By Zienco
There are many different styles of architecture in the Virgin Islands. Forts Christian, Christianvern, and Frederik are of Danish military style.
On St. Thomas, most of the other structures in Charlotte Amalie were burned by one or more of a series of terrible fires which occurred in 1804, during the 1820s and in 1906. When homes were rebuilt many factors were considered. Merchants wanted homes to reflect their wealth. Also Renaissance architecture had a great influence in the Virgin Islands. Arcades with classical columns were popular and the classical moldings were used on doorways and windows. Government House is a good example of this Neo Classical architecture. Sloping hipped roof, helped catch necessary rain water. The most common masonry construction material was rubble made up rocks, coral and pieces of brick set in sand and lime. Brick was used by the wealthy. Another influence on the style of our buildings was the nationality of the owner. Georgian architecture, as seen in the Frederik Lutheran Church was also popular .
In Christiansted, founded in 1735, streets going toward the waterfront have shops and planter townhouses dating back to its time of prosperity, between 1755 and 1871. The street floors of these building were used as warehouses and businesses. Arched galleries provided shaded walkways along the buildings entrances. Some buildings have gateway openings to courtyards and many, are of Neo Classical design.
In Frederiksted, founded in the 1750s, there are many buildings that have Victorian architecture detailing,including Victoria House. Strand street is shaded by arched colonnades that lead to the waterfront plaza which is bordered by Fort Frederik, the Custom House, and Emancipation Park.
The residential quarters of Christiansted and Frederiksted are at the edges of the commercial centers. The houses are small one-and two- story wood structures, with hip roofs and small inner yards.
St. Croix Government House
Frederik Lutheran Church
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