Alexander Hamilton's Christiansted

18th Century Christiansted

University of Copenhagen

Quick Facts

MANAGED BY:

Government of the US Virgin Islands

Company Street - Life and Loss

Along this street, in buildings that no longer stand, Alexander Hamilton spent part of his childhood.

Soon after arriving in Christiansted, Rachel and James Hamilton separated. James returned to Nevis and did not come back. Rachel was left to raise her sons on her own.

She supported her family by running a small store nearby. The shop was on the ground floor, with living space above. At times, the family moved between different buildings along this street.

Life was uncertain, but Rachel worked to provide for her children.

In 1768, tragedy struck. Rachel became ill with yellow fever and died at just 38 years old.

As you stand here, think about what that meant for her sons. In a place far from home, with little support, their lives changed forever.