St Croix — from Celebrity Today
Measuring more than 84 square miles [~217 sq km], St Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands and the most eastern part of the United States. This quaint, picturesque island is brimming with history and beauty. From historical forts, churches, old Danish government buildings, plantations to the site of Columbus’ landing, St Croix has much to offer.
Located just 19 miles (~30 km) south of St Thomas, locals here simply live a more relaxed lifestyle than their northerly neighbors, and live a peaceful existence compared to the residents of St Croix’s chaotic past.
Brief History
When Columbus, on his second journey west, first anchored his ship off Salt River Point on November 14, 1493, he quickly learned that the warlike and cannibalistic Carib tribesmen already considered this island their home. He was driven away, but not before naming the island with its Spanish name ”Santa Cruz.” The Caribs maintained control of the island briefly, before losing it to the Europeans.
Over the next 300 years, control of the island changed repeatedly during violent exchanges between the powers of Spain, England, France, and Holland. In 1773, the island was purchased by the Danes, marking the beginning of a golden era for both planters and pirates. Huge sugar plantations developed and prospered until the end of slavery was decreed on July 3, 1848.
During World War I, the United States feared German activity in the Caribbean, and wanted to protect its shipping interests through the just-completed Panama Canal. In 1917, the US purchased its Virgin Islands from Denmark at a cost of $25 million.
Next Up: What We Did in St Croix
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