Vintage Stories from the Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands History and Culture in Photographs
Valkyrien’s Band Marches Through Frederiksted ~ 1916
H.M.S. Valkyrien H.M.S. Valkyrien was a Danish ship stationed in the islands in 1915 when unrest and strikes were anticipated among the workers and uncertainty about the eventual sale of the islands to the US left everyone feeling uneasy. While anchored in St. Thomas, crew members lent their assistance during the disastrous hurricane of 1916 and […]
A Lecture by Adolph Sixto at the Apollo Theatre, After the War, What? ~ 1915
After the War, What? An Interesting Lecture by Adolph Sixto A Full House at the Apollo Theatre Adolph Sixto gave an interesting lecture at the Apollo Theatre which was filled to capacity. ~ 1915 All in attendance were eager to hear him speak on the future of the islands. Here is the account of that evening […]
Cruz Bay, From Conquest to Exploitation, A Forgotten History by David W. Knight Sr.
St. John, US Virgin Islands Cruz Bay, From Conquest to Exploitation A Forgotten History by David W. Knight Sr. For those in the islands, you can find copies of the book at Bajo El Sol Art Bar and Gallery in Mongoose Junction on St. John. For additional information and availability, here’s the Art Gallery’s website […]
St. Thomas, One of the Most Beautiful Spots in the World ~ 1905
The island of St. Thomas was my childhood home. When I came across this wonderful description of it, by Rutherford Corbin, I thought I would share it with you. St. Thomas, One of the Most Beautiful Spots “St. Thomas is one of the most beautiful spots in the world! Its harbor town of Charlotte Amalia is built across […]
The Last Will of James Thornton of Tortola Found ~ 1807
Last Will and Testament of James Thornton The online auction site, eBay offers an array of interesting historical memorabilia and sometimes rare documents relating to the British Virgin Islands can be found. Below is the last testament of one, James Thronton of Tortola. It is available for purchase for $300.00 for those interested with this […]
13 Regulations for the Teachers of the Public Schools in St. Croix ~ 1900s
Regulations for Public School Teachers
Africa Arise, An Inspirational Poem by Charles A. Emanuel ~ 1912
The following poem was found in a little book called, A Souvenir by Charles A. Emanuel from St. Thomas. ~ 1912 There are so many wonderful poems written long ago about the Virgin Islands. I love discovering them and sharing them here on the blog. Africa Arise By Charles A. Emanuel Africa arise! The dawn […]
11 Different Uses for St. Johns Bay Rum ~ 1917
Different Uses for St. Johns Bay Rum According to this old advertisement, St. Johns Bay Rum was a popular remedy for everything! It was used as fragrant toilet water, hair lotion, shampoo, shaving disinfectant, an invigorator, a headache cure, for rheumatism, dyspepsia, heartburn, protection against mosquitoes, and as a remedy for seasickness! To learn more about […]
The Loss of the Anegada Sloop, FIDDLER ~ 1906
Every time I glance through the old newspapers, I stumble upon the sad news of the loss of another inter-island boat. It’s a wonder that anyone survived to reach the ripe old age of sixty or seventy! The Loss of the Anegada Sloop, Fiddler Sadly, the sloop, Fiddler of Anegada, about two tons register, was […]
High School Reunion Sparks Appreciaton for Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and School
A Brief History of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church The history of the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church is fascinating! After learning of all the fires that have destroyed the building since its inception, the edifice that stands today is a historic landmark and a true testament to the faith and resiliency of […]