National Hero of Barbados - Sir Frank Leslie Walcott
A Man of and for the People! 1916 - 1999

A fearless, formidable man, Sir Frank Leslie Walcott possessed the gift of bargaining.  A talented mathematician, skilled craft worker and incredible debater, Sir Frank made remarkable differences throughout his career.

Frank Walcott was invited by Sir Hugh Springer to join the labour movement. Sir Frank began his vocation as an active unionist and in January, 1945 became the assistant of Sir Hugh Springer, who was also General Secretary to the Progressive League. In 1945 he became fully employed by the Barbados Worker's Union and spent forty-five years as an employee. Sir Hugh was initially responsible for grievance handling and later became deeply involved in negotiations and any administrative duties which fell under Sir Hugh Springer's portfolio. 

Sir Hugh left the union in 1947, in order to accept the position of Registrar of the University College of the University of the West Indies.  On November 5, 1947 and for the following year which began on July 25, Sir Frank Walcott was appointed as the Barbados Workers Union's first General Secretary.

A man who 'wore many hats' Sir Frank facilitated the consolidation of the union's internal administration and also negotiated on the behalf of workers.

Sir Frank Walcott brought the union from a junior position into partnership with the Barbados Labour Party. He created and organized an effective accounting system and developed the union into a more militant entity.

A man of great respect, Sir Frank Walcott made an immeasurable contribution to the Barbadian work force.