How St. Thomas Became Known as a City of Music and Laughter ~ 1892

A City of Music and Laughter

St. Thomas made such an impression on one traveler that he dubbed the island, a City of Music and Laughter.

Here’s a letter he wrote to the editor of the local newspaper of his marvelous stay in St. Thomas and how the friendliness of the people made him feel so welcomed.

Dear Editor,

Since my arrival in your harbor four weeks ago, I have been very much interested in the study of your people, and also of the country surrounding, but more especially of your beautiful city, the metropolis of the Island.

I am no little surprised at its business possibilities, if properly handled, so as to invite capital from the United States and other countries.

The location is certainly a fine one for health and a view of the harbor and sea cannot be surpassed.

Order and Cleanliness

The order maintained is perfect as is also the sanitary arrangements for which great credit should be given to those in charge of these departments.

Many of the cities of our United States would do well to follow your good examples.

I have been with you now four weeks and have not heard a disturbance of the peace since we cast anchor in your safe and commodious bay.

A Pleasant Greeting

I think a word should be said in behalf of your efficient harbor master of the exactness with which he performs his duties and the pleasant manner in which he welcomes the weather-beaten mariner when he comes onto your port.

His pleasant greeting makes a man feel at home and I congratulate the people of St. Thomas on having such a man to attend the shipping that visits the island.

Music and Laughter

This may well be called a City of Music and Laughter, as I hear nothing but music after the setting of the sun till sleep closes my eyes for the night.

By day, we hear almost the continual laugh of mirth-loving people.

If you only had a railroad to the States, I would almost be persuaded to locate here, but a sea voyage does not quite agree with my digestion.

Excessive Fertility Everywhere

I have traveled over your mountains and through your valleys and find excessive fertility everywhere.

All you need is a little of our “Yankee” push to make the island bloom and pour money into the lap of your inhabitants.

As in every country, there is doubtless some complaint of the mode of Government, but I don’t see any trouble in that line.

The great question is the mode of working or rather of waiting all the time in the part of the laboring element of your people.

This is about the beginning of a New Year, and everybody should try and make a step in advance of the year before.

When I return to the US, I shall certainly speak well of this beautiful island.

The quaint, old ruins of large estates, picturesque views, my rambles in the extensive mango groves and many other attractive spots have been enjoyed.

I hope on my return, I will see a marked improvement in your agricultural interests, which is the soul of every country.

I remain yours ever,

A friend of St. Thomas

We sometimes don’t realize how being courteous and friendly can make such a difference in someone’s holiday!