The Heritage Library Division at NALIS is proud to feature the George Chambers Special Collection, in celebrating the life and legacy of Trinidad and Tobago’s second Prime Minister: the Honourable George Michael Chambers (4^th October, 1928 – 4^th November, 1997).

George Chambers began his political journey with the People’s National Movement (PNM). He served in several key governmental roles before succeeding Dr. Eric Williams as Prime Minister in 1981. His time as Prime Minister ran from 1981-1986, and was perceived as having a strong sense of duty and determination. He is well known for coining the phrase, “'Fete Over - Back to Work.” Among his most notable contributions was declaring 1st August as Emancipation Day. This made Trinidad and Tobago the first nation to officially recognize this day as a national holiday.

The George Chambers Special Collection offers a rare insight into both the public and personal life of this distinguished leader. The materials were generously donated by his family. The collection includes books and encyclopedias from his personal library, photographic albums, LP records reflecting his interest in music, files and documents relating to his professional career, and other memorabilia. One significant item is Chambers’ famous matchbox collection that he gathered from around the world.

Authored by: Shireen Khan, Library Assistant II, Heritage Library Division

The George Chambers Collection is available for viewing at the Heritage Library Division, 2^nd Floor, National Library Building, Port of Spain.

Come visit us at the Heritage Library Division, NALIS, to view other special collections and published resources on Trinidad and Tobago. You can also visit our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/NALISHLDTT/

Works Cited

“George Chambers.” Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, www.ttparliament.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/George-Chambers-1.pdf

Accessed 11 Nov. 2025.

Jedidiah, Angelo. “George Chambers’ Life and Legacy Memorialised at NALIS.” Trinidad Guardian, 5 Nov. 2022, https://www.guardian.co.tt/news/george-chambers-life-and-legacy-memorialised-at-nalis-6.2.1566324.be2200c99d