St. Croix Designated a National Heritage Area: What It Means and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever spent time on St. Croix—whether you were born and raised here, recently relocated, or just visited once and never forgot it—you already know there’s something truly special about this island. In 2023, that feeling was officially recognized when St. Croix was designated a National Heritage Area by Congress, and let me tell you: it’s a big deal.

So what exactly does that mean? And how does it impact those of us who live here or dream of calling this island home? Let’s break it down.

A Recognition of Our Rich History and Culture

This designation didn’t just happen overnight. It’s a reflection of everything St. Croix has been, and continues to be: a place layered with stories, culture, and resilience.

From the earliest indigenous peoples to colonial rule, from slavery and emancipation to the vibrant blend of African, European, Caribbean, and American influences we see today—St. Croix has a deep and complex history. The island's food, music, dance, architecture, and even our language and traditions carry those stories forward.

What I love about this is that it acknowledges the richness of everyday life here. Whether you’re walking through Christiansted’s historic streets or attending a cultural festival, you’re part of that heritage.

What Is a National Heritage Area?

A National Heritage Area (NHA) is a region recognized by the U.S. Congress as having cultural, historic, and environmental importance to the nation. Unlike national parks, NHAs aren’t owned or managed by the federal government. Instead, they rely on partnerships between local organizations, residents, and national entities to preserve, share, and celebrate their unique stories.

For St. Croix, it means:

• National recognition for our cultural and historical significance.

• Opportunities for funding to support local heritage projects.

• Increased tourism from visitors interested in cultural and educational travel.

• Empowerment for locals to tell our stories, protect our landscapes, and shape how our culture is shared with the world.

It’s Not Just About the Past—It’s About the Future

What excites me most is what this could mean going forward.

This designation opens doors for educational programs, community-based tourism, historical preservation, and even job creation. It can help preserve the rainforests in places like La Grange, support cultural festivals, and maintain historical buildings and landmarks that make St. Croix feel like home.

We’re not a cookie-cutter destination—and this designation celebrates that. It helps ensure our heritage isn’t just remembered—it’s protected, supported, and woven into our future growth.

How This Impacts Life on the Island

Whether you’re raising kids here, investing in real estate, or simply soaking up the sunshine, this heritage designation adds value to daily life.

➡️ For residents: It’s a chance to be part of a larger conversation about how we preserve and promote what makes St. Croix unique.

➡️ For businesses: Especially those in tourism, hospitality, and the arts, this could bring new visibility and customers.

➡️ For buyers and investors: This recognition adds long-term value to properties and neighborhoods with cultural and historical appeal.

And for those of us who just love calling this place home—it’s a reminder that the world sees what we’ve always known: St. Croix is worth celebrating.

Come Be a Part of It

Whether you’ve been here for generations or are just discovering what makes St. Croix so unforgettable, this designation is something we can all be proud of. It’s a moment to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the future.

If you’ve been thinking about making St. Croix your home—or investing in its future—I’d love to help. There’s never been a better time to plant roots in a place that’s finally getting the national recognition it deserves.

Let’s talk about your goals and how I can help you find your place in St. Croix’s next chapter.