Simon De La Rue rightly compares Capt William Le Lacheur with two other famous Guernsey sons, Isaac Brock and James Saumarez in his excellent article in this newspaper (Saturday 20 December).
Simon highlighted plans for a feature film to encompass the story of Capt William Le Lacheur’s effect on Costa Rica. Captain Le Lacheur’s influence reached far beyond our shores. In the mid-19th century his Guernsey-built ships helped establish Costa Rica’s coffee trade, shaping that country’s economic future. He also supported education and cultural exchange, and is widely credited with introducing football to Costa Rica. And, the subject of the film, he saved Costa Rica from invasion by filibusters who had already captured Nicaragua.
While his legacy is recognised by plaques in Guernsey, London and San Jose, his headstone in London’s Highgate Cemetery has fallen into serious disrepair and is at risk of collapse. This memorial is an important link to Guernsey’s heritage and to the many island families connected with his ships.
The Guernsey Society has launched an appeal to restore the headstone, supported by Guernsey Museums and Rafael Ortiz Fabrega, the Costa Rican Ambassador. Preserving it would ensure that Captain Le Lacheur’s story is not lost to time.
We would welcome the opportunity to share more information about the headstone’s condition and how readers can help ensure its restoration. Please email me at keith_le_page@guernsey-society.org.uk or Marguerite Talmage at margueritetalmage@gmail.com.
Keith Le Page
Chairman, Guernsey Society
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