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Annaberg Sugar Plantation: A Window into St. John's History

Discover the ruins of Annaberg Sugar Plantation on St. John, a historic landmark offering insights into the island's colonial past and the lives of enslaved people.

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Explore the ruins of Annaberg Sugar Plantation, a historic site on St. John, USVI, offering a glimpse into the island's Danish colonial past and the lives of enslaved Africans who worked the land. Wander through the remains of the windmill, factory, and slave quarters, and learn about the sugar-making process and the plantation's impact on the island's culture and economy.

A brief summary to Annaberg Sugar Plantation

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, as there is limited shade.
  • Allow at least one hour to explore the site thoroughly.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Leinster Bay for snorkeling or hiking.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available. The ride to Annaberg Plantation takes approximately 20 minutes along North Shore Road. Taxi fare is around $20 for one person or $14 per person for two or more. Confirm the rate with the driver before departing. Be aware that taxis may not be readily available at Annaberg for the return trip, so arrange for a pick-up time in advance or call a taxi service.

  • Car

    From Cruz Bay, follow North Shore Road (Route 20) east. The drive to Annaberg Plantation is approximately 20 minutes. Pass Maho Bay and continue until you see signs for Annaberg. Turn right onto the Leinster Bay Road and follow it to the parking area. Parking is free. Note that the road can be narrow and winding in some sections.

  • Public Transport

    Buses 108 and 109 can be used to reach Annaberg Historic District. However, public transportation to Annaberg can be challenging, as buses may not run directly to the site. Check the bus schedules and routes in advance. From the bus stop, there may be a short walk to the plantation entrance.

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Discover more about Annaberg Sugar Plantation

Annaberg Sugar Plantation, located on the northeastern side of St. John, is a significant historical landmark that offers a poignant glimpse into the island's past. The plantation, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, stands as a reminder of the Danish colonial era and the sugar boom that shaped the island's economy. Originally established in the 1720s and 1730s, Annaberg grew to become one of St. John's largest sugar producers, exporting sugar, molasses, and rum. The plantation's operations relied heavily on the labor of enslaved Africans, who toiled under brutal conditions. At its peak, over 600 enslaved individuals worked at Annaberg, planting, harvesting, and processing sugarcane. Today, visitors can explore the partially restored ruins of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, which is protected by the Virgin Islands National Park. A self-guided tour leads you through the remains of the sugar factory, windmill tower, animal mill, and slave quarters, providing insights into the lives of those who lived and worked there. Informative signs and placards offer historical context and explain the sugar-making process. The views from Annaberg are spectacular, overlooking Leinster Bay, the Narrows, the Sir Francis Drake Channel, and the British Virgin Islands. The site serves as a monument to human resilience and a reminder of the injustices of the past, encouraging reflection on the legacies of slavery and colonialism.

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