On the 14 May 2026, the inaugural Robert Rumble Conference brought together almost one hundred participants to explore the life, work, and legacy of Robert Rumble and the Poor Man’s Improvement and Land Settlement Association (PMILSA) at the Grace Baptist Church, May Pen, Clarendon, Jamaica.

Organised as part of the Jamaica–Wales Alliance and Learning Links International “Building Bridges of Friendship” programme, the event focused on the importance of land, labour, social justice, and community activism in Jamaican history and was supported by Learning Links International and the Society for the Study of Labour History.

The event was wide-reaching, including participants from Clarendon and across Jamaica, a Welsh delegation; the Jamaica National Heritage Trust; African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica/Jamaica Memory Bank; Clarendon Library Service; Region 7 Ministry of Education; Social Development Commission; RotOlympics Sports Community Club, as well as representatives from churches, schools and elsewhere from the Pennants Community Development Committee.

The conference opened with a prayer led by Reverend David Tucker and welcomed delegates to reflect on Robert Rumble’s contribution to the struggle for land ownership, economic opportunity, and dignity for ordinary Jamaicans. Speakers highlighted the importance of preserving local histories and ensuring that community voices remain central to understanding Jamaica’s past.

The keynote presentation was delivered by Jason Lindsay, Research Fellow at the African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica/Jamaica Memory Bank.

His presentation provided a detailed account of Robert Rumble’s leadership between 1938–1940 and the campaign that ultimately resulted in the sale of the Pennants Estate, enabling local people to acquire land and improve their living conditions. Although the planned keynote speaker, Professor Anthony Bogues, was unable to attend because of ill health, he expressed his willingness to participate in a future session.

Throughout the day, presentations explored the origins of the Poor Man’s Improvement and Land Settlement Association (PMILSA), the conditions faced by tenants and small farmers, the concentration of land ownership inherited from the plantation era, and the wider significance of the 1938 labour rebellions. 

Contributors demonstrated how Rumble’s campaign challenged long-established inequalities and contributed to lasting social change in Clarendon.

A particularly moving session featured community members and descendants. Robert Rumble’s stepdaughter displayed his Order of Distinction certificate and received a standing ovation from participants. Residents from Pennants, shared family memories and oral histories, emphasising the importance of preserving community knowledge and continuing research into the members and activities of the PMILSA.

Professor Robert A Hill, co-editor of The Teachings of Robert E. Rumble: Jamaican Peasant Leader, later joined us and presented his article he wrote in the early 1970s.

The conference also examined opportunities for heritage preservation and education. Participants discussed plans to document oral histories, develop educational materials, protect significant sites, and promote wider awareness of Clarendon’s contribution to Jamaican history. Particular support was expressed for the conservation of Robert Rumble’s grave and the development of heritage initiatives in Pennants.

Discussions highlighted the value of international partnerships, including growing collaboration between Jamaica and Wales in researching shared histories and promoting cultural understanding. Among the conference outcomes were strengthened partnerships, increased awareness of Robert Rumble’s legacy, support for further research, and commitments to develop educational and heritage projects. Delegates also passed a resolution supporting the renaming of the road near Robert Rumble’s grave and the proposed Community and Heritage Centre in his honour.

The conference concluded by reaffirming that Robert Rumble’s struggle for land, justice, and opportunity remains highly relevant today and continues to inspire future generations.

Written by Liz Millman (Jamaica-Wales Alliance and Conference Co-ordinating Group Facilitator)