Windrush

On 22 June 1948, the HMT Empire arrived at Tilbury Docks, Essex carrying 1,027 passengers many from Caribbean islands such as Jamaica, Trinidad, and Bermuda, who came to help rebuild post-war Britain.

Many of the passengers on HMT Empire Windrush settled in Brixton in the London Borough of Lambeth, drawn by the nearby labour exchange, transport links, access to jobs in the hospitals, railways, and public services and affordable housing.

Brixton became a central hub for the Windrush generation with a growing community who supported one another whilst building a new life.

Windrush Square was originally known as Brixton Oval and then Tate Gardens.

In 1998 to mark the 40^th anniversary of HMT Empire Windrush, the open space was renamed Windrush Square.

Cllr Donatus Anyanwu, Lambeth’s Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said: “Lambeth is incredibly proud to be the first home of the Windrush Generation and is committed to celebrating their contribution to British life.

“Having been invited to this country to help rebuild after the Second World War, the Windrush Generation and their descendants have played a vital role in public life, particularly in our public services and culture.

“Windrush Day in Lambeth acknowledges the history, the stories, and the lasting impact the Windrush Generation’s has had on our country”

To learn more on the Windrush Generation, why not visit the black cultural archives https: //blackculturalarchives.org/