| St. Croix is 84 square miles, making it the largest of
the three U.S. Virgin Islands. The East End of the island is technically the
easternmost point of the United States. St. Croix is a marvelous island,
particularly the West End and inland portions of the island. This East Side
is rocky and somewhat desolate, not overly friendly to the prospective
traveler. However, the rest of the island is magnificent, with lush forests
and gorgeous beaches. The beautiful rain forest in the center of the island
houses dangling lianas, mango groves, mahogany trees, and exotic ferns.
Rolling hills and pastures can also be found on the island, making it an
incredibly diverse and life-filled environment. Hiking and exploring on St.
Croix are two of the island's best features. You are sure to encounter some
interesting plant and animal life on one of your hiking excursions.
Christopher Columbus named this island Santa Cruz (Holy Cross). He docked
here on November 14, 1493 and anchored the ship off the north shore of the
island. However, he did not stay long, because the inhabitants then were not
anywhere near as friendly as the locals nowadays. When he landed, Carib
Indians launched arrows, spears, and axes his way, quickly driving Columbus
and his crew away. We can rest assured that the Caribs were not going to
stand for a second Thanksgiving. In 1650, the French claimed the island, and
they ruled St. Croix until 1773 when it was purchased by the Danes. The
Danes ruled until the end of the 19th century, and sugarcane and
slavery made the island a strong and profitable economic center during their
rule. Still to this day, Danish influence can be detected all around this
island paradise. |
