A second biography on the life and service of Anguilla’s successful master seaman and businessman, Mr. James “Freddy” Hughes, is now available on the island.
The 70-page book, entitled: “The Joys and Perils of Sailing: ‘Freddy’ At Sea”, was edited and published by the late Reverend Dr. Wycherley Gumbs, who, until his sudden passing, on September 4, 2020, was the Superintendent of the Anguilla Methodist Circuit. Known for his prolific writing, he was also the editor of Mr. Hughes’ first book entitled: “James ‘Freddy’ Hughes: A man for all Seasons”.
The just published sequel book has on the front cover a stunning photograph of Mr. Hughes. About that cover, Rev. Dr. Gumbs wrote: “On a warm Saturday afternoon, Freddie gazes down at Sandy Ground from his vantage point on Back Street. Freddie smiles as in his ears, even far away, he can still hear the “roar” of the ocean as he observes the buzz of activity in the harbour.”
Page three of the book shows maps of Anguilla, the Lesser Antilles, Greater Antilles and the Caribbean Sea in particular – some of the routes which Freddy sailed and speaks about today.
The chapters of the book include the following: The Ocean Calling; The Learning Curve; From Sailor to Owner; Through Many Dangers and Challenges; My Last Voyage; and a Tribute to Mac Owen and Elliot Carty.
In the conclusion of his book, Mr. Hughes, who has over half a century as a seaman, wrote in part: “I look back with a deep sense of gratitude, and pay homage to the personalities who helped to shape my destiny as a sailor, captain, owner of vessels and life in general.”
Copies of Mr. Hughes’ book, available at US$20 each, can be picked up at The Anguillian newspaper’s office, where a number of other books, written by Anguillian authors, are also on sale. The book, which provides good reading, including humorous stories of Freddy and his sailors, is also at several other outlets on the island.
