[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 116 (Thursday, August 1, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1424]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO LEONA BRADY WATSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. VICTOR O. FRAZER

                         of the virgin islands

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 31, 1996

  Mr. FRAZER. Mr. Speaker, Leona Brady Watson was born on the north 
side of the island of St. Croix in Estate Two Friends. At the tender 
age of 3, she began her education, which involved walking from Estate 
Two Friends to Frederikdsted town where she attended St. Patrick's 
School. After finishing the third grade, she journeyed to the United 
States, and completed her formal education there.
  Upon returning to St. Croix in the late 50's, Mrs. Watson came home 
with a special yearning for her culture. She spent many years learning 
about what was a dying art in the Virgin Islands--the art of cariso. 
From the elders, particularly the ones on the north side of the island 
and the Frederiksted area. Leona was able to attain and maintain our 
delicate culture through their stories, soups, and music of days gone 
by. Leona continues to be honored by various cultural organizations as 
a tradition bearer for her untiring contribution to the cultural growth 
of the Virgin Islands, and the knowledge of the history of our beloved 
homeland.
  Some of Leona's famed works include: Quoted in three published books; 
actress in the film ``The Story of Cariso'' nationally acclaimed; 
performance in numerous stage shows, on island and abroad; participated 
in the 24th Annual Festival of American Folklife--the Virgin Islands; 
program sponsored by the Smithsonian Institution and the Virgin Islands 
Government.
  Leona is also a highly respected herbologist who has been asked most 
recently to participate in cultural exchange between Africa (Senegal), 
China and Switzerland.
  Mrs. Leona Watson resides at Estate Grove Place, St. Croix.

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