Lord Kitchener’s Statue

Gazing up at Lord Kitchener’s Statue, one might hear the faint echoes of a calypso rhythm. This concrete effigy, crafted by local artist Pat Chu Foon, stands as a testament to the musical genius of Aldwyn Roberts, the “Grand Master of Calypso.” Lord Kitchener’s Statue isn’t just a monument; it’s a portal to a vibrant era of Trinidadian music. Lord Kitchener, born in 1922, wasn’t always a lord of the stage. He began life as Aldwyn Roberts, a boy from Arima with a passion for music instilled by his blacksmith father. He honed his skills, playing the guitar and crafting calypsos from the age of ten. By 1946, Lord Kitchener’s star was on the rise, with hits like “Jump In The Line” propelling him to the forefront of the calypso scene. Lord Kitchener’s influence reached far beyond the shores of Trinidad and Tobago. In 1948, he boarded the Empire Windrush, bringing his unique sound to England. His arrival was marked by a performance of “London Is the Place for Me,” a song that captured the hopes and dreams of many Caribbean immigrants. Back in Trinidad, Lord Kitchener continued to reign supreme, winning the Road March competition ten times. His calypso tent, Calypso Revue, became a breeding ground for future stars like Calypso Rose and David Rudder. Lord Kitchener even embraced the emerging soca genre, proving his adaptability and innovation. He wasn’t just a performer; he was a mentor, a cultural icon, and a symbol of Trinidadian pride. Even today, Lord Kitchener’s Statue stands as a proud reminder of his legacy, a beacon for music lovers and a testament to the power of calypso. The statue itself has faced the elements, a silent witness to the passage of time, much like the man it commemorates. It stands in St. James, a tribute to a man who dedicated his life to music, and a reminder of the enduring spirit of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage.