About Our Town Frederiksted, Inc.
Welcome to Our Town Frederiksted, Inc. (OTF), a keystone of hope and dedication in the heart of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, and one of the leading Frederiksted-focused nonprofits on the island. Established in 1988, OTF has been a steadfast advocate for community empowerment and historic preservation, proactively addressing the needs and aspirations of Frederiksted’s Historic District.
Frederiksted’s journey is a narrative of resilience and recovery, underscored by its revolutionary spirit and commitment to freedom, epitomized by the 1848 slave revolt that led to the emancipation of slaves on the island. The town endured a severe setback in 1989 with Hurricane Hugo’s destructive passage, which left profound scars. Yet, it was through these challenges that Our Town Frederiksted solidified its role as an advocate of the community.
Our mission at Our Town Frederiksted is focused and unwavering: to revitalize the entirety of Frederiksted, nurturing its people, businesses, and infrastructure. We strive to be the premier conduit for community outreach, bridging the gap between the town’s goals and the necessary resources to fulfill them. Our primary objective is to foster sustainable growth and invigorate the local economy through strategic leadership, aiming for a revitalized and thriving Frederiksted.
Vision
Our vision is to be the lead advocate for community development and transformation of the town of Frederiksted and its outlying areas. With a deep commitment to preserving our rich history and fostering growth, OTF aspires to be at the forefront of Frederiksted’s journey towards renewal and prosperity.
At Our Town Frederiksted, Inc., we believe in the power of unity and the potential for positive change. Join us in our mission to rekindle the spirit of Frederiksted and write the next chapter in its remarkable story. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant community where the past is honored, the present thrives, and the future shines brightly.
History
Nestled on the leeward side of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Frederiksted is not just a town; it’s a living museum of rich history and vibrant culture. Known affectionately as “Freedom City” by locals, Frederiksted is a testament to resilience, revolution, and rebirth.
Designed in the 18th century by surveyor Jens Beckfor, Frederiksted was conceptualized as a 14×14 block grid to bolster island commerce but realized as a 7×7 grid, balancing ambition with the serene beauty of its surroundings. Today, fewer than 1,000 residents call Frederiksted proper home, yet its influence stretches across the greater western side of the island, impacting nearly 10,000 lives.
Historically, Frederiksted has been a witness to significant events. It was here in 1848 that Moses Gottlieb, known as “General Buddhoe,” led a march that culminated in the emancipation of slaves in the Danish West Indies, forever changing the course of history. The proclamation at Fort Frederik, a fortress built to protect the town and named after Frederick V of Denmark, marked Frederiksted as a crucible of freedom.
But the spirit of Frederiksted did not stop with emancipation. In 1878, during the Labor Revolt, the town’s workers demanded fair wages, leading to a transformative fire that resulted in the rebuilding of Frederiksted with Victorian architectural flair. This spirit of transformation and resilience is palpable in every street and structure of the town.
The Frederiksted Historic District encapsulates over 250 years of political and social history, showcasing buildings that speak of a past marked by struggle and triumph. The town’s design, characterized by low buildings with overhanging galleries supported by slender wood posts, reflects building codes of a bygone era, yet resonates with the timeless allure of the Caribbean.
Architecturally, Frederiksted stands out for its eclectic mix, ranging from early Danish military and neo-classical designs to late Victorian residential buildings, with notable instances of English Gothic Revival and Georgian styles. The town’s 20th-century commercial edifices also contribute to its architectural diversity.
Significant cultural landmarks in Frederiksted include the Fort Frederik Museum, established in 1760 as a deterrent against smuggling and to safeguard the community. Nearby, the Lawaetz Museum, set on a former sugar plantation and later a cattle farm, along with the Whim Plantation Museum, provide insights into the agrarian lifestyle and historical dynamics of the territory.
Frederiksted’s deep-water port, the primary entry point for cruise ships to the island, adds to its economic and cultural significance. The orderly town plan, with its historically named streets and essential rainwater catchments, highlights the practical and resilient nature of its founders and residents.
In Frederiksted, history is not just a series of past events but a continuous thread that weaves through the town’s everyday life, shaping its identity and future. Our Town Frederiksted invites you to explore this historic town, where every street and building reflects the enduring spirit and rich heritage of this remarkable community in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Preserving and Revitalizing Frederiksted
At Our Town Frederiksted, we are dedicated to the dual mission of preserving the historical integrity and revitalizing the vibrant community of Frederiksted, St. Croix. Our efforts are rooted in a deep respect for the town’s rich history and a forward-looking vision for its sustainable future.
Honoring Our Heritage
Frederiksted’s unique past, from its establishment in 1751 to its pivotal role in significant historical events, is a treasure we are committed to safeguarding. We work tirelessly to maintain and restore the town’s architectural gems, from the imposing Fort Frederik to the charming Victorian-era buildings that line our streets. Our preservation projects aim not only to protect these historical landmarks but also to educate both locals and visitors about the town’s cultural and historical significance.
Fostering Community Growth
Revitalization is key to ensuring that Frederiksted is not merely a relic of the past but a living, thriving community. Our initiatives focus on economic development, enhancing public spaces, and improving the quality of life for residents. We support local businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, and facilitate the hosting of cultural events that bring the community together. By investing in infrastructure and community programs, we aim to create a vibrant and sustainable future for Frederiksted.
Collaborative Efforts for a Brighter Future
Our work is a collaborative endeavor, involving partnerships with local government, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and the people of Frederiksted. Together, we are working to create a balanced approach to development that respects our heritage while embracing progress. Our projects, from restoring historic buildings to promoting cultural tourism, are designed to benefit the entire community.
Join Us in Our Mission
We invite you to join us in our mission to preserve and revitalize Frederiksted. Whether you are a resident, a visitor, or a supporter of cultural preservation and community development, your involvement is crucial to our success. Through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, you can help ensure that Frederiksted remains a vibrant and cherished part of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
In Our Town Frederiksted, we believe in honoring our past while building our future, ensuring that the town remains a beacon of culture, history, and community vitality for generations to come.
