Alfred Brownlow “A.B.” Place

The Bermuda Recorder’s role as a voice for black Bermudians was in large part due to the passion and commitment of A. B. Place.

A printer by trade, A.B. Place was one of five men who started the Recorder in 1925 with a £750 investment.

Many predicted the newspaper would survive for just six months, but it remained in existence for one week short of 50 years. During his 45 years with the paper, he served as manager, printer and advertising manager, and also at various times as managing editor.

The Recorder covered local and international news, chronicled social events and milestones and gave black journalists a foothold in the newspaper industry.

A.B. Place, who was inspired by Marcus Garvey, was supported in his work by his wife Julia, who helped with the business side of operations. For his contribution to journalism, A.B. Place was awarded the Queen’s Certificate and Badge of Honour in 1974.