St Thomas Virgin Islands Jewish History

Looking for a journey through the rich Jewish history of St. Thomas? This tour will guide you through key landmarks and stories that highlight the contributions and heritage of the island’s Jewish community.

Stop 1: Beracha Veshalom Vegmiluth Hasidim Synagogue

  • Location: Crystal Gade, Charlotte Amalie
  • Overview: Founded in 1796 and rebuilt in 1833, this is the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere in continuous use.
  • Highlights:
    • Sand-covered floors, symbolizing secret worship during the Inquisition.
    • West Indian architectural style with mahogany furnishings.
    • The active congregation welcomes visitors and offers a small museum.

Tip: Take a moment to appreciate the serene atmosphere and explore the museum for artifacts and stories of the Jewish community.

Stop 2: The Jewish Cemetery

  • Location: On the western edge of Charlotte Amalie.
  • Overview: Established in the 18th century, this cemetery holds the remains of the island’s earliest Jewish settlers.
  • Highlights:
    • Tombstones with inscriptions in Hebrew, Spanish, and English.
    • Unique designs reflecting Sephardic traditions and Caribbean influences.

Tip: Respect the sacred space, and take note of the multicultural influences on the inscriptions.

Stop 3: Historic Jewish Homes and Businesses

  • Location: Stroll along Main Street (Dronningens Gade) and nearby alleys.
  • Overview: Many Jewish families contributed to St. Thomas’s economic growth as merchants and traders.
  • Highlights:
    • 18 Dronningens Gade.

    Once owned by Max E. Trepuk, a Lithuanian Jewish immigrant, this site is historically significant. Max joined his brother Isaac in the dry-goods business at the turn of the 19th century. Known for his integrity, Max became a respected merchant and served as the Consul to Portugal. He was among the first to distribute alcohol post-Prohibition, highlighting his entrepreneurial spirit and impact on the island’s economy. source

    • Learn about the historical significance of prominent families like the Maduro and de Castro clans.

Tip: Visit local shops and imagine the bustling trade that once defined this area.

Stop 4: Fort Christian

  • Location: Eastern edge of Charlotte Amalie.
  • Overview: While not explicitly Jewish, Fort Christian reflects the era in which Sephardic Jews first arrived on the island. They were welcomed as settlers and traders by the Danish colonial government.
  • Highlights:
    • Museum exhibits showcasing life in the 18th and 19th centuries.
    • Insight into the role of Jewish settlers in St. Thomas’s multicultural society.

Tip: Pair this visit with the synagogue for a broader context of the island’s history.

Stop 5: Local Art and Culture

  • Location: Downtown Charlotte Amalie
  • Overview: Modern Jewish life and history are celebrated in local art galleries, cultural centers, and festivals.
  • Highlights:
    • Purchase handmade crafts inspired by Sephardic traditions.
    • Enjoy festivals and events featuring Jewish-Caribbean culture.