This past Heroes Day, my sister Rhonda and I stood with pride as we accepted awards on behalf of our family, honouring our grandfather, Allen Berkley Bush. Representing his sons, Errol and Donnie, we celebrated his life as one of Cayman’s Legacy Builders—a man whose vision and tireless efforts helped shape the Cayman Islands into the thriving, united community it is today. The day was filled with ceremony, a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to his homeland.
As Rhonda Kelly beautifully reflected, “Bushy’s Theatre was a place that created lifelong memories for Caymanians—memories that people still reminisce about today with a smile.” In the 1950s, my grandfather opened the Islander Theatre in Bodden Town, later moving it to George Town. It wasn’t just a cinema; it was a gathering place for families, a cornerstone of community life. Weekends were filled with the magic of movies, the smell of popcorn, and the taste of ice cream cones. And who could forget Aunt Clarice’s famous cheese sandwiches? Those moments, simple yet profound, remain etched in the hearts of many Caymanians.
But my grandfather’s legacy extends far beyond entertainment. As a former Member of the Legislative Assembly and Exco Member responsible for infrastructure, he played a pivotal role in shaping the islands’ development. His contributions were monumental. He was instrumental in constructing the Courthouse and Legislative Assembly, buildings that stand as symbols of governance and progress. The Old Glass House, once the Government Administration Building, is another testament to his foresight.
His work on infrastructure projects, such as the Lions Centre Thoroughfare, faced skepticism at the time due to its reclaimed land. Yet, today, it stands as a vital artery in George Town, proving his vision was sound. He also laid the groundwork for the development of the port, a project that continues to drive the islands’ economic success.
My grandfather was more than a builder of structures; he was a builder of community. His work was rooted in a deep love for the Cayman Islands and its people. He understood that progress wasn’t just about bricks and mortar but about creating opportunities, fostering unity, and preserving the values that define us as Caymanians.
As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of his dedication, resilience, and unwavering vision. His legacy is not confined to the buildings he helped erect or the roads he paved. It lives on in the memories of those who knew him, in the stories shared by generations, and in the spirit of a community he helped strengthen.
Thank you, Papa Berkley, for your enduring contributions. Your legacy is woven into the fabric of the Cayman Islands, and it will continue to inspire us for generations to come.