Frederiksted, St. Croix USVI
There’s so much to be found out about St. Croix that one may not know exactly where to begin. Perhaps you should make your first stop the historically rich town of Frederiksted, St. Croix. Beyond just the incredible fort --for which the town derives its namesake-- there’s an abundance of information, excitement, and fun to be had by all in this quaint old hamlet.
Fort Frederik, constructed to protect the town from pirates, is the centerpiece of Frederiksted, but, but certainly not its only interesting feature. There as a labor revolt led by four Crucian female laborers demanding rights for those doing all the heavy lifting and not getting properly treated or compensated for their work. Known as “The Fireburn” of 1878 --because arson was used to send their point across-- this marks the first major revolt in Frederiksted history that lead to the need for renovation.
This small town has a more laid back approach to its lifestyle than the bigger town of Christiansted; however, that’s not to imply that there isn’t an overwhelming amount of incredible features about the town. Carnival is a big part of the town’s culture. There’s also a big to do whenever cruise ships dock in the deepwater port of Frederiksted.
The town is outlined in a seven street by seven street designs, making it perfect for a town hosting about 732 people (according to the 2000 census). There is a plethora of historical sites worthy of note in Frederiksted, including the illustrious St. Patricks Catholic Church. There’s also the primary school and the Customs House. The Customs House is of particular interest because of the amount of historical richness to be found at the site. Because sailors would stop into the Custom House to pay their taxes, it’s definitely a place that can provide an incredible historical context for this St. Croix town.
You must also take the time to roam the exquisite Emancipation Park. Not only is the park completely surrounded and inhabited by beautiful flowers and plant life, the park itself is home to historical statues and monuments that attest to the rich history of Frederiksted. This park honours the leader of the brave slaves who revolted on Fort Frederik, General Buddhoe. It also is also a site created to commemorate the proclamation of Governor Peter von Scholten to emancipate the slaves in 1848.
Frederiksted is a small town, quaint and quiet. However, it does hold a rich history that can’t be denied. The buildings tell the stories of heroes of the past and give a guide to the new visionaries of the future. The town also hosts some of the most beautiful plant life that you’ll ever see on St. Croix. No matter if you’re interested in the historical aspect of the town or you just want to take a tour of the natural beauty of Frederiksted, there’s so much to drink in and so much that you can take away with you as you say goodbye to this small St. Croix haven.