About me
Harry Cumberbatch
My name is Harrington Cumberbatch also known as Harry, Bigies or Elder Harry! I was born on the Caribbean Island of Barbados 80 years ago. In those days Barbados was a colony of Britain who had total social, economic, religious and political control over the people. Hence, one of the reasons it is sometimes called Little England!
As an African/Barbadian (Bajan) growing up under colonial rule the practice of African values and culture was discouraged or looked down upon; colourism and classism were overtly practiced. Which created an inferiority complex and low self-esteem in many of the youth of the time. Leaving us feeling less valued than others and fearful of authority.
In 1963 due to lack of employment opportunities, I applied and passed the test for London Transport who were on the island recruiting bus conductors. After some training on English currency, learning how to relate to the passengers and being reminded that if in any difficulties just ask a friendly policeman for help I was ready… but they didn’t prepare us for the racism we would encounter.
I took out a Barbadian Government loan for the flight and the cost of 3 weeks accommodation. My flight to London was on a chartered propeller plane which was quite scary and I still wonder how we made it! We were met by a TV crew looking for interviews and two officers from a Barbados Liaison committee. After a briefing we boarded a coach to take us to our various London destinations.
After a rest day I started a week of training at London Transport Chiswick West London centre and then I was allocated to Bow bus garage where I stayed for four years by then I had become a bus driver.
One of the most common questions we asked in those early days when we saw another Black person was “Man, when you come?” and if you had arrived after the person, you would hear them proudly reply “Man, You jus’ come.” That recognition often led to some form of support and guidance which is something that has stayed with me. It was a joy to befriend other West Indians and to learn about each other. Many times (especially on the buses) I was asked by passengers ‘Where are you from mate?’, I would respond Barbados and they would ask ‘What part of Jamaica is that then?’ as it was felt we were all Jamaicans since they were the largest group.
In my experience meeting someone from Barbados was like a celebration as we had so much more in common. The reality of the hostile 1960s was that all we had was each other and the homes of those families that opened their doors as a meeting place. One such home was 70 Eastwood Road, which I still have many fond memories of, a real Bajan home from home.
Therefore, in remembrance to those safe shelters and the brave, heroic, pioneering young men and women who paved the way and whose shoulders we stand on I extend a massive thank you from all of us.
‘Who jus’ come’.
You may ask why a heritage website? The reason is simply that my generation has a story to tell since our experiences are a primary historical resource. The last UK census showed that our community is gradually decreasing and in a few decades or less there will be none of us left to tell our story. It is also a response to colleagues and agencies who have been asking me to add my story to the archives collection on Caribbean people who settled in The East End of London particularly Newham since the 2nd World War.
This website showcases some of my memorabilia which is available for bespoke exhibitions to community organisations and educational institutions. You can access some through Newham Local History Archives and the Tower Hamlets Local History Archives under title of ‘The Cumberbatch Collection’.
Browse a few photos from my archives
“Until the lion tells his side of the story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.”
An African proverb.