Lavity Stoutt’s Birthday
Observed on the first Monday in March, Lavity Stoutt’s Birthday is a public holiday in the British Virgin Islands. This holiday commemorates the anniversary of the birth of Hamilton Lavity Stoutt on March 7, 1929. Stoutt was the longest continuously serving parliamentarian in the Caribbean and won five general elections as Chief Minister, as well as three non-consecutive terms of office.
British Virgin Islands (Public holiday)He is not only known for his long service, however. He is also remembered for having founded the United Party in 1967 and then the Virgin Islands Party in 1971. Although his birthday is March 7th, this holiday is celebrated on the first Monday in March because it gives islanders a three-day weekend to enjoy with friends and family.
The History of Lavity Stoutt’s Birthday
On March 7, 1929, Stoutt was born in Tortola, British Virgin Islands. He won five general elections as Chief Minister of the British Virgin Islands, in 1967, 1979, 1986, 1991, and 1995. He also served three non-consecutive terms from 1967 to 1971, 1979 to 1983, and 1986 until 1995.
He also founded and became the leader of the United Party and would go on to found the Virgin Islands Party. Stoutt died on May 14, 1995, and soon after, a public holiday was declared in the British Virgin Islands to commemorate his birthday. It has been a holiday that is celebrated annually ever since.
Observing Lavity Stoutt’s Birthday
On this holiday, there are usually special services held to honor H. Lavity Stoutt’s birthday. For example, in 2020, there was a commemoration service at the Eileen L. Parsons Auditorium. Because this is a public holiday, government buildings, schools, and many businesses are closed.
This gives islanders a three-day holiday that they can use to spend time with friends and family members. Another event that occurs on this holiday is a wreath-laying ceremony at the grave of Stoutt.
British Virgin Islands (Public holiday)
