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Annaberg Sugar Plantation: Echoes of St. John's History

Explore the ruins of an 18th-century sugar plantation in St. John, offering a glimpse into the island's history and the lives of enslaved people.

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Explore the ruins of Annaberg Sugar Plantation, a significant historical site on St. John, USVI, offering a glimpse into the island's Danish colonial past and the lives of enslaved Africans who worked the estate. Wander through the remnants of the windmill, factory, and slave quarters, set against a backdrop of stunning Caribbean scenery.

A brief summary to Annaberg Sugar Plantation

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as the site offers limited shade.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby beaches like Maho Bay or Trunk Bay.
  • Check the Virgin Islands National Park website for updated information and possible ranger-led tours.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cruz Bay, drive east along North Shore Road for approximately 20 minutes. Pass popular beaches like Trunk Bay and Maho Bay. Continue past Maho Bay, and as the road curves, keep left at the junction towards Annaberg. Turn right when you reach the water. The parking lot for Annaberg will be on your right. Parking is free.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Cruz Bay and popular beaches like Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay. It's advisable to arrange transportation back, as taxis may not regularly pass by the plantation. A one-way taxi ride from Cruz Bay to Annaberg is approximately $20-$30.

  • Public Transport

    The 108 and 109 bus lines stop near Annaberg Historic District. You may need to take a taxi or shuttle from Cruz Bay to reach the trailhead, as public buses don't run directly there. Bus schedules and availability should be checked in advance.

Unlock the Best of Annaberg Sugar Plantation

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Discover more about Annaberg Sugar Plantation

Annaberg Sugar Plantation, located on the northeastern side of St. John, is a preserved historical site that offers a poignant look into the island's past. Once a thriving sugar-producing estate during the Danish colonial era (1718-1917), Annaberg provides visitors with a glimpse into the lives of those who lived and worked there centuries ago. Established in the 18th century, Annaberg grew to become one of the largest sugar producers on St. John, also manufacturing molasses and rum for export. The plantation's name, Annaberg (Anna's Hill), is attributed to Solomon Zeeger, who named it after his wife, Anna deWindt, in 1758. The existing sugar factory began construction in 1779. The plantation operated until 1867, when economic shifts, emancipation, and natural disasters brought an end to its active period. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, including the windmill tower, factory, and former slave quarters. Interpretive signs provide context about the buildings and their uses, as well as the lives of the enslaved Africans who toiled on the plantation. The site offers panoramic views of Leinster Bay, the Narrows, and the British Virgin Islands. Today, Annaberg Plantation is part of the Virgin Islands National Park. It serves as a reminder of the island's complex history, including the violent displacement of Indigenous people, European settlement, and the enslavement of Africans.

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