Did you know that the entire island of St Croix is considered a National Heritage Area (NHA)? Exactly what is a NHA and why is it important to St Croix? Follow along and find out why this is such an important piece of historical legislation for St Croix and discover the benefits this designation will have on future generations of islanders living on St Croix.
When I first landed on the island a short time ago, I was completely surprised by the differences between this island and the other Virgin Islands. Each island definitively has its own unique qualities and sub-cultures. And for me, St Croix has the most diverse make-up of them all. When describing St Croix, local islanders almost universally rave that this is the island most noted for its preservation of history and culture. When you begin to peel back the many diverse layers of St Croix, you find an island deserving of the National Heritage Area label.
The quest to become an NHA started nearly 20 years ago with former Delegate to Congress Donna Christensen getting authorization to conduct a 200-page feasibility study for the NHA designation for St Croix. In true “island-time” form, the study was completed in 2010. Volunteer efforts continued for years trying to keep the push alive for the NHA quest. Patience is a virtue that was rewarded when the current Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett successfully reintroduced the bill in 2021. The rest as they say “is history”…the island of St Croix got its NHA designation in December of 2022.
In the exciting start of 2023, St. Croix proudly achieved the esteemed title of being designated a National Heritage Area (NHA). But what exactly does that mean? National Heritage Areas are special places designated by Congress where the convergence of natural, cultural, and historic resources creates a cohesive and nationally significant landscape. These areas serve as captivating narratives that celebrate our nation’s diverse heritage.
In 2022, Congress passed the National Heritage Act, establishing a formal system for America’s NHAs and designating seven new areas, including the illustrious St. Croix in the United States Virgin Islands. This legislative action recognizes the profound importance of these areas and signifies their exceptional value in preserving and sharing our nation’s history and heritage.
For St. Croix, this designation as a National Heritage Area signifies that the island possesses a remarkable combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. It is an acknowledgment that St. Croix’s landscapes and resources hold stories that are integral to the fabric of our nation’s diverse past. From the intertwining narratives of indigenous communities to the arrival of European settlers, from the hardships of slavery to the triumphs of emancipation, and the merging of global cultures to the vibrant art forms and traditions that have emerged—St. Croix encapsulates a multifaceted heritage worth cherishing.
As a National Heritage Area, St. Croix joins the ranks of other distinguished regions across the country that have been officially recognized for their unique contributions to our collective history. This designation encourages the preservation and appreciation of St. Croix’s captivating narrative and raises awareness of the island’s cultural treasures, attracting visitors who seek to explore, learn, and immerse themselves in its rich heritage.
St. Croix’s journey as a National Heritage Area marks a significant milestone, solidifying its status as a destination where nature, culture, and history intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. It is an invitation to embark on a transformative journey, where visitors can witness the breathtaking landscapes, engage with the vibrant local communities, and discover the profound stories that shape our nation’s identity.
Being designated as a National Heritage Area (NHA) brings a host of valuable benefits to St. Croix. As an NHA, the island becomes eligible for a range of long-term advantages overseen and coordinated by the National Park Service (NPS). These benefits include Congressionally authorized matching funds, technical assistance, and a robust partnership with the NPS, opening up new avenues for collaboration and support.
One significant advantage is the potential to receive annual funding of up to $1 million over the period of the next 10 years. This financial support enables St. Croix to pursue and implement various initiatives that promote community development, conservation, and preservation of its natural, cultural, and historical resources.
Beyond the direct funding, being an NHA yields numerous other advantages. The designation generates positive impacts within the local community, fostering a sense of pride and appreciation for the island’s heritage and encouraging active involvement in its preservation. It also raises the profile of St. Croix as a significant cultural tourism destination, attracting visitors who are eager to explore and experience the island’s captivating history and unique landscapes.
Furthermore, as an NHA, St. Croix gains access to technical assistance and expertise provided by the NPS. This invaluable support aids in the effective management and sustainable development of the island’s protected sites, ensuring their long-term viability and the continued transmission of their natural, historical, and cultural heritage to future generations.
In summary, the benefits of being designated as an NHA extend far beyond financial resources. St. Croix’s newfound status unlocks opportunities for community enhancement, conservation efforts, and partnership with the NPS, resulting in the preservation, celebration, and responsible utilization of the island’s extraordinary natural and cultural assets. And it’s pretty cool to be able to say that your entire island has the distinct honor of being designated as a National Heritage Area…well deserved.
Beautiful and deserving! We do enjoy unique and fascinating history and culture. However, we have seen a decline in expressive dancing in the parades. We do keep our quadrille, bamboula, dances with European and African heritage alive. Troupe dancing that we are witnessing in festival/Carnival parades is NOT how our forefathers, Indigenous, and Europeans settler danced. That is not cultural dancing. Parades are not what families use to enjoy – many express embarrassment and refuse to go to parades that were once so enjoyable! We need help in this area! Our people are beautiful and graceful dancers. A complete NHA should include public events like parades, et al!………….. . (If I sound desperate, it’s because I am).
Thank you for your wonderful articles about our beautiful island. Truly enjoyable and make us proud!
Thank you for your kind words. I try the best I can to capture the culture and history of this beautiful island and I agree that the NHA should (and probably could) include public events like the one I attended tonight in their allocated budget. It was part of the Folklife Fest series called “A Presentation of the Cultural of Quelbe Music” presented by a Dr Lawrence Larson. It was beautiful event held at Fort Frederik that gave a historical picture of all the different layers of song and dance native to St Croix dating back to the mid-1,600’s. I love the historical expression of song and dance ingrained into the cultural fiber of St Croix…it is very unique to this island.
I’m so glad I read this article. I’m so proud of our rich history. Thank you for the information.