Sir Novelle Hamilton Richards was a former Antiguan parliamentarian. He was the composer of the lyrics of the Antigua and Barbuda National Anthem.

Early life and education

Novelle Hamilton Richards was born on 24 November, 1917, in the historic village of Liberta to Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Richards. He attended the Grace Hill and the Antigua Grammar Schools and the London Polytechnic Institute in England. At the London Polytechnic, Novelle successfully pursued the Diploma Course in Journalism.

Career

Sir Novelle Richards represented St. John's Rural South (1951 - 1960) for the Antigua Labour Party.

Following the attainment of Independence from Great Britain he was elected first President of the Antigua and Barbuda Senate and later that same year, he was appointed by the Governments of the East Caribbean to be the first Diplomatic Trade Commissioner to Canada.

He was the composer of the lyrics of the National Anthem of Antigua and Barbuda. He has also penned several other publications, including The Struggle and the Conquest, Tropic Gems, Twilight Hour, and Vines of Freedom.

Personal life

Sir Novelle is the grandfather of Gaston Browne, current Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda.

Death

Sir Novelle Hamilton Richards died in Antigua in 1986, while performing the duties of Governor-General’s Deputy.

ELECTION TIMELINE

Year District Party Votes % votes Result Notes 1956 St. John's Rural South Antigua Labour Party 941 97.41%   1951 St. John's Rural South Antigua Labour Party - - uncontested

PARLIAMENTARY TIMELINE

Post Chamber Party Date MP for St. John's Rural South Legislative Council ALP 1951 - 1960