S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd. Commemorates Sesquicentennial Anniversary

S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd., a prominent commercial enterprise in St. Kitts, recently celebrated a remarkable milestone – its 150th anniversary. The momentous occasion was commemorated with a grand gala held under the evocative theme “Bridging Generations – 150 Years of Shared Progress!” This theme encapsulates the company’s enduring presence in the region, its contributions to the community, and its unwavering commitment to progress across generations. The anniversary gala served as a platform to acknowledge the company’s rich history, honor its dedicated employees, and reaffirm its vision for the future. The event brought together past and present employees, stakeholders, and well-wishers to celebrate S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd.’s legacy of success.

The roots of S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd. can be traced back to 1875 when Geo. W. Bennet & Co., a firm based in St. John’s, Antigua, decided to expand its operations by establishing a branch in Basseterre, St. Kitts. Samuel Lamartine Horsford, who held the position of Accountant at Geo. W. Bennet & Co., was entrusted with the responsibility of managing the newly established St. Kitts branch. This marked the beginning of a long and prosperous journey for the company, which would eventually bear his name. Over the subsequent decades, S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd. evolved from its initial role as a branch of a larger entity to become an independent, thriving enterprise, deeply ingrained in the economic and social fabric of St. Kitts.

The anniversary gala provided a platform to reflect on the company’s remarkable journey, its growth, and the values that have contributed to its longevity. Mr. Anthony Kelsick, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd., delivered the featured address, emphasizing the company’s resilience in navigating various economic cycles and its unwavering focus on a future-driven vision. He highlighted the company’s adaptability and commitment to innovation, key factors that have allowed S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd. to remain a prominent force in the business landscape for a century and a half. His address resonated with the attendees, underscoring the importance of embracing change and continuously striving for improvement.

A significant highlight of the anniversary gala was the recognition of long-serving employees who have dedicated a significant portion of their careers to S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd. More than 18 employees with over 30 years of service were honored for their unwavering commitment and contributions. Among them were individuals with exceptionally long tenures: Ira Greene, Kirk Flemming, and Sharon De Silva, each with 44 years of service; Anthony Kelsick with 43 years; and Denise Baptist with 36 years. These individuals represent the backbone of the company and exemplify the dedication and loyalty that have contributed to its enduring success. Their recognition served as a testament to the value S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd. places on its human capital.

Beyond these notable figures, the celebration also acknowledged the contributions of numerous other employees who have played integral roles in shaping the Horsford story. Names like Natasha Caines, Yvonne Forbes-Smith, Celeste Nisbett, Raul Lake, and Odessa Lawrence-Khan, among many others, were highlighted for their dedication and hard work. These individuals, through their collective efforts and diverse expertise, have contributed significantly to the growth and success of S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd. The gala provided a well-deserved opportunity to celebrate their contributions and thank them for their integral roles in the company’s journey.

The 150th-anniversary gala served not just as a celebration of the past but also as a launchpad for the future. It marked a renewed commitment by S.L. Horsford & Co. Ltd. to continue its legacy of service, innovation, and community engagement. The event provided a platform to reinforce the company’s values, celebrate its achievements, and inspire future generations to uphold the principles that have guided its success for a century and a half. The theme “Bridging Generations – 150 Years of Shared Progress!” encapsulated the essence of the celebration, highlighting the company’s ongoing commitment to progress and collaboration across generations. The gala served as a poignant reminder of the company’s enduring spirit and its dedication to shaping a prosperous future for the community it serves.