A Tribute to Dr. George A. Priestley, Ph.D

Dr. George A. Priestley 1940-2009

“Let our lives be open books for all to study.” Mahatma Gandhi

On Sunday July 5, 2009 a memorial service was held at Medgar Evers College to honor the passing of a great figure in the Westindian Panamanian diaspora living in New York, Dr. George A. Priestley.  A descendant of the Silver People, whose strength, wit and perseverance was indispensable in the construction of the Panama Canal, he reflected that sterling character in his many achievements throughout his life that made a difference in the lives of many who came in contact with him.

Belated Honors from the Country He Loved

Recent 400 meter run (men) at the Bolivarian Games

Lloyd La Beach had come to rely upon his own resources since his performance at the London Olympic Games of May, 1948. The Immortal Hero of the Barrio of Calidonia, by now a recognized Olympic superstar and University of California graduate, the sole representative of the country of the Panama would subsequently, in the year of 1951, bring glory to his beloved Roxy Athletic Club. Regrettably, however, for the rest of his countrymen his glory would not shine or reach recognition as he competed without assistance or acknowledgment from highly respected international athletic organizations.

Style and Grace- The Gold Buckle

This is the "all gold" style of buckle popularized by the Westindians in Panama.

The gold buckle began appearing in the district of Calidonia and San Miguel of Panama City amongst the Westindian young men who were working on the Canal Zone.

There were several different styles used in the fashioning of these unique golden buckles.  At first the solid gold buckle similar to the one in the image above was the norm and the most popular.  The scroll design worked around the person’s initials was very elaborate and particularly sought after by the working Westindian men.  With time the combination of gold and silver within the buckle became another popular design and also more affordable as the economy began taking a downturn.