Legends' exhibition celebrates Black History
Jamaican High Commissioner, Anthony Smith Johnson, officially opened the Caribbean Cricket Legends exhibition in the Sir James Matthews building Conference Centre foyer on Thursday 13 October, as part of Black History Month.
The exhibition, which recognises past Afro-Caribbean players and the cultural contributions they made, also featured a talk by legendary cricket star, Norman Cowans, who gave an intriguing and uplifting insight into the sport.
The exhibition, which runs until 4 November, was commissioned as part of Black History Month to demonstrate Hampshire’s links with the beginnings of cricket and to explore the relationship between white and black cricket players since the first Hampshire v West Indies game on 26th July 1900.
The exhibition features pictures of former Hampshire players and international sporting heroes, including Malcolm Marshall, Gordon Greenidge and Andy Roberts.
Former Hampshire and England fast bowler Norman Cowan, known as ‘Flash’ for bowling at almost 100mph, was also at the opening. He said: “These cricket players were a real inspiration. As a child, I idolised the earlier West Indian cricketers. They inspired me, and kids like me, to excel in something we felt we could make our mark in.”
His Excellency Anthony Smith Johnson was delighted with the exhibition and the Black History Month project. He said: “We are all united in one idea, that of celebrating the history and legacy of our fore fathers of all colours.”
Solent University Vice Chancellor Professor Van Gore added: “We are honoured to have the Jamaican High Commissioner open this inspirational exhibition. As an inclusive University that celebrates diversity we are delighted to support Black History Month in Southampton, which goes from strength to strength'
Earlier in the week, as part of Black History Month, Professor Gore had unveiled a plaque celebrating Southampton’s musical past. He joined Black History Month coordinator Don John for a special event commemorating a fledgling Bob Marley & the Wailers playing at the former Coach House Club at the Fleming Arms, Swaythling in 1973.
Solent University technician instructor, Dave Poulton, a former Coach House DJ who saw the historic '73 gig, said: “Caribbean magic came to Southampton for one night; it was a mesmerising moment.”
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