“Anguilla Sea-fearing Captains (Part 1)” is the title of the latest stamp issue released on 25th November, 2013 by the Philatelic Bureau at the Anguilla Post Office. This eight denomination commemorative issue is part one of a two part series paying tribute to the legacy of a rare breed of enterprising, sea-hardened young men who by necessity had invested their talents and futures in providing a vital economic and communication link with their native Anguilla and the entire eastern Caribbean and regions beyond. Anguilla Sea-faring Captains (Part 1) captures the entrepreneurial spirit of eight extraordinary men who had become icons in the establishing and maintenance of Anguilla’s fledgling economy which was and continues to be inextricably linked to the sea.
The Sea Captains featured on the initial volume of the stamp issue are: Fritz Ericson Hughes (1891-1970), James “Jimmy” Woods (1908-1998), John “King King” Franklin (1912-1998), Herchel Gumbs (1884-1965), Walter Griffith Hodge (1920-1989), Christopher “Chrissy” Connor (1925-1994), ZilphusZered Fleming (1915-1992) and George Ramares Richardson (1919-2003).
The Anguilla Philatelic Bureau in association with the Anguilla Stamp Advisory Committee is honoured to be given the opportunity to document the immense role played by these sea captains and their contribution to Anguilla’s development. The Postmaster General and the Anguilla Stamp Advisory Committee are most grateful and indebted to the many family members of the deceased captains who provided biographical information and photographs of these legends who served their country above self. Special mention is made of Mr. Bertram Richardson a former sea-captain, for his admirable interest in approaching relatives of these seafarers in soliciting background information and material which proved critical to the production of the stamp issue.
The General public is invited to make “Anguilla Sea-faring Captains (Part1 )” part of their stamp collection or memorabilia by purchasing this latest Philatelic offering now on sale at the Post Office Philatelic Bureau at EC$14.50 and EC$17.50 for sets and First Day Covers respectively.
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newpaper.)
