20th June 2024
This Saturday, 22nd June, is Windrush Day. It will be 76 years since the first of nearly half-a-million people came from the Caribbean on the ship Empire Windrush to help rebuild Britain after the Second World War.
Thame has a special connection with Windrush. Johnny Smythe OBE, MBE was the officer in charge of the Empire Windrush when it returned demobilised men to Jamaica in 1948. There was no employment for the men on the island and Johnny suggested their skills could be put to good use in Britain.
The Colonial Office in London agreed and so the Windrush Generation was born.
Johnny Smythe lived in Thame for the last five years of his life. He is buried in St Mary's churchyard. Later this year, Thame Museum will open a permanent exhibition to him.
Meanwhile, here's some more information about the incredible Johnny Smythe.
