One hundred years ago an Anguillian national, the late Walter Griffith Hodge, who rose to much prominence, influence, skill and leadership, was born in Anguilla on November 2, 1920. He passed from this life on May 13, 1989. But, today, his life and legacy still remain like an open book for all to read and share.
Each year, that reading and sharing take the form of what has become known as the Walter G. Hodge Memorial Lecture. This year, however, a panel discussion was held on Wednesday, November 4, as reported elsewhere in this edition of The Anguillian newspaper. This time, by coincidence, the lecture was part of a Centennial Celebration (marking his 100th birthday) which began with a Memorial Service on Monday evening, November 2, at St. Augustine’s Anglican Church, someone and a half miles from St. Andrew’s Church which he built and is now under repair.
The Centennial Service was attended by close relatives as well as friends and other members of the public, many of whom were acquainted with the life and work of the late Anguillian extraordinaire.
The Rt. Rev. Errol Brooks, who presided over the service, was one of those persons who, not only knew the late Walter Hodge but worked with him in the early days of the Anguilla Revolution. During that time Mr. Hodge served as Treasurer and Comptroller of Customs. He said he was privileged to have served with him in the Treasury Department; that he had benefited much from his knowledge and influence; and that Anguillians should be grateful for Mr. Hodge’s contributions to the island.
In delivering the homily, the deceased’s son, Pastor Gareth Hodge, of the Hilltop Baptist Church, spoke at length about his father’s life and legacy. He referred to his days as a pupil-teacher; a self-made shipwright; sea captain; navigator; builder; elected representative for Anguilla in the former St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla Legislative Council; his work in the Treasury and Customs Departments during the Anguilla Revolution; and his service as Chairman of the Peacekeeping Committee which eventually gave way to the Anguilla Council.
During the tributes, Pastor Gareth’s brother, Tim Hodge, reading from the eulogy, he wrote 31 years ago, also spoke about their father’s many contributions to Anguilla in terms of pupil-teaching, boat-building, sailing, home and church building and politics. With regard to the Anguilla Revolution, he recalled one of his father’s well-known and apt quotes: “A place does not have to be big to be free”. Other tributes were given by the eldest brother, Kennedy Hodge, and Mrs. Mona Fleming, a niece of the late Walter Hodge.
The Centennial Memorial Service continued with intercessions led by Assistant Priest Rev. Fr. Raliville Christian. The specially-chosen hymns, which added much fervour to the service, were favourites of the late Walter Hodge.
