Sir alexander's rich history on display
Laranzo Dacres,Youthlink Writer

A museum to honour the life and preserve the work of The Right Honourable Sir Alexander Bustamente, the former prime minister and first Jamaican to be awarded the Order of National Hero while still living, will be opened at one of his former residences located at 24 Tucker Avenue in St Andrew.

The house-turned-museum hasn't changed much, barring slight renovations, and still bears the wallpaper of Sir Alexander's time. Although it is not yet opened to the public, Youthlink got an opportunity to delve into Sir Alexander's rich history and today we share with you glimpses of his past life and achievements.

Sir Alexander Bustamante the letter writer: An original copy of a letter written to Gladys Longbridge who became his wife in 1962.

The period during which Bustamante was detained at Up Park Camp for alleged violation of the Defence of the Realm Act saw him writing numerous letters of affection to Gladys Longbridge - who was his secretary at the time. These hand-written letters that are signed and dated by Sir Alexander have never before been seen by the public and a number of them are showcased at the museum alongside more legible replicas.

Meeting Sir Winston Churchill: Sir Alexander Bustamante and Sir Winston Churchill on his visit to Jamaica.

In January 1953, Sir Alexander Bustamante met Sir Winston Churchill who presented Bustamante with an autographed copy of one of his books.

Visit to the White House: Sir Alexander Bustamante and John F. Kennedy at the White House in Washington, DC.

On his visit to the White House, Sir Alexander Bustamante met the then president of the United States, John F. Kennedy, and from the photo, they seem to be having a good time. An autographed copy of the book To Turn the Tide by President Kennedy, along with other gifts, was presented to him.

Gift from Honourable Dr Micheal Okpara and Mrs Okpara - Premier of Eastern Nigeria: A section of an African elephant tusk that was presented to Sir Alex. The tusk is intricately adorned with carvings depicting events that took place in the ancient civilization that once flourished in Benin City, Nigeria. It is one of the many interesting gifts and accolades on display at the museum.

Did you know?

Sir Alexander was:

• approximately 6"5' tall
• spoke English and Spanish fluently
• enjoyed farming
• didn't smoke but received numerous cigars as gifts.

For an authentic look at Sir Alexander Bustamante's life and to experience his greatness, visit The Bustamante Museum at 24 Tucker Avenue. Take a step back in time, will you?

Contact Museum Curator Mrs Nora Strudwick at 942-2666 or visit the website at www.bustamantemuseum.com

A section of a rather interestingly carved African elephant tusk that was presented as a gift to Sir Alexander Bustamante.

Sir Bustamante and John F. Kennedy in the White House.

Sir Alexander Bustamante and Sir Winston Churchill on his visit to Jamaica.

An original copy of a letter sent to Gladys Longbrige during the time Bustamante was detained.