Community and school musical and cultural groups celebrated the launch of what is an extremely informative literary work and keepsake, for the Anguillian public, on Monday this week, October 12. The 224-page second edition of A Handbook History of Anguilla, written in a chronological, intimate and light-reading style, touches the names, social, cultural and economic lives of Anguillan citizenry, and a multiplicity of events involving them, extending over many years.
The book, authored by respected prolific writer, historian and museum curator, Mr. Colville L. Petty, OBE, further evokes readership interest and a deeper understanding of its entries by a liberal inclusion of commentaries – rendering the book a story worth telling. In fact, Mrs. Rita Celestine Carty, a Graduate Teacher at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, a well-known book reviewer and literary personality, made that point in her critique, published elsewhere in The Anguillian, that the book is “a story worthy to be written”.
Ms. Michelle Queeley, another English/Literature Teacher, who also eloquently spoke about the book, while chairing the ceremony, said in part: “Take not for granted [Mr. Petty’s] writings; pay heed instead to his teachings for you will find lessons and celebrations – a history oh so compelling, that the story of Anguilla is certainly worth telling.”
In a brief overview of A Handbook History of Anguilla, Mr. Petty said of his literary work: “It is a goldmine of Anguilla’s history – which is easily readable – and our young people, as well as adults, would be intellectually richer having a copy in their possession.” (See his remarks elsewhere in this edition of The Anguillian.)
Mrs. Evalie Bradley, who served in the Anguilla Public Service with him for many years, spoke in glowing terms about him and his work. In the concluding remarks of her address, she stated: “Mr. Petty, we honour you. We celebrate you and congratulate you on your successful launching of this masterpiece of Anguilla’s history.”
A large number of persons, including many students and other young people, were among the appreciative gathering and took a keen interest in the book. The programme was a most enjoyable one and, in some cases, appeared both somewhat emotional and sobering. The programme included performances by the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School’s Brass Band; From Within Dance; rising singer, Ms. Natalie Richardson; emerging poet Mr. Alexis Ryan and the Mayoumba Folkloric Theatre.
There was a presentation of a copy of Mr. Petty’s book by Ms. Arielle Gaskin to the Anguilla Public Library which was accepted by Mrs. Carmen Oliveras, the Deputy Director. At the same time, Mr. Timothy Hodge, Director of Social Security, acting in his capacity as President of the Anguilla Historical and Archaeological Society, presented a plaque to Mr. Petty in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the preservation and documentation of Anguilla’s history.
Mr. Petty’s daughter, Mrs. Chanelle Petty Barrett, expressed appreciation to all persons for their contributions to the launch of the book. She spoke about her father’s passion for writing, some of the lessons she learnt from him; and her mother’s patience and support during his busy periods of writing. “I love you dad,” she added.
A book signing event followed, during which books were purchased by a number of persons and autographed by Mr. Petty. The book has evoked a great deal of interest in the community.
Copies of A Handbook History of Anguilla are available at the office of The Anguillian newspaper and the Anguilla Drug Store at US$25.00 each.
