Fort Christian

Fort Christian, the oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands, was designated a National Historical Landmark in 1977. The imposing fort with walls 3 to 6 feet thick was built between 1672 and 1680. It served as the administrative center of the island, the residence of the first Governors and the official place of worship. Between 1724 and 1735 it was expanded and continued to function as a government building. By the late 1800s the role shifted. The upper level of the fort served as the islands’ prison from 1874-1983! Fort Christian Museum was established in 1971 in the downstairs area of the fort with exhibits of old photos, antique furniture and artifacts. In 2017, following a decade-long closure for renovations, the fort triumphantly reopened its doors to commemorate the Transfer Day centennial.