Penis keepsakes take over craft markets

The infamous Ready Freddie -- the wood carving from Fern Gully, St Ann, to which a large, erect and oversized penis has been affixed -- has now spawned many children, some of which are now made in China and sent to Jamaica where they are passed off as authentic local craft items.

Similar to the Freddie Jrs that began lining a section of the scenic stretch in the resort town of Ocho Rios, miniature 'Jamaican men' boasting oversized members have taken over the stalls in some of the island's craft markets.

Walford ' Shorty Forbes, a Trelawny craft vendor, told THE STAR that the items, painted with Jamaican colours and boasting disproportionately-sized phallic objects that protrude from the pelvic area, are purchased from Asian dealers and then sold in the craft markets. He said that the 'Made in China' labels are removed from the items to ensure they appear authentically Jamaica.

According to Forbes, the items are highly sought after by tourists who visit the craft market on Seaboard Street in Falmouth.

"Almost all of us in here sell them, and both men and women buy them. Some women hide from their husbands while others are open," Shorty told THE STAR yesterday.

The craft trader of 30 years said that in his sales pitch to the women, "I tell them how it will never go soft ... Most times they are dying with laughter".

Betty, another vendor, said that while she does not enjoy selling the miniature Freddies, she can't ignore the economic realities.

"We have to sell what is on demand. When Missa Hylton [Mark Hylton Port Manager - The Port Authority of Jamaica] come for his rent, him not listening to any problem we face. So we sell what can make a sale for us to pay the rent and eat a food," Betty said.

Kelly, who in addition to having miniature Freddies among her craft items, showed off a phallic shaped bottle opener. She does not like the fact that the paining and presentation gives the appearance that it is part of brand Jamaica's products.

"We are much more than sex. Look how many wonderful things we have in Jamaica," she said.