Video: 177th Arrival Anniversary Proclamation
[Updated] The Department of Culture held a proclamation ceremony to celebrate the 177th anniversary of the arrival of Bermuda’s first Portuguese immigrants.
Speaking in advance of the event, the Department said, “This special commemoration celebrates the arrival of the first Portuguese immigrants to Bermuda in 1849 aboard the Golden Rule. Together, we’ll reflect on their lasting contributions to our island’s culture, traditions, and community spirit.”
Mayor of Hamilton Dr. Michael Branco highlighted the Portuguese-Bermudian community’s contributions across agriculture, construction, commerce, education, hospitality, public service and other sectors.
He said Portuguese-Bermudians had helped establish businesses, create employment and support local organisations, while enriching the island through their food, music, language, faith and traditions. He also emphasised the importance of sharing those traditions and stories with younger generations.
Junior Minister Senator Mischa Fubler reflected on the courage and determination of the early immigrants, noting their role in developing Bermuda’s agricultural industry, including the cultivation of the Bermuda sweet onion.
He recognised the work of Casa dos Açores da Bermuda and the Vasco da Gama Club in preserving Portuguese heritage through language, music, traditions and community events.
Casa dos Açores da Bermuda President Lucia Botelho spoke about the community’s continuing contribution to Bermuda.
She also outlined her organisation’s development since its founding in 2015, including the opening of its headquarters in 2019 and the establishment of a youth folklore group to help younger generations learn and share Azorean traditions through dance.
Remarks were also read on behalf of Portugal’s Honorary Consul in Bermuda, Andrea Moniz-DeSouza, recognising the contributions of Portuguese immigrants and their descendants while acknowledging the hardships earlier generations faced, including language barriers, limited opportunities and discrimination.
“The Portuguese story is not separate from Bermuda’s history. It is part of Bermuda’s history,” her message stated.
She encouraged younger generations to embrace their Portuguese roots and Bermudian identity, and called for continued efforts to preserve the community’s history and strengthen ties with Portugal.
The ceremony included a proclamation recognising the Portuguese community’s enduring contributions to Bermuda’s development, identity and diversity.
Update: A Government spokesperson said, “The Department of Culture hosted a special proclamation ceremony on November 4, on the steps of City Hall, to commemorate the 177th anniversary of the arrival of Bermuda’s Portuguese community. The celebration honoured the vital contributions of Portuguese-Bermudians to the island’s culture, economy, and community life. Remarks were given by Junior Minister Mischa Fubler; Lucia Botelho, President of Casa dos Açores da Bermuda; and Michael Branco, Mayor of Hamilton.”
Reflecting on the occasion, Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, Owen Darrell, said, “The Portuguese community holds a special place in Bermuda’s history and continues to make an invaluable contribution to the fabric of our island. Across generations, Portuguese-Bermudians have enriched our society through their dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, cultural traditions and commitment to community. Their story is an important part of Bermuda’s identity, and this celebration provides an opportunity to recognise their lasting contributions while embracing the diversity that makes Bermuda such a vibrant and welcoming place.”
The spokesperson said, “Junior Minister Fubler, delivering remarks on behalf of Minister Darrell, highlighted the historic arrival of the first Portuguese immigrants from Madeira aboard the Golden Rule in 1849. He noted the courage and determination of those early settlers, whose skills and industry transformed Bermuda’s agricultural landscape and left a lasting imprint on the island’s development.
“Following the ceremony, attendees and members of the public gathered to enjoy freshly made Malasadas, a traditional Portuguese treat, as a joyful conclusion to the celebration. The Department of Culture expresses gratitude to all speakers, participants, and community partners for helping to honour 177 years of Portuguese presence in Bermuda.”
