To forget one's ancestors is to be a brook without a source, a tree without a root.

ROBERT LOUIS SHEPPARD 1920 - 1999 Robert Louis Sheppard was born on 10th March 1920, the eighth child of Charles and Elsie (Gomez) Sheppard's family of 13 children. At the time of his birth, the Sheppard family lived at Stone Street, Port of Spain. But Grandpa Charlie Sheppard later bought a large property at 30 Richmond Street to accommodate his rapidly increasing family. Young Robert and his nine siblings moved in. What an exciting new place that must have been for these children to explore! My father, Andrew , was the closest brother to Robert in age, born in 1922. Knowing how lovingly he spoke of him, I feel certain that, had he not predeceased Robert by eight years, he would have written a heartfelt tribute to his brother, as he had done for other family members. They shared much of the same childhood experiences, the most traumatic of which was the death of their father in 1931 when they were young boys. Their father Charles Sheppard died when he was only 45 (my Dad was not quite 9 years old, Robert was 11), leaving their mother to raise them all. Their widowed mother took in boarders to supplement her limited finances, and the children understood that they had to help. When my father was 66 and living in Barbados, he wrote some stories about family life in the 1930s and, not surprisingly, many of the memories he recalled included his close brother Robert. They were only two years apart and were best buddies. He recalled the days when he, along with his brothers Robert and George were the bread delivery boys, using their big brothers’ bikes. George was the brother just before Robert and Andrew was the one just after him, so they were a close threesome growing up. When George died suddenly at age 43, Robert and Andrew were shocked and heartbroken. I can truthfully say that it was the first time I saw my father cry, the day he received the phone call from Trinidad with that tragic news. I've transcribed this account from my father's own handwritten stories. School Days "Trinidad was and is a predominantly Roman Catholic Country because of its Spanish and French origins. I was Presbyterian. Being the last of six sons, obtaining a place in the Government-run main secondary school was a problem for my brother Robert and me because we had four older brothers attending that college, Queen’s Royal College, and their regulations did not permit any more than four pupils from any one family. Consequently, Robert and I found ourselves at St. Mary’s College, otherwise known as C.I.C. (College of the Immaculate Conception), almost entirely Roman Catholic. We were definitely out of place. Apart from studies, the only other activities that we could perform were football, athletics, boxing. We were not allowed to join the Sea Scouts, nor could we join choirs nor drama clubs. Cadets was also on the list of restricted areas. We were also prevented from entering the school chapel. Whenever our Catholic friends attended Mass, we were obliged to remain in our classrooms for the period under the supervision of a Protestant teacher or a Head Boy. It was uncomfortable and confusing to be in this situation. It was not our imagination either that non-Catholics were the victims of discrimination. We were always severely punished for any infringement of the rules of the school. Being late or forgetting poetry or not completing homework always guaranteed us a beating by the Dean of Studies or the Dean of Discipline. “Ten boarders, 6 cousins, 12 of us, Mama and “poor” little friends (usually 2), say 28-30 people to be fed each and every day, breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner. We all ate a lot of bread, so Ma employed Harris, Barbadian baker who had a problem with testicular hernia always getting in his way. Harris would arrive home and start baking between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m. He supplied us with 100 hops loaves, and 6 pan loaves, plus other sweet breads for tea. He also baked some 30 other pan loaves which had to be delivered to the customers before 7:00 a.m. These were friends of the family who lived in the general neighbourhood. Ma had several bread bags made, some to hold one or two or more pan loaves. Each customer had a nail on the back or front porch to hold the stringed bread bag. The empty bag would be replaced by the full one. Each bag had the customer’s name. Problem – transportation. Andrew, Robert, George borrow Boysie’s, Bertie’s and John’s bicycles, surround the bicycles with bags of bread and make sure you return for the owners to get their bicycles to get to work. We “students” had to eat breakfast quickly and walk to school – and get there in time. Many times we failed as evidenced by the black and blues on our hands or backsides as administered by our school masters. But this was all part of life. We loved Mama and understood the situation.” "In spite of everything, Robert and I succeeded up to a point. Our widowed mother could no longer afford to pay the school fees of $12.00 per three month term each, so we had to leave and find gainful employment to assist in supporting our large family of twelve children. Robert got a job with a large, diverse commercial company as an office boy." Marriage and family life Robert married the love of his life on 11 April 1942. He had just turned 22 , his beautiful bride Angela de Souza was 20 years old. Like Robert, Angela's family roots were Portuguese. Her parents were Lucy Xavier and Henrique Rodrigues de Souza. Henrique was known as Henry, and was born in São Roque, Madeira. He was a merchant who ran an alcohol retail business, as well as a bakery and a couple of grocery stores in Chaguanas and Caripachaima. He owned the White Eagle Bar and Grocery, 97 Western Main Road, St. James, Port of Spain,around 1910s-1930s. Angela's siblings were Henrietta, Jacintho “Sonny”, Teresa, Monica, Henry and Sheila de Souza. The Sheppard, Gomez and de Souza families became close, as Angela's brother "Sonny" married Robert's cousin, Angela McCartney. She was the daughter of his mother's sister Edith Gomez and Thomas McCartney. Angela Lucy de Souza 1 November 1922 - 19 November 2004 Wedding Day - 11 April 1942 Standing next to Angela is Robert's bestman, my father Andrew, wearing his military uniform. Next to Robert is their sister Sybil, left is Theresa de Souza, the bride's sister Next to my father is another of the bride's sisters, Henrietta de Souza. Robert and Angela with their children l/r standing Carol, Bobby, Charlie Wayne is seated on his mother's lap and Gail is next to him Robert and Angela celebrated their first wedding anniversary with the arrival of their firstborn, Carol Ann, who was born on 12 April, 1943. Their family quickly grew with the addition of Robert (Bobby) in 1945, Charles (Charlie) in 1946, Gail in 1947 and then 12 years later in 1959, Wayne. Trinidadians would say that Wayne was the "langiappe". Robert was first and foremost a family man. I fondly remember him as charming and outgoing, with a lovable personality and infectious smile. He was quite like my father in that respect. He grew up in a home where the piano took centre stage in the living room, and where music was a part of everyday life. He must have seen his father play the mandolin. Robert loved to sing, and had a smooth velvety voice. Luckily, we have a few nice recordings of him singing some of the popular standards of his day, accompanied by his sister Jessie. He loved nothing better than a fete - family parties at his home were often held to celebrate various occasions, with everyone gathered around their piano - the very one given to Angela by her father for her eighteenth birthday. My Uncle Robert's early days of delivering the loaves of bread around the neighbourhood and his upbringing as a middle child in such a large family stood him in good stead for a business career in management of people. Robert worked for a while with the Singer Sewing Machine Company, followed by a long and successful career with the American Esso Standard Oil (S.A.) Ltd., where he was Personnel Manager, rising to become Regional Manager, with responsibility for Trinidad, Guyana. Suriname and several other West Indian islands where Esso had branches. His negotiating skills in dealing with trade unions were exceptional and recognized by the company. During his working career Esso transferred him to Guyana, where he moved to with his family for a few years before relocating back to his home in Trinidad. Guyanese people being known for their warm hospitality, Robert and Angela fitted right in, quickly making friends and enjoying a vibrant social life. While in Guyana, he quickly assimilated into the business community and became a Member of Council of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce in 1961. After Esso closed doors in Trinidad, Robert worked for the National Petroleum Corporation up until his retirement. After retirement, he became the Manager of The Union Club located on Independence Square in Port of Spain. It was the prime social meeting place for local businessmen. Robert's charming personality and business experience made him well suited to this position. Robert made time in his busy working life to enjoy his family and the sports he loved, together with the socializing that came along with that. He played rugby and was also at one time hockey goalkeeper for the Shamrock Club. In his private life, he was a man of faith, having been raised in a staunchly Presbyterian family. He was a Freemason, and belonged to the Royal Prince of Wales Masonic Lodge in Trinidad. He was also an active member of the Lions Club. Angela was Catholic, and as required at the time of their marriage, he promised to raise their children in the Roman Catholic faith. These beliefs and values stayed with the couple through thick and thin. Robert and Angela's eldest daughter Carol grew up to be an outstandingly beautiful and talented young lady. Many of my generation would remember her on stage at the Port of Spain Jaycees Carnival Queen show, where she competed as Miss Olympia. Contestants were sponsored by local businesses, and Carol's sponsor was her uncle Sonny de Souza, whose company sold Olympia typewriters. She wore a costume and evening gown designed by John Humphrey, husband of her cousin Helen de Sousa. Her costume depicted a volcano. Click on this link for photos. Carol married Douglas Yuille in 1964 and by 1969 they had given Robert and Angela three grandchildren. The marriages of three of their other children - Bobby to Fatima, Charlie to Anna and Gail to Errol gave them ten grandchildren in all. Of these, several are distinctly musical. As we say in the Caribbean "The mango don't fall far from the tree!" But life was to deal them the harshest of blows when in 1986, their lovely Carol died after a short illness of cancer. She was just 43 years old. Heartbreak beyond description enveloped Robert, Angela and their entire family. Carol Ann (Sheppard) Yuille Robert and Angela remained a devoted couple, until Robert passed away on 16th December 1999 when he was 79. Angela lived on for another five years, passing away at age 82 on 19th November, 2004. They are memorialized together in the De Souza family plot in the Lapeyrouse Cemetery, Port of Spain. The inscriptions on their plaques aptly describe their lives together "Loving husband and father", "Loving wife and mother". In closing, I think it fitting to share a video filmed by my husband Meindert at Robert and Angela's home in Diego Martin, Trinidad. It brings to life the warmth, hospitality and family love that they so enjoyed while gathered around the piano. We remember them with love and affection as we listen to the piano music of Robert's oldest sister Jessie (Sheppard) Brash, and Robert himself singing for us "Pennies from Heaven". The clip ends with him telling his beloved Angela "For posterity, kiss me."

Family of Charles Sheppard and Mary Ellen Fisher - England Charles and Ellen (Fisher) Sheppard with their family. On the back of this photo is written by their daughter Nell, seated right in the photo, "Wem. Cordwell Villa, Aston Rd. - 1907" The original photo is quite faded - above is an AI restoration that brings this vintage family photo to life Charles Sheppard was born in Chichester, Sussex, England on 26 Aug 1853. He was my great-grandfather Alfred's brother and my paternal great-uncle. This is part of a collection of photographs which originally belonged to his daughter, Nellie Fisher Sheppard. She was, of course, sister of Charles and my great-grandfather Alfred. After Nellie's death, one of her close friends in Wem, Shropshire, where they lived, had sent them to my uncle, John Sheppard who lived in England. He had known his cousin Nell, and had visited her in Wem and regularly kept in touch. We are most grateful to John's widow Valerie, and my cousin Kathleen (Sheppard) Henry in England, who sent them to us. Because of what had been written on the backs of the photos all those years ago, they were crucial in helping us to trace the origins of the Sheppards. Nellie Fisher Sheppard in 1916 when she was 25 years old (Click on the photos to enlarge them, and use the arrows to scroll through the album.) 4665.jpg Charles Sheppard, age 20 Birth Certificate of Charles 4666.jpg Back of previous photo of Charles Sheppard 4725.jpg CYRIL SHEPPARD The eldest child of Charles and Mary Ellen Sheppard 4664.jpg Cyril Sheppard Back of previous photo Cyril Sheppard Wem Born in Woolwich 16-6-1886 4663.jpg Cyril Charles Sheppard Show More SEE ALSO: CHARLES SHEPPARD of Chichester, Sussex

Moses Finzi Lobo (Barbados 1834 - Philadelphia 1904) Background and Early Life in Barbados The eldest son of London-born Moses (Matthew) Lobo and Sarah Cohen D'Azevedo , was Daniel Moses Lobo, born on 24 August 1805 in Amsterdam. His younger brother Isaac, born in Suriname, was my maternal 3rd great-grandfather. Both brothers emigrated to the island of Barbados, British West Indies - now generally referred to as the Caribbean. When he was 22 years old, Daniel married his first cousin Leah Lobo on 31 October 1827 at the Nidhe Israel Synagogue, Barbados. Leah was born in St. Thomas, British Virgin Islands, and was the daughter of Matthew Lobo's brother David Lobo and his wife Rachel de Leon. On 20 September 1828, Leah and Daniel became parents of a daughter whom they named Leah Sarah. Sadly, baby Leah Sarah Lobo would never knew her mother. Barely a year after their marriage, Daniel Moses Lobo's wife Leah died on 8 October 1828 in Barbados, just eighteen days after giving birth to their child. Six years later, Daniel Moses Lobo married Sarah Finzi, born in Barbados on 9 June 1798. They were married at the Nidhe Israel Synagogue, Barbados on 5 January 1834 when Daniel was 29 years old. On 29 March 1834, Sarah's brother Abraham Finzi married Daniel's cousin, Judith D'Azevedo. That year was to be a most eventful one for the family, as on 6 December 1834, Daniel's wife Sarah gave birth to a son. They named him Moses Finzi Lobo - a half brother for six-year old Leah. My great-grandfather Daniel Lobo was Moses' younger first cousin. Moses Finzi's father Daniel Moses Lobo was a merchant and, like many other Sephardic Jews of that time in Barbados, settled with his wife and family in Swan Street, where they also traded. He operated a dry goods store on Swan Street, which was just around the corner from the Nidhe Israel Synogogue in Bridgetown. Daniel Moses Lobo took an active role in the Jewish community of Barbados, as did his Azevedo relatives. He was the Secretary of the Rebuilding Committee of the Nidhe Israel Synagogue that was badly damaged in the hurricane of 1831 and is recorded as D.M. Lobo in several of the minutes of the Mahamad. Young Moses Finzi no doubt attended the first Jewish religious school which was established, in January, 1844. It is recorded that his second cousin, Mrs. Judith Finzi was superintendent ("Occident," ii. 102). The Great Fire in Bridgetown On 3 February 1845 when Moses Finzi Lobo was just eleven years old, a great tragedy struck that no doubt impacted the course of his life. A severe fire broke out at the family's home and business place, No. 20 Swan Street. The fire ravaged his father's property and numerous houses and acres of Lower Bridgetown were burnt, becoming aptly known as Burnt District. The area was subsequently rebuilt, but three years later advertisements placed by John Montefiore appeared in the The Barbados Mercury & Bridgetown Gazette , offering the Lobo property for rent. There are also advertisements for an auction sale of all of D.M. Lobo's furniture and household articles as well as for his stock-in-trade . Sometime after the fire of 1845, Daniel Moses Lobo, his wife and children all emigrated to Philadelphia, USA, where they lived the rest of their lives as part of a steadily growing Jewish community there. Many other Jews emigrated from Barbados to America, mostly to Philadelphia and New York. In 1848 there were only 71 Jews left in Barbados, 38 of whom belonged to the congregation. Dwindling Jewish Community in Barbados Dr. Laura Liebman interviewed Barbadian historian Dr. Karl Watson in 2010. When asked about the size of the Jewish community at its peak, Dr. Watson replied: "By the middle of the nineteenth century, the minutes of the Mahamad openly lamented that the “ancient” Barbadian Jewish community was under the threat of extinction, fueled by the forces of migration and intermarriage with Christian families. In 1848, the shamash (warden), E.A. Moses, wrote poignantly to a friend about the declining fortunes of the Nidhe Israel community: “You are aware of the departure of my friend Lobo & family and also of S.E. Daniels & family for the United States. M. D’Azevedo and family will very soon follow. My anxieties & labour for our fallen Snoga (Snoga is the diminutive of esnoga, or synagogue) are necessarily increased. Heaven guard it. Amen.” Life and Career in Philadelphia Moses Finzi Lobo was a fifteen year old boy in Philadelphia when his father Daniel died in on 23 August 1849. It was the day before his forty-fourth birthday. His widowed mother Sarah lived another eighteen years, and their burials took place in Philadelphia. Young Moses Finzi grew up to be a well respected and prominent journalist with a flourishing career. He died on 17 December 1904 and is buried in the Mount Sinai Cemetery, Philadelphia. The following article was written about him by Charles J. Cohen and has been published by the American Jewish Historical Society: "Moses Finzi Lobo was born in Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies, December 6, 1834, and died in Philadelphia November 17, 1904. He came to Philadelphia about 1845, and at twelve years of age attended the public schools, obtaining a good education, which was greatly added to in after years by close study, notwithstanding an active business career. About the year 1859 he entered the employ of the late Henry Cohen, importer of stationery in Philadelphia, and continued there until 1867, finding this position particularly attractive, as he had the privilege of the Sabbath and the holidays. Being devoted to his religious duties, he observed them with much care. After leaving Mr. Cohen's establishment he occupied several positions on different newspapers, being on the editorial staff of the North American and of the Age , and at the time of the Centennial Exhibition in 1876, through the influence of the late George W. Childs, he was appointed head of the Press Bureau established at that time, and did excellent work. His connection with the newspapers received the highest commendation, particularly from the late William W. Harding, of the Inquirer , and the Hon. Clayton McMichael, of the North American, both of Philadelphia. Mr. Lobo's knowledge of shorthand was exceptional, and he was frequently chosen to report scientific addresses, his knowledge of terms and scientific phraseology being superior to that possessed by many following the profession at that time. He was private secretary to the Superintendent of the Mint, resigning that position to engage in literary work, beginning with a complete concordance to the poetical works of Milton; this, however, was discontinued on finding that such a publication was already on the market. He wrote much on matters of local history, and was particularly interested in English grammar. In this connection it may be said he noticed that a comma had been misplaced in the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution of the United States. Writing to the Hon. Charles Sumner, the author of the amendment, regarding this error, he received in reply Mr. Sumner's statement that the criticism was justified, but that a greater object had been obtained, and that in his judgment it was unwise to again open the subject. Of a diffident, retiring nature he did not take that rank in communal affairs to which his abilities entitled him; many of his contributions to literature are not known, since they were published anonymously. He had a few close personal friends who esteemed him highly for his mental and moral worth. At the time of the Civil War he endeavored to enlist, but was prevented by physical disabilities; his pen and word, however, were always found on the side opposing slavery. In the year 1860 he became associated with the Congregation Mikveh Israel that had just removed on Seventh Street, above Arch Street, and remained a congregant until his death." Source for the above article: Author(s): Charles J. Cohen Source: Publications of the American Jewish Historical Society, No. 19 (1910), pp. 197-199 Published by: The Johns Hopkins University Press Stable URL: https://www.jstor.org/stable/43057861 Moses Finzi Lobo died on 17 November 1904 in 1524 North 8th Street, Philadelphia Pensylvania, U.S.A. and was buried on 20 November 1904. Inscription on his headstone at Mount Sinai Cemetery Philadelphia: MOSES FINZI LOBO BORN BARBADOS DECEMBER 5 1834 DIED NOVEMBER 17 1904 (Source: www.findagrave.com ) Genealogical information sourced in Holland, Barbados and Canada Other Reference sources: BARBADOS - Jewish Encylopedia Rediscovering an Important Link to American Jewish History: Field Notes from the Nidhe Israel Synagogue Complex in Barbados See also: BARUCH (BENTO) OSORIO THE LOBO & D'AZEVEDO FAMILIES

The Late Great Bridgetown Written on 19th April, 1989 by my father ANDREW DESMOND SHEPPARD (1922 - 1991) (transcribed from personal family memorabilia) Oh! Bustling, busy, affluent, happy city of Bridgetown - where are you now? We yearn for your natural, native charm. This has all but disappeared. Why? and where have all the things that made this old city gone? In a word, Barbadians have become an automotive society - one car per person - almost. See them driving down Bay Street, Belmont Road and Spring Garden all headed for Bridgetown and in most cars, only the driver may be found. Parking has become a serious problem. You may call it pride of ownership, privacy or whatever - but the fact is that we have become a selfish society. Car pools do not exist. See them pouring out of Regency Park, Sheraton Park, Navy Gardens, Rockley, St. James, every morning all heading and hoping for a space of 16' x 6' to park and spend the day, basking in the tropical sun. The occupants of these thousands of cars simply melt into the offices and banks which proliferate - there to get cool in air-conditioned comfort and stare at their computers and count their intransit cash. A far cry from those "bad" old days of bicycles, open windows and paper weights. No more time for idle talk and pleasant conversation. In spite of all the modern facilities and equipment and, we hope, improved efficiency of the population, we as a community are in danger of losing our fine sense of human compassion and our identities. Materialism and selfish greed are now imbued in most of our citizens, who are the young and growing. Pleasure and noisy music have replaced peace and serenity. Friendship is measured by your ability to spend good, hard-earned money on entertainment. Smiling has become a false effort. You have to be seriously taught to smile. Whither Bridgetown? Let us stroll down Bay Street towards Bridgetown, starting at the gap leading to the Hilton and Grand Barbados. We pass a small mall and a soft drinks factory, an old decadent club, tyre-repair shop and gas station. Janitorial service, exclusive boutique, restored old house where Captain Thorne ran his private school, other small businesses, a night snack bar - the defunct "Boys Club" and now Government Offices. Information, Prime Minister, Cabinet Office, Government Printery, and opposite, the beautiful Esplanade with its pretty band stand. Then a run of restored buildings, a large vacant spot where there existed an ice factory, now piled with building rubble - ugly. A semi-private club, gas-station, nursing home, doctors' office, tourist facility, old house, more Government offices, Child Care opposite to Family Planning and preceded by National Assistance and opposite to these, the Jemmots Lane Health and Education complex and, in the centre - St. Patrick's Catholic Cathedral. And now the Red Light District on both sides, interrupted by some offices, another gas station, another office building, an abandoned, derelict old home (the Innisses lived here), more old buildings, the Boat Yard, automobile dealer, vacant sugar warehouse, another automobile dealer, and importer-distributor of food and alcoholic products, a vacant burnt out lot opposite to old church, renovated building (now stores and offices and a club), customs broker, fast food, hardware, shipping office, record shop. Opposite to all of this and facing Independence car park is Manning's large building. The arch and bridge is faced by restaurants, boutiques, travel agents. The road leading to the left takes you to the Coast Guard Headquarters. No longer does the Swing Bridge swing. It is as stiff as an old lady. The schooners, small inter-island vessels, fishing boats have been replaced by tourist-employed marine equipment, i.e. fishing and cruising vessels, all stocked with cool and hot drinks, snacks and temporary cordiality. A great job has been done to cleaning of the Public Buildings and restoration of the Clock - thanks to Her Majesty's visit. Lord Nelson needs a good cleaning. He is turning green with envy of our clean Public Buildings and nearby fountain. The ever present taxis who remind one of the war-time cliché - "They also serve who sit and wait" - wheels were meant for moving! How truly wonderful it would be if these gracious gentlemen could think of taking people to and from work just like those enterprising mini-bus drivers. There must be over 200 taxis. If each one would convey groups of 5 passengers to and from Bridgetown every morning and evening, they would be relieving about 500 drivers of the frustrating experience of fighting traffic to get to and from work. For this convenience, the grateful passengers could pay up to $5.00 each for such a service. What they would have to pay for a car park or car-wash per day. And think of the saving on gasoline and wear and tear on engines and tyres, not to mention the damage done to the paint-work of the cars. They would remain in the cool comfort of their domestic car-port awaiting the return of their relaxed owners. This concept would provide sorely needed income for the patient taxi drivers, the cost of their getting to and from Bridgetown would not change - the rest is solid profit. This would also engender friendships and the participants would feel the happiness of sharing. Most importantly, the awful traffic situation would be eased in a dramatic way. Let us think about it and try it. The taxis could still "sit and wait" or drive our welcome visitors around. But what is most perplexing is the almost complete change which has taken place in Bridgetown. Walk with me up High Street, past Royal Bank, when we meet James Street corner with Roebuck Street. Empty buildings. Closed doors everywhere. Thomas Herbert Hardware is no more. Carter's Wildey now handles their business and Carters might close and consolidate at Wildey's. Big, imposing Barclays Bank building, almost empty, adjoined by at least three previously active businesses - all closed. Kay's House opposite and the rest of the Complex including Bajan Mall. On the ground floor, fewer than ten retail outlets have moved or closed down. Keep moving and you will see building after building closed and with more to come. Looking down on all of this is our large white building, the Central Bank, most of whose office space is vacant. Where are the drivers of all of these cars parked along the road and in any available car park? You might find most of them in insurance offices or more likely, in legal offices - one car, one person. Roebuck street is longing for those hustling bustling days of lorries and jitneys filled with sacks of flour, onions, potatoes, saltfish, liquor. Only one left and barely busy. S.E. Cole, R.L. Seale, Perkins, M.E. Bourne, Alleyne Arthur, etc. etc. all gone, all gone elsewhere, amalgamated or shut down. That street had atmosphere - and smells, but now, like the swing-bridge, it does not swing any more. Our problem is that we have more educated people than we know what to do with. More lawyers than the law should allow. More computer operators than we have computers. More boutiques and beauty shops than we can afford. Electronic gadgets and video shops abound. Idleness and "pleasure" encouraged at every turn. Let us have a long look at our system of education . . . Unedited video footage of Bridgetown, Barbados - Filmed in 1968 Captured with Super 8 film and digitized in Amsterdam in 2010. Original footage owned by the family of Andrew D. Sheppard, Barbados.

Virginia de Freitas wife of Alfred Sheppard My great-grandmother 24 January 1862 - 21 September 1936 The Register of Births in the Town of Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, for the Year 1862 The entry for Virginia de Freitas is second from the bottom of the page My great-grandmother Virginia de Freitas was born at 15 A Sussex Street, Port of Spain, on 24 January 1862. Her parents were Sebastien (also written Sebastiano and Sebastião) and Maria de Freitas née Cairus.* She was the older sister of Charlotte de Freitas, born about 1865. Records indicate that Sebastião had arrived in Trinidad from Madeira 16 years earlier with his family when he was just an eleven year-old boy. According to Trinidadian historian, Dr. Jo-Anne S. Ferreira: "The first group of 197 refugees traveled on the ship William, from Glasgow, having arrived in Port-of-Spain (the capital of Trinidad) on September 16, 1846, just 4 months after the arrival of the first Madeiran immigrants. More than two thousand left Madeira for Trinidad, St. Kitts, Antigua and St. Vincent. In Trinidad, also mostly Catholic at the time, but where freedom of worship and religious tolerance were recognised, the Church of Scotland, small but growing, welcomed them. However, they could not escape their compatriots - they faced other Madeirans who had previously settled in Trinidad and had to deal with the same prejudices they thought they had left behind in Madeira. Like their impoverished compatriots who had come in search of a better life, many Presbyterian refugees arrived in Trinidad in a state of destitution. After experiencing difficulties in finding employment - some having been forced to work under contract upon their arrival - Presbyterians were also able to take on a new life by starting small businesses." "In Trinidad, after being helped and welcomed by the community of the Greyfriars Church on Frederick Street in Port-of-Spain, they built their own church in 1854 under the leadership of Reverend Henrique Vieira. The church was called the "Scottish Church of St. Anne" (because of its location on the corner of St. Ann/St. Anne Street, now Charlotte Street, and Oxford Street). It was generally identified as the “Portuguese Church” because the Portuguese language and Portuguese Bibles and hymns were still in use 27 years after the arrival of the first refugees." Sebastião (Sebastien) de Freitas It is recorded that our Sebastião and his father Antonio were among these earliest Portuguese Presbyterian refugees in Trinidad who, despite their poverty, contributed to the building fund of St. Anns's Church of Scotland . On Virginia's birth record in the Trinidad registry, her father's occupation is "Labourer". The record shows that he registered the birth himself on 30 January, 1862. As the informant, Sebastien, was required to sign his name. Since he could not write, he put "X" next to his name, which was witnessed by William Henry Cazabon. Family stories relate that Virginia's mother Maria was a Portuguese/English interpreter for the Courts, though that has not yet been proven. We have been told by our elders that our great-grandfather, Alfred Sheppard , was looking for a church to go to when he arrived in Trinidad. One of his colleagues told him about the Presbyterian church Greyfriars. He went there but was not accepted because he was non-conformist. Somebody else told him to try the Free Church of Scotland, which was not so "stuffy". This he did, and was warmly accepted into their fold. It was there that he met Sebastien and Maria's daughter Virginia de Freitas, and it was there that they became man and wife. Virginia was nineteen years old when she tied the knot with 26 year old Alfred Sheppard from Sussex on 25 June 1881. Thus started her life as a the wife of a policeman, which was no doubt fraught with many moments of worry for his safety. The handwritten entry in the Sheppard family Bible states that Virginia's father died on 24 February, 1916. Her husband Alfred passed away the following year, leaving her a widow at fifty-five years old. They had been married for thirty-six years, and had known the anguish of burying three of their children. Virginia lived to be 74 years old and died at her home in Shine Street, Port of Spain on 21 September 1936. My great-grandparents Virginia (de Freitas) and Sergeant Major Alfred Sheppard with Virginia's elderly father, Sebastien de Freitas (my great-great grandfather) They all traveled from Trinidad to England where they visited the Sheppard family in Wem, Shropshire . * The de Freitas surname originates in Portugal. The names of Virginia's parents are recorded in the Registers of Trinidad as Sebastien, and her surname as Cairus. However, we sometimes find clerical spelling errors made at the time of registration, and we wonder about the accuracy of the surname Cairus, as it is not a recognizable Portuguese name. Could it be that the clerk entering the data in the registry misunderstood "de Caires" and wrote, "Carius"? We have also seen her father's name recorded as Sebastiano, Sebastien and Sebastian (the anglicized version).

In celebration of Sybil Elsie (Sheppard) Gibbon Centenarian, Matriarch 12 Sep. 1921 - 23 Oct. 2025 On the morning of Sunday 12 September, 2021 a beautiful arrangement of tropical flowers was delivered to our Matriarch, Sybil Elsie Gibbon from Her Excellency Paula Mae Weekes, President of Trinidad & Tobago. It was the start of an auspicious day in the remarkable life of this lady, the first in our Sheppard family to live an entire century. A day of celebration and thanksgiving followed, marked with a special service dedicated to our beloved Centenarian at St. Ann's Church of Scotland. A hundred years before, she had been baptized at this same church, as had her twelve siblings. Her Big Birthday was honoured and celebrated in word, song and prayer. It fell at a time when Trinidad and the entire world was in a cautious period during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, Sybil was lovingly wined, dined and toasted with bubbles by her immediate family, and relatives around the world were invited to join her church service via live-stream. Sybil's life started just three years after the end of World War 1 when Charles and Elsie (Gomez) Sheppard welcomed their dark haired baby girl to the world. She was their ninth child and darling baby sister for Jessie, Madge, Boysie, Ida, Bertie, John, George and Robert. Barely a year after her birth, my father Andrew came along, followed closely by sisters Audrey, Florence then their little brother Arthur. This baby brother passed away as an infant, when Sybil was just seven years old, and she has survived all of her other siblings. Not only has she survived, she has traveled abroad to visit family members and attend special occasions with them when she was well into her nineties. She continues to enjoy good health and stay active and interested in whatever life offers. The Sheppard family were all devoted Presbyterians, congregants of St. Ann's Church of Scotland where their forefathers were founding members. However, Sybil and her younger sisters went to school at the nearby Catholic St. Joseph's Convent, within walking distance from their home at 30 Richmond Street, Port of Spain. Sybil enjoyed her schooldays there and became a dearly loved favourite with the nuns, winning their hearts with her special flair for French. She remembers well the fateful day at school when a nun came to the classroom and told her she must go home right away. Ten year-old Sybil did as she was told, not knowing that she would find a home of sorrow and mourning, as her dear father had just passed away. Life carried on as it must, with her widowed mother and older siblings at the helm. Having completed her schooling and equipped with a well-rounded secondary education, sixteen-year old Miss Sybil Sheppard landed a job as Secretary to the General Manager of the Trinidad Electricity Board. In 1940 she met Patrick Gibbon and it was love at first sight. After a three-year courtship, they were married at St. Ann's Church of Scotland on 19 June 1943. Sybil gave up her job at the start of married life to devote herself to being a full time wife and mother. She and her husband Patrick had four children, and enjoyed a long and happy married life together at their home in Circular Road, St. Augustine. She enjoyed cultivating her orchids and on weekday mornings was kept busy looking after her little pupils at "Auntie Sybil's School", where she taught "The Three Rs" at their home in a converted garage. Afternoons were times for tennis with her lady friends, including her sister-in-law Joyce (de Sousa) Sheppard who lived in nearby Carmody Road. The ladies would ride their bikes to the courts and back. To read more about how Sybil and Patrick met and their life together, click here. Sheppard sisters in Sybil and Patrick's garden, St.Augustine - February 1989 l/r Ida de Sousa, Florence Johnson, Audrey Clark, Jessie Brash and Sybil Gibbon. These days, at 100 years old, Sybil stays connected with her friends and family using the latest iPad, still plays Bridge every week with her friends, and wouldn't dream of missing any family gathering or outing. She enjoys tending her beautiful blooms of orchids and anthuriums on her verandah. She is my oldest Aunt and special Facebook Friend. We women are amazed to know that she has never coloured her naturally dark hair, which is now streaked with silver. When I chatted with her earlier this week on a video call from Holland to her home in Trinidad, she exclaimed with her characteristic little giggle, "How did I ever get to be a hundred? ONE HUNDRED YEARS - imagine that!" Congratulatory greetings were sent from many corners of the world by Sybil's family and friends and tributes have been showered upon her. Some of those sentiments are expressed on this page, which I dedicate to this gracious lady who we all love and are proud to call Our Matriarch. Reflections on a Matriarch A tribute delivered by Sybil's grandson Alexander Gibbon on her 100th Birthday at St. Ann's Church of Scotland, Trinidad The word century comes from Latin, meaning ‘a group of 100 people’. With 12 siblings, 4 children, 9 grandchildren, 15 great grand children (with one more on the way!), and of course her many nieces and nephews, we certainly are a group of 100 people who come together today. We come together to celebrate another century, in my grandmother, Sybil Gibbon’s, 100th birthday! Longevity is a biblical trait. Moses himself lived to 120 years ‘with clear eyesight’ and was as strong as an ox. We certainly are among another blessed person in Granny, only 20 years his junior! She embodies other biblical traits of such as integrity, honesty, humility and gentleness. These traits undoubtably guided Granny in her life as a mother and wife. I am often reminded by my father Don, Uncle Roger, and Aunty Jennifer, about what a wonderful mother she is. She is supportive, kind, and fair. Job said ‘with age comes wisdom’, yet another trait maintained by Granny. Her life in St Augustine was the perfect place to raise a family and continue the values that we all share today. It seems a little Sheppard madness, and a little Gibbon determination, goes a very long way! Granny, like her sister Ida, can be called ‘Ever-ready’. She is always well dressed and ready for anyone to visit, or even take a Sherry filled afternoon lime. Despite her many years, she is highly vested in all her families' lives, and never forgets a birthday, and regularly phones to find out ‘what’s happening?’. Her apartment is like a club house, a comment to her welcoming personality. There is always someone visiting, and often a place for us family members to catch up with one another with our frequent midweek visits. Perhaps that is one of her secrets to long life, being warm and receptive to all, and making sure anyone who comes in is well fed and watered by the time they leave! It must be said that many friends, and family members are not able to be with us today in person, particularly Aunty Jennifer and the rest of the Australian branch of our growing clan. I can safely say that you are all sorely missed. The book of Proverbs said ‘grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers’. Granny, with your teachings and values, we have all flourished, and succeeded in many ways. I hope that we can continue to be examples your virtuous teachings. We hold you on the highest pedestal, and all of us have been shaped into who we are directly by you! You are our champion, and this milestone has brought you glory of the highest order! I speak on behalf of all those watching online, that we send our love and best wishes to you Granny. We celebrate with you Granny of this birthday of birthdays. Happy 100th birthday Granny! Sybil's favourite song - SPANISH EYES - "My special gift with love" from daughter Jennifer (playing in the band, end of first row) and the Caribbean Steelpan Band in Perth, Australia In younger days - Sybil and her late husband Patrick Gibbon Sybil seated next to her sons Roger and Don, with their families in Trinidad. September, 2021 Missing from the picture are daughter Jennifer and her family who live in Australia and California. What a great century! Story compiled by Valerie on 13 November, 2021, with thanks to Auntie Sybil for sharing her memories and memorabilia Sybil's family for contributing photos and information My husband Meindert for his archival collection SEE ALSO: Patrick V. A. Gibbon

Trinidad Police Force vs. Messrs. Wuppermann, Prahl & Co. Capt. Arthur Wybrow Baker Inspector Commandant of the Trinidad Police Sgt. Major Alfred Sheppard Trinidad Police Force, from 1880 - 1905 Introduction I came across an article in a 19th century Trinidad newspaper report and was fascinated by the story. I quickly realized that my great-grandfather was a key witness in an important court case. His evidence in the case was reported verbatim. Alfred Sheppard sworn: "I am a Sergeant of Police, and clerk in the Inspector’s Office in Port of Spain. I issue - that is - make out Permits for the Commandant’s signature on applications to remove gunpowder. " It's not every day that one gets a first hand peep into a day of one's ancestor's work life, unless that ancestor is a famous person. This was just a young English policeman doing his duty in the British colony of Trinidad. I could almost hear his voice and visualize him as he recalls exactly his role in each of the three charges brought against the defendants. The newspaper report dated Saturday, August 5 1882 inspired me to write the followin g short story. To see the actual article in the digital Supplement to the Port of Spain Gazette, Saturday 5 August, 1882. Click here. I have transcribed the entire newspaper article for easy reading. Click here It is early Monday morning in Trinidad, on the last day of a humid July in 1882. Sergeant Alfred Sheppard, a 27 year-old English officer of the British Constabulary is getting ready for work, but he knows this is no ordinary working day. As he carefully combs his dark hair and makes sure his uniform is impeccable, he’s tense and focussed. He is a man trained in details and precision. He had served with his Regiment in Sussex since he was 19, was sent to Trinidad as a Colour Sergeant when he was 23, and had left the army to join the Trinidad Police Force as Supt. Sergeant in 1880 when he was 25. Alfred's duty on this day is to appear in the Police Court in Port of Spain to give key evidence at a trial that has had the merchant community and influential white elite of Port of Spain buzzing for weeks. He would be the first witness called to give evidence for the Prosecution. The highly respectable family firm of Messrs. Wupperman Prahl & Co. was facing a Police charge of illegally removing gunpowder from the Powder Magazine, with three separate offenses contrary to the Ordinance No. 2 that had been passed in 1880. They were alleged to have been committed on the 11th, 20th and 21st of July 1882. On this day, they would face trial. By 1882 Trinidad had become a land of immigrants under Victorian British rule. One of the partners in the accused firm, Adolpho Wupperman, was married to Miss Marie Adele Ganteaume de Monteau - a young lady from a Trinidad upper-class French creole family. There must have been an air of anxious anticipation, as connected and concerned family members - German, French and British - colleagues and compatriates from the business community- filled the seats of the Police Court. The Port of Spain Gazette of Saturday, August 5 1882 published a full transcript of the proceedings. Among the several newspapers published in those days, The Port of Spain Gazette catered mostly to the planter and upper class of Trinidad. They reported that “The respectability of the Defendants, no doubt, was the reason for the large audience present at the trial - unquestionably, the enquiry was of considerable importance.” As he entered the courtroom filled with the "Who's Who" of the community, the Inspector Commandant, Capt. Arthur Wybrow Baker must have struck quite an imposing figure. The Englishman, then 39 years old, was already well known throughout Trinidad for his decisiveness and skilled leadership as Chief of Police. These were times of social unrest. Baker had led his force on horseback, with unflinting bravery through the difficult, tumultuous Carnival Canboulay Riots of the previous year. He has been described as a fine figure of a man, over 6 ft. tall, well-built, with dark black hair and mustache, with striking eyes. Most importantly, he was to conduct the prosecution himself. No wonder the trial attracted such a large audience. Adolpho Wupperman’s business partner, Fritz Prahl, came from Lubeck, Germany. He had first set up business in Cuidad Bolivar, Venezuela. Prahl’s wife was Adolpho’s sister, Antonia Wupperman. She and her brother were born in Angostura, Venezuela, but their father hailed from Barmen, on the banks of the Wupper river (hence their surname). Through family connections, Adolpho had first come to Trinidad in 1861 as a young man to join the firm of German immigrants Urich & Feez. Then in 1880 the brothers-in-law Adolpho Wupperman and Fritz Prahl formed their business partnership. Their retail store was located on Almond Walk, Port of Spain, a few doors down from The Caracas Hotel. It was there that an observant and curious Police Constable Brady, who happened to be on the beat near the Gunpowder Magazine, became suspicious of irregularities when he saw three deliveries of unmarked cases leave the building and be offloaded at the hotel. It appears that acting upon this, a warrant was issued and there was what we would call in today's world "a bust". The bold Irish Sergeant-Major Briefly gave testimony that, armed with the warrant, he went to the Caracas Hotel to investigate. In his statements he revealed that quantities of gunpowder were discovered in a trunk in a room in the hotel. He described in great detail what he found and seized. Despite the Defendants' pleas of Not Guilty to each of the charges, the evidence of their infringement of the law was damning enough for the Judge to find them Guilty on all three charges. The audience went home stunned and the Defendants disappointed. The Police had won their case that day. It is not known what became of the appeal filed on their behalf by their lawyer, but the firm of Wuppermann, Prahl & Co. was dissolved the following year. Fritz Prahl and his family returned to Germa ny. Inspector John N. Brierley 1871 From an historical point of view the newspaper report is valuable, as the strict regulations and system in place for removal of gunpowder from the Police Gunpowder Magazine in Trinidad under British Colonial rule are set out. Alfred Sheppard's duties in giving permission for this as a Sergeant and clerk in the Inspector Commandant’s office are explained by him. To understand why the case drew such a large audience, I researched the company involved and wanted to know more about the social atmosphere in Trinidad in that era. My sources were chiefly: "The Germans in Trinidad" and "The Years of Revolt by historian Fr. Anthony de Verteuil Caribbean History Archives by historian Gerard A. Besson Valerie Sheppard 7 January, 2023

~ Wedding Photos ~ The children of Charles Sheppard & Elsie Gomez (Click on the photos to enlarge and scroll through) Jessie & Man Jessie Mabel Sheppard and Bernard Henry McNee Brash 29 Aug 1936 Boysie & Elsa Joseph Alfred Sheppard and Elsa Carmen Fernandes November 1938, Trinidad Lena Joyce de Sousa married Albert Charles (Bertie) Sheppard who was ill with malaria on their wedding day, 25 November, 1938, Port of Spain, Trinidad John & Juliet John Herbert Sheppard and Juliet Inez Fernandes 20 April, 1939 - Sacred Heart Church, Trinidad Madge & Vin Mary Marjorie Sheppard and George Vincent Gonsalves 14 Sep 1940, Trinidad George & Norah George Havelock Sheppard and Elenora Juliet Laing 27 Feb 1942, Trinidad Audrey & Don Audrey Ethel Sheppard and Donald Elias Clark Trinidad, 18 Mar 1943 Robert & Angela 11th April, 1942 - Trinidad Andrew Sheppard was bestman Sybil Sheppard standing next to groom Sybil & Patrick Sybil Elsie Sheppard and Patrick Vernon Acland Gibbon 19 Jun 1943 Andrew & Betty Andrew Desmond Sheppard and Frances Elizabeth St. Hill 31 Jul 1943, Barbados Colin & Flo Edith Florence Sheppard and Victor Colin Johnson 4 May 1946, Newtown, Trinidad Boysie & Winnie Joseph Alfred Sheppard and Winifred Tilly van Amson 29 July, 1960 - Lutheran Church, Suriname

Barbados Turf Club Tony Archer John Anthony Keith Archer TONY (1939 - 1984) Tony Archer was was an avid Barbadian sportsman. He enjoyed playing water polo and tennis. He played cricket for the Wanderers Club and in the eighties he became a member of the Windward Cricket Club. But horses were his first love. He represented Barbados in show jumping and polo for a number of years. He was also a keen competitor in dressage, and sponsored many equestrian events through his family business, J.A.K. Archer & Co. Ltd. Later he turned his enormous enthusiasm and knowledge of horses to the sport of horse-racing. He served as a member of the Committee of Management of The Barbados Turf Club and was the youngest person ever to be appointed as Steward of The Barbados Turf Club. Tony Archer

 Man of the Soil The author of this tribute, Michael L. (Mike) Goddard, has been dubbed 
"the voice of horse racing in Barbados".
 Mike is a multi-award-winning Caribbean journalist who has been inducted into the
Barbados Association of Journalists’ Hall of Fame. People from all walks of life are mourning the death of Tony Archer, a man who during his lifetime became a friend of all. The large crowd which overflowed the Roman Catholic Cathedral at Jemmotts Lane was indicative of the respect and love which followed this man throughout his lifetime. The sudden death of John Anthony Keith “Tony” Archer last month, left a shocking numbness which will take sometime to wear off. However, those of us who were fortunate to come into contact with him will always remember his pleasant personality and his constant willingness to help. In the world of horse racing, Tony Archer made his mark not only as a much respected steward, but as a forward thinking person always ready to adopt new ideas. He introduced sponsorship to horse racing in Barbados when his company J.A.K. Archer & Co. Ltd. launched the Martini Vermouth St. Leger back in 1966. Since that first sponsored event this phenomenon has grown to tremendous heights in Barbados, but few remember the input of Tony Archer. When the Martini Vermouth St. Leger failed to develop into the type of race that Tony envisaged, he abandoned the event, but returned some years later, this time with a new sponsor for the island’s most historic event. The Mackeson Derby was the brainchild of Tony Archer and before the introduction of the rich Cockspur Gold Cup was the race of the year in Barbados. Tony had only one way of doing things and that was the best. With this in mind, he turned what used to be an ordinary classic into the most prestigious creole race in Barbados. He assisted in increasing the stakes, putting a valuable trophy and staging a crowd pleasing event worthy of any of the major racing centers in the world. With the backing of Tony Archer, race sponsorship reached new heights. Tony Archer had one pet peeve and that was the poor standard of riding in Barbados. He therefore in his own way set out to correct what he saw as a major stumbling block to the development of horse racing Barbados. He was the driving force behind the establishment of the Jockey School, and one of his major disappointments came when this establishment closed its doors a few years ago. Just before his untimely death, Tony Archer had once again set out towards having this school reopened as a means of improving the standard of riding. Jockeys at the Garrison will not hesitate to tell you that as long as Tony was a sitting steward for a particular day, they could expect to be summoned to be told in no uncertain way that they must be at the top of their profession. In addition, if they made a mistake during the course of that day, they would be recalled on the very next day to be shown their faults and asked to correct them. So committed was Tony to this that on several occasions when most people had missed things in a race he came up with something. For instance, toward the end of the last racing season two jockeys were fined, one for handing his whip to his colleague during the course of a race and the other for receiving it. Not only did he call up the two jockeys, but he also found the appropriate rule that they had infringed. Tony Archer served for several years as a steward of the Barbados Turf Club, and he geared himself for this learning all the rules and reading every scrap of information that would improve his capabilities. He was also an open man and was always ready to explain why he had taken a particular decision. He was a hard but fair steward and his one aim was to ensure the highest standards in the sport of horse racing. He was also one of the people responsible for introducing the filming of racing in Barbados, a move which made it easier for the stewards to review a race and see particular incidents. He made sure they got the appropriate equipment and he used it to the fullest. Tony Archer has passed on and will surely be missed, but he has left behind an excellent example for us to follow. He was a perfectionist and one must realize that his path would be a hard one to walk. However, he has shown us that to aim for the best should be our main objective, no matter what we do. For my part, I feel that I had lost not only a friend, but a confidant and one who I could always turn to for advice and support. In fact, just days before his death we had discussed a project that I was planning and I was on my way home to call him when news of his death reached me. Tony . . . rest in peace. You have done your part and all that’s left is for us to emulate you. Tony Archer died on 14 July, 1984 at the age of 45. In March 2006, he was inducted into The Barbados Turf Club's Hall of Fame in recognition of his significant contributions to the sport of horse racing in Barbados. I am pictured here with our eldest and youngest children, Paul (left)) and Philip (right) having received the certificate of induction. The occasion was reported in the Barbados Sunday Advocate of March 19, 2006 Barbados Mackeson Derby at the Garrison Savannah - Saturday August 11, 1984 My husband, Tony Archer, was Managing Director of J.A.K. Archer & Co. Ltd., agents for Mackeson Stout, and sponsors of the Barbados Derby. Tony had died just a month before the big feature race. “Generator” owned by Trinidadian Mr. Navarro, trained by Steven Jardim and ridden by top Barbadian jockey Venice Richards are pictured above. Our two eldest sons, Paul and Wayne Archer - then 17 and 16 years old - were invited to join in the lead-in by the connections, in honour of their father. It was a poignant moment. Amateur Jockey Race at The Garrison, Barbados circa 1978/79 Tony Archer took the lead and won on "September Song " Amateur Jockey Race at The Garrison, Barbados circa 1978/79 Tony Archer Tony on "September Song" being led in by son Paul Archer with Anne Marie Moore "Gilly Gilly" being led in by owner Tony Archer, son Paul - around 1977 "Gilly Gilly" being led in by owner Tony Archer, son Wayne, and Hon. Da Costa Edwards, Minister of Education - around 1977 For Gilly-Gilly's win, I received the prize of a silver coffee and tea service from Governor General of Barbados,Sir Deighton Lisle Ward GCMG GCVO. He was the 2nd native Governor General of Barbados after the island became independent in 1966 See also: J.A.K. (Tony) Archer - Barbados Polo Club The Archer Family Barbados

Neilsa Marcella Sheppard née Tasker "NiNi" 16 January, 1951 - 29 March, 2024 Listen: Tribute to NiNi Valerie Sheppard 00:00 / 10:35 Tribute by Valerie Sheppard Delivered at A Service of Thanksgiving for Neilsa's life St. Dominic’s Catholic Church, Maxwell, Christ Church, Barbados Friday April 12th, 2024 It was 1967 when my brother Peter first introduced his gorgeous girlfriend to our family. Peter was barely 18, Neilsa Tasker was a schoolgirl, not quite 16. She was a striking beauty and my impression from the outset was that she was different. Exotic, even! NiNi was fun-loving and vivacious, with a quick sense of humour and an infectious, bubbly laugh. She spoke Spanish and had a distinctive, appealing Latina air about her. We all knew that our Petes was completely smitten - and truth be said, that never changed. A child of the fifties, Neilsa was born in Trinidad to Mickey and Elba Tasker. Her dad was Guyanese, of English and Guyanese roots and her mother Venezuelan with some Dutch connections in the island of Saba. Neilsa was their second child, the younger sister of Marcia. The sisters grew up adapting to different cultures, living wherever their father’s work took them - St. Lucia, New York, and Venezuela It was there that Neilsa’s 18 year old sister Marcia died after a short illness. Neilsa was just 14 years old. The memory of Marcia and her tragic parting stayed with NiNi throughout her life. In the mid sixties, Mickey, Elba and Neilsa moved from Venezuela to Barbados where Neilsa was enrolled at the Ursuline Convent to complete her secondary education. From there she continued her studies at the University of the West Indies, obtaining her BA degree in Sociology and History with top honours. As part of the Tasker family of brilliant tennis players, Neilsa developed a great love of the sport and was herself a skilled player. She and Peter enjoyed games of tennis with her dad Mickey, and they remained avid followers of international tennis. She also enjoyed playing racquetball and squash. Neilsa and Peter dated as teenagers, in the days when boys would visit at the girls’ home and parents had to approve and know exactly where they were going and responsibly bring them home at the appointed time. On one occasion, Peter worked up the courage to ask Neilsa’s mother if he could take her to the Hotel Royal in Hastings where there was a live band and open-air dancing on a Friday night. Elba firmly put her foot down - absolutely not, you can’t take her out to a public place like that! But you can take her to the Drive-In or so. Needless to say, that was perfectly okay with them. How Neilsa and Peter loved to tell that joke! Predictably, their young romance blossomed into marriage and a beautiful traditional wedding at St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 17 October 1970 - a few days before Peter’s 21st birthday. Neilsa’s working career took a diverse path, starting with a teaching job at St. Winifred’s school. Her students still recall their stylish teacher who made learning fun for them! Meanwhile, Peter had already embarked on his lifelong career of photography and was offered a job with The Kodak Company in Puerto Rico. While living in Puerto Rico, Neilsa became involved in selling real estate, and it was there that their only child Renee was born in 1976. Peter’s promotions within the Kodak Company took them to live in Rochester, NY, and in Venezuela. Neilsa loved and supported Peter throughout every step of his career. In 1987, they decided to return to Barbados and open their own photography business, launching Sheps Photo, the one-hour photo developing franchise that became a household name in Barbados. Not only was Neilsa a co-owner and Director of Sheps Photo, she was highly skilled in colour printing, and Peter recalls with a grin that some of their customers would insist that “Mrs. Sheps” print their rolls. Neilsa worked long hours alongside Peter in their Mall 34 Sheps Photo business, the first of five outlets they established together in Barbados, also training staff to operate and run them. Neilsa and Peter traveled and cruised the world extensively. Their home overlooking the turquoise waters of Cotton Bay is a reflection of their travels, filled with a fascinating mix of treasures that appealed to her eclectic taste, collected from around the world. Though Neilsa was modest about her many talents, she was a gifted artist, ceramist and interior designer. Her pottery and paintings, her sense of colour and love of handcrafted, earthy items show her deep love of animals and nature. NiNi had a green thumb, and you couldn’t please her better than by giving her a clipping, plant or bulb that she could nuture and watch grow. Every plant she touched flourished. She wasn’t at all materialistic and had no interest in shopping for expensive designer clothes and accessories. Not surprisingly, Peter and Neilsa’s daughter Renee grew up to be an artist, photographer, and costume designer. Neilsa would help Renee make headpieces and costumes for Kadooment, spending days glueing beads, sequins and feathers for her. Eight years ago, after having just crossed the stage as band leader on Kadooment Day in the beautiful costume she had designed, Renee passed away suddenly. Her death was shocking and devasting. But their unending love for each other and for their twin grandsons Harrison and Nicholai saw them through those darkest of times. In her young days Neilsa loved a party, loved to dance and make jokes. She was warm and loving to her nieces and nephews - young people always found her so much fun to be around. With her larger-than-life personality, we all knew that Neilsa was authentic, genuine, with no pretensions. She enjoyed a wonderful lifetime of love and adventures with her Peter and was truly another sister to all of his siblings. In more recent years she was content to be at home surrounded by her dogs, plants and the people she loved. She made our brother the happiest man on earth, and he returned her love with the deepest devotion. NiNi suffered some serious health challenges during the last couple of years, and she faced them bravely with her Peter by her side until the very end. We will always hold Neilsa close in our hearts and remember how loving and kind she was to animals, and especially how she loved and cherished our brother Peter, their daughter Renee and grandsons Harrison and Nicholai. In 2020 during the time of the pandemic, Neilsa and Peter quietly celebrated their Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary at home watching a slideshow of their wedding day that Peter created for his bride. We would now like to share this nostalgic look back to the start of 53 years of their enduring love and life together.

Family Videos ~ Snippets of Memories ~ Robert Sheppard and his sister Jessie, Trinidad 1993 Jessie Brash at her Piano At John and Jennifer(Gibbon) MacLean's home Trinidad, February 1989 At the home of John & Valerie Sheppard , Wareham, England, October 10, 1991 Robert Sheppard and his sister Jessie, February 23, 1993 Musical evening at O'Connor Street, Port-of-Spain Trinidad, February 23, 1993 Mother and Daughter Memories of Andrew Sheppard Filmed around 1966 My mother, Betty Sheppard in Barbados These are not professional recordings. They are unedited, so you can hear the scratchiness of the vinyl LP record. Jessie sang to an instrumental versions of the songs, and was recorded by her brother Malcolm at his home at Shine Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad - circa 1958. She was well known in her day for her beautiful voice, and often performed as soloist at weddings and other functions. (Images used are my own photos of Holland and Canada in Autumn; photos of Jessie and the Mendes family are copies of her own family collection. ) At The Gibbons, Trinidad, February 1989 St. Augustine Days , February 26 1993 Home of Patrick & Sybil Gibbon Trinidad Carnival 1993 Alan Sheppard with Spice & Company Sheppard sisters and Joan Bodu in the stands 50th Wedding Anniversary Don & Audrey, California, March 18 1993 Auntie Sybil's (DELICIOUS) Prune Ice Cream Crane Hotel, Barbados - July 25, 2013 Peter Sheppard playing the bones Barbados - July 2011 Valerie Sheppard - live recording from a television showin Barbados - December 1967 Wedding day Valerie Sheppard and Tony Archer July 16, 1966 - Barbados My youngest son Phil Archer singing "Angels" Little Bentley, Barbados. Wedding day Meindert & Valerie 27 July, 2013 Shown on September 13th, 2015 at my mother Betty's 90th birthday party. Made with love. Wedding of my daughter Ingrid Archer and Eduardo Martinez at St. James Parish Church Barbados, 1995 Loving and unforgettable father and husband - my Tony Archer - "I Will Tell Your Story" 23 March 1939 - 14 July 1984

Sgt. Major Alfred Sheppard (1855 - 1917) My great-grandfather In this remarkable photograph of my great-grandfather, Alfred Sheppard, we see details that align with the historical records of the Trinidad Constabulary and the British Imperial Army during the late 19th century. It is a studio portrait taken in the years when he served in active duty in South Trinidad. In this portrait, Alfred is wearing a full-dress tunic typical of a high-ranking Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in a British colonial police force. The intricate "Hussar-style" cord frogging across the chest was a hallmark of senior ranks in the Trinidad Police. It signifies his position as a Superintendent Sergeant or Sergeant Major. The visible silver chain across his chest (attached to his pocket watch) was a common personal touch for senior officers of the era, symbolizing punctuality and administrative authority. Entries written by Alfred in the Sheppard Family bible are testimony to his precise record-keeping, especially relating to dates and time. Alfred's impeccably groomed "handlebar" moustache was the standard military and police style of the late Victorian era. This rare "Cabinet Card" photograph captures him at the height of his professional career. I consider it a glimpse into the "Old Guard" of the Caribbean colonial service and a striking visual record of the men who shaped the early Trinidad and Tobago Police Service. As a Sergeant Major in the late 19th-century Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), Alfred Sheppard held a position of significant authority. During this era, the TTPS was structured along British semi-military lines, and the Sergeant Major was the highest-ranking non-commissioned officer. He would have been responsible for the daily discipline, training, and drill of the constables. His role would have required high literacy and administrative skill. Alfred sent the portrait of himself to his family in Wem. He wrote this note on the back of the cabinet card - "a perfect facsimile of your lost sheep". I think that Alfred was being witty, playing on the Sheppard (Shepherd) name, referring to himself as the lost sheep because he was the one who had strayed the furthest across the globe! He was no doubt proud to show off that that he had been successful since his arrival as a youngster from Sussex to Trinidad in the West Indies. The card identifies the photographer as George Adhar, located at 10a Prince of Wales St., San Fernando, Trinidad. Adhar was a prominent photographer in San Fernando, Trinidad, during the late 19th century. Having his studio information printed in this elaborate, turquoise-lithographed style suggests that he was a high-end professional. The bottom left mentions "Marion, Imp. Paris." This refers to Marion & Co., a famous French company that manufactured the actual card stock. It shows that even in Trinidad, photographers were importing the finest materials from Europe to create these portraits. Alfred Sheppard's Early Life Alfred Sheppard was the sixth child in a family of ten children born to James and Elizabeth Shepherd née Cole. He was born in Chichester, Sussex on 22 August, 1855 and was baptised at St. Pancras Church, Sussex on 30 September that year. His baptism record shows his father's trade as "labourer", while his birth certificate states "jobbing gardener". In other words, he came from an English working class family in the parish of St. Pancras, Chichester, Sussex. In 1874 when he was just 19 years old, Alfred enlisted in the 2nd Brigade King’s Own, Sussex. This "Brigade" was headquartered in Chichester (at the Rousillon Barracks), which explains how Alfred, born in the parish of St. Pancras, would have simply walked down the road to enlist in his local regiment. In 1878, he was seconded to Trinidad and left his home in England. He arrived in Trinidad as Colour Sergeant with his regiment. Reaching the rank of Colour Sergeant by age 23 (when he arrived in Trinidad) indicates Alfred was exceptionally disciplined, literate, and possessed natural leadership. A Colour Sergeant was a prestigious rank, responsible for protecting the regiment's flags (the "Colours") and for the well-being of a full company of men. When he arrived on the shores of Trinidad, Alfred would have been wearing the scarlet wool tunic of the Sussex Regiment. In the humid West Indian climate and tropical surroundings, he must have experienced a drastic change from life in England. When he moved from the King’s Own Royal Regiment Sussex to the Trinidad Police, he was part of a wave of British "Imperial" soldiers brought in to professionalize the local constabulary. In 1880, two years after his arrival in the island, the Trinidad Police Force required two Supt. Sergeants and Alfred was allowed to resign from the army to take up one of those positions. Alfred was the perfect candidate: an Englishman from a working-class background who had proven himself in the King’s Own Sussex. By resigning from the Army to join the Police, he effectively chose a path of permanent immigration, trading his life in Chichester for a position of authority in the Caribbean. A brave move for this young Englishman so far away from his family and his motherland. The Sheppard Family Bible - Alfred's Legacy I find it a touching detail to observe that one year after enrolling in the Sussex Regiment, and two years before arriving in Trinidad, Alfred Sheppard wrote the following statement at the very top of the page of what was to become our genealogical and historical treasure - the Sheppard Family Bible. In Alfred’s distinctive handwriting, in military style, he wrote a formal authentication of the records he entered, starting with his own birth. It reads: "This is a True Record, copied from the old Family Bible by me on Sunday the 19th day of September 1875." Directly following this statement is his signature: Alfred Sheppard. Perhaps he was already preparing for the possibility of overseas deployment and wanted to carry with him his own Bible from England in which he would record his life's journey. The phrase "True Record" reflects his military mindset and training, treating family history with the same importance and accuracy as an official ledger. Sgt. Alfred Sheppard in Trinidad Life in the tropics must have smiled on Alfred, as he fell in love with a young lady of Portuguese descent, the daughter of immigrants from Madeira. Sgt. Alfred Sheppard recorded in his family Bible that he and Virginia de Freitas were married on 25th June, 1881 at the Free Church of Scotland, St. Ann’s Road, Trinidad, B.W.I., of which Virginia's father Sebastien was a founding member. This was just months before Alfred's older brother Charles had married Mary Ellen Fisher in England. It was during February 1881, a few months before Alfred’s marriage, that the Canboulay Riots were staged by descendants of freed slaves in Trinidad & Tobago, against attempts by the British police to crack down on certain aspects of the celebration of Carnival. During this time, Carnival was often marred by clashes between groups of revelers carrying sticks and lighted torches. While the confrontations started in song duels between the chantwells, they often descended into physical violence. It has also been recorded that 1881, Trinidad’s police force clashed with revelers in Port of Spain who had banded together against the police. Sergeant Alfred Sheppard was a young officer of the British Constabulary contending with this social unrest in the British colony of Trinidad. One account states that policemen were armed only with cudgels and were severely beaten by rioters. Rioting was fierce in the southern cities of San Fernando and Princes Town during the carnival of 1884. This was followed by the infamous Hosay Massacre of October 30th 1884. That was the very year that Alfred and Virginia started their family. Alfred and Virginia's Children Alfred and Virginia’s first child was a son, born at 1.20 a.m. on Tuesday 8th January, 1884 in Mucurapo, Peru Estate. This was the area now called St. James, where the barracks were located. Their firstborn was named after his English father and grandfather - Alfred James. On Wednesday, October 21st the following year, another son arrived, and he was named Charles Sebastien Theodore . He was to become my grandfather. Charles, known as Charlie, was born in St. Joseph, Trinidad, and was probably named after his uncle Charles in England. His second name, Sebastien, was that of his Portuguese maternal grandfather, Sebastien de Freitas. Two years later, still in St. Joseph, a baby girl arrived. Alfred and Virginia called their daughter Amalia Elizabeth Sheppard . Amalia, affectionately called Amy, was born at 8 a.m. on Saturday 14th May, 1887. Her second name was that of her English grandmother, Elizabeth. In November of 1888 a third son was born to Alfred and Virginia: Arthur Wybrow de Freitas Sheppard. It is recorded that Captain Arthur Wybrow Baker was appointed Inspector Commandant of Trinidad’s Police Force in 1887. Alfred and Virginia's son was most certainly named after him. This indicates to me that the Commandant was much respected by Sgt. Sheppard, and might even have been a personal friend. Capt. Baker was known as "Brave Baker of the Bobbies". He was said to have been a militant man by nature and decisive in his actions. He was determined to end the Canboulay as a threat to public order. It was reported in the Port of Spain Gazette of 14 June 1917 that once, while outing with Captain Baker (the then Inspector-General), Alfred Sheppard received a severe injury which left a scar on his head for life. On Easter Sunday, 6th April 1890 at 11 a.m. yet another son was born to Alfred and Virginia, completing their family of five children. This baby was born in Princes Town, which is in south Trinidad. He was named Edward Albert James Sheppard. In those days, the Police Headquarters , completed in 1876, was situated at the corner of St. Vincent and Sackville Streets in Port of Spain. In 1881, the year Alfred and Virginia were married, the Police Headquarters was destroyed by fire which was caused by the kerosene oil lighting system. From the locations of the births of their children as recorded on their birth certificates, it is clear that Sergeant Major Alfred Sheppard and his wife lived wherever he, as an officer of the Police Force, had been posted in his line of duty. He sent photos of his two children Charles and Amalia to his family in Wem. These were also taken at George Adhar’s Studio, San Fernando - quite likely on the same day as his own portrait. The children look around 6 and 7 years old, and their little faces are so serious - or are they sad? Charlie is dressed as a miniature soldier or cadet, which was a common way for senior officers to dress their sons for formal portraits. His pillbox cap bears an insignia on the front. It appears to be a crown or a specific crest, likely mirroring the badge of the Trinidad Police Force. Amy is wearing her Sunday best. They are posed against a backdrop of tropical greenery and an ornate English Victorian "bobbin-leg" table, typical of those times. "Badly Taken" An amusing note at the back of the photograph! Despite the children looking impeccably dressed and disciplined to our modern eyes, Alfred clearly felt the photographer, George Adhar, didn't capture them at their best. Whether he meant the lighting, the background or more likely the children's serious expressions, it shows that even in the 1890's parents were picky about their children's photos! Sadness in the family They were living in the south of Trinidad - possibly it was still Princes Town where the last two children were born when tragedy struck the family. In 1893 both of their youngest children became very sick with dysentery. Their baby boy, Albert Edward James Sheppard, just three years old, died at 4.00 on the morning of 11th June, 1893 of acute dysentery and was buried in the Presbyterian ground, Paradise Cemetery, San Fernando. Sadly, just two weeks later, on Sunday 25th June 1893 at 2.50 a.m. their four-year old Arthur also died of acute dysentery. It was the very day of Alfred and Virginia’s 12th Wedding Anniversary. Little Arthur Wybrow was laid to rest by the side of his baby brother Albert. One can only imagine the sleepless nights and anguish of their parents, and the sadness of their older siblings Alfred, Charlie, and Amy. To England for the Diamond Jubilee Years passed by, and in 1897 there were to be great celebrations in England for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee . Trinidad was a colony of England, and The Trinidad Police Force sent a contingent to London for the celebrations. As a senior officer of the Force, Alfred was among the contingent chosen to go. He was then 40 years old and his children Charles and Amalia were 12 and 10 at the time. There must have been great excitement in the family, as this was an historic occasion that Alfred was to be a part of. Though we have found no record of it, we believe that Alfred most probably visited some of his family in England on this occasion. Family life in Trinidad - 1905 to 1917 Back to Trinidad some years later, it appears that Alfred and Virginia had moved north and were living at 117 Edward Street, Port of Spain. Owing to ill-health, he resigned from active duty as a Sergeant in 1905, after serving in both the Imperial Army and Trinidad Police Force for 31 years. He then assumed an administrative position as Staff Clerk and Paymaster of the Trinidad Constabulary. In an era where many police officers were illiterate, Alfred’s literacy, excellent handwriting and reputation as a man trained in details (as demonstrated in the 1882 Wupperman Prahl & Co. court case ) would have positioned him perfectly to take charge of the Constabulary’s logistics. In 1909, Alfred and Virginia attended the wedding of their son Charles to Elsie Mabel Gomez. It was a big, happy family occasion, celebrated in style at the lovely residence of Albert Mendes, at the corner of Shine Street and Victoria Square, Port-of-Spain. Albert's wife was Mary Pereira, Elsie's aunt, and Albert was also Elsie's godfather. Albert was the brother of Alfred Mendes Snr., great-grandfather of the British Academy award winner, Sir Samuel Alexander (Sam) Mendes CBE. Sadly, just one year after the beautiful wedding celebration, the family was once again plunged into sadness and deep grief. Alfred and Virginia's eldest son, Alfred James, succumbed to bronchitis on 19th January at 7.20 p.m., when he was just barely 25 years old. His bereaved father recorded in the Family Bible that he purchased a 12 x 10 grave for his son at Lapeyrouse Cemetery, for which he paid $40.00 on 21st January, 1910. In years to come, this grave plot would become the Sheppard family burial place, and remains so to this day. Alfred and his wife Virginia at the wedding of their son Charles Sheppard to Elsie Gomez - 20th January 1909 This image was cropped from the large group wedding photo, and enhanced using AI tools. It is the last known photograph of the couple. Alfred's health continued to decline, leading to his death on 12 June, 1917 when he was 60 years old. He was laid to rest alongside his son and namesake, Alfred James, in the burial place he had purchased seven years earlier. The newspaper report about him and his funeral indicates that he was a highly respected man, much loved by his family and colleagues. Three years after his death, there was once again a happy event to celebrate, when on 18th January 1913, Alfred and Virginia's daughter Amalia married Edward Oswald Mendes. His wife Virginia lived on for many more years, and passed away at 4 Shine Street, Port of Spain, when she was 74 years old. Alfred lived long enough to have known six of his grandchildren before he passed away, but never knew the extent of the large family he and Virginia started.
 
 Judging from the wonderful Family Bible he left behind, Alfred Sheppard appeared to have been a man who valued his family deeply and paid great attention to detail, recording even the exact time of births and deaths, indicative of his military and police training. It is curious, though, that about himself he only wrote that he was born ‘in England’ on 22nd August, 1857. It has taken years of research to trace his early beginnings. 
 This Family Bible had been passed down to his daughter Amalia (affectionally called Amy) and then to her daughter Jessie Rooks Mendes, who is still in possession of it. Thanks to the Mendes family who had it beautifully restored in Holland, and in particular to Jessie for sharing this gem, we were able to use those valuable handwritten details in our genealogy research. 
 From Alfred Sheppard and his wife Virginia, descended all the Sheppard and Mendes families from Trinidad. Thanks to the digitization of old newspapers, this article describing Alfred's funeral has been discovered in the Port of Spain Gazette of June 14, 1917. I have transcribed the article - click here or on the image below to read it. Several family members mentioned on this website were in attendance. Click here to see how the story of Alfred Sheppard led to my participation in a series called Descendants, produced and broadcast by BBC Radio 4 on 11 June, 2021. (All original 19th century images have been cleaned and restored by me, using AI) SEE ALSO: VIRGINIA DE FREITAS QUEEN VICTORIA'S JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS TRINIDAD POLICE vs. WUPPERMANN, PRAHL & CO.