News Release

Christiansted National Historic Site Announces Preservation Work in Fort Christiansvaern

Date: April 30, 2025
Contact: Edward Kahle
Contact: Dan Ritter

Christiansted National Historic Site Announces Preservation Work in Fort Christiansvaern 
CHRISTIANSTED, VI. – Christiansted National Historic Site and the National Park’s Historic Preservation Training Center will be undertaking an extensive restoration of the ravelin, the gundeck and the lower levels of Ft. Christiansvaern. The ravelin, or courtyard like area inside the main entrance doors of the fort will see a transformation to better resemble its appearance in 1816, while adding grassy areas back that will enhance the guest experience. In addition to the ravelin, the upper gundeck will be restored with the intent to alleviate water leakage into the lower rooms of the fort. 

The repairs will be conducted in phases, with the fort remaining open to the public throughout the project, which is scheduled to begin on May 5, 2025 and is expected to conclude by mid-August. Fort Christiansvaern will remain open to the public while the work progresses, however guests may experience detours and see and hear construction work while touring the fort. 

In a joint statement, Christiansted National Historic Site Superintendent, Angelita Alvino and Historic Preservation Training Center Supervisory Exhibit Specialist Daniel Ritter said, “ensuring the continued preservation of the places entrusted to us is a top priority of the National Park Service. We also look to return sites to their original looks and feels. This project accomplishes both while ensuring the continued preservation of this cherished site for this and all future generations.”

About Christiansted National Historic Site:    Christiansted National Historic Site, known locally as the gem of the Caribbean, preserves the historic structure and grounds within its boundaries and interprets the Danish economy and way of life in Christiansted between 1733 and 1917. Rich and vibrant history abounds centered around colonial administration, the military and naval establishment, international trade and enslaved people, architecture, skilled artisanship and crime and punishment. The park consists of seven acres centered on the Christiansted waterfront with five historic structures for visitors to view and enjoy: Fort Christiansvaern, the Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse, the Steeple Building, Danish Custom House, and the Scale House. Visitors are encouraged to tour the grounds while enjoying a picnic lunch and majestic ocean views. No place in the Caribbean still demonstrates the architectural, economic, and political influence of Europe like Christiansted National Historic Site.