Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA)

Marcus Garvey (1887-1940) founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in Harlem, New York, in 1914 and he managed to unite millions of blacks around the world thanks to his fights as a rights defender. Pan African politician who defended the idea of Africa as the legitimate blacks’ homeland, is associated to the West Indian history of Costa Rica. He visited this country in four different occasions and during his first visit in 1910 he worked as a time keeper with the United Fruit Company.

He established August 31st as a special day when all black people around the world should respect, feel proud and celebrate the African cultural heritage.

The Liberty Hall is the UNIA headquarters in Limon, Costa Rica and was founded in 1922.

Ernest Bailey, Leutenant of the Limon Cadettes Troop No.1 of the Black Star Line in the year 1941 to 1946, had been distinguished for his great work, elegance and social commitment.

Alfonso (Sugar) Crawford, Sargent of the Limon Cadettes Troop No.1 of the Black Star Line in the period 1941 to 1946, was a great sportman. "One of the best and more complete players of Costa Rica's baseball". Source: Miguel Masis "The History of Baseball"

Egbert Crawford Morgan is remembered for his great personality, generosity and humbleness. He was the Commander in Chief of the Limon Cadettes Troop No.1 of the Black Star Line from 1941 to 1946, and also the President of the UNIA.

Egbert Crawford, better known as (Ekle), along with Miss Jessie Pitt Wright (Miss Jessie), a Methodist teacher for many years, on their way to the Cemetary of Port Limon on the 2nd day of November 1930.