilla with St. Kitts in the form of the “dependency” of St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla. Though Anguillians, utterly dissatisfied with this arrangement, demanded the dissolution of said dependency in 1958, the request went unheard. Consequently, when the Federation of the West Indies collapsed four years later, and all hopes for a grouping of the so-called “Little Eight” also failed in 1965, Anguilla was left to fend for itself in a mismatched and ill-advised association with the far larger, distant and altogether different island of St. Kitts. In other words, the foundations of the Anguilla Revolution had been laid.

ISSUE SEVENTEEN | DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE

FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50: THE REVOLUTION

L-R Leader of the Anguillian Revolution, James Ronald Webster, and his counterpart in St. Kitts, Premier Robert L. Bradshaw.

Powerless before the law and still confident in the goodwill of the colonial master, Anguilla exhausted all institutional avenues for the British government to at least entertain the thought of dissolving the union between St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla but in London hardly anyone—and certainly no one of consequence—noticed. It was only in 1967, once it became obvious that plans to grant St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla the status of associated state, essentially a self-governed entity which would rely on Britain only for issues of foreign diplomacy and safety, would go ahead that Anguillians resolved to take proper action. Of note, in particular, was the islanders’ refusal to indulge the British envoy, Peter Johnston, in his rather ill-judged attempt to discuss issues of local government with Anguilla’s representative, Peter Adams, in January 1967. Similarly remarkable was the sabotage by a substantial group of islanders of the queen pageant held on February 4 1967 to celebrate statehood. Robert “Papa” Bradshaw, a former labour unionist who enjoyed cult status in the cane-rich St. Kitts, but lacked any sort of clout in the barren and neglected Anguilla, had organized the event—almost a deliberate provocation—as a means to keep the rowdy children of Anguilla happy with a big party. Instead, he found that Anguillians devised their own plans to have some fun, pelting the school with rocks during the event, wrecking the generator, and staging a scene of chaos and violence that sent chills down the spine of half the island. But no one had ever listened to Anguilla before, and Bradshaw wasn’t about to start now: on February 27, 1967 the associated state of St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla was officially formed, thus confirming the annexation of Anguilla to St. Kitts in a relationship that practically made the former a colony within a colony. 36

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

This was the state of affairs and the general mood on May 29, 1967, when a popular meeting was convened at Burrowes Park, nowadays known as Ronald Webster Park, by Peter Adams, Ronald Webster and Atlin Harrigan. The response was overwhelming, as hundreds of people congregated to vent their frustration. Spontaneously it was decided that the crowd would march to the police station, where demands were made for the full task force to leave the island. Since it was late in the afternoon, the evacuation would have to wait until the following day but, sure enough, on May 30, 1967 the Anguillan mob succeeded in shipping the police out of the island without one shot being fired. Fearing immediate retaliation, Anguillians blocked the dustand-tarmac strip at Wallblake Airport with cars, trucks, boulders – anything available, really – to prevent any planes from landing on the island. The next step, urgently taken that very Tuesday May 30 1967, was the creation of a Peacekeeping Committee that would take provisional care of the affairs of the island. The committee consisted of fifteen influential members of the community and included, as well as Peter Adams, Ronald Webster and Atlin Harrigan, the likes of Walter Hodge, Charles Fleming, Wallace Rey and Emile Gumbs. Peacekeeping Committee or not, Anguillians’ greatest fear remained invasion by St. Kitts, so a network of coastline guardsmen was deployed around the island to keep any potential threat at bay. Indeed, so obsessed were Anguillians with the (very real) danger of invasion that almost immediately rumours circulated that Kittitian spies had infiltrated the island overnight. At the same time, a clandestine and frankly uncanny plan to carry out a coup in St. Kitts was being hatched on the eastern portion of the island.

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FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50: THE REVOLUTION

THIS PAGE Ronald Webster leads residents of the island in protest against Britain’s decision to send troops to Anguilla in 1969, after years of not being heard, leading to the eventual secession in 1967.

continued from page 36 Indeed, on the night of June 9, less than a fortnight after the expulsion of the police task force from Anguilla, an expedition of sixteen men departed Island Harbour on the motorboat Rambler to land with guns at Half Way Tree in St. Kitts and encourage the local population to turn its back on Bradshaw and put in place a new government more in tune with the times (and more sympathetic to the Anguillan cause, of course). The shambolic attack succeeded only in getting half a dozen Anguillan freedom fighters captured and imprisoned in St. Kitts for months. But some battles are best lost, and if none of the immediate strategic goals were achieved on this occasion (thankfully, since a number of them would have involved extensive bloodshed), in the medium term the maverick initiative bought Anguilla time. And time was precisely what Anguilla needed: by the time Bradshaw was ready to turn to the rebel island, Anguilla had already held a referendum—1813 people voting for secession, 5 voting against—and had caught the attention of the outside world. Which is not to say the issue was settled—not even close— but Anguilla had at least forced a stalemate. In St. Kitts, Bradshaw was confident that the provisional government would be unable to sustain the economic burden of going it alone once the postal and banking services, both originating in Basseterre, of course, had been discontinued. Thanks to the cunning of many local and foreign supporters, as well as to the generosity of Ronald Webster, that is precisely what Anguilla did, forcing the British to finally intervene in March 1969. By then the question of annexation to St. Kitts was moot: if one thing united Anguillians it was their unanimous rejection of that option. So, through much diplomatic and political brokering, Anguilla officially returned to the colonial fold in 1980— the decisions that really shaped people’s lives, though, had been taken long before, and it all began exactly fifty years ago. AXA

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FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50: THE EARLY YEARS Oct 29

Feb 6 In a referendum to decide the country’s fate, 1739 persons vote in favour of Anguilla becoming an Independent Republic. 4 vote against. Ronald Webster is elected President 2 weeks later.

1 9 6 9

Sep 7 The Valley Primary School opens after being built by the British Royal Engineers.

1 9 7 0

Cable and Wireless (now Flow) starts operations in The Valley, and brings a modern telephone system to the island for the very first time.

Mar 19 Britain invades Anguilla, bringing the island under its control.

Anguilla’s first general elections held. Anguilla’s first political party, Ronald Webster’s People’s Progressive Party (PPP), takes 6 of the 7 seats, to head up the Anguilla Council.

1 9 7 1

Apr 9 The first radio station, Radio Anguilla, is established.

Jul 24

1 9 7 2

Sep 13 Feb 23 Five months after construction started, the cargo jetty at Road Bay is officially opened.

Island Harbour Primary School opens, giving that village it’s first school. 203 students enrol at it’s opening.

Jan 29 The 18-man Anguilla Police Force is established with Claudius M. Roberts in command.

THE

EARLY YEARS

W H I L E W E T E N D T O F O C U S O N T H E E V E N T S O F M AY 3 0 T H T O T H E B R I T I S H I N VA S I O N 2 Y E A R S L AT E R , M U C H O F W H AT H A S S H A P E D T H E A N G U I L L A W E K N O W T O D A Y H A P P E N E D I N T H E F O R M AT I V E Y E A R S F R O M 1 9 6 9 T H R O U G H T H E 1 9 8 0 S . 40

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

FEATURE

ANGUILLA AT 50: THE EARLY YEARS

Feb 6 In a referendum to decide the country’s fate, 1739 persons vote in favour of Anguilla becoming an Independent Republic. 4 vote against. Ronald Webster is elected President 2 weeks later.

Mar 15 Oct 29

Apr 17

Wallblake Airport reopens after EC$1.2m renovation. The runway is paved, terminal building expanded and air traffic control tower built.

Anguilla’s population is 6,519.

1 9 7 3

Mar 1 Government House (the Governor’s residence starting in 1982), in Old Ta, was completed to serve as the residence of the island’s Commissioner.

1 9 7 4

Aug 1974 Carnival held for the first time

1 9 7 5

Anguilla elects Ronald Webster as the first Chief Minister. His PPP again takes 6 of 7 seats.

1 9 7 6

Nov 19 The formation of the Anguilla Cultural and Social Society.

hat’s 50 years? In human existence, it’s infinitesimal. For Anguilla, it’s just about everything. The aftermath of the events of May 30, 1967, could be summarised by Anguillian perseverance in the face of adversity. Anguillian revolutionaries expelled the St. Kitts authorities, effectively cutting the island’s ties with the Associated State of St. Kitts, Nevis, Anguilla. Within 6 weeks, Anguilla had not only drafted its own constitution but had a national anthem, a standing army, a new flag, and Ronald Webster was the president of this new republic. Parallels can be drawn to America’s Revolution where 13 British colonies decided that they’d had enough of being governed from elsewhere without any representation of their own. Anguilla had long been the redheaded stepchild of the three-island union. Anguillians, referred to pejoratively as “Bobo Johnnies”, had been politically, economically, and sociallyostracised in St. Kitts. What Anguillians heard in the term “associated statehood” was neglect and abuse: greater powers were sure to be granted to an already hostile government ruling them, still, from Basseterre. St. Kitts, under the leadership of Robert Bradshaw, who was not

Feb 10 The Anguilla Order (Constitution) comes into force, paving the way for elections.

shy in his dislike for Anguillians, considered secession illegal. Britain, constitutionally handcuffed, could not directly intervene. Diplomacy failed, and their representative, William Whitlock, was expelled from the island on March 11, 1969, setting the stage for the invasion. The Revolution wasn’t exactly bloodless but certainly lacked the destruction for which such events are known. The tension was palpable, and the danger felt by the locals was no less real. Britain felt there was sufficient danger, and 9 days after Whitlock’s expulsion, landed a substantial fighting force onto Anguilla’s 35 sq. miles to quell the insurrection. 135 paratroopers of the British “Red Devil” Regiment, the frigates HMS Minerva and HMS Rothesay, several helicopters, and 40 Scotland Yard police officers arrived in the much-maligned Operation Sheepskin. They met with no resistance. London realised that Anguilla’s problem was never with the Crown, but with St. Kitts. Now under Britain’s direct control, Anguilla got exactly what it had been requesting for close to 10 years. It was a PR nightmare back in England as the press took the administration to task over the bungled situation. Recommendations to give Anguilla more representation in Basseterre were soundly rejected. The Anguilla Council would continued on page 42 ISSUE SEVENTEEN | DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE

FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50: THE EARLY YEARS Mar 28

Dec 24 An engine in Clayton J. Lloyd’s aircraft catches fire during takeoff from St. Maarten en route to Anguilla. All seven on board lose their lives.

1 9 7 7

May 23 Premier of St. Kitts, Robert Bradshaw dies, effectively paving the way for a separation of Anguilla from associated statehood.

1 9 7 9

1 9 8 0

Jul 1978 Sep 12 The Stoney Ground Primary School opens.

An island-wide electricity distribution scheme completes its first stage, providing power to The Valley, North Side, George Hill, Water Swamp, Stoney Ground, The Quarter and The Farrington.

continued from page 41 countenance nothing but a clean break and return to administration from London. Ronald Webster, who had been called different versions of “stubborn” for his leadership style, was summarily unapologetic on this matter. The UK government, wanting to settle the dispute quickly, passed a series of legislation. First, they allowed a UK-appointed Commissioner to administer Anguilla’s affairs, and then they passed the Anguilla Act. Section 18 gave formal and legal status to the Anguilla Council, giving it executive and legislative powers. For the first time in its history, Anguilla had legitimate internal selfgovernance. Ronald Webster was elected leader of the Council by the other 6 members.

1970s: CONSTITUTIONS & CATCHING UP If any single word describes the decade of the ‘70s, it would be construction. Lacking even the most basic infrastructure, the island had nowhere to go but up. It underlined why so many supported the Revolution and its promise of greater self-determination: Anguillians felt they had nothing to lose! The British, guilty of neglecting the island for centuries, contributed to bringing the island into the 20th century within a few short years. The following decades saw a seemingly neverending string of 42

The British Government assures Anguilla that it was committed to resolving all issues concerning its status by year’s end.

1 9 7 8

Feb 1 Emile Gumbs is appointed Chief Minister after a no-confidence vote against Ronald Webster arising from a land dispute in Island Harbour.

Mar 22

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

Ronald Webster, and his Anguilla United Movement (AUM), are elected to the government after general elections.

Dec 19 Aug 1979 The Anguilla Development Board (ADB) commences operations.

Anguilla formally separates from the Associate State of St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla.

firsts. Each year saw the creation, incorporation, or inauguration of some business, institution, tradition, or infrastructure that, hitherto, had been nonexistent. A cargo jetty was built in Road Bay in 1970, Wallblake Airport was given a multi-million dollar renovation, the Anguilla police force came into being, and Cable and Wireless gave the island a modern telephone service. Access to education increased dramatically. By 1980, new schools were built, and nearly 2,000 students – 1,496 of them at the primary level – were enrolled in government schools across Anguilla. Politically, the issues that precipitated the events of May 30th remained unsettled. Still, a new constitutional order allowed for the island’s first general elections on July 24, 1972, in which Ronald Webster was appointed Leader of the Anguilla Council, and continued pushing Anguilla’s case for further clarification of the island’s status. While Britain acquiesced to some of the Council’s requests, it stopped short of answering the question of full separation, suggesting instead that Anguilla’s elected representatives receive greater powers within the new State. It’s highly unlikely that such a compromise would have lasted, and it can be argued that Britain severely underestimatedthe animosity between the leadership of the two islands. Another constitution and elections in 1976 again saw Webster elected, this time to become Anguilla’s first Chief Minister. However,

FEATURE

ANGUILLA AT 50: THE EARLY YEARS

Jan 1981

Jan 1

Nov 1

The Anguilla Social Security Scheme is established.

Malliouhana Hotel on Meads Bay opens.

Alex Richardson’s “God Bless Anguilla” is chosen as Anguilla’s National Song out of fifteen pieces that were submitted.

1 9 8 1

May 31

Jul 31

“De Chan” wins the first-ever Anguilla Day around-theisland boat race.

Cinnamon Reef Beach Club opens at Little Harbour.

1 9 8 2

1 9 8 3

1 9 8 4

Apr 1 Jan 16 Anguilla marks Separation with official celebrations. Premier of St. KittsNevis, Dr. Kennedy Simmonds is in attendance.

Dec 20

A new Constitution comes into force, increasing the terms of each ruling Government to five years, establishing the positions of Governor (formerly Commissioner), and adopting the term House of Assembly to replace the previous Legislative Assembly.

it would be short lived. A no-confidence motion saw him removed in less than a year. Robert Bradshaw’s death in 1978 was an important turning point for Anguilla. Others in his administration did not share their late leader’s open disdain for Anguillians. His successor, Lee Moore, made it clear to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in late 1979 that he had no qualms about Anguilla going its own way. This cleared the way for the FCO to start the constitutional process that would grant Anguilla formal separation from St. Kitts-Nevis.

1980s: SEPARATION & SELF-GOVERNANCE Anguillians went to the polls on May 28, 1980, amid British machinations surrounding the island’s separation. Voters restoreda still-popular Ronald Webster and his new Anguilla United Movement political party to leadership of the island. Later that year, on December 19, Britain granted Anguilla’s long-desired wish to sever its ties with St. Kitts. This meant that, somewhat fittingly, the man who was at the centre of the Revolutionary movement 15 years before would be the one to lead Anguilla into a new era of self-determination. In many ways, the local economy has taken one step forward and two steps back. At various times over the preceding centuries, cotton, phosphorus, salt, and shipping had propped up the local economy in one form or another. None of them, however, brought

Mar 9

Tyden Air commences operations, flying from Anguilla to neighbouring islands.

Emile Gumbs is elected Chief Minister after early elections are called.

the sort of wealth nor sustained development that tourism would. A 1974 Census recorded just under 30 persons employed in the entire industry. In fact, that same census found only 18% of the island’s 6,519 people were employed. The hospitality industry truly took off in the early 1980s. The opening of CinnamonReef Beach Club and Mariners Hotel a few weeks apart in 1983 were a precursor to growth to come. Malliouhana Hotel, which opened the following year, was groundbreaking, and kickstarted an era of tourism development, with major properties continuing to open over the next few years. Carimar Beach Club and Covecastles Resort followed in 1985, Coccoloba Hotel with the island’s first spa in 1987, and Cap Juluca and Anguilla Great House in 1988. Anguilla joined the Caribbean Tourism Organization by the end of 1989, pointing the way forward for the island. Traditionally, women held society together. While the men were away cutting sugar cane in the Dominican Republic or working the oil fields of Aruba, the women ran the households, raised children, and tilled their land. During the Revolution, women were instrumental in guarding the beaches and securing weapons, standing in vocal and physical opposition to invading British troops in 1969. In spite of this, their rights were minimal. continued on page 44 ISSUE SEVENTEEN | DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE

FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50: THE EARLY YEARS

Mar 8 National Bank of Anguilla opens for business.

Dec 30

Feb 5

The Valley Secondary School is renamed the Albena LakeHodge Comprehensive College after the educator and former government minister who died in October.

The Anguilla Great House Beach Resort opens

American Eagle begins flying between Puerto Rico and Anguilla.

1 9 8 5

Mar 19 Power Station at Corito opens

1 9 8 6

1 9 8 7

Health and Day Care Centres are opened in Island Harbour and West End.

Carimar Beach Club opens on Meads Bay.

continued from page 43 The Anguilla National Council of Women was formed in 1982 in a move towards equality. Women had been marginalised, unable to get a bank loan without their husband’s consent or hold certain positions in the Church. Albena Lake-Hodge and Idalia Gumbs were trailblazers. They made up a significant portion of Ronald Webster’s government and were influential to policies that would shape Anguilla. They laid the foundation for our current female politicians who make up almost half of Anguilla’s House of Representatives. Perhaps Ronald Webster’s greatest lasting legacy was the creation of the Social Security Scheme, now in its 35th year. Started on the first day of 1982, there was much opposition, even from Webster’s political colleagues, as to the timing of its implementation. It was felt that there were other, more pressing, issues that needed to be taken care of. Still, he persevered in getting the Bill passed. Anguilla’s Social Security scheme now boasts a health pool of financial assets and a safety net for the most vulnerable in society. The events of May 30th and the first few years that followed shaped this country like none other. The institutions and infrastructure created in the first 20 years did more to shape Anguilla’s DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

1 9 8 8 Jan 1988

Jan 28

Nov 1985

Nov 18

Dec 8

Cap Juluca, on Maundays Bay, opens.

Salt production at Road Pond ends, marking the end of Anguilla’s salt industry.

Dec 1 A modern terminal building opens at Wallblake Airport.

life and development than anything else that followed. They created the foundation on which we are still building. Those brave men and women who stood up to be counted at a time when they were sorely needed are the shoulders upon which Anguilla now stands, looking forward to continued development and charting its way in a changing world. The task at hand is much as it ever was. Where does the island go from here? Challenges and opportunities abound. For centuries, Anguilla’s story has been one of struggle, conflict, and triumph against all odds. It’s highly unlikely there will be a rewrite any time soon. AXA

ANGUILLA HISTORY “The Early Years” timeline was compiled using information from A Handbook History of Anguilla, by Colville L. Petty. The Handbook contains a comprehensive detailing of the island from prehistoric times until 2015.

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FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50: BOAT RACING JUBILEE

BOAT RACING JUBILEE T H E A N N U A L A R O U N D -T H E - I S L A N D B O AT R A C E O N ANGUILLA DAY IS IN ITS 35TH YEAR AND IS SURE TO BE A S E XC I T I N G A S I T A LW A Y S H A S B E E N .

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

Escape,

Relax,

Indulge,

Enjoy.

Fresh lobsters and rum punch served daily. Sea shuttle leaves from the small pier in Sandy Ground daily November 1 to July 31 beginning at 10am. Open by reservation only August 1 to October 31.

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FEATURE ANGUILLA AT 50: BOAT RACING JUBILEE IT’S OKAY,

WE LOVE THE BEACH, TOO

oat racing is the national sport, and its history, as an organized sport, goes back over 70 years. The sport has its genesis in the days when fishermen would race each other home in the evenings, after a long day out at sea. It then continued in the years when boats from Anguilla would take men to Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic to cut sugar cane. After months harvesting the cane, they’d make their way back on a trip which took few days into the wind. The men on each boat would put wagers on which boat would make it back to Anguilla first, so boat captains were very competitive to see who would win. They would come back to cheering crowds on the beach in Sandy Ground, rooting for their favourite boats. To commemorate Anguilla’s Revolution 15 years earlier, Harris “Mr. Cool” Richardson organized the around-the-island boat race which ran on May 31, 1982. The race, which starts at Sandy Ground in mid-morning, takes a circuitous course around the island as well as some of the offshore cays, before returning to Sandy Ground in the afternoon. It’s a test of skill, wit and endurance, with sailors in the water over 5 hours. Over the 34 years that it has been held so far, De Chan, owned by “Mr. Cool” and captained by Percy Romney, has racked up the most victories with 8. De Tree is next with 5 wins, and UFO has 4. Sonic and The Real Deal have traded wins in the past 3 years, so this year’s running is sure to be a close affair. AXA

ANGUILLA DAY AROUND-THE-ISLAND BOAT RACE WINNERS Read all issues of Design Anguilla anytime, anywhere, and on any device.

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1982. De Chan 1983. De Chan 1984. De Chan 1985. Bee 1986. De Chan 1987. Wasp 1988. O,K. Joe 1989. Warrior 140 1990. Saga Boy 1991. De Chan 1992. De Chan 1993. Nathalie

1994. Nathalie 1995. Nathalie 1996. De Chan 1997. UFO 1998. UFO 1999. Viagra 2000. Satellite 2001. De Tree 2002. De Chan 2003. UFO 2004. Super Star 2005. UFO

2006. De Tree 2007. Super Star 2008. De Tree 2009. Super Star 2010. De Tree 2011. Real Deal 2012. Real Deal 2013. Cancelled (De Tree won shorter race) 2014. Sonic 2015. Real Deal 2016. Sonic

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WHAT PROPERTY FEATURE: TOPAZ OCEANVIEW VILLAS

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P I A N O P R O D I G Y E M I LY B E A R A N D H E R FA M I LY C H O O S E A N G U I L L A , A N D T O PA Z O C E A N V I E W R E S I D E N C E S , A S T H E I R G O -T O P L A C E T O U N W I N D . Words: Orrett H. Wynter

mily Bear’s list of accomplishments makes it easy to forget she’s only 15. An awardwinning composer and pianist, by age six, Emily was at the White House playing for President George W. Bush, and had been composing her own music for three years. A native of Rockford, Illinois, Emily has played Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and is a regular with Symphony Orchestra’s around the world. She scores films and has composed over 300 pieces to date. The 2016 and 2017 ASCAP Jazz Composer of the Year cannot stop gushing about Anguilla, where she and her family have vacationed for the past few years. continued on page 52

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

THE BEAR FAMILY (L-R) Brian, Andrea, Lauren and Emily. (Benjamin absent)

WHAT

PROPERTY FEATURE: TOPAZ OCEANVIEW VILLAS

ISSUE SEVENTEEN | DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE

THIS PAGE Piano prodigy Emily Bear loves Anguilla for relaxation, and to fuel her creativity.

continued from page 50 “I love coming here,” Emily says. “The people are incredibly nice, the beaches are awesome – plus there’s really good food!” The Bears try to balance family time with the vagaries of schedules and obligations. Invariably there’s studying to be done, a rehearsal to get to, or a work emergency at the medical practice of Emily’s dad, Brian. Family time can be fleeting. Eldest son, Benjamin, is a sophomore at the University of Michigan. Emily and her sister Lauren, who is a competitive figure skater, a harpist and a rower, participate in a full suite of extracurriculars. So spending a few weeks in Anguilla, far from the frigid winters of Illinois, has become a treasured tradition for this busy family of five. “Anguilla is our haven. Spending quality family time together is invaluable, and we never run out of activities when we are here. Our biggest decision each day is which beach to go to,” says mom, Andrea. “We’ve also met wonderful people, both from the island, as well as visitors.” Among their chance encounters was TV show host, Ellen DeGeneres. Emily has appeared on Ellen’s show numerous times, but they didn’t expect to run into her the day she stopped in for lunch on Sandy Island. The Bear family’s Caribbean vacations have taken them to St. Barts, Turks and Caicos and Tortola. In 2013, they decided to try somewhere new. It was love at first sight when they got to Anguilla. continued on page 52 52

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

IN THE RIGHT KEY EMILY BEAR IS a prodigious talent who has received notice from an early age. At 15 years old, she’s recorded 6 albums. Playing piano comfortably by age 2, and composing at 3; by age 4 she was recording and being published. At 5, she made her debut at the Ravinia Festival in Chicago with a 40-minute solo set. At 6, she played for President George W. Bush at the White House. Numerous TV appearances have followed, including Ellen, Good Morning America, and many others. Emily, with her jazz trio – which includes Peter Slavov (bass) and Mark McLean (drums) – released her new jazz-infused EP, Into the Blue, in January 2017, containing 5 new songs, along with her arrangement of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, “My Favorite Things”, from The Sound of Music. She has won numerous prestigious awards. Into the Blue is a tribute to the legendary composer, producer, musician and Emily’s mentor, Quincy Jones – a man who has worked with music legends. In 2011, he introduced Emily at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, and the Festival Castell in Peralada, Spain. He later produced 2013’s Diversity. “He’s influenced a lot of my work,” Emily says with a smile. Her mom, Andrea, agrees, “She would never release anything without Quincy’s approval and his blessing.” These days, she spends much of her time polishing her work, while juggling the rigours of a full school schedule. “I’m not always just sitting down to practice piano for hours,” she explains. “I do a lot of writing, and composing – every day I’m doing something with music.” Much of that work now entails broadening her repertoire, with the wish list of artists she’d love to work with too long to mention. She does reserve high praise for Alicia Keys, John Legend and, curiously, Chance the Rapper. “I have been obsessed with Chance the Rapper for the past year,” she laughs. “I actually skipped Homecoming to see him perform.” Emily’s enjoying the change of pace and the opportunity to use her more formal musical training to bring a new sound to popular music. “I’ve been writing a lot of pop lately, and it’s been great,” she says. “If I could take all the different influences that I’ve had over the years and weave it in, it’d be really cool.” Could young Emily be to pop music what George Gershwin was to jazz? We’ll just have to wait and see.

Shoal Bay Villas

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WHAT PROPERTY FEATURE: NEVAEH A BUSY, TALENTED FAMILY IT MIGHT BE

easy for siblings to fade into

the shadow cast by one who is supremely talented, but Emily Bear’s older siblings are quite gifted in their own right. Benjamin, the oldest, has compiled an impressive photography portfolio in recent years. In addition to acting as family photographer when they’re here in Anguilla on vacation, he has shot nature scenes and portraits of local personalities. Benjamin’s photos have appeared on Huffington Post and Upworthy, and he freelances for the Detroit Free Press while attending University of Michigan — pre-med, following in his father’s footsteps. Emily — composer, pianist, and former child prodigy — was also interested in medicine, if not for the fact that her music career has already taken off. She is the only sibling of the three brave enough to visit their dad’s cadaver lab. “Benji and Lauren chickened out,” she laughs. THIS PAGE Anguilla also gives Benjamin Bear a chance to practice his photography.

Lauren, her older sister, is co-captain of the high school rowing team and an accomplished ice skater. She, too, is musically inclined and plays the harp. She’d love to continue playing the harp throughout college and beyond.

continued from page 52 “We’ve been all over the world, but Anguilla is different,” explains Andrea, who travelled the entire Caribbean during her work with Club Med. “It’s not only the beauty of the island, but the people who live here.” Her husband Brian agrees. “I think the people are lovely, and it truly still has an island feel. It’s not over developed like some of the other islands. The food is great and all locally made, with no chain restaurants.” “We’ve been to a lot of Caribbean islands, but this one is different,” Lauren chimes in. “The people are really nice, and it’s just really comfortable to be here. There’s lots to do, it’s easy to get around, and everyone is so friendly.”

WHY TOPAZ? Composed of two separate villas – “Pinnacle”, and the larger “Imperial”, Topaz Oceanview Residences are perched on the southern hill above Sandy Ground Bay, and feature the most photographed scenic view in Anguilla. Formerly an exclusive executive residence, the residences opened to vacation rental in 2013 and have been hugely successful among guests. For the Bear family, Topaz’s Pinnacle Villa is different from houses they’ve rented on other islands. Although they offer similar amenities such as a pool and are close to the beach, there’s something special here. continued on page 52 54

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

Their dad, Brian, is a busy and successful orthopedic surgeon. Mom, Andrea – who has a music education degree and has sung professionally – manages Emily’s remarkable career,

juggling her school schedule with

cross-country and overseas trips to play in concerts. With all this going on, it’s obvious why Anguilla is a favorite vacation spot. “We come here for the relaxation,” Brian says. “It’s mainly the time to not think about work, and to be with the family.”

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WHAT PROPERTY FEATURE

THIS PAGE The Bear family fully enjoy their trips to Anguilla.

continued from page 54 “As soon as we saw this villa, something just clicked,” says Andrea. “It was so inviting and warm. The location encourages us to go explore new things every day. The view is gorgeous, and the villa itself just completely works and feels like a home. We have found that staying in a villa is much preferable to separate hotel rooms and allows us more privacy and family time.”

THE LOUDENS Over the years, the Bears have become close with the owners of Topaz Oceanview Residences, the Louden family. Jonice Louden grew up just down the hill in Sandy Ground, and her husband Delroy is the former president of the Anguilla Community College. They live on-site in the Imperial Villa, which allows Jonice to be very attentive to the needs of their guests. On learning that Emily was a piano prodigy the Loudens, without prompting, ordered a keyboard for their villa so Emily would be able to practice during their vacation. The Bears were touched and surprised when they arrived on the island. “It meant so much that they would do that,” Andrea says. The Bears have been coming back ever since. 56

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

THE VILLA ADVANTAGE For a family of five that travels together, hotels become impractical quickly. At least two rooms are needed, so the only place for family time is in the hotel’s common areas. The privacy of a villa trumps a restaurant or hotel pool area every time. “We have privacy, but with a lot of space to move around and a lot more freedom,” Andrea explains. Though there are dozens of fantastic restaurant choices all over the island, the Bears often prepare their own meals at the villa. They can pick up fresh items at the farmer’s market to cook dinner for the family, just as they would at home. “I like that you can make whatever food you want, and can eat whenever you want,” Emily says gleefully. The villa’s full kitchen becomes the staging area for grilled steaks or barbecued chicken, followed by a few rounds of board games upstairs.

ISLAND ACTIVITIES Brian and the kids head to the Dungeon Gym in South Hill every morning when they’re on Anguilla. According to Andrea, continued from page 56

continued from page 56 “The whole family is into nutrition, and they work out every day.” The Dungeon is one of the biggest gyms on the island, and having access to it makes the Bears feel even more at home. On a recent trip, Brian and Emily got their scuba certification from Shoal Bay Scuba, which you can do in a matter of days on the island. “We got the books on Tuesday and were certified by Sunday,” Emily says. With their new skills, they dove a couple of shipwrecks. “Those were really cool,” Emily said. “I didn’t want to come up!” Now that they’ve become familiar with the island, the Bears plan to get even more involved in life on Anguilla. Brian already lends his expertise by giving lectures at the Princess Alexandra Hospital. And there’s talk of Emily performing at a benefit concert to raise funds for a local charity. Both Lauren and Emily intend to volunteer at the Anguilla Animal Rescue Foundation’s shelter, to ease the pain of two weeks away from their two dogs at home.

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR! The Bears are already looking forward to their next Anguilla trip. For Emily, being on the island is a blend of work and fun, because she plays and composes every day on vacation. The keyboard comes in handy when she’s ready to practice or write new music. “I have performances and projects to compose for constantly,” she says. “So whether it’s writing or practicing, it’s really great to have the keyboard here. Going two weeks without playing wouldn’t be good for my technique, and I get inspired to compose when I am on Anguilla.” Anguilla is good for creativity. “When she’s here, she’s relaxed and has more time to compose,” Andrea says. “Yeah,” Emily agrees. “It’s the magic of the island.” AXA

For more information about staying or purchasing Topaz Oceanview Residences, contact: Phone: (561) 247-6356 or (264) 235-2049 Email: info@topazoceanview.com

Website: www.topazoceanview.com

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

GREAT LOCATION, GREAT VALUE LOCATED ALONG THE iconic “scenic route” of South Hill’s Backstreet, Topaz Oceanview Residences enjoy Anguilla’s most iconic view: the Sandy Ground overlook. It’s the island’s most photographed scene, and the best vantage point to enjoy the national sport of boat racing. Strategically placed to explore the island, you can get to a beach or restaurant in just 5 minutes. The 2-villa property has a lot of flexibility and can comfortably accommodate a large family of up to 14 guests. Four-bedroom Imperial (5,100 sq ft), completed in 2012, has a full kitchen on each level and can be configured as two separate 2-bedroom units. The compact 3-bedroom Pinnacle (3,500 sq ft), built 5 years earlier, is perfect for smaller families. Imperial retains an intimate feel by wrapping around a Bali-inspired courtyard and pool. Pinnacle’s highlight is its upper floor infinity pool overlooking Sandy Ground. Both feature authentic Thai and Indonesian decor. Owners, the Louden family, are avid travellers themselves, and take a hands-on approach to catering to their guests, and they ensure a high level of service and attention to detail. Aside from the property’s creature comforts, including panoramic views, heated pools, high ceilings, and air-conditioned rooms, guests are especially happy with the complimentary “Welcome Package”: an assortment of fruits, beverages, and breakfast staples. “We get a lot of positive feedback,” says Jonice Louden, matriarch and Topaz’s hostess. “The package allows guests to settle in instead of having to run to the store on their first night. They also don’t need to worry about having to fill the fridge for small means in between their restaurant visits.” Anguilla property is an intriguing prospect. The government’s recent move to reduce stamp duties on the transfer of property means there are great deals available, including Topaz. The Loudens are confident their property’s proven rental track record makes it quite attractive. “The properties are consistent rentals and are exclusively located in a designated ‘viewing area of national significance’,” explains Robert, Jonice’s son. “We are close to dining and entertainment, and Sandy Ground beach below is a centre of cultural life. To own this site is to be a steward of a place of importance in Anguilla.”

Villa Gardenia, anguillaislands.com

ANGUILLA REAL ESTATE DEALS

SUN RAY VILLA $625,000 Colourful two-bedroom, reinforced concrete home, with an attached guest studio. Built in 2010, on halfacre in Little Harbour with great views of St. Martin. islanddreamproperties.com

Market Looking Up T H E A N G U I L L A G O V E R N M E N T H A S R E D U C E D S TA M P D U T Y O N T H E T R A N S F E R O F R E A L E S TAT E . L O C A L P R O P E R T Y E X P E R T S TA L K A B O U T W H AT T H I S W I L L M E A N F O R T H E P R O P E R T Y M A R K E T.

nguilla’s local property market was soaring upward on the wings of buoyant, global credit markets. Anguilla property and construction, in addition to property prices, skyrocketed especially between the years of 2002 through 2008. This brought unprecedented development and investment to the island. The global financial crisis has meant a distinct cooling off, for the last eight or so years, and interest in local property has waned in the intervening period. Property prices are down, and a number of Anguilla’s leading realtors think now may be a strategic time to own Anguilla property. “It is definitely a buyer’s market currently,” says Island Dream Properties’ Jackie Pascher (islanddreamproperties.com, 264-498-3200). “Prices are at their lowest and there are some good deals now.” Adrian Kobbe of GUMKO International (anguillaislands.com, 264-584-7000) agrees. “Prices are about 40%, in some cases 50%, lower than at the height of the our boom period. Properties are a good buy at this point, particularly if you are buying for ‘quality time’, instead of buying purely to profit.” Even with property prices being at historic lows, there hasn’t been much activity for the past few years. This is set to change with the announcement by the Government of Anguilla of a temporary reduction in the transfer taxes associated with real estate. Property transactions, for foreign buyers, formerly carried a 5% transfer tax in addition to a 12.5% stamp duty assessed on the gross value of the land and structure. A 17.5% tax rate must be calculated into the purchase price of a property. Stamp duties have now been cut to 5% (6.25% on undeveloped land) sending the total tax rate to a mere 10% (11.25% on land). This change has been met with renewed interest and optimism in local real estate, for Anguilla. continued on page 62

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

NAMASTE $1.275 million Japanese-Buddhist inspired threebedroom on Sandy Hill Bay, built in 2011. Outdoor living and dining spaces, with ocean views and a few minutes walk to a sandy cove. anguillaproperties-sothebysrealty.ai

SEAFEATHERS WATERFRONT $430,000 0.75 acre of waterfront property with beautiful views to St. Martin/ Maarten islands. anguillaislands.com

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WHAT PROPERTY FEATURE

Homes like Villa Zebra (islanddreamproperties.com) above, have become even more attractive. Listed at $2.5 million, the tax reduction would allow a buyer to save over $180,000 at closing.

continued from page 60 “All the members of AREA (Anguilla Real Estate Association) have welcomed the reduction,” says Elaine Hearn of Properties in Paradise (propertiesinparadise.com, 264-2352816). “We have already seen a marked increase in properties going under contract. Many of these are from clients who know Anguilla and were waiting for the right time.” Benefits are even more substantial at the higher end of the market as savings of tens, or even hundreds of thousands of dollars can be realized. The arrival of the Four Seasons, in 2016, has had a positive effect on the market due to their portfolio of luxury villas. Buyers have taken notice. “We’re seeing offers and contracts on a few higher end properties which we have not seen in quite a while,” says Pascher. “It appears there is some renewed interest in properties in the $3M+ price range.” All in all, this bodes well for the entirety of the market and, with all the other things that Anguilla offers – its favourable tax policies, great beaches and dining, a safe and laid-back lifestyle, and easy access – it seems set to, again, become competitive against some of the other markets in the region. “With the regulations, prices and taxes rising in St. Barth, it’s making it a bit difficult for the average home or hotel owner there. I see French investors [being interested in] Anguilla,” Kobbe says. “We’re a much less densely developed island, with the same international airport connection (SXM, Princess Juliana) and much nicer and less populated beaches.” “I believe we are looking at a good 18 months,” says Hearn. “After that, it’s tough to tell. It may depend on whether government chooses to continue with the reduced tax rates, and other global factors that are unknown. For now, things are looking bright for next season.” AXA

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Luxury Travel Trends PROPERTY MANAGER AND CONCIERGE, KENROY HERBERT OF LEVITICUS LIFESTYLE AND T RAV E L , S H A R E S T H E L AT E S T D E V E L O P M E N T S I N T H E L U X U R Y T RAV E L M A R K E T. Is Anguilla’s current luxury traveller different from those that visited in the early days? I wasn’t in the business back then, but I’ve heard enough to know that the short answer is yes. While certain traits remain the same, the children and grandchildren of our early clients come here and want different experiences. Luxury travelers are gaining wealth at a younger age, and younger clients want to be part of the show, rather than to be just spectators.

Are our luxury accommodations fulfilling their needs?

The word ‘luxury’ is terribly overused and has lost much of its impact. As a destination, I think we often fall short. We need to provide more accommodations where service and opulence are paramount.

Are you seeing any trends?

More of our clients are excited about adventure, and niche travel, such as vacations with themes. Another huge trend at the moment are multi-generational vacations. That’s why villas are so vital. Families are spending more time together and they want a communal space.

What’s the future of the market?

I think more hotels will start offering villa accommodations. The number of rooms will get smaller but the rooms, themselves, will get larger. Travellers now want their accommodations to be just like their homes, with walk-in closets, staff and private pools. AXA

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CONTACT OUR ADVERTISERS Alliance Insurance Services Ltd George Hill. 264.498.7788 Andy’s Car Rental Blowing Point. 264.584.7010 Anguilla Air Services The Valley. 264.235.7122 Anguilla Vision Center George Hill. 264.497.2020 Arijah Children’s Foundation Auckland House, The Quarter. 264-235-2742 / 264-476-3105 Avis Car Rental The Valley. 264.497.2642 AXA Signature Jewelry Ce’Blue Villas, Crocus Bay. 264.462.1000 B & E Automotive Services Rock Farm. 264.297.7152 Beaches Edge Villas Lockrum. 264.235.8492 Beautiful Sandy Island Sandy Island. 264.476.6534 Bernsville Penthouse South Hill. 264.497.3067 or 235.7167 Bird of Paradise Sandy Hill. 414.791.9461 Caribbean Soaps and Sundries Little Harbour. 264.729.3678 Cerulean Villa Barnes Bay. 264.235.2816 Couture Concepts Rock Farm. 264.476.8068 da’Vida Restaurant & Spa Crocus Bay. 264.498.5433 DLG Engineering Rock Farm. 264.497.2985/0084 Electric Thrills The Valley. 264.476.0633 GB Ferries Blowing Point. 264.584.6205 Grand Outlook Castle Crocus Hill. 781.643.3995 Irie Life South Hill. 264.497.6526 or 264.476.6526 Island Dream Properties George Hill. 264.498.3200 or 264.235.6555

Jamie’s Villa and Apartments Sea Rocks. 264.497.2934 / 4233 Janvel’s Boutique/Ooh la la Salon Blowing Point. 264.497.6221 or 264.476.2639 Jewels By Love Marigot, St. Martin. 590-590-87-25-50 Kimmey’s Boutique The Valley. 264.497.2976 Kishti Villa Collection Black Garden/Meads Bay 264.497.6049 / 239.344.7810 Kobbe Design The Valley. 264.497.0814 or 497.3772 La Severine Fitness The Valley. 264.582.8838 Leeward Construction Sachasses. 264.497.5613 Leviticus Lifestyle & Tours West End. 264.498.2110 LinkUs Limited Stoney Ground. 264.584.1314 Lloyd’s Bed & Breakfast Crocus Hill. 264.497.2351 Lynne Bernbaum Art Gallery Sandy Ground. 264.476.5211 Malliouhana, An Auberge Resort Meads Bay. 877.733.3611 National Commercial Data Services (NCDS) The Valley. 264.498.6237 N’Vie Boutique George Hill. 264.584.5275 Oasis Smile Centre Lower South Hill. 264.497.6333 Ocean Echo Meads Bay. 264.498.5454 On-Call Technical Services The Valley. 264.584.4623 Orange Grove Pharmacy Cole Bay, St. Martin 721.544.2013 / 721.544.2166

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Villa Kishti Meads Bay

WEST END BAY

Paramount Pharmacy South Hill. 264.498.2366 Water Swamp. 264.497.2366 Pat Ban Import/Export Rock Farm. 264.297.7152 Petals Boutique at Frangipani Beach Resort Meads Bay. 264.497.6442 Properties in Paradise South Hill. 264.235.2816 S&S Electrical South Hill. 264.498.6717 Shoal Bay Villas Shoal Bay Village. 264.497.2051 Sotheby’s International Realty The Valley. 264.498.0123 Straw Hat Restaurant Meads Bay. 264.497.8300 Sunset Homes Caul’s Bottom. 264.497.3666 264.235.7667 / 3666 Tradewind Aviation Oxford, Connecticut. 800.367.7922 Topaz Ocean View Villas South Hill. 264.476.2049 Villa Alegria Cul de Sac. 312.640.7420 Villa Kishti Collection Black Garden/Meads Bay. 264.497.6049 / 239.344.7810

ROAD SALT POND

S&S Electrical

Bernsville Penthouse

LITTLE HARBOUR

Janvel’s Boutique

BLOWING POINT

BLOWING POINT FERRY TERMINAL Villa Alegria

Beaches Edge Anguilla

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Electric Thrills

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LinkUs Limited

Grand Outlook Castle

Bird of Paradise

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ISSUE SEVENTEEN | DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE

MISCELLANY LAST WORDS

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Paratroopers after dropping into Anguilla; British forces take a breather with some local children on the beach; After not finding any fighting resistance on the island, most of the troops left shortly after.

May Day bout six years ago, a gentleman came up to me and asked, “Are you Andy?” I said, “Yes, I am. How can I help you?” He said, “I’d like to rent a car, if you have one available.” I replied, “Sorry, sir. I don’t have one car. I have two cars; would you like to rent them?” “No, thank you,” he said. “Just one.” A couple months later, he came back: “Andy, I heard you sell cars.” “Yes, I do, but I don’t have one car to sell. I have three; would you like to buy them?“ “You bugger,” he said. “You did this to me last time. No, thank you, Andy. I only need one car.” So I sold Mr. Simon Hemans a car. Go back with me for a moment: it’s 1825. Britain has pushed Anguilla into a union with St. Kitts-Nevis. After failed separations in 1872 and 1958, the Anguilla Revolution began in 1966 with a small scuffle at the Valley Secondary School. The big gang came on May 30, 1967: a large group of Anguillians stormed the police headquarters, captured the thirteen-man contingent of St. Kitts’ policemen and packed them all back to St. Kitts, two by boat and the rest by air. That June, eighteen brave Anguillians (including three American mercenaries) took a handful of guns and the greatest of revolutionary weapons, their hearts, to St. Kitts. They set out to overthrow Mr. Bradshaw, the then Prime Minster of St. Kitts-Nevis. They failed, and five were captured. In January 1968, the British sent adviser Tony Lee, to negotiate peace. Anguillians would accept nothing short of complete separation. Futile negotiations dragged on for a year. On May 11, 1969, the British envoy William Whitlock arrived in Anguilla, and just like the Kittitians’, his stay was short. He was

DESIGN ANGUILLA MAGAZINE | ISSUE SEVENTEEN

expelled to England the same day. One week later, in the early hours of March 19, the British came like thieves in the night. Anguillians were sound asleep, only to be awakened not by the smiling sun but, for many, by guns at their doors. The invaders had the entire island under military rule by sunrise, looking for weapons, gangster elements, and our revolutionary leader, Ronald Webster. They had come to shoot first and ask questions later—but there were no fighting rebels in Anguilla. The British, who had come for war, instead got a vacation in paradise. In all, not one shot was fired and no blood was shed. The invasion was the turning point in Anguilla’s fight for freedom and a blessing to Anguillians. In this account of Anguilla’s fight for freedom, one important name was not mentioned. In March of 1969, Simon Hemans was Deputy Commissioner of Anguilla. From the moment he arrived, his heart was with Anguilla. He was one of the first to notice that the Anguillian people’s intentions were only good—never a threat to his men or to the British. He also knew that what St. Kitts was doing to Anguilla was unjustified. Even then, this man also knew that he’d be returning to the island time and time again. To this day, Simon Hemans spends several months every year at his beautiful home in Shoal Bay with his lovely family. Simon and I became good friends, but the name never clicked in my mind. Then, one day, as we nursed our drinks at the bar, it hit me. Simon Hemans! I looked at him and said, “Simon Hemans? From the 1969 invasion?” “That’s me,” he replied. I am having a drink with someone who could have been an enemy, but now is a best friend. Edited and Republished from Design Anguilla Issue 7: Art-Centric.

IMAGES Courtesy of Heritage Collection Museum

O N M A Y 3 0 , W E C E L E B R A T E A N G U I L L A D A Y: I T R E M I N D S U S O F W H O W E A R E , W H Y W E ’ R E H E R E A N D W H E R E W E ’ R E G O I N G . | by Andy Connor