James Ronald Webster Day in Anguilla ― Date, History, and Details
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History of James Ronald Webster Day in Anguilla and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
James Ronald Webster Day is a public holiday in Anguilla, observed on the first Monday in August. It commemorates James Ronald Webster, who served as the island’s Chief Minister from 1967 to 1969 and again from 1976 to 1977.
Webster was born in Anguilla in 1921 and educated in the United Kingdom. He returned to Anguilla in 1946 and became involved in politics, serving as a member of the island’s Legislative Council from 1951 to 1956. In 1967, he was appointed Chief Minister, becoming the first Anguillian to hold that position.
Webster served as Chief Minister for two terms, before being defeated in the 1969 elections. He returned to office in 1976, but was again defeated in 1977. He died in 1978.
James Ronald Webster Day is observed with a public holiday, with schools and government offices closed for the day. Events and activities held in Webster’s honor include a wreath-laying ceremony at his grave, and a memorial service at St. Mary’s Anglican Church in The Valley, Anguilla.