Basil Henderson, the Originator of St. Kitts and Nevis Carnival

Carnival in St. Christopher, commonly referred to as St. Kitts, and Nevis was formally introduced in 1957. It was launched by Mr. Basil Henderson, a young and enterprising social worker who had recently returned from training in Trinidad and Tobago. Before this time, Mr. Henderson was distinguished in the football arena.

In those days the island’s football team regularly played against sailors aboard whichever man-of-war (this is a type of ship) was in our port. Basil Henderson was the island’s centre-back and often times the St. Kitts team would defeat their opponents. He usually displayed such tough tactics as a defence player, that he was nicknamed “Sailor”. Furthermore, in 1960 he organised the 4-H Clubs in the federation. 4-H is a global youth organisation with areas of personal development for head, heart, hands, and health.

Mr. Henderson looked in every community to find persons who were associated with the “Ole Time Christmas Sports” and encouraged them to return on the road. What is the “Ole Time Christmas Sports”? It is the name given to folklore groups in St. Kitts and Nevis that perform during Christmas time.

Source: Celebrating 65 Years Of St. Kitts & Nevis Carnival. The Electronic Book can be purchased in our online bookstore