Honoring Important Canal and Canal Zone Workers
In honor of the first International Day for People of African Descent, we celebrate the extraordinary contributions of the thousands of West Indian workers and others of African descent who have participated in the construction, maintenance, defense, and operation of the Panama Canal and the Canal Zone. Between 55,000-100,000 West Indians went to Panama during in the 19th and early 20th century, and they were the largest group employed on the construction of the Canal. Although some people returned to the countries they had left, many stayed in Panama to create homes and families. They became an integral part of the work forces and communities in Panama and the Canal Zone. Today is a day to highlight the important role they played in this incredible history.
To learn more about the International Day for People of African Descent visit the United Nations website page: https://www.un.org/en/observances/african-descent-day
8 Comments
Carol F Meyer
I am delighted to see the photo of Emily Butcher as a young lady. I was honored to spend a musical afternoon with Emily and friends in Panama, honoring her 100th birthday. The last I heard she was 103 and still active. Her sister, Wilma Monlouis was head of music for DOD Schools during the 80’s and 90’s. Unfortunately, she developed rheumatoid arthritis and passed away a few years ago while living in Sarasota, Florida.
Lew Stabler
Good evening. Great photos. Thanks for the work you do with thses.
For your information the first photo is mislabeled. That ship is actually in the Balboa Dry Dock #1, not the locks.
admin
Thanks so much for providing the correct information.
Laura Kosik
If anything I learned that there were 5 Federal Credit Unions in the Canal Zone. I don’t even remember one. But I am a Zonian that was born in the 60s. These are great photos and a history, thanks so mucho!
Waldo Gilley
The picture of men pulling rope while ship was in locks is taken at one of the “dry docks” not in locks.
admin
Thank you for letting us know.
spring albassam
Hi looking for info on grandfathers and grandmother who work on the canal:
Norman Pizza worked around 1911-1917
Lancelot Pezza worked around 1911-1917
Reginald George Walker died at Canal 1898
Harold Walker born 1909 at Canal
Reginald Walker worked 1917
Susan Desuze
Looking for more info and pics. My understanding is that my grandfather V. G. DESUZE was part of forming a union for the PANAMA CANAL workers.