H. Lavity Stoutt: 24th Commemorative Celebration in the British Virgin Islands, Celebrating the Legacy

Join in honoring the late H. Lavity Stoutt during the 24th Commemorative Celebration in the British Virgin Islands. From February 27th to March 7th, all are invited by the Government of the Virgin Islands to participate in various events under the theme “A Flashback on H. Lavity Stoutt’s Impact.” Discover the profound influence of this visionary leader on the Territory’s development, with a special focus on education.

Who was H. Lavity Stoutt really?

I wanted to know so I asked the expert closest to me, Rastaman Sensi, if he knew the Honorable Hamilton Lavity Stoutt personally and he turned to me seemingly perplexed and answered:

“Yes – he was a great man! A man of his word. He would walk village to village and house to house asking what you need? What you want? He built this country!”

H. Lavity Stoutt’s Impact:

Hamilton Lavity Stoutt was born on March 7, 1929. He served as an elected representative from 1957 to 1995, and he was the Territory’s first Chief Minister. His contributions include establishing the cruise ship pier, overseeing the Central Administration Complex construction, and leading the development of the local community college, named in his honor.

National Hero Recognition:

On October 13, 2023, H. Lavity Stoutt was posthumously declared a national hero. This recognition was part of a resolution passed by the House of Assembly, solidifying his enduring impact on the British Virgin Islands.

Events and Activities 2024:

Public Holiday:

The public holiday will be observed on March 4th in honor of H. Lavity Stoutt’s birthday on March 7th. Wreath Laying Ceremony: Pay respects on March 4th, 9:30 a.m., at the Cappoons Bay Cemetery.

Reenactment of the First Sitting: Experience a production in collaboration with the Virgin Islands Studies Institute at H. L. Stoutt Community College on February 27th, 5:00 p.m., at Eileene L Parsons Auditorium. Watch video on Facebook here:

Quiz: 780AM Tune in on March 6th, 9:30 a.m., for an engaging radio quiz.

Fair Showcase: Join the celebration on March 7th from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Elmore Stoutt High School Campus.

Join in celebrating the life and achievements of H. Lavity Stoutt during this commemorative event. Explore the rich history of the British Virgin Islands and honor the legacy of a visionary leader who continues to inspire generations. Participate in the festivities and pay homage to the man whose vision shaped the future of our beloved Territory.

Learning even more:

To learn even more about H. Lavity Stoutt visit the H. LAVITY STOUTT MEMORIAL COLLECTION and the Virgin Island’s Studies Institute at HLSCC Library. Front Desk 284-852-7140

Photos in this article are from the H. Lavity Stoutt Memorial Collection