Murder At Friendship

Murder At Friendship - Corner's Inquest - Manoel Marques found guilty - (By our own Reporter) The inquest was resumed yesterday at Vigilance before Mr. C. B. Kryenhoff, coroner, and a jury, touching the death of Charles Batson, an old Blackman who was murdered at Friendship, on the 19th inst. owing to repairs being carried out on the Courtroom, the inquest took place in the lower storey of Vigilance Police Station. Manoel Marques, a Portuguese man, who stands charged with the alleged murder, was given a seat near to the Coroner's table. Mr. D. M. Hutson appeared to watch the proceedings on his behalf, whilst Sergeant Bovell was on behalf of the Police.
the following are the names of the Jurors: - Manoel Dias, Jacob Truman, Nathaniel Williams, Joseph Austin and David Sancho.
Berkersum, an Arab, was the first witness called. He deposed. He lived at Friendship and knew Manoel Marques, accused. The last time he saw him was on the 19th August at the back of Friendship Village at five o'clock in the morning. Witness came out of the building and got near a puncheon of water. the water was about two rods from the buildings. Marques were going towards the back dam at Friendship. He crossed by the dam near the buildings and went on to Friendship Middle Walk. Witness spoke to him, and he said he was going to his farm at Strathspey. This was at five o'clock in the morning. Prisoner had a cutlass in his hand. He saw prisoner go as far as the Middle walk, but did not look at him after that. He was dressed with trousers, shirt and hat. shown trousers. Deposed they were not the ones worn by Marques on the day in question. The trousers, which Marques wore were wet from the waist his downwards. There was no one with him when he passed that morning. Witness did not see anyone pass that road that day before Marques. Accused walked very fast. Witness rose that morning at four o'clock. He did not know the deceased Charles Batson, but about half-past seven o'clock in the morning of that day in question he heard that someone was dead.
By Mr. Hutson: He did not see the dead man, nor did he see the place he was found. coming from the buildings, the spot where the man was found was reached before Mr. Kryenhoff's house was arrived at. It took a quarter-of-an-hour to walk from the place where the body was found to Kryenhoff's building. The morning in question was clear. Buxton side line was about four or five rods from Mr. Kryenhoff's building. If anybody had passed Buxton Dam previous to Marques, witness must have seen them. He could not tell the colour of the shirt that Marques wore. People passed the place where witness lived from four o'clock in the morning till nine and ten in the forenoon. The road that Marques passed was used by people to go to Strathspey and Nonpareil. Witness did not leave the building the day though he heard the man was found dead. He did not see any Arabs in the village during the week before Batson was found dead.
By a Juror: Someone told witness that a man was found dead. He was certain it was five o'clock in the morning when he saw Marques pass. he had never seen him on that road before that morning.
at this stage Inspector Francis who was seated close to the coroner rose and said that the examination would have to be gone over again before the Magistrate, no matter what the verdict of they jury would be that day and therefore for the Coroner to proceed further would be a waste of time. He stated that he just wished to point the matter out as the verdict would make no difference at all with regard to the action which the police would take. Even should prisoner be found not guilty, he would still be retained in custody and would have to go before the Magistrate.
In cases such as the present where the charge was for murder, it was not left to a Sergeant of Police to prosecute, but by the Inspector of the district. He also stated that counsel had no locus standi in a coroner’s court, and the fact of Mr. Hutson being there and cross-examining witnesses weakened to a great extent the case against the prisoner. He did not want to interrupt the proceedings but simply wished to state that whatever evidence was taken, the finding of the jury would not be taken into account, for the case would still go before the Magistrate.
Mr. Hutson did not think Inspector Francis had any right to interfere and to say what course the enquiry should take. He submitted that the law gave him the right to examine any witness he thought fit.
The Inspector stated that Mr. Hutson might think he was right, but it was a fact that he had no locus standi in that Court. What he wanted to ask was if the coroner was going to proceed with the taking of the evidence.
Mr. Hutson: I am sure Mr. Francis does not mean that.
Inspector Francis: Yes I do.
At this stage he then left the Court.
Lucinda Batson, wife of the deceased man, was the next witness. She deposed. I live at Friendship, I know Charles Batson, who is now dead. He died on Wednesday of last week. The last time I saw him was on that day. He left the house early that morning. I saw him go away. the next time I saw him was aback of Friendship. He was then dead. It was about one o'clock when I saw him. I saw two marks on his throat, one on each side of the neck. They were not there when he left the house in the morning. I know accused. He and my husband were neighbours. Marques always swore he would thrash my husband. They were not on good terms. Accused had a pig which strayed into my place and died, and Marques came and said he would kill the very beast who killed his pig. This was on the Saturday previous to the day my husband was found dead.
By Mr. Hutson: My husband was going to work the morning he was killed, at Mr. Kryenhoff's cane-piece. I believe after what accused said about the pig, that my husband was killed. I did not see my husband go out the morning he was killed. My husband was not a fast hand. He was not a thief, but a gentleman. I have lived in Buxton and Friendship for a long time.
By a juror: None of Marques's relatives went over to see my husband when he was dead, as we are not on good terms.
Henry Adams Quammy, P.C. 23, was next called. He stated that he was stationed at Vigilance Police Station. He remembered the 19th of August, the day in question. In company with Sergeant Bovell and P.C. 29 Thorne, he proceeded in a batteau to Friendship back. They went to a provision bed, owned by one Mrs. Corder, and found a man lying dead, who turned out to be Charles Batson. His face was downwards, and he had in his hand right hand a cutlass, and a breadfruit in the left. One breadfruit was also under his posterior, and on his shoulder was a canvas bag. A Calabash was on his head. There was a wound on his left collar bone. They then traced the blood from the spot where it was first visible till where deceased lay, sixteen rods, off. They then traced the distance from the nearest breadfruit tree to where Batson lay, and it was forty-eight rods. Witness was present when the coroner and jury viewed the body. the body was then removed from the spot where it was found lying, in a batteau, to the place where he lived. Witness was present when Dr. Hill made the post mortem examination. When deceased was found, the body was minus the trousers. He had on a dark shirt and a jacket. the trousers were about a rod distant from where he lay. In examining the jacket it was discovered to have a cut on the left side of one neck about an inch in length.
By a Juror: The traces of blood did not go beyond the place where the body was lying. He arrested accused on the 19th August. Before taking him to the Police Station he took him to his house. He received certain information about his clothing. Shown clothes. Deposed owned they were the clothes he got at Marques's house.
the report of Dr. Hill, medical officer, was then read and is as follows: -
Strathspey, August 19th, 1891.
Sir, - I have to report that I examined this day at Friendship Village, the dead body of a man identified in my presence as the body of Charles Batson, a coloured Barbadian. the age appeared to be about fifty-eight years. the body was well nourished and the limbs rigid. the clothes, as well as much of the exposed portion of the body, were covered with a considerable quantity of dried blood. Immediately above the left collar bone (clavicle) about a half-an- inch above, and about one and a half inches from the sternal attachment of that bone was a punctured wound of about five-eights of an inch in width. On dissection I found this wound had severed the internal jugular vein, together with several muscular branches of the sub-clavian artery, and had penetrated the aperture of the left lung. Large clots of blood blocked the course of the wound was from above, downwards and backwards. On opening the chest the lungs were found to be adherent to the chest wall from old standing pleurisy. the lungs with the exception of this change and the injury of the left organ already described were healthy. the heart was pale and flabby, and on the right side was a patch of pericarditis. The organs of the abdomen were all much balanced. the liver showed signs of chronic inflammatory changes. The spleen was also somewhat enlarged and carribosed (i.e., thickened). The kidneys were pale and flabby and showed numerous cysts in the cortex. The other organs were healthy. Pallor of the internal organs was a marked feature. I am of the opinion that death was caused by hemorrhage from the injury to the neck. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient Servant, J. Ramsay Hill, Acting Medical Officer, Buxton District.
C. B. Kryenhoff, Esq., J.P. and Coroner.
In course of his examination Dr. Hill stated he was acting Government Medical Officer of Buxton District. He made a post mortem examination on the body of Batson, a report of which had been just read. In his opinion the wound on the left side of Batson's neck was caused by some sharp pointed, flat instrument, the blade of which was probably not more than an in width. He did not think the wound could have been self-inflicted. It was impossible for it to have been self-inflicted because of its extent and position. He did not think the wound could have been inflicted with a cutlass. He never heard of a record of a wound in such a position as the one inflicted on Batson being self-inflicted. Shown cutlass. Deposed he did not think it could produce the wound he saw inflicted on deceased. He did not think it was probable that a man after receiving such a wound could walk sixteen rods.
This was the last witness.
the Coroner then asked prisoner if he had any statement to make, but Mr. Hutson said that as Inspector Francis had stated that he still meant to carry the case before the Magistrate for further investigation, prisoner would postpone any statement he had to make till then. Proceeding Counsel said that by the 28th Section of the Coroner's Ordinance the person charged with the death of a deceased was at liberty to attend and cross-examine, but though he, Mr. Hutson, on his behalf claimed that right, yet he did not wish to assume any right which were not clearly given under the Ordinance. He however, only wished to say that he hoped the jury although they belonged to the Village would put away from their minds any thing had heard in connection with this case. As they has heard from Inspector Francis no matter what verdict they gave it would have no final result, as he intended to proceed further in the case. Although as he (counsel) had pointed out, their verdict had no bearing either on the innocence or the guilt of the prisoner, yet he asked them to lay aside anything which they might have heard in the Village in connection with the case. He knew it was difficult for them to close their ears, but in fairness to the prisoner he asked them to deal impartially in finding their verdict.
The Coroner the summed up and the Jury returned a verdict of willful murder against the accused who was formally committed for trial at the next session of the Supreme Criminal Court for the County of Demerara.
Prisoner was then remained to the Georgetown Gaol.
Source: Murder At Friendship - Corner's Inquest - Manoel Marques found guilty - The Daily Chronicle, Saturday, August 29, 1891: page 3 column 5.

Cove and John Land Settlement Scheme

Cove and John Land Settlement Scheme - District Farmers Urge Fulfillment
Georgetown; Monday, June 19 - Over 600 persons, mostly farmers met on Monday afternoon, June 12, to discuss the proposal by Government to acquire Plantation Cove and John, East Coast Demerara for the purpose of establishing a Land Settlement Scheme.
The meeting was presided over by John Lucie Griffith and supporting him on the platform were: Honourable A.M. Ayube Edun., M.L.C., Messrs. R. J. Muse, William Nicholas Arno, Augustine Fernandes, Jacob St. Kitts, S. E. A. Talbot, Benjamin Kingston, William Charles, A. Assanah, R. E. Benn, M.B. Hoosenny, Oscar Morrison, Joseph Gibbs, J. M. Sealey (Chairman, Golden Grove-Nabaclis Village Council), John Adams (Secretary, Victoria-Belfield-Cove and John Agricultural Society), M.A. Solomon(Vice-President, Secretary, Golden Grove-Nabaclis Ratepayers and Farmers' Association)
the following resolution moved by Mr. John Adams and seconded by Mr. Abraham Solomon was carried unanimously the entire audience standing to show approval:

RESOLUTION
Whereas His Excellency, Sir Gordon Lethem's speech at the opening of the Legislative Council on Tuesday, May 30, 1944 has given the depressed and distressed people of Victoria-Golden Grove-Nabaclis good ground for hope that their flood stricken areas will now be reconstructed in order to give them opportunity to work and win health and decent livelihood.
And whereas the Governor's message to Honourable Members of the Legislative Council has called for the acquisition of Plantation Cove and John for the purpose of Land Settlement, by which means the said the depressed and distressed people of the aforesaid district will be enabled, to secure health and decent livelihood.
And whereas the advice tendered Government by the Chairman of the Drainage Board, Honourable F. J. Seaford, CBE, the director of Agriculture, Professor J. Sydney Dash and Government's Consulting Engineer, Mr. G. O. Case, is opposed to Government's acquisition of Plantation Cove and John on the ground stated by Mr. Case that its drainage would require 7 to 8 pumps estimated to coast perhaps $200,000 or more;
And whereas the facts are (a.) that Plantation Cove and John has never required more than one pump for its good drainage, which has all along been satisfactory: (b.) when in 1926 Government amalgamated it Drainage machinery with that of the Villages, Victoria, Golden Grove, Nabaclis , it was not Plantation Cove and John but the neighbouring villages which suffered loss of their crops and livestock from floods; (c.) this fact ("b") has been admitted by Mr. F. J. Seaford in an interview with Mr. L. D. Sarrabo, President of the Golden Grove-Nabaclis Farmers' Association and subsequently he (Mr. Seaford) got the Drainage Board to agree that one more pump should be installed to give this district effective drainage; (d) at no time from 1926 to present was any word expressed that more than one pump was required for the effective drainage of this area; (e)Mr. Seaford never indicated there was any drainage difficulty at Plantation Cove and John when the present proprietor agreed to out the estate to cane-farmers who were to get their canes milled at Plantation Enmore.
and whereas if even there had been any drainage difficulty at Cove and John, Mr. G. O. Case's estimate in September, 1943 of $20,500 to give Cove and John good drainage could not possibly be increased in May 1944 to $200,000 when no material change in the foreshore or elsewhere has occurred.
Be it resolved that this meeting of over 500 farmers each of whom desires and is anxious to have a portion of land for cultivation at Plantation Cove and John which is well known to be fertile and well drained land, respectfully requires His Excellency, The Governor and Honourable Members of the Legislative Council to discard the absurd advice tendered by Government's technical advisers who for reasons best known to themselves are opposed to the acquisition of Cove and John for Land Settlement.
And Be It Further Resolved that copies of this Resolution be forwarded to all Members of the Legislative Council.

Governor to receive Deputation
it was announced on Saturday that His Excellency, The Governor has intimated his desire to meet the deputation today at government House Annexe

Source: Cove and John Land Settlement Scheme - District Farmers Urge Fulfillment- the Daily Chronicle, Monday, June 19, 1944: page 3.

Rural Areas by Rustik

Around the Rural Areas by Rustik
Buxton Congregational School is the official designation of this primary school attached to Arundel and all through its existence, during the nineteenth century it was known as the Buxton London Missionary School. As far as records show its first Head teacher seemed to have been John Shakespeare Simon who after a course of theological training in the United States of America, returned to the Colony and served as Minister for Arundel. Mr. Simon it was perhaps who trained F. C. Glasgow to succeed him in the school.
During the management of Parson Simon there served Mr. H. Niles, a West Indian; the youthful Emmanuel Joseph for a very short time; Benjamin Hercules Friday - a native of Plaisance; a product of Bishop's College and father of Miss Imlah Friday now head teacher of St. Ambrose Episcopal School, Albert town; Mr. Peters, a Berbician, and father of Mr. George Peters, recently retired head teacher of St. Columba's Scots School, Courtland, No# 2 Corentyne, Berbice.
Then under the management of the Reverend William E. Downer, William Walter Evans - a Buxtonian, who was serving as a Certificated Assistant Teacher of Friendship Wesleyan, was placed in charge of the school. he was already popular before he assumed charge of the school and making himself an energetic church worker, organist, choirmaster, and powerful Band of Hope organizer and leader; he was able to gather in many children and Buxton London Missionary School, as it then was, rose in numbers and prestige, Pupil Teachers Albert C. B. Philadelphia, and Joseph W. (Avis) Wilson, and later on W. A. (Bertie) Seaforth, all from Friendship joined its staff. Willie Evans ruled the destinies of the school for many years, and when he left, Emmanuel Joseph became his successor.

CONSCIENTIOUS, ENERGETIC AND PAINSTAKING
thus for the second time Mannie Joseph became head teacher of his old school, then carrying the name Buxton Congregational School. He hailed from one of Buxton most respectable families, and was the possessor of many admirable traits of character. as a disciplinarian, he was not very much unlike Parson Simon; he wore a most placid exterior, possessed a temperament that was seldom ruffled, and was a most conscientious, energetic and painstaking teacher. his two outstanding additions to the list of certificated Teachers are Reverend Duke Gary Munroe, BD., and Mr. Fitz H. Pollard, who succeeded him, and is now the head teacher of Smith church Congregational School, Georgetown.
"With great energy and personal sacrifice, and winning by splendid leadership the cooperation of the people, Mr. Joseph was, in a short-time able to erect the present school building". thus has written someone who has knowledge of what he did for Arundel. he loved his village which he served capably and well for many years; he loved his school as evidenced by what he did for it; above all he loved his church and when he died the lamentations of his pupils and of many of the village community were genuine, loud and long.

ACTIVE AND TIRELESS
the mantle of Emmanuel Joseph fell on the shoulders of one of his former pupils, Mr. Fitzgerald Hilbertus Pollard, M.R.S.T., who very much improved not only the good school building he found; but also the status, efficiency, and numbers of the school. his contribution to the list of Certificated Teachers consists of Misses Ivy Jacobs and Millicent E. John.
Mr. Pollard was active and tireless in his school work as well as in his services for the Church. Largely through his efforts a lower flat was added to the building to give better accommodation to the increase of pupils. it is recognized that he did much during his head teachership of Buxton Congregational to enhance congregationalism on the East coast of Demerara.
But when it comes to the schools, there was no real awakening until the Buxton Scholarship was launched; and although many pupils have won Buxton Scholarships, the Congregational school between 1925 and 1938 had the largest number of winners to its credit, and is the only school in the village that has had two Government County Scholarships.
when Mr. Pollard, was transferred to Smith Church Congregational School, Georgetown, Mr. George Sydney Lugard Payne of Den Amstel, West Coast, Demerara, was brought to succeed him.
Mr. Payne has found a good school with a competent staff and it is expected that he will exert his endeavours to uphold the traditions of his village and the school.
Source: Around the Rural Areas - the Sunday Chronicle, May 7, 1944: page 10.

Around the Rural Areas

Around the Rural Areas (By RUSTIK)
We have been endeavoring to deal with the Buxton-Friendship Village District as fully as we found it possible to do, and we are conscious that in our account, errors might have crept in here and there. If apology need to be made for whatever inaccuracies we might have committed, we tender here and now that apology. But before we take a final farewell of Buxton, so near and dear to the hearts of her many sons and daughters, there are just a few more observations we feel it necessary to make. We intend in another contribution to write about Vigilance - Friendship’s next door eastern neighbor, and it was while we were endeavoring to collect some facts in connexion with that area, that we were supplied with some information we consider too precious to allow to remain in the cabinet of our memory without releasing it all to our readers. Though somewhat intriguing or romantic it however, is not of the “cunningly devised fables” type or class, and to leave it unwritten would , we think, be robbing Buxton of one particular incident indicative of the characteristics of the people. This correctness of every word of it is vouched for by Mr. James W. Ogle, a well respected druggist and dispenser of Beterverwagting, than whom no one alive today is more conversant with the affairs of the village of his progenitors. And here is the story.

A DRAMA IN QUASI-PASSIVE AND QUASI-ACTIVE RESISTANCE
The introduction of taxation of the property, movable and immovable of Buxton-Friendship, was met with great opposition, and led up to a series of uprisings culminating in a miniature riot. But before that culmination was reached, various methods were suggested and some stratagems used to frustrate the paying of taxes; and in the midst of the contemplation of some of those methods a novel idea was struck upon and quietly and secretly it was put into operation.
Three of the more doughty oppositionists whose intrepidity knew no bounds, - by name Hector John, Chance Bacchus, and Webster Ogle (grand Uncle of the Ogles) are reported to have chartered a schooner from Barbados to take them to England to lay their protest and grievances against the imposition of taxes on their property, at the feet of the Sovereign, Queen Victoria, from whom they felt sure they were going to get the redress necessary.
They loaded their little Argo with cocoanuts, coffee, cocoa, arrowroot and conquintay to serve as a ballast and they set out to cross the Atlantic to England. When the schooner reached Barbados, the trio of stalwarts disembarked and called upon the Governor of the Island. Unschooled and unlettered though they were and ignorant of all constitutional methods of procedure
The early eighties there were many villagers then in possession of a fair number of milch cows from which was obtained an abundant supply of rich and pure milk, the trade being then purely in the hands of Africans and their descendants.
Asking for an excuse for the diversion, we return to our muttons. Returning home they presented the letter to Governor Hincks who, after reading it decided to exempt the three men from taxation. But that did not satisfy them; they demanded that the tax should be removed altogether. They were insistent in their demands, and equally insistent was the Governor in his refusal to grant those demands.
It ended in the braking out of disturbances and small riotings by many of the oppositionists. As was to be expected there were some non-partisans in the midst of the oppositionists, and one of them in particular, so it was alleged, Spencer Cambridge by name, gave information to Governor Hincks that the three men, Hector John, Chance Bacchus, and Webster Ogle were inciting the people to rebel, and so the Governor sent soldiers to break down their houses. The soldiers, who were all Africans, arrived in the village under the command of Mr. Nicholas Cox, who subsequently became Inspector General of Police in the Colony.
They began their work of destruction by attacking the roofs of their houses and knocking out the shingles great opposition was shown the soldiers who were ordered to shoot if they were obstructed by anyone.
Speaking in their native tongue of Africa, the soldiers addressed an old African villager who could have spoken his native tongue - Yoruba - Old Seaforth by name (grand father of ‘Bishop’ Seaforth, recently appointed ‘Archbishop‘) and assured him that they were prepared not to shoot anyone. The report goes on that when Mr. Cox intervened and was questioning the soldiers, many of the old villagers who knew him as a boy and a young man with his father at Plantation Enmore, East Coast, Demerara, assembled around him, and two of the crowd, Hector and McLean, more daring and not less endearing, lifted Mr. Cox from off his horse and conveyed him to a nearby dwelling where there lived an old servant of the Cox family, a ‘Grand Mamma’ who had nursed and cared him in his boyhood days. The work of destruction was thus discontinued, and the supposed ringleaders were prosecuted before Mr. J. D. Fraser, Magistrate, who in spite of the eloquent advocacy of the Gilbert brothers, Barrister-at-Law and Solicitor of Bermuda, after a lengthy trial, convicted many of them and sentenced them to lengthy terms of imprisonment. And now comes the sequel to the series of opposition.

HUMAN BEINGS LYING BETWEEN RAILS
The railway station was then on Vigilance ground which is separated from Friendship by a Dam known as Brush Dam. There the train was sent to take the prisoners to Georgetown.
The evening before the morning the train was scheduled to leave the station, a loud mouthed sturdy African, Dick Park, blew a shell around the village, the meanwhile making the following announcement:-
NOBADY MUS’ GO AH BACK DAM TOMARRA: FIBERY BADY - ALL MAN,’OOMAN AND CHILDREN MUS’ STAN’ ’OME BECAUSE SOMETHING GOING TO ’APPEN.
And this is what is reported to have happened. When the prisoners were being escorted from the Vigilance Police station compound to the Railway Station, men, women and children assembled on the railway line, and between the rails from Vigilance across Friendship and Buxton, on to Annandale - a distance of about a mile, they lay flat on their faces, facing west. In addition to that some men secured chains and ropes and tied up buffers of the engine and carriages, none giving any attention whatsoever to the prolonged whistle of the engine.
The peculiar and novel resistance set up seemed to have touched the heart of the Governor, and he ordered the release of the prisoners. The Tax was not revoked, however, and Spencer Cambridge, Bentinck Sancho, and some others, left Buxton and finally settled in the “freehold” lands of bachelor’s Adventure and Paradise. We have no intention to impose upon the credulity of readers and we have just narrated what has been released to us.

YOUTHFUL MARRIAGES NOT AN UNMIXED BLESSING
Something that needs recording is that at Buxton can be found more married young couples between the ages of eighteen and thirty years than in any other village in the colony over. On the face of it, it bespeaks, if nothing else, a great love and respect in the youths for the sacrament of matrimony; but for years now some of the more thoughtful section of the village community have been wondering if many of those early marriages have not been, and are not, responsible in a great measure for the undisciplined character, disrespectful and unbridled behaviors in public of so many of the boys and girls, lads and lasses, and even some young men and women of the village.
The prevalence of rank vulgarity in the speech of many to say nothing of the non-refinement in dialect and tone is heart-rending, if not sickening. The point we wish to make is that marriage has been undertaken by many youths before their characters were fully formed, before their mental equipment with the things necessary to be possessed for the training of children was complete; so they have not been able to train their children in the way they should go; they have not been able to teach and show by example how children should speak and behave; and they have not been able to exercise control over them so necessary to assist them in the formation or acquisition of good and correct habits.
And in the midst of preparing this paragraph, our attention has been attracted by an article in the Daily chronicle of Sunday, May 7, 1944, under the caption “TOWARDS PARENT EDUCATION.” it is an article that should be printed in bold characters and hung up in the home of every parent, especially in the homes of those youthful ones with which, as is pointed out, Buxton abounds; and we are wondering if it would not be a good thing for the clergy of the various denominations in the village to make use of it on their pulpits as often as possible in place of some of their high “falutin” theological discourses which sometimes not one in their whole congregation can fully grasp.
If the things mentioned in that article are given the serious attention - they deserve by the parents of Buxton, and the teachers, too, who are in locoparentis; and if the Do’s and Don’ts of the “Society for the Promotion of Refinement Among Children,” supplemented by the Twenty Rules and Maxims outlined in the New or Black Cover Royal Reader, Book Three, are taught and insisted upon to be carried out, Buxton will greatly add to its already long list of good features that make it lay claim to the title of Premier Village of the Colony.

FINALE
There is an expression which has gained much currency and it is “Buxton is living in the Past”. we have never been able to get from any of those who gave utterance to it what is really meant by it; but judging from the way how it is used, we are of the opinion that it is intended to convey the idea that the Buxton of today can lay no claim to any particular features that are outstanding in its make up, and its claim to be the premier village can be estimated on the deeds of its sons and daughters of forty or sixty years ago only.
There are today in the village community, it is true very few leading artisans and mechanics, - master workmen, we can designate them - as there were in the olden days when Sugar was really King, and the village surrounded east and west by chimneys that belched forth smoke, “to darken the heavens” as ‘Papa Tinney’ was won’t to say, indicative of the manufacturing activities then in existence; there are hardly any of the grand two and three-storeyed structures of those days; there very few if indeed, any at all of the men of pluck and daring and marked outspokenness of the Buxtonians of the first and second generations - men of the Sergeant Green, Robert Carter, George Portsmouth, Cornelius Bartholomew Kryenhoff, Thomas Bobby, Watson Dover, Braveboy Goodluck, Cudjoe Joe, Pretty Gordon, Thomas Hamer type; but taking the places of those missing artisans and mechanics are many youths - and the number is growing year by year - who are being properly trained in the theory as well as practice in the various handicrafts, and can execute them more scientifically than did many of their forefathers; taking the places of the missing great houses, are many modern day and imposing structures among the dwelling houses and business places put up by the descendants of those three first generations after the abolition of slavery; taking the places of those high-spirited and courageous to the point of turbulent old men, are scores of youths of greater academic qualifications than were possessed by their forefathers.
The village has become exceedingly cosmopolitan, and today not only those of African descent are Buxtonians, but the Portuguese, the East Indians, the Chinese descendants who inherit the land, and lay claim with pride to be Buxtonians.
The village takes the palm in its singularity in many respects:- in having a scholarship of its own; in being rated with Georgetown and New Amsterdam, in the matters of the age limit for compulsory Education; in being the first and only one on the East Coast of Demerara to have a trade center; in being up to the present the only one that has produced a woman solicitor; in being the village with the largest number of certificated teachers today; in being the village having the largest and best housing accommodation for its post office and its railway station. How then can it be said with any truth that Buxton is living in the past?
Ichabod is not yet written on the doors or the walls of any of the Churches, its schools, or its recognized institutions.
Vigilance, then and now. See next Sunday’s installment.
Source: Rustik (1944) Around the Rural Areas - Sunday Chronicle, May 28, 1944: page 8.

Dolly Fraser

Obituary -Miss. Dolly Fraser (5)
Georgetown, Tuesday, June 27 - After a short illness the death of five-year -old Dolly Fraser, took place early on Thursday morning, June 15, about 2 o’clock. She has left to mourn their loss Mr. Daniel F. Fraser (father) of the Pure Water Supply Scheme and Marie Louise Fraser (mother) of Victoria Village, East Coast, Demerara; niece of Mrs. Isadore Stewart; P.C. 5074 Nelson Rutherford; Robert E. Rutherford; (carpenter); sister of Victor; Ovid; Stephen; Claudia and Juliet Hyacinth; and granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Edmond Rutherford, Overseer of the Victoria Village Council.
The funeral took place on Friday afternoon and was largely attended by school children of St. Andrew’s Episcopal, Cove and John; and also those from the Roman Catholic School, Victoria.

THE ATTENDANCE
Among those who attended were Messrs. George Moriah Rutherford, Chairman of the Victoria Village Council.; Benjamin Kingston; Daniel F. Fraser; Stephen Edmond Rutherford, Daniel Thomas Adolphus Jones; P.C. 5074 Nelson Rutherford; Cummings; Moses Rutherford; Ex-Sergeant Major James r. Butcher; and Robert E. Rutherford.
At the house a short service was held by Benjamin Kingston who also performed the last rites at the graveside, assisted by a school teacher, Mr. Cummings.
- D. T.A.J.
Source: D. T.A.J. Obituary - Miss. Dolly Fraser (5) -The Daily Chronicle - Tuesday, June 27, 1944: page 4.

Eliza Jane Charles

Obituary -Mrs. Eliza Jane Charles
Victoria Village, East Coast, Demerara Thursday June 22 - Mrs. Eliza Jane Charles who died on May 22 at the age of 68 was born at Victoria Village, East Coast, Demerara .
Her illness was a short duration - four days.
As a child she attended the Victoria Congregational School, where she qualified as a teacher and taught for some time under the head-teacher-ship of the late Mr. Mitchell. She was married to the late Alfred Samuel Charles, 46 years ago. He predeceased her in 1936. Mrs. Charles was the mother of Dr. Oscar MacKinnon Charles (London), Willie, Fred, Festus; Toc; Gertie (Who predeceased her 7 years ago in Montreal, Canada).
She was the sister of Mr. William MacKinnon; Mrs. Josephine Gibbs; and Miss Lillian Parke of Montreal, Canada. She was the grandmother of Winston C. of the R.A.F., Herman, and Clarence Alfred Frank Stuart and 14 others and great grand mother of Teasy, Hilton and Frankie.
Mrs. Charles lived a peaceful life and was well beloved by all who knew her. A short service was conducted by the Reverend Father Rooney of St. Philip’s Anglican Church at her residence 221 South Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, after which the body was removed to St. Andrew’s Anglican Church , Cove and John, East Coast, Demerara, where her many old friends and relatives were waiting. The interment was made at the Victoria Cemetery and the last rites were performed by the Catechist of St. Marks, Enmore.
Those in attendance included Messrs. William, Fred, Festus and Tom Charles (sons); Herman, Clarence and Frank (grandsons); Henry Charles, D. T.A Jones; C. Punch; R. Pollard; S. A. Talbot; E. Ainsworth; L. Langford; B. Langford; W. Hamilton; E. Roland; P. Andrews; S. Reid; L. Ross; S. Headley; L. Sydney; O. Dick; C. Reis; A. Dickie; E. Williams; H. Jones; E. Joris; H. Adams; B. Beaton; G. Pompey; J. King; H. Thomas; J. E. Lewis; H. Joyce; H. Whyte; Thomas Nedd; B. Hunte; C. B. Liverpool; I. Hendricks; J. Bristol; A. Eastman; O. Caleb; T. Longhorne; R. A. Price; A. Gibbons.
The pall-bearers were Fred, Festus and Tom Charles; Frank Stuart; Herman and Clarence Alfred; Winston Hamilton; H. Jones
Floral tributes were received from her loving sons Oscar (London), Festus; Willie, Fred, Tom; her darling daughters Gertie, Kate, Sybil and May; Lily (sister) Winston, Herman, Clarence and Frank (grandsons) Teddy, Hilton and Frankie (great grandsons) ; Harry and Mac; Gem; Dorine; Millie; Mrs. L. Gonsalves and family. Mrs. I. Charles and family; Miss B. Gomes; Miss E. Pounder; Miss A. Rodrigues; Mrs. K. Murray and family; Mr. Thomas Nedd and family; Miss R. Chan; Miss B. Greene; Miss C. Richmond; Miss I. Charles; Isah; Mr. R. A. Price; Emmay; A. Dickie
A telegram was sent by Mr. T. B. Charles; While Mrs. K. Murray and family, and Mr. C. B. Liverpool sent letters; and Miss Joyce, Mr. and Mrs. McDonald, Bernard, Mr. Arthur Dickie and family (Cards)
- D. T.A.J.
Source: Obituary - Mrs. Eliza Jane Charles -The Daily Chronicle - Thursday, June 22, 1944: page 6.

Burgan's letter October5, 1896

BUXTON AND FRIENDSHIP AGRICULTURAL SHOW October 1920

BUXTON AND FRIENDSHIP AGRICULTURAL SHOW - SUCCESSFUL INDUSTRIAL EFFORT - EXCELLENT EXHIBITS DISPLAYED
Buxton Village was en fete yesterday on the occasion of the eight Agricultural, Live Stock and industrial show of the Buxton and Friendship Farming Association which was held under the aegis of the Board of Agriculture. For one reason or another these shows which have always been regarded as one of the most important events in the agricultural life of the Colony, have been allowed to fall in abeyance within recent years, so that their resuscitation was looked forward to with eagerness. Events did not belie the anticipation entertained, for in spite of the effect which the recent spell of dry weather has had upon crops generally, and the rice industry in particular, the exhibits, though small in number were well up to the usual standard. Indeed, it may be mentioned, that the quality of the goods exhibited exceeded all expectations.

GOOD COTTON EXHIBITS
It is interesting to note that at a time when every effort is being made to encourage the local growing of cotton that splendid samples of the locally grown article were exhibited. In so far as exhibits in respect of the sugar cane were concerned it was rather disappointing to observe the small number of canes exhibited, especially when it is remembered that Buxton is the largest cane-farming centre.
The high prices which hats are fetching have given birth to a hat-making industry locally and in this respect several excellent exhibits were put forward. As already indicated the show was hampered materially by the prevailing dry weather, a fact which was betrayed by the condition of several of the fruits and vegetables when examined.

THE ATTENDANCE
The Show, which was under the patronage of the Honourable R. E. Brassington, was opened at 2 o’clock. Unfortunately, however, the patron was prevented from attending through illness and his place was taken by the Honourable J. S. McArthur, Member of the Court of Policy, for the Eastern Division of Demerara. Also present were Professor J. B. Harrison, M. A., C. M. G., Director of Science and Agriculture, the Rev. T..B. and Mrs. Glasgow, Rev. E. R. O. Robertson and Mrs. Robertson, and Rev. J. B. Cropper, J. F. Denny, Drs. A. T. Ozzard, J. S. Nedd and D. Frendo, Mrs. T. Quick, Messrs. A. McLean Ogle F. R., J. Ward, E. Peterkin, A. Stelle, D. Dougall, J. J. McKenzie, Edgar Beckett, A. R. F. Webber, S. A. Thierens, F. H. Pollard, H. A. Britton and H. Algernon.

OFFICIALS
The Judges were:-
Class A - Fruits: the Reverends. Robertson, Denny and Glasgow, and Messrs. Ward and Beckett.
Class B - Vegetables: Messrs. McKenzie, I. Beharry, D. D. Haynes and E. M. Morgan.
Class C - Economic Products: Messrs. Peterkin, Stelle and Britton.
Class D - Live Stock: Dr. Nedd, Messrs. Dougall, and France.
Class E - Needle and Fancy Work : Mesdames Glasgow, Robertson, Quick, and McKenzie, Miss Joseph and Miss Quick.

MR. THIERENS’ ADDRESS.
In asking Mr. McArthur to open the Show, Mr. Thierens extended a hearty welcome to all those who attended the Show, and in the course of his remarks referred to the present cooperation between the farmer and the planter which aimed at encouraging farmers in getting the best out of their farms and making them thriving peasants. The Association, he said, started thirty years ago, and had today 150 members most of whom were directly or indirectly engaged in farming. The Association, served the very useful purpose of educating farmers in the intelligent cultivating of the soil, and in this respect they owed a great debt of gratitude to Professor Harrison who was always willing to place one of his men at their disposal. He was pleased to observe that the farmers were taking a lively interest in these exhibitions. Buxton was one of the most important cane-farming centres in the colony. The acreage under cultivation was very extensive but he regretted to state that farmers were carrying on this industry at the expense of ground provisions. The Association was making every effort to alter this state of affairs by urging upon its members the unwisdom of carrying all its eggs in one basket.

THE RICE SITUATION
in commenting on the Rice situation he expressed the hope that the pioneers of the industry as far as Buxton was concerned would receive the full reward for their pluck. They were still suffering from insufficient and ineffective drainage and now that the Government, after persistent appeals by farmers for help, was laying down a sluice, he hoped that Buxton would regain its position in the economic branch of agriculture. He thanked all those who contributed, by exhibits and donations, in making the Show a success, and in conclusion, thanked Mr. McArthur for the lively interest which he took in everything that was for the improvement of the conditions in which the people lived.

A PLEA FOR THE COCOA INDUSTRY
Mr. McArthur declaring the show open, expressed his regret at the circumstances under which Mr. Brassington was unable to be present. The show was really a credit to the Buxton Farming Association. He remembered years ago when they had great exhibitions in this country, but for some reason or other they had ceased. They were very big Shows indeed and persons all over the colony sent in exhibits and made a Show a big thing. Probably it was because some people thought that they were barren of results. He did not agree with that at all. It was only recently he had the opportunity of being present at a great national show in Toronto which he understood was held every year, where every farmer tried to vie with each other to get the best results and he did not see why Shows in this colony should not be full of results. His regret was that Shows were not more frequent. It seemed a very strange thing that in West Africa an industry in the form of cocoa planting which began not many years ago with an export of some 8,000 lbs. In the last eight years. They were all people of African descent and it seemed almost difficult to understand that the thousands of these same natives could not get together a cocoa and coffee industry more worthy than has been the case in the past. He was pleased to see that the lion and the lamb were still working together though there were times when the lion would growl and the lamb bleat; and he hoped that in future years, although they had a great drawback in bad weather, that the Shows would be better than the present one.
The Show was then declared open, the proceedings being enlivened by a pot pourri of popular airs discussed by the British Guiana Militia Band under the baton of Mr. A. Fawcett, R.M.S.M.

PRIZE LIST
CLASS A - FRUITS.
CAVENDISH BANANAS - Matilda Alder, Friendship, First Prize; Catherine Duke, Buxton, Second Prize.
PINE APPLES - Matilda Alder, Friendship, First Prize; Samuel Grenada, Buxton, Second Prize.
Sapadilloes - D. A. Glasgow, Buxton, First Prize; Ellen Browne Buxton, Second Prize; Margaret Benn, Nabaclis, Third Prize.
Sugar APPLES - Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, First Prize.
Musk Melon - Theodore Hyles, Friendship, First Prize.
Water Melon - Margaret Benn, Nabaclis, First Prize.
Tangerine Oranges -Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, First Prize; N. H. B. Clements, Goed Fortuin ( Special Prize of $1.50)
Seville Oranges - E. Fraser, La Grange, First Prize; Florence Andrews, Buxton, Second Prize; Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, Third Prize.
Shadocks - Stella James, Golden Grove, First Prize; Daniel Thomas, Beterverwagting, Second Prize; Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, Third Prize.
Grape Fruit - Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, First Prize; Rosa Shortt, Friendship, Second Prize.
Lemon (rough) -Henry Adonis, Buxton, First Prize; Martha Hinds, Buxton, Second Prize.
Limes - Caroline Duncan, Buxton, First Prize; Adolphus Stanford, Buxton, Second Prize.
Avocado Pears - Florence John, Buxton, First Prize; Magdalene McKinnon, Friendship, Second Prize; Vivian Pelew, Buxton, Third Prize.
Papaws - H. L. Palmer, Goed Fortuin, First Prize; James Marshall, Buxton, Second Prize .
Sorrell -D. A. Glasgow, Buxton, First Prize. (Special Prize)
Coconuts -Fred Wills, Buxton, First Prize; Theodore Hyles, Friendship, Second Prize; Conan Marcus, Buxton, Third Prize.
Mixed Fruit - Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, First Prize; H. L. Palmer, Goed Fortuin, Second Prize ; Florence Andrews, Buxton, Third Prize; N. H. B. Clements, Goed Fortuin (Extra Prize).

CLASS B. - Vegetables .
Plantains - John Gracie, Bachelor’s Adventure, First Prize; Julia Gracie, Bachelor’s Adventure, Second Prize; Albert Stewart, Friendship, Third Prize.
Yams (ordinary) - Theodore Hyles, Friendship, First Prize; George Hyles, Buxton, Second Prize;
Yams - Buck - Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, First Prize
Cassava, Sweet - Cato Sanculotte, Ann’s Grove, First Prize; Beatrice Roberts, Friendship, Second Prize; John Gracie, Bachelor’s Adventure, Third Prize.
Bitter Cassava - Caroline Duncan, Friendship, First Prize; Beatrice Roberts, Friendship, Second Prize; Cato Sanculotte, Ann’s Grove, Third Prize.
White Tannias - Adriana John, Buxton, First Prize; Sahadeo, Plaisance, Second Prize.
Red Tannias - Adriana John, Buxton, First Prize; E. Critchlow, Plaisance, Second Prize.
Eddoes -Stella James, Golden Grove, Second Prize; Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, Second Prize.
Pumpkins -James McGarrell, Golden Grove, First Prize; Lewis Gomes, Friendship, Second Prize.
Cucumbers -James McGarrell, Golden Grove, First Prize
Bread Nuts -Theodore Hyles, Friendship, First Prize; D. A. Glasgow, Buxton, Second Prize.
Sweet Potatoes -James McGarrell, Golden Grove, First Prize; Ursula De Souza, Golden Grove, Second Prize.( There was no third prize awarded.)
Tomatoes - Stella James, Golden Grove, Second Prize. (no first prize was awarded.)
Corn, Dry - H. L. Palmer, Goed Fortuin, First Prize; H. L. Palmer, Goed Fortuin, Second Prize .
Shallotts, Fresh -Margaret Benn, Nabaclis, First Prize.
Ochroes - Julia Gomes, Friendship, First Prize; C. Shortt, Friendship, Second Prize; Prudence Talbot, Buxton, Third Prize.
Beans - C. Shortt, Friendship, First Prize; C. Straker, Buxton, Second Prize.
Peas, Green - C. Shortt, Friendship, First Prize; Julia Lewis, Friendship, Second Prize.
Peppers -Catherine Palmer, Beterverwagting, First Prize; Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, Second Prize.
Boulangers - N. H. B. Clements, Goed Fortuin, First Prize; Jugdeo, Vigilance, Second Prize.
Cabbage - M. I. Gomes, Friendship, First Prize; A. Correia, Friendship, Second Prize.
Lettuce - Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, First Prize.
Best collection of Vegetables - Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, First Prize; H. L. Palmer, Goed Fortuin, Second Prize Extra prizes were given to Thomas Hyles (tannias), Matilda Alder of Friendship, Henry Adonis of Buxton (beans) and Adolphus Stanford (beans).

CLASS C. - ECONOMIC PRODUCTS.
Coffee - D. A. Glasgow, Buxton, Second Prize.
Cocoa Pods - David Glasgow, Second Prize; Julia Lewis, Friendship, Third Prize.
Rice, Brown - James McGarrell, Golden Grove, First Prize.
Plantain Meal - Margaret Benn, Nabaclis, First Prize; Florence Andrews, Buxton, Third Prize.(no second prize was awarded.)
Banana Meal - Margaret Benn, Nabaclis, First Prize.
Cassava Meal - Margaret Benn, Nabaclis, First Prize; Florence Andrews, Buxton, Second Prize.
Arrowroot starch -May Ogle, Buxton, Second Prize.(no first prize was awarded.)
Cassava Starch - M. Nurse, Nabaclis, First Prize; Emma Martin, Nabaclis, Second Prize.
Cassava Bread - Caroline Seaforth, Friendship, First Prize; Theodore Hyles, Friendship, Second Prize; Eliza Spencer, Victoria, Third Prize.
Honey - Pe H. Pereira, Buxton, First Prize.
hot Sauce - Sarah Nelson, Golden Grove, Third Prize.(no first and second prizes were awarded.)
Guava Jelly - Muriel Griffin, Plaisance, First Prize; E. Devonish, Nonpareil, Second Prize; Margaret Benn, Nabaclis, Third Prize.
other Preserves -- Lucy Isaacs, Friendship, Second Prize; Lucy Isaacs, Friendship, Third Prize.(no first prize was awarded.)
Fresh Butter -- Isabella Correia, Friendship, First Prize; Florence Andrews, Buxton, Second Prize.
Lard - Florence Andrews, Buxton, Second Prize. (no first prize was awarded.)
Cotton, Creole -Iris Rowland, Buxton, First Prize; Margaret Benn, Friendship, Second Prize. Extra prizes were awarded to E. Daniels of Nonpareil (guava cheese) and Eliz. Spencer of Victoria Village (orange Wine).

CLASS D. - LIVE STOCK.
Fowls breed in the colony - (Pure Breed) -Ivy Weatherspoon, Friendship, First Prize.
Fowls breed in the colony - (Cross Breed) - Ivy Weatherspoon, Friendship, First Prize; Johanna Downer, Friendship, Second Prize.
Turkey - George Young, Friendship, First Prize; Louis Gomes, Friendship, Second Prize.
Pigeons - J. Choy, Friendship, First Prize; L. Gomes, Friendship, Second Prize.
Eggs, turkey - Louis Gomes, Friendship, First Prize; Eliza Sam, Friendship, Second Prize.
Eggs, hens - Catherine Cox, Golden Grove, First Prize; Catherine Cox, Golden Grove, Second Prize.
eggs, Ducks - a special prize was awarded to D. Glasgow of Friendship.
best Milch Cow and Calf (under seven months) - Benjamin John, Buxton, First Prize; Helen Lloyd, Buxton, Second Prize.
best Creole Donkey stallion - J. F. Choy, Friendship, First Prize; J. McKenzie, Buxton, Second Prize.
Best Ewe - M. Gravesande, Friendship, First Prize; Ruby John, Buxton, Second Prize.
The best she goat - Dina Barton, Friendship, First Prize

CLASS E. - NEEDLE AND FANCY WORK
Gents White Shirt, Unwashed - Isabella Correia, Buxton, First Prize.
Artisan’s Working Shirt - Clara Glasgow, Beterverwagting, First Prize.
Wollen Shawl - Emily Gomes, Friendship, First Prize.
Hat, Untrimed, Locally Made - Louisa Poole, Victoria, First Prize; Maud David, Friendship, Second Prize.
Hat, Trimed, Locally Made - L. Ogle, Buxton, First Prize.
Couch cushion - L. Ogle, Buxton, First Prize; Isabella Correia, Buxton, Second Prize.
Wollen Slippers - Mabel John, Buxton, First Prize.
Antimacassars - Mary Stephenson, Buxton, First Prize; Mary Gravesande, Friendship, Second Prize.
Embroidery work - Ivy Jacobs, Buxton, First Prize; Maude Stephenson, Friendship, Second Prize. A special prize was given to Josephine Eleazar of Friendship. (Drawn thread work).
Plain Needlework -Emily Gomes, Friendship, First Prize; C. Gomes, Buxton, Second Prize. Special prizes were also given to Miss C. Grant, Beterverwagting (hand box), Vera Gomes, Friendship, (fancy work)and Vera Gomes, (painting).
Source: The Daily Chronicle, Demerara, Wednesday, October 27, 1920:page 5.

THE VICTORIA - BELFIELD SHOW May 1898

THE VICTORIA - BELFIELD SHOW. - SUCCESSFUL INAUGURAL EFFORT.
The Victoria - Belfield Horticultural and Industrial Show was held on Whit- Monday. As an initial attempt it was entirely creditable to the promoters. The number of exhibits, as well as the crowds that attended the show during the day, was indeed a matter of pleasant surprise. Notwithstanding the inauspicious morning the special and ordinary trains run by the Demerara Railway company conveyed to Belfield large numbers from Georgetown, Mahaica and the intervening stations. The Railway authorities compute that about 1,250 excursionists travelled over the line on Monday - which creates quite a record - and most of the trippers at one time or other during the day found themselves at the Show.
The presence of the Governor Sir Walter Sendall, K.C.M.G., gave the function an additional importance. His Excellency, accompanied by his aide-de-camp, Captain Feilden, and Major Marshall, travelled up to Belfield by the Midday train which left Georgetown at 12.45. At Belfield the party was met by a large crowd of villagers headed by a few musicians who essayed the National anthem as the Carriage drove to the race course, where the Show was held. Here His Excellency was met by some members of the Committee, who were introduced by the Honourable B. H. Jones. Subsequently he was presented with a well - worded address of welcome on behalf of the villagers. His Excellency having responded in a brief speech, the Show was formally declared opened. After having inspected the exhibits, Sir Walter, to mark the satisfaction and pleasure with which he regarded the result of the efforts of the promoters, intimated to the Committee that each year in future he would offer two prizes - one for fruit and the second for vegetables - the conditions to be fixed hereafter. The Governor and party returned to town by the 2.33 train.
The committee had some difficulty in adapting the race course (which was placed at their disposal by Mr. Luiz Fernandes) to the purposes of the Show, owing mainly to the heavy rains which reduced the ground to a sodden condition. This difficulty was, however, to a certain extent overcome by erecting the exhibition tents on either side of the draining trench. The sombreness of the canvas was also relieved by a brave display of multicoloured flags and bunting, whilst the exhibits within were arranged with some regard for art and effect. It is estimated that there were in all fully 1,300 exhibits on view. This total compares well with the first Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society’s show in Georgetown in 1895, when the total articles exhibited numbered only 535; but this seeming disparity is discounted somewhat by the fact that the Belfield Show was more comprehensive in scope than the first attempt of the Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society.
The following figures represent the number of exhibits in the more important departments: - Class A (Plants), 471; Class B (cut flowers, floral decorations, etc.,) 23;
Class C (fruits), 152; Class D (Vegetables), 159; Class E (Economic Products), 246;
Class F (poultry and bees), 69; Class G (arts, and manufactures), 148;
In the quality as in the number of the articles sent in, there was little room for complaint. There was an all-round excellence which was very gratifying, some exhibits being, according to competent authorities, the finest ever seen in the colony. There was a tendency, however, on the part of a few exhibitors to confound bulk and size with quality; this particularly applied to the vegetables department. In some classes also there was reason for considerable disappointment. Only two samples of cocoa (beans cured) were submitted. One was of average quality, but the second was very inferior - it showed that the exhibitor did not understand the curing process. Again, in regard to coffee there was not a single exhibit on view. This is surely astonishing, as about forty years ago there were thousands of acres in this colony devoted to coffee cultivation. In Class D (vegetables) the intelligence and discretion of the Judges were seldom put to severe tax. The display of tubers - yams, cassava, sweet potatoes, etc., - was very poor in regard to number, and the same remark applies to several of the exhibits coming under Class D (Fruits.) In tobacco Mr. Howell Jones’s exhibits served to show the inferiority of the only other sample sent in. Mr. Jones’s tobaccos - grown and manufactured on Plantation La Bonne Mere - were all of excellent quality. He submitted samples of black leaf and brown leaf tobaccos in cakes, as well as fine cut and navy cut. A tin of snuff of very fair quality, manufactured by Mr. Jones, also obtained a prize. The limitations of the show having been stated, it is but just to add that in most other instances the exhibits were entirely satisfactory. There were an immense variety of jams made from Colony-grown fruit, and all were of very good quality in like manner with pickles, hot sauces, cassava meal, starch, cornmeal, etc., the huge display of plants (Class A) must also have made the duties of the Judges of this department exceedingly difficult.
The most interesting, to lady-visitors in particular, of all the departments of the Show was undoubtedly that devoted to ladies’ home industries. It was a source of genuine surprise to all, and it showed that the ladies of the Colony are very highly accomplished in this artistic and unusual branch of domestic work. The specimens of needlework, crocheting, etc., sent in were all excellent. Allied to this branch of the Show was the decoration of dinner tables. Mrs. W. H. Cobb (Belfield) won a deserving first prize; Miss Gall the second and an extra prize were awarded Mrs. F. A. Gall. Among the other features of the Show was the finished model of a sugar factory worked by a windmill, which was constructed by Mr. Jose Fernandes of Belfield. Messrs. Park and Cunningham of Georgetown won the first prize for several charmingly artistic tables of inlaid Colony woods - very creditable examples of colonial workmanship.
The Judges discharged their duties with much efficiency, and the complaints as to the awards were remarkably few. Their names are appended: -
Classes A and B (Plants and cut flowers): - Reverend H. Gainer, Reverend R. G. Fisher, and Mr. H. J. Gladwin.
Dinner table decorations: -Mrs. Wrong, Mrs. James and Mrs. Lord.
Flower gardens: - Dr. Dickson, Reverend Mr. Dover, Messrs. A. Reis, B. A. Layne and E. B. Collins.
Classes C and D (fruits and Vegetables): - Dr. Godfrey, Reverend C. Llewellyn, and Reverend J. E. Dover
Class E (Economic Products): -The Honourable B. H. Jones, the Honourable W. A. Wolseley, and Mrs. W. A. Dickson.
Class F (poultry and bees): - Messrs. F. A. Gall, W. H. Hollingsworth and C. B. Kryenhoff.
Class G (arts, etc.): - Mr. G. M. Bethune.
Extra prizes were freely awarded in most of the classes; but the judges might perhaps have more frequently exercised their prerogative of withholding prizes all together in those cases where the exhibits were few and of poor quality. Excellent weather favoured the Show throughout the afternoon, and in the evening when the grounds were illuminated the scene was very animated.

THE OPENING CEREMONY
At the opening function, which took place shortly before two o’clock, among those present were: The Honourable B. H. Jones, and Miss Jones, the Honourable W. A. Wolseley, the Honourable D. M. Quckama, Dr. and Mrs. Dickson, Mr. R. T. A. Daly, Inspector of Villages; Mr. H. J. Gladwin, Mrs. Gladwin, and the Misses Gladwin (2); Mr. H. W. Sconce, acting Inspector of Schools; Miss Farrar, Mrs. Cornish, Mr. F. A. Gall, Mrs. Gall, and Miss Gall; Dr. Godfrey, Mr. Gillespie, Mrs. Gillespie, and Miss Gillespie, Mr. H. Fernandes, the Reverends Gainer, Dover, Llewellyn, cooper, and Fisher, Mr. G. M. Bethune and Mrs. Bethune, Mr. E. D. MacKay and Mrs. Mackay, Mr. J. W. Davis, etc.

THE ADDRESS TO HIS EXCELLENCY
Mr. B. H. Jones having introduced the leading members of the Show Committee to His Excellency, Mr. T. Jones, Secretary, read the following address: -
May it please Your Excellency: we the undersigned, representing the Victoria - Belfield Show Committee and the inhabitants of this district, desire to extend a cordial welcome to Your Excellency on your visit to our village, and to express our sincere thanks for so readily coming to our help on this important occasion.
It is pleasant to think of the fact that Your Excellency’s first public function in Guiana outside of your administrative duties is concerned with the village named after our most gracious Sovereign lady the Queen, and we do hope that you may always enjoy her favour.
The Show has been promoted with the object of stimulating our people to take a more intelligent view of and a deeper interest in the Agricultural industries than heretofore; for we believe that our true interests are bound up with the soil, and that if our children could be taught them in industrial schools and on experimental farms a lasting benefit would be conferred upon the community.
We note with a great deal of pleasure that one of the first legislative acts with which the name of Your Excellency has been associated is the new Crown Lands Ordinance; and, relying upon the reputation which preceded Your Excellency, we have every confidence that you will put forth your best efforts for the successful working of the Ordinance and the lifting of the Colony out of its present depressed condition.
We pray that Your Excellency’s connection with this Colony may be of permanent benefit to the inhabitants and to the Government whose confidence in you has placed you at the head of affairs at one of the most critical periods of our history; and that every blessing may attend Your Excellency and Lady Sendall both while you are with us as well as when it shall please Her Most Gracious Majesty to promote you to a more important position; and we hope that Your Excellency will be able to look back upon this Show with pleasurable recollections. We have the honour to remain,
James Barbour James, President.
T. J. M. Jupiter, Vice President.
Thomas Jones, Secretary.
A. M. Lord, Treasurer.
E. B. Collins, General Secretary.
A. Reis and Jos. C. Williams, Auditors.
(And the signatures of twenty-two other member of the committee.)

HIS EXCELLENCY’S SPEECH
His Excellency in reply said: Gentlemen, I can only tell you, the President and members of the Committee who have been instrumental in getting up this Show, that it was with the greatest pleasure and satisfaction that I received your invitation to be present here to open the Show. There was no question of condescension or anything else on my part in accepting such an invitation.
I regard it as a privilege and a duty to do everything in my power to promote such enterprises as this, so that it was with the greatest alacrity and satisfaction that I accepted the invitation you sent me. (Hear, hear.) You who conceived the idea of getting up a Show of this kind have, I may be allowed to tell you, done an act which is calculated to be of great service to the Colony, by setting an example which I hope will be followed widely in all parts of British Guiana. (Hear, hear and applause.) This has been spoken of as the annual Victoria Show, although I understand that the present is the first occasion on which it has been held; I therefore take it that the epithet “annual” must be accepted as applying to future years. (Hear, hear.) I hope most sincerely that the effort which you have made will not be forgotten - that it will not fall through on account of any want of energy to carry it on from year to year, but that it will bear fruit. You hope that in the future I may be able to look back upon my presence here with pleasure; and I may hope that the pleasure which it will give me will be nothing to the pleasure and satisfaction which you in after years will feel when your efforts have been fruitful in inducing your fellow country men, your neighbours and your fellow villagers, to pay more attention to the cultivation of those minor fruits and products and industries in which lies the future prosperity of the Colony - (Hear, hear.) - to a large extent. I have not had an opportunity yet of seeing what it is you have brought together here today; on the first occasion we cannot expect too much. But you must remember that it is from little things that great results are generally produced. (Hear, hear.) There is nothing to be ashamed of in very small or minute or humble beginnings made here today. With the sincerest hope that it will exercise great and important and lasting results on the Colony’s condition, I beg to thank you, gentlemen, for your kind address. (Applause.)
There was a hearty response to the call of “three cheers for His Excellency,” and the name “Lady Sendall” evoked an equally cordial compliment.
In acknowledgment, Sir Walter, said he was extremely obliged to the people for their welcome. On behalf of Lady Sendall he had to express her regrets that she was unable to be present. He would not fail; however, to tell her how cordially the people had spoken of her and how disposed they were to her.
The Show was then formally declared opened.

THE EXHIBITS
Following is the Prize-List, which as possible complete: -

CLASS A. - PLANTS
Roses in flower, not more than three different kinds - 1, A. De Castro, Belfield; 2, Mrs. Bovell, Belfield.
Roses, single plant - 1, Mrs. J. J. Reis, Belfield; 2, Mrs. Osborne, Victoria.
Eucharist lily in flower - 1, Mrs. Lopes, Golden Grove; 2, Mrs. B. Trotman, Belfield, extra, Mrs. J. S. Mackenzie, Belfield.
Other lilies -1, Mrs. E. J. Spencer, Cove and John; 2, C. E. Reis, Belfield.
Flowering plants, collection of three different kinds - 1, Antonio de Ramos, Victoria; 2, V. E. Paier, Mahaica; extra, Miss L. Fernandes.
Palms, not more than three different kinds - 1, Mrs. M. Bovell; 2, M. Keswood, Victoria.
Palms, single plant - 1, Mrs. Lopes, Golden Grove; 2, Miss Jardin, Golden Grove.
Maiden Hair Ferns, not more than two different kinds - 1, J. Grey, Plantation Hope; 2, Miss A. Fernandes, Victoria.
Maiden Hair Ferns, single plant - 1, J. Grey, Plantation Hope; 2, Miss A. Fernandes, Victoria.
Ferns, other than Maiden Hair, single plant - 1 and 2, Mrs. Lord, Victoria; extra, D. N. Mitchell, Cove and John.
Nasturtiums in flower - 1, D. N. Mitchell.
Begonias, not less than three different kinds - 1, Mrs. Lord; 2, J. Lloyd, Victoria.
Foliage plants, collection of three different kinds - 1, A. De Ramos; 2, Applewhite, Victoria.
Selaginella, single plant, - 1, Louis de Souza, Victoria; 2, W. A. Horey, Victoria.
Pepper Tree, in fruit single plant. - 1, Miss E. De Freitas, Cove and John; 2, W. C. Brandon, Golden Grove; extra, Miss P. Collins.
Other plants -1, J. Lloyd; 2, J. Fidelis, Victoria; extra, D. A. Spencer, Cove and John.
CLASS B. - CUT FLOWERS.
Dinner-table decorations of plants, flowers, fruit or leaves, or a combination of these: -1, Mrs. H. W. Cobb, Belfield; 2, Miss Gall, Haslington; extras, John Griffin, Enmore; and Mrs. F. A. Gall, Haslington.
Floral wreath or cross, coloured: -1, Mrs. Cornish, Belfield; 2, Mrs. Lopes.
Bridal Bouquet, white: - 1, Mrs. Cornish; 2, Mrs. Lopes.
Cut roses, bowl of: - 1, Rev. H. Gainer, Enmore; 2, Mrs. S. J. Levi, Bel Air.
CLASS C. - FRUITS.
Bananas, two bunches, different varieties. - 1, John Kingston, Victoria; 2, Louisa Jeune, Victoria.
Bananas, single bunch, any other variety. - 1, J. George, Cove and John; 2, Munro Collins, Victoria.
Pine Apple, single specimen. - 1, C. R. Lambert, Georgetown; 2, J. N. Agard, Victoria; extra, Louis de Souza, Victoria.
Star apples, basket of twelve, purple kind. - 1, Miss S. A. Reid, Dochfour.
Guavas. - extra prize, Hannah Hercules, Golden Grove.
Pomegranates. - 1, Charlotte Jackson, Victoria.
Avocado pears, six. - 1, Kedoo, Cove and John.
Seville Oranges, basket of twelve - 1, S. A. Reid, Dochfour.
Mangoes, basket of twelve, collection of not more than three kinds - 1, Mrs. Neil, Victoria; 2, Mrs. Hobbs, Golden Grove.
Mangoes, basket of six, one kind - 1, B. Sertima, Ann’s Grove; 2, Phyllis Collins, Golden Grove.
Soursops, a pair - 1 and 2, Drucilla Braveboy.
Sapodillas, basket of twelve. - 1, Mrs. Reid; 2, Mrs. Mary Parkinson, Kitty.
Grapes, basket of three bunches. - 2. William Demott, Georgetown.
Cocoanuts, six dried: - 1, L. Fernandes; 2, Blackwell Simon, Golden Grove; extra, C. Baptiste, Victoria.
Limes, basket of twelve: -1, Ellen Chapman, Victoria; 2, M. Mundy, Victoria; extra, Jane Fortune, Golden Grove.

CLASS D. - VEGETABLES.
Plantains, bunch - 1, C. Baptiste, Victoria; 2, Nathaniel Mason, Nabaclis.
Yams, six tubers. - 1, John Nelson, Victoria; 2, B. Trotman, Golden Grove; extra prizes, Kedoo and James Cuffy, Victoria.
Pumpkins, any kind: -1, Mary Josiah, Victoria; 2, R. E. Dover, Victoria.
Bitter Cassava, six tubers: - 1, Mary Collins, Victoria; 2, Pinky Dover, Victoria.
Eddoes, twelve tubers: -1, C. Brandon, Golden Grove; 2, C. Phillips, Golden Grove.
Tannias, twelve tubers: - 1, George St. Kitts, Victoria; 2, Miss Morrison.
Sweet Potatoes, twelve tubers: -1, J. Robertson, Nabaclis; 2, Miss Reid, Dochfour.
Papaws, six: - 1, J. Robertson; 2, Miss A. Huntley, Nabaclis.
Corn, six cobs: - 1, J. Teixeira, Georgetown; 2, Mrs. M. Lopes, Golden Grove.
Shallots, green bunch, not less than twelve: -1, J. Hyndman, Golden Grove; 2, J. Hamer, Enmore.
Bread Nuts, Baskets: - 1, N. A. Mason, Nabaclis; 2, J. Robertson, Golden Grove.
Cucumbers, four: - 2, Mrs. Waldron, Nabaclis.
Peppers, not less than four varieties, one dozen of each: -1, Luiz Fernandes, Victoria; 2, J. Grey, Plantation Hope; extra, Miss E. Brandon, Golden Grove.
Radishes, extra prize: - W. Demott, Georgetown.
Tomatoes, basket of twelve, any kind: -1, A. De Castro, Victoria; 2, W. De Mattos, Georgetown; extra, Mrs. W. A. Dickson, Belfield.
Egg plant, six: - 1, Holah, Plantation Hope; 2, Persaud, Plantation Hope.
Ochroes, basket of twelve: - 1, Eliza Wood, Victoria; 2, Miss Brandon.

CLASS E - ECONOMIC PRODUCTS.
Rice, three pounds: - 1, Mrs. Lopes, Golden Grove; 2, Mrs. Callendar, Cove and John.
Rice Flour, two pounds: -1, Miss M. Sandy, Golden Grove; 2, Mrs. Lopes.
Cornmeal, three pounds: - 1, Mrs. Lopes; 2, Mrs. J. Hyndman.
Plantain Meal, three pounds: - 1,Miss M. Sandy and J. E. Williams, Victoria; 2, C. Baptiste, Victoria.
Starch, other than arrowroot: - 1, Charles Phillips, Golden Grove; 2, Mrs. E. Collins, Victoria.
Prepared Chocolate, two pounds: - 1, Jane Scott, Plaisance; 2, J. W. Green, Golden Grove.
Cassava Bread, twelve cakes: - 1, Mrs. Sharper, Victoria; 2, Mrs. R. S. Williams; extra, Mrs. Johnson, Victoria.
Cassareep, one bottle: - 1, C. Baptiste; 2, Mrs. Reid; extra, D. Sertima, Ann’s Grove.
Village manufactured sugar, three pounds: -1, Evelyn, Golden Grove.
Pickles, one bottle: -1, Mrs. Reid; 2, Eve Conwright, Golden Grove.
Jellies other than guava, two bottles: -1, J. Robertson, Nabaclis; 2, Miss Nora McKinnon, Nabaclis.
Jams, two bottles: -1, Miss Reid; 2, Mrs. F. Haynes, Victoria.
Marmalade, one bottle: -1,Mrs. Camacho, Victoria.
Chutnee, one bottle: - 1, Mrs. W. Brandon.
Cayenne Pepper: -1, J. Robertson; 2, Eve Conwright.
Syrups, flavoured with native fruit, three varieties, one bottle each: - 1, John Griffin, Enmore; 2, J. W. Green.
Bitters:- 1, Isaac de Souza; 2, J. N. Fraser.
Honey:- Phyllis Collins, Golden Grove.
Rum, Coloured, 40 o.p. or more: - 1, Antonio Fernandes, Victoria; 2, Tiger Cat rum-shop, Georgetown.
Rum, white, 40 o.p. or more: - 1, De Gois and Salvados, Mahaicony; 2, A. Fernandes.
Cocoa, Beans Cured, three pounds: - 2, J. Gray, Plantation Hope.
Raw Cotton cleaned, half pound: - 2, J. N. Vieira, Ann’s Grove.
Logwood dye: extra prize, Levi James, Victoria.
Tobacco, prepared in leaf, one pound: -1 and 2, the Honourable B. H. Jones.
Tobacco, cut: - two extra prizes, the Honourable B. H. Jones.
Snuff, extra prize: - the Honourable B. H. Jones.

CLASS F. - POULTRY AND Bees.
Pen of Fowls, One Cock and Two Hens of Anyone Kind: - 1,w. A. Storey; 2, D. A. Spencer, Cove and John.
Pair of Turkeys: - 1, Mrs. M. Bovell, Belfield.
Pen of One Drake and Two Ducks: - 1, Dr. W. A. Dickson; 2, D. A. Spencer.
Pair of Pigeons, Anyone Kind: - 1, Miss Julia Fidelis, Victoria; 2, Miss Jane Scott, Plaisance.
Three Guinea Pigs: - Extra Prizes, Mrs. M. Bovell.
Pair of Guinea Birds: - Extra Prize, George St. Kitts.
Pair of Bush Birds, Any Kind: - 1, J. Lopes, Golden Grove; 2, Mrs. Lopes, Golden Grove.

Class G. - ARTS, AND MANUFACTURES.
Specimen of Cooper's work: - George St. Kitts.
Cabinet work of colony wood: - 1, Park and Cunningham, Georgetown; and J. Brandon, Golden Grove; 2, Mrs. W. A. Dickson.
Shoemakers' work, boots or shoes: - 1, D. S. Brutus, Buxton.
Modern Engineering: - 1, Jose Fernandes, Belfield; 2, de Roche, Ann's Grove.
Specimen of Carpentry: - 1, William King, Ann's Grove.
Crochet, three different patterns: -1, Mrs. Eliza Wood, Victoria; 2, Miss de Castro, Victoria; extra, Miss Mary Pollard, Victoria.
Other Fancy work: - 1 and 2, Miss C. Capello, Georgetown; 1, Joaquina de Franca and Mrs. J. E. Bowen; Extras, Miss de Castro and V. de Ramos.
Carved or Painted Calabashes: -1, T. A. Titus, Victoria; 2, James Brandon.
Collection of works of art in stone, bronze, or other material: - 1, J. Pollard, Georgetown;
Hat, straw or other materials: -1, Miss Ellen Adams, Victoria; 2, Dorothy Callendar.
Extra prizes. - Miss Levi, Bel Air; (hand bag); J. W. Vieira, Golden Grove, (antimacassars) Miss D. Callendar ( tea coat and alum basket); Mrs. Camacho, Victoria, (cushion and doilies); Miss Gall, Haslington(doilies); Miss S. Reis, Belfield (slippers)
Source: The Daily Chronicle, Demerara, Wednesday, June 1, 1898: page 4.

Shareholders of Plantation Northbrook (Victoria Village)

Enclosure in No. 32. November 7, 1839,
Encloiure in No. 3.'. To his Excellency, Henry Light, Esq., Governor and Commander-in-chief in and over the Colony of British Guiana.
May it please your Excellency, Sir,
We, the undersigned emancipated labourers of this district, with humble submission and respect, approach your Excellency, praying your Excellency will be pleased to pardon our boldness in soliciting your Excellency's attention for a few moments whilst we enter into details, which we earnestly hope may interest your Excellency, and gain for us your Excellency's approbation and assistance.
On the 7th day of this month we jointly purchased from the executors of the late Hugli Rogers, Esq., for the sum of ten thousand dollars, his plantation called " Northbrook," Containing about 500 acres of land, and as we have been enabled to pay the purchase money, principally from out of our savings, since we obtained our freedom, we cannot refrain from expressing how thankful, how grateful we are, how indebted we shall ever be to all those noble-minded individuals who were mainly instrumental in procuring and giving us that freedom. We reflect with indescribable pleasure upon the fact, that high and low took part on. our side; we remember, and we will teach our children to remember, with lasting gratitude, that even the Sovereign, whilst seated upon the throne of England, condescended to be our friend ; we shall never forget the benefits we received (under Divine Providence) from our late good King William, of blessed memory; we cannot forget what benefits we have received and are daily receiving, what blessings we are constantly enjoying under the benignant sceptre of his illustrious Niece and Successor, our present dear young Queen Victoria, whom may God bless and preserve to us for many, very many future years.
We know that to the individual act of Her Majesty we owe the happiness of having your Excellency here, as our ruler and Governor, in her name; your Excellency is too exalted in station to listen to praise and commendation, and we too humble to offer them; but we may be allowed to state, with thankfulness, that every act of your Excellency's administration, with, reference to us and to the body to which we belong, has been marked with kindness, benevolence, liberality, and justice; and we humbly pray the Almighty Ruler of all men that your Excellency may be long spared to us to afford us your protection.
We would fain hand down to posterity some token of our gratitude, and some memento of the emancipation which we have witnessed, partaken of, and enjoyed ; and we conceive that we cannot do so more effectually (certainly not more agreeably to our feelings) than by beingallowed to name our plantation after our good and gracious young Queen, " Victoria !" We therefore humbly and earnestly pray that your Excellency will be pleased to represent our wishes to Her Majesty, in such manner as your Excellency may deem most likely to propitiate Her Majesty, and obtain her royal consent.
At the same time we pray your Excellency to represent to Her Majesty that we shall never be guilty of anything which would cause us to forfeit Her Majesty's most gracious patronage and protection; we know the blessings of freedom, and we endeavour to deserve them; we are peaceable in disposition, industrious by habit, loyal and faithful by nature; gratitude to our Sovereign and to your Excellency will make us doubly vigilant and circumspect.
We further respectfully represent to your Excellency that it is not our intention to settle down upon our plantation, and lead a life of idleness ; our views and wishes are, to have the land divided into equal portions amongst us; individually erect our cottages upon our respective plots of ground, and thereon, in our leisure hours, cultivate our vegetables and provisions; but our firm determination, as a body, is to continue to labour daily, as now, upon the several plantations where we are employed.
If not too presumptuous on our part, we would venture to solicit of your Excellency, the assistance of the crown land surveyor at his convenience to measure out our equal portions of the land, as above proposed, which would prevent anything like the possibility of dispute among us.
We further respectfully represent to your Excellency that it is our intention to establish upon our plantation a school-house and church, (and there is a new large building on the estate well adapted to these purposes,) in the former our children will be taught to read their Bible and learn their several duties to society at large ; whilst in the latter, as each revolving Sabbath appears, we shall assemble together, and there offer up to the Almighty our humble thanks for the great and wonderful benefits which, under Divine Providence, have been con- BRITISHGUIANA ferred upon us. Praying your Excellency's favourable consideration, support, and patronage, We have the honour to be, Sir,
Your Excellency's most obedient humble Servants,
John Sertima, William Lewis, Thomas Baillie, James M'rae, Frank Baillie, Samuel Benter, Romeo Isaac, Daniel Isaac, Thomas Colin, Martin Nkuany, Simon Hanover,Simon Scott,Thomas Hercules,John Lewis,Wm. Gamell Reaves, James Handy, John Wheelaii, Voltore Robert,John Milcel,Michael James,Simon Tate,Sampson Cooper,Isaac Chapman,Primus Samuel,Cupidore Hopkinson,Quashie Porter,Cornwall Porter,Caesar Solomon,Hall Porter,Quammie Adam,Hamlet Cato,Simon Spencer,Melville Porter,Quashie Bard, Quacco Hammilton,Medlin Hammilton, John Sion,Cross Sumner,Marlborough Sam,Pollidore Bentick,Cicero Hercules,Jiljjs Cumming,Gamby James,Moses Hopkinson,Bill Williams,Blackwall Lancester, Scipio Samuel,Pat Murphy,Ned Mackay,William Negaday, Alexander Porter,William Smart,Catherine Tom, Kenneth Jarrick,Hannah Porter,Sammy Knight,Hannah Porte, Adam Grant, Maui A Grant, Colin M'rae,John Fiddell,Simon King,Bellender Hopkinson.


Signed in my presence this 30th day of November, 1839,
C. H. Strutt, Stipendiary Magistrate. Witness to the several Signatures, Mary Strutt.

SOURCE: 1841 Session 1 [321] Papers relative to the West Indies. 1841. British Guiana.

No#. 28 --Governor Light to Lord John Russell -- Nov. 18,1839 -- Transmitting Return of Estates in Berbice whose Proprietors or attorneys have put in claims for Second Depths. - Purchase of the Northbrook Estate by the Emancipated Negroes -- page 54.
No#. 32 --Governor Light to Lord John Russell -- Dec 4 -- the purchase of the Northbrook Estate by the Emancipated Negroes --to be allowed to name it after Her Majesty - page 63.
No#. 55 --Governor Light to Lord John Russell -- April 9, 1840-- the condition and prospects of the Province. - the purchase of the Northbrooke Estate by emancipated labourers - page 109.

1841 Session 1 [321] Papers relative to the West Indies. 1841. British Guiana.

NAMES of Purchasers of Plantation New Orange Nassau, County Demerara

NAMES of Purchasers of Plantation New Orange Nassau, County Demerara,


Abercrombie , Cadgo Adams , Cudgo Adams , Duncan Adams , Lewis Bacche , Assi Baily , Colin Baily , Dundas Baily, Frank Baily ,Robert Baily ,Quammina Baily , Charles Batifield ,Hercules Bergess (Burgess) , Roger Brian , Albert Brutus ,Michael Burion ,Valentine Brutus ,Cyrus Callander , Friday Campbell , John Castillo ,Nero Castillo , Bonaparte Cato , Billy Chester , Downes Corian, Glasgow Cove , Charles Cuffy ,Christmas Cuffy , Murray Cummings , King Daniel, Hoxboroug David , Martin Deal , Mary Diamond , Murray Diamond , Sandy Duke , Charles Enterprise , Punch Enterprise ,Trotman Enterprise , Will Enterprise , Hannibal Eastman , John Fallett , Isaac Farley , Charles Fillington ,Abraham Fox , Edward Francis ,Tom Gibson ,Jacob Gill , Shappo Glasgow , Granville Greenfield , Tom Griffith ,Mcdonald Hannibal , Captain Huntley , Rasmas Hay , Ben Hopkinson , Glasgow Hopkinson , Saul Hopkinson, Duncan Jarvis ,Perot Jemrnie , James Jones , Matthew Jones , Novell Jones , Farmer Lesprance , David London , James London , Jack Lustall , Dr. M'beth , John M-cra , Prince M'kaa ,Columbus M'kay ,Richard M'kay , Sammy M'kay ,Alexander Mckenzie , Charles Mckenzie , Corobal Mckenzie , Corporal Mckenzie , Howe Mckenzie ,Nicholas Mckenzie , Present Mckenzie ,Simon Mckenzie ,Alnum Mack ,Billy Manuel , Stephen Marrant ,Luben Mecra ,Charles Messiah , John Mike , Caesar Moffat ,Stephen Morian , Adam Newton ,Prince Paul ,Ben Porter ,Roderick Porter , Primo Osanna ,Friendship Peter , Cornett Phiffie , Harry Pollard , Bob Quammie ,Calias Quammina , Jack Robinson , Lamb Rogers , Nelson Rogers , Alexander Ross , Alexander Sam , Aukeva Sam ,George Sancho , Glasgow Sarry , Corn Scott , John Scott , Simon Scott , Kingsgate Sifox , Primo Simon, Alexander Smith , John Smith , David Spencer , Captain Stepney , Adam Sloan , Bob Stuart , Castillo Stuart , Coboas Stuart , David Stuart , Edward Stuart , James Stuart , Providence Stuart , Punch Stuart , Thomson Stuart , Bat Thornton , Howard Thornton , York Trim ,Whiliminner , Pero Wills , Simon Wills , John Williams, and Walter Young: Total 141. May 11, 1840.
SOURCE: 1841 Session 1 [321] Papers Relative to the West Indies. 1841. British Guiana. Page 120.