Story and photos by Shahein Fitzpatrick – Senior Resident living in Point Village, Antigua shared countless experiences as a youth growing up in what he considered, a culturally changed community. Samuel Hill, 65, also known as ‘Mokush’, unwinds daily by enjoying multiple rounds of dominoes with childhood friends and family.
In the open, breezy, and refreshing atmosphere near the ocean side, he sits with Antiguan Trumpet to reflect on the memories of his youthful days.
“I can remember going to the old Point School which is no longer there, everyday when we use to walk to school, my friends and I would admire the old sugar factory. This was long, long time ago in the mid 90’s, this was since in Papa Bird days,” Hill revealed.
Sir. Vere Cornwall Bird Sr. also known as ‘Papa Bird’ was the first Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, whose political reign was from 1 February 1976 – 1 November 1981.
Hill told Antiguan Trumpet that he has a strong love for the country’s traditional steal pan and iron band music. Exposed to the traditional sound as a child, Hill’s passion remains active and alive.
‘Mokush’ who is functioning as one of the leaders of the more than 40 member Point & Villa Iron band group which started over 70 years ago; regularly plays out at hotels like Sandals, Galley Bay and St. James.
Excited and engaged to share his youthful experience, Hill continues, “Me and my friends use to have so much fun. We use to play marbles, go fishing and go by the seaside to dive, everything was so fun and nice.
I would definitely say that the community has changed a lot, things are much different compared to back then, the community is more diverse now and many of the older Pointe people have either died, moved overseas or left the community.”
The passionate resident in ending shared his desire to see the community return to how it use to be.
“Let us all just live in unity and peace like old times, lets keep away violence and negativity and everything will be just fine.”
