SLICE OF BAJAN LIFE – Six Men’s after dark

Joy Ann Broomes turning the meat in the buck pot at Braddy’s.

By Wendell Callender | Tue, July 13, 2010 - 12:00 AM

The sun had long gone beyond the horizon and darkness covered the sea.

The persistent sound of foamy waves that could be heard as one stood at the roadside just to the north west of the Port St Charles marina in St Peter was a constant reminder of the richness and power of the ocean.

The chattel house village across the road from the usually bustling fishing village of the daytime also set the tone for an escape into a more bygone era.

Amidst these nostalgic elements, the bright orange flames emanating from the coal pots outside Braddy’s in Six Men’s, St Peter, which rests almost on the border of St Lucy, riveted our attention. This seemed like a place to get to know more about.

We were left in no doubt that this was a fishing village of which the residents were proud, although the darkened skies prevented us from seeing the boats at anchor. The voice of a gentleman expounding about fishing and his encounters in plying his trade was so distinct that we had no choice but to seek his attention.

Lawlaw, as he referred to himself, informed us that he was a fisherman for over 20 years and would usually operate from Six Men’s but would occasionally head out from other fish markets or ports.

Lawlaw and his friends, who sat under the gazebo on the beach side, also reflected more than a passing interest in cricket. Lawlaw, whom we considered to be the spokesman, called himself a big cricket fan. He had a lot to say about the current state of West Indies cricket.

“Cricket administrators want changing. They got to pick the right team,” he said.

He added: “Why Ryan Hinds can’t make a West Indies team, or even on an ‘A’ team? And Sammy gives one hundred and fifty per cent and not getting a fair deal. Why Sammy can’t get a regular play?”

As he poured forth, one of the bystanders who wished to remain nameless, quipped: “West Indies ain’t got no team.”

Another who gave his name as Rudy Greaves from Fustic Village in St Lucy, joined in to disagree that the administrators were the ones to be blamed.

“It is the men that playing the game,” he said.

Under the shed at Braddy’s, the folks who were of a younger age were more concerned about football and the World Cup.

For them there were no tears to be shed for Brazil and Argentina. One of the men said he was a fan of Germany and was still happy that they had placed third in the competition. They seemed indifferent as to who should win the Netherlands vs Spain final.

With all the action around Braddy’s Bar & Restaurant, owner Aubrey Bradshaw and daughter Joy Ann Broomes, who are the faces behind the food and beverages establishment, wear a persistent smile after 22 years of service to this community.