Residents of Princes Town and environs came out in their numbers on Friday January 18, 2019 to celebrate “Princes Town Day”. This annual celebration of the history of Princes Town is a product of the Princes Town Regional Corporation (PTRC) and has become a much anticipated feature of the district’s annual calendar of events.
It was touted to be a day full of cultural activities, commencing with a First People’s Smoke Ceremony followed by an Interfaith Ceremony at the local Anglican Church. As the day progressed, a parade; led by the members of the PTRC’s Council marched through the main road and featured policemen on horseback, as well as groups of children dressed in traditional Amerindian, African, Chinese and East Indian garments. This was followed by the procession of agricultural vehicles and equipment which represented the area’s rich agricultural heritage. The parade culminated with the re-enactment of the historical ‘visit of the princes’ which marks the 139th anniversary of the conversion of what was the Mission of Savannah Grande to what we now know as Princes Town. It is also the second year in which the PTRC is hosting such a grand event. The day’s activities culminated with a pepper eating competition which featured the dreaded Moruga scorpion pepper.
The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services was proud to participate in this event and bring to the residents of Princes Town pertinent information on the Ministry’s wide range of programmes and services. Members of the Princes Town Social Welfare Office were also present to conduct assessments and answer the queries of residents. This is part of an on-ongoing effort to make information easily accessible to citizens in every area of the country as it continues to protect and assist the most vulnerable in our society.
Other booth holders included the South-West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) which provided blood sugar and blood pressure testing to patrons,the National Commission for Self Help Limited, the Help and Restoration for Families group, which provided counselling information and the Warao Nation which showcased their art and craft to those in attendance.