For generations, many citizens longed for a public library in the Virgin Islands! With the generous help of the Red Cross, the first public library opened its doors on December 10, 1920. The opening ceremony took place at the Bethany Mission House. Afterward, the congregation walked over to the Grand Hotel (Top floor) to see the […]
Celebrations 🎉
Peruvian Independence Celebrated ~ 1916
During the history of the Danish West Indies, the honoring of Peruvian Independence was an important commemoration. 🇵🇪 The History of Peruvian Independence In 1821, General Jose de San Martin organized a plan to defeat Spanish forces by taking control of Lima, Peru. He won and became known as Peru’s liberator. Since that day, the Peruvian Independence holiday […]
Celebrating July 4th ~ 1930s
July 4th is the most significant day in the history of America!🇺🇸 Colonists from thirteen states, having outlined their list of grievances as to why they no longer wished to remain under King George III’s suppressive rule, created a new allegiance to form the United States of America. On this day in 1776, Congress officially approved the final text of […]
How St. Thomas Honored the Longest Serving Veteran Postman ~ 1903
Recently, several friends on Facebook have wondered about the identity of a Veteran Postman seen in this postcard image above. Mystery Postman Identified! While researching another topic, I stumbled upon the postman’s name in an old newspaper! He is Mr. Joseph Lorand, the longest-serving postal service worker in the Danish West Indies! Receiving an Honorary Award […]
GRUNDLOV Constitution Celebrated! ~ 1914
The Grundlov Celebration ON THIS DAY in 1914, the Grundlov celebration took place at the Apollo theatre in St. Thomas. This historic celebration marked the granting of a new Constitution for Denmark and the Danish West Indies! Hundreds attended the meeting wearing their red and white badges, in what was, the first patriotic celebration of its kind. History of Denmark’s Constitution Mr. […]
A Visit by Queen Margrethe II of Denmark ~ 1976
Queen Margrethe II Queen Margrethe II and her family’s visit to the islands was a monumental event for many! I remember her arrival which was on May 28, 1976. The Queen was the first ruling monarch of Denmark to visit the islands stopping at St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. Everyone was excited to extend a hearty welcome to them! […]
Dedicating the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Park ~ 1945
Dedicating the Roosevelt Memorial Park Years ago, the Coconut Grove Park was the location of many agricultural fairs, celebrations and even the location for the circus when it came to town. Now, hundreds gathered to celebrate I am an American Day and rededicate the park to the former President, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The date was […]
How the Catholic Community Celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the Order of the Redemptorists’ Fathers ~ 1958
From Rt to Lt, Sister Cecelia (Kindergarten teacher, Sister Maria Rose, 1st-grade teacher, Sister Anita Agnes. Far left is Sister Frances Maureen, 2nd from left is Sister Maria Agnes and 3rd from left is Sister Marita. Photo © 1958 Ed Hagan The Catholic Community On May 12, 1958, the Catholic community celebrated its 100th anniversary of the arrival […]