The Virgin Islands in Old Photographs This is a wonderful video posted by Etienne A. Gibbs with old photographs collected by Ronnie Lockhart. Thank you to both for keeping the island’s history at the forefront! The steel band music of “Mr. Walker” is a calypso song made famous by the Mighty Sparrow. ~ Etienne A. […]
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The New Virgin Isle Hotel ~ 1950
The Virgin Isle Hotel In 1950, when the Virgin Isle Hotel opened for the first time, it was the talk of the town. Designed by Jac Lessman, it’s architectural and interior decorations were unique to the island. First guests to the $100/day Presidential suites came from Puerto Rico. They were so delighted by the sweeping […]
Who Was David Hamilton Jackson?
D. Hamilton Jackson D. Hamilton Jackson was an important figure in the struggle for increased civil rights and worker’s rights in the Danish West Indies. When the islands were under Danish rule, Jackson traveled to Denmark to petition for better living conditions for the working class. He specifically addressed the issues of: 🗞 Lowering the […]
Creque’s Alley and the Famous Folk Band, The Mamas and the Papas
The History of Creque’s Alley Did you know that Creque’s Alley was named for the Main Street merchant, Henry O. Creque? When he purchased the three warehouse buildings and alleyways in 1905, his name became synonymous with the location. Mr. Creque was somewhat of a celebrity himself when he reputedly found treasure in the caves at […]
Why Are The Paintings By Ira Harrington Smith So Popular?
Ira Harrington Smith Have you heard of the artist, Ira Harrington Smith? Ira was a very talented painter whose prized works were extremely popular in St. Thomas. Originally from New Jersey, he moved to the islands and began painting colorful scenes of everyday life. His works featured on the cover of many magazines including the […]
Can You Name the National Flower of the US Virgin Islands?
Can you name the National Flower of the US Virgin Islands? It’s the Yellow Cedar! Sometimes it’s called Ginger Thomas, but its official name is Tecoma Stans. Growing up, we referred to this shrub as the Yellow Trumpetbush because of the shape of the flowers. They formed beautiful clusters like a bouquet. We used to […]
Take a Peek Into the Wonderful Workshop of Jim Tillet ~ 1961
Jim Tillet Are you familiar with the unique batik prints created by the artist, Jim Tillet? He made one-of-a-kind batik fabrics that became popular in the 1960s and have become highly collectible now. One browse through an online shop like eBay and you can find some of his pieces that have lasted the test of time. Some […]
Beautiful Market Square Painting by Robert F. Gates ~ 1936
Market Square, US Virgin Islands © Smithsonian American Art Museum I love discovering artwork from the Virgin Islands, especially unique pieces long forgotten! Here are several that were created in 1936 that captured the colorful and whimsical side of St. Thomas. Robert F. Gates During the summer months, Robert F. Gates and several American artists […]