Fort Christian is a historical fort located in Charlotte Amalie, Saint Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It was constructed by the Dano-Norwegians between 1672 and 1680, marking it as one of the earliest colonial establishments on the island. The fort played a crucial role in defense and governance during the Dano-Norwegian and later Danish administration, which lasted until 1917 when the islands were sold to the United States.
Today, Fort Christian houses the St. Thomas Museum, which showcases artifacts and art from the Dano-Norwegian period. Visitors can explore the rich history of the island through these exhibits, gaining insights into the cultural and historical significance of the Dano-Norwegian era.
In recognition of its historical significance, Fort Christian was designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1977. This designation underscores the fort's importance in the history of the U.S. Virgin Islands and its enduring legacy.
As the oldest standing structure in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Fort Christian has served various roles throughout its history. It has been a town center, a government building, and even a jail. These varied uses reflect the fort's central role in the life of the island over the centuries.
History & Anthropology Historic house Archaeology
Monday | 9:00 – 15:00 |
Tuesday | 9:00 – 15:00 |
Wednesday | 9:00 – 15:00 |
Thursday | 9:00 – 15:00 |
Friday | 9:00 – 15:00 |
Saturday | Closed |
Sunday | Closed |
St. Thomas, Forte Strade, Charlotte Amalie
No exhibitions in Fort Christian Virgin Islands Museum have been found.
Fort Christian Virgin Islands Museum has 1 rating.
Fort Christian Virgin Islands Museum, located in Charlotte Amalie, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the US Virgin Islands. The museum is housed in a historic fort, which itself is a significant attraction. Visitors appreciate the well-preserved architecture and the opportunity to explore the oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands.
The museum's exhibits cover various aspects of the islands' history, including the colonial era, slavery, and natural disasters. While some visitors find the displays informative, others mention that the exhibit space is relatively small and the information could be more comprehensive.
The fort's location in downtown Charlotte Amalie is convenient for tourists, and many enjoy the panoramic views of the harbor from the fort's walls. However, some visitors note that the museum's opening hours can be inconsistent, which can lead to disappointment.
Maintenance of the museum receives mixed reviews. Some visitors report that the facility is well-maintained, while others mention areas that could use improvement or updating.
Overall, Fort Christian Virgin Islands Museum provides a solid introduction to the area's history, but the experience may vary depending on individual expectations and the museum's condition at the time of visit.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.