Anguilla Day: History. What to Expect. Must Haves. 

Sacrifice, freedom, growth, national pride… 

These are just a few of the things that come to mind when we think about Anguilla Day. 30 May 2019 marks the 52nd anniversary celebration of this memorable day. 

As expected, the day will feature activities, events and fun. We honour those who sacrificed for our freedom, celebrate growth and continue to build on our successes.  

Let’s take a quick look at the history of this day (May 30).  

• Anguilla Day: Day of remembrance for the sacrifices made during the 1967 Anguilla Revolution. 
• British Influence: Although Anguilla was settled by British colonists from St. Kitts in the early 1600s, it wasn’t recognised as a British colony until 1825. 
• St. Kitts & Anguilla: 1871 was a year of significant change for Anguillans. The country was placed under St. Kitts’ direct administration. Anguilla came under the control of a magistrate in 1882. 
• Struggles: Anguilla was considered a tough place to live because of the geography of the land. Residents were deeply loyal to the country. They refused to leave even during the severe drought and famine of 1888, which lasted into the late 1890s. 
• St. Kitts Administration: To make Anguilla more ‘self-reliant’, St. Kitts imposed high fees and customs duties. They also sent in police officers, who were tasked with ensuring that all monies owed were collected. This created a lot of tension between the two countries. 
• Greater Challenges: When Robert Bradshaw became Chief Minister of St. Kitts-Anguilla, the people faced even greater challenges. He allegedly withheld financial aid and requisite infrastructure for the island. On 27 February 1967, a few Anguillans disrupted the Queen Show celebrations.  
• Defiance: On 30 May 1967, the St. Kitts’ police force was deported from Anguilla. This was deemed the ‘unofficial separation’ from the tri-state.  
• Anguilla Act: Via this act, Anguilla officially separated from the semi-independent nation of St. Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla in 1980. 

What to expect this year:  

• Official Anguilla Day Parade at 8am at James Ronald Webster Park. 
• Senior Citizen’s Luncheon at midday – 3pm at the Blue Ridge Convention Centre. 
• Anguilla Day Around the Island Race at 9.30am at Sandy Ground. 

Must–haves:  

• Camera – to capture the moments! 
• Comfy attire (clothing, shoes and accessories), sunblock, and sunglasses. 
• Money for transportation and other expenses. 

We hope that this shortlist on the significance of this public holiday has been a good reminder for you. More information can be found on What we do in Anguilla! 

Sources: What we do in Anguilla, I Visit Anguilla, and UK Legislation website.