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

Step back in time at Annaberg Sugar Plantation, explore the ruins, and learn about the history of sugar production and slavery on St. John.

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Explore the ruins of the 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 estate. Wander through the remains of the windmill, factory, and slave quarters while learning about the sugar production process.

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.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the entire site.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Maho Bay or Leinster Bay.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cruz Bay, drive east on North Shore Road for approximately 20 minutes. Pass Maho Bay and follow the road as it curves. Keep left at the junction towards Annaberg. Turn right when you reach the water, and the parking lot 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 recommended to arrange transportation back, as taxis may not regularly pass by the plantation. A one-way taxi ride from Cruz Bay to Annaberg costs approximately $20-$30.

  • Public Transport

    Buses 108 and 109 stop near Annaberg Historic District. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the plantation. A one-way fare is around $1-3.

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Discover more about Annaberg Sugar Plantation

The Annaberg Sugar Plantation, located on the northeastern side of St. John, is a preserved historical site that offers visitors a poignant look into the island's past. Established during the Danish colonial era, Annaberg was once a thriving sugar plantation, one of the largest on St. John, producing sugar, molasses, and rum for export. Today, the plantation's ruins are protected by the Virgin Islands National Park, serving as a reminder of the island's complex history. Visitors can explore the remnants of the sugar factory, including the windmill tower, which was among the largest in the islands. The self-guided trail leads past the ruins of slave quarters, offering insight into the lives of the over 600 enslaved Africans who toiled under brutal conditions. As you walk through the grounds, imagine the back-breaking labor involved in clearing the land, planting and harvesting sugarcane, and processing it into sugar. The site provides a somber reflection on the injustices of the past, encouraging visitors to recognize and learn from this difficult history. The views from Annaberg are spectacular, overlooking Leinster Bay, the Narrows, and the British Virgin Islands.

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