From Jamaica to Queens: A Journey of Community and Culture
Veniece Bolton and her mother, Tamika Edwards, still vividly recall the chill of their first November in Queens. “That was the first culture shock we had,” Bolton reminisced. “My sister got frostbite, and she’s like, ‘Oh, me wan go back home!’” The family had left the warm embrace of Jamaica to join their grandparents in Jamaica, Queens. But soon, the cold winters felt warmer, thanks to the tight-knit community they found.
“You can get the Jamaican stuff, the supermarket, the food, and the people,” Bolton said, highlighting the comforts of home that surrounded them. Today, the duo runs Diamond Laundromat, a hub for many customers from their native land. “You run into people every day,” Bolton added, emphasizing the sense of belonging that permeates their lives.
Celebrating Heritage at King Manor Museum
Just a stone’s throw from Jamaica Station, the King Manor Museum is currently showcasing the “Jamaica | Jamaica” exhibit. This display honors Caribbean immigrants who have significantly shaped the area. “Their culture has really influenced the streetscapes, the smells, the sounds, the flavors of the neighborhood,” said Kelsey Brow, the museum’s executive director.
Among the artifacts on display is the story of Patricia "Miss Pat" Chin, a pioneer in the music industry. “I came to New York in 1977 because there was political unrest in my country,” she shared. Settling in Jamaica, Queens, was a natural choice for her, as it reminded her of home. Her family business, VP Records, has been instrumental in bringing reggae, dancehall, and soca music to the world. “People are attracted to Jamaica because of the music,” she noted, reflecting on the cultural ties that bind the community.
The Historical Connection
Interestingly, while Jamaica and Jamaica, Queens share a name, their origins are quite different. Historians explain that “Jamaica” in New York derives from the Native American word “Yamecah,” meaning “place of the beaver pelt.” In contrast, the island’s name comes from the Taíno term for “land of wood and water.”
The 1960s marked a significant wave of Jamaican immigrants arriving in the U.S. after quota laws were lifted, bringing with them their rich culture and traditions. Borough President Donovan Richards, who has Jamaican roots, expressed pride in his heritage. “People ask me why I work so hard; it’s because I got Jamaican in my blood. We work like we got nine jobs,” he said, embodying the spirit of resilience and dedication.
A Culinary Legacy
Jamaican cuisine has also found a home in Queens, with establishments like Genesis Restaurant, run by Chef Garfield Clarke and Roy Walters. For decades, they have served oxtail, curry goat, and jerk chicken to a diverse clientele. “Jamaican people are very proud,” Walters stated. “We’re not just here for the food. We’re here to invest in the community because it has been good to us, too.”
The stories of Veniece, Tamika, and many others reflect a vibrant tapestry of culture, resilience, and community spirit. As the “Jamaica | Jamaica” exhibit continues to celebrate these narratives, one can’t help but wonder: how will the next generation of Jamaican immigrants shape the future of Queens?
