Windrush Elders
Benjamin Gregory
Born on 25th May 1947 in Saint Lucia, a Caribbean island known for its natural beauty and close-knit communities, Benjamin Gregory grew up in a large family of eleven siblings. His father was a shopkeeper, and his mother cultivated gardens, growing groceries and greens. Despite their hard work, his parents’ livelihood provided more than sustenance - it fostered a sense of responsibility and connection within their household.
Gregory’s early years in Saint Lucia were filled with the joys and challenges of childhood. School life, although not particularly remarkable in his memory, was a time of camaraderie and youthful mischief. Tragedy struck early, however, as he lost several siblings over the years, leaving only a few surviving family members. This deepened the bonds with those who remained, particularly his sister, with whom he shared a profound closeness. Her passing in 2023 marked a poignant moment in his life, as Gregory had recently visited her in April of that year.
In August 1960, as a young teenager, Gregory embarked on a journey that would change his life. Leaving behind his island home, he arrived in the UK via boat, settling initially in Forest Gate, London. The transition was monumental. “The difference is, I miss home,” he reflected, “but when I get to England, I’d rather be in England.” The opportunities he found in his adopted country offered him a chance to build a new life, including the ability to buy a house which is an achievement he believed might not have been possible in Saint Lucia.
Upon his arrival, Gregory took up work on a building site, a common path for many immigrants at the time. He later transitioned to decorating, thanks to his brother-in-law’s guidance, and eventually found his niche pressing garments. He specialised in jackets and trousers, a trade he enjoyed immensely. Despite encountering discrimination early on, Gregory’s outlook remained positive. “At that time, English people were a bit funny towards Black people,” he recalled. “But after a while, that died out.” Hurtful remarks from coworkers did not deter him, instead, he persevered, focusing on his work and building a stable life.
Gregory’s reflections on his journey reveal a man who embraced both his roots and his new beginnings. While he missed the familiarity and warmth of Saint Lucia, he recognised the privileges afforded to him in England. His life is a blend of two worlds: the vibrant, familial culture of his birthplace and the opportunities and independence of his adopted home. Over six decades after his arrival, Gregory regards England as home but holds Saint Lucia close to his heart, a testament to his enduring connection to his origins.