DISQUS

George Graham · 2 years ago

Paul, you may be too young to remember but my father, George Graham, was a close friend of Dr. Lecky and we used to visit back and forth. He told me Dr. Lecky developed Jamaica Hope cattle. My father was an agricultural instructor for many years and eventually became supervisor for St. Elizabeth.

Nikki · 2 years ago

Wonderful photos! I really enjoyed this post.

Jef Van der Aa · 2 years ago

I've enjoyed your piece on the banana plantation. I have encountered sites like that in Barbados as well. It's a shame...


I'm writing you because reading your piece reminded me of the fact that I have a (rather unregularly updated) blog as well. It's nothing professional, it's just an update of things I am doing. If ever you have a dull moment, feel free to check it out.

Paul Boakye · 2 years ago

Hey Jef , thanks for the comments. Unlike the places you mention in Barbados, Bodles was not a banana plantation but a research facility fuelled by my cousin Ren's background as a Biologist (Howard University), and his life-long interest in botany.


Instead of the intense farming methods and profits usually associated with the plantation, Bodles was much more concerned with genetic studies and improvements to Mother Nature as the only sustainable solution to banana farming across Latin America and the Caribbean. Hence Ren was awarded the rank of Commander for his contribution to Agriculture, and has several breed of bananas named in his honour.



This is why I feel especially saddened by Bodles' decline; particularly because of the important role it played in the lives of so many people beyond the Caribbean.



Thanks for the link to your Blog - I checked it out!

Debo Hobo · 2 years ago

I wanted to take a moment to let you know that I found your post to be so very well written. I have only been to Jamaica's tourist resorts and was discouraged by the guards at the gate not to venture out, so I was unable to see any of the real history and culture of the Island. This is very unfortunate. Your story however has given me a small glimpse in to important history that is slipping away. Thank you for the post.

Antonio Gonsalves · 6 months ago

Hey Cuz,
It is a real shame. I love the photos by the way.

Paul Boakye · 6 months ago

Yes, cuz. Still a great place--prime real estate. Fond memories!

Dirg Aaab-Richards · 6 months ago

This post was most inspiring. What are we doing about this people?