Here are some of the most notable men associated with Saint Martin (both French – Saint‑Martin and Dutch – Sint Maarten sides), spanning politics, culture, and sports:
Political Leaders
- *Claude Wathey: Often called the Father of Modern Sint Maarten, he led the Dutch side for nearly 40 years and transformed it into a leading Caribbean tourism hub with expanded airport and port infrastructure. A statue in Philipsburg honors his legacy
- *Daniel Gibbs: Political leader on the French side who served as President of the Territorial Council of Saint‑Martin from 2017 to 2022, and previously served as Member of the French National Assembly
- *Louis Mussington: Since April 2022, President of the Territorial Council of the French Collectivity of Saint‑Martin; led the Rassemblement Saint‑Martin party to victory in local elections
- *Guillaume Arnell: Senator in the French Senate representing Saint‑Martin since 2014; vice-president of the Territorial Council focusing on sustainable development and urban planning
- *Louis‑Constant Fleming: Former French Senator (2008–2013) originally from Sint Maarten; the island’s main hospital is named in his honor
Arts, Music & Culture
- *Roland Richardson: Renowned painter from Saint-Martin known for vibrant impressionist works capturing the island’s landscapes and culture. Widely exhibited locally and internationally
- *Tanny & the Boys: Popular string-band ensemble from Sint Maarten preserving traditional music forms deeply rooted in the island’s heritage
Sports Figures
- *Akim Arrondell: Talented Saint-Martinois footballer and midfielder who represents FC Soualiga and the Saint-Martin national team; recognized for strong goal-scoring performances in CONCACAF qualifiers
- *Yannick Bellechasse: National team striker and scorer of a hat-trick in Nations League play; plays for Lymers FC on the Dutch side
Summary Table
| Name | Field | Notability |
|---|---|---|
| Claude Wathey | Politics (Dutch side) | Modernized Sint Maarten; long-serving local leader |
| Daniel Gibbs | Politics (French side) | Former President of Territorial Council (2017–2022) |
| Louis Mussington | Politics (French side) | Current President of Territorial Council (since 2022) |
| Guillaume Arnell | Politics (French side) | Senator, council vice-president in Martinique political structure |
| Roland Richardson | Fine Arts | Impressionist painter capturing island life |
| Tanny & the Boys | Music & Culture | Advocates of traditional Saint Martinois music |
| Akim Arrondell | Sports (Football) | Midfielder, Saint Martin national team scorer |
| Yannick Bellechasse | Sports (Football) | National striker, standout performances in CONCACAF play |
