The St. John Historical Society will explore the history of Hassel Island at its monthly presentation at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 8, at the Bethany Moravian Church Hall. St. Thomas Historical Trust Hassel Island Task Force Chairman Charles Consolvo will discuss the trust’s efforts to preserve the historic island in Charlotte Amalie’s harbor. Consolvo’s presentation will be followed by an exclusive screening of a brand-new, 25-minute video on the history of Hassel Island, created by renowned local videographer Erik Miles. Members and friends are welcome to attend.
On Saturday, Jan. 12, SJHS members are invited to a three-hour tour of the historic island led by Laurel Brannick-Bigrigg of the V.I. National Park. She will guide hikers through the Creque Marine Railway, the leprosarium, Fort Shipley, the officers’ quarters, Hazzel Cemetery and Careening Cove. The hike will continue on to Fort Willoughby. Hikers will be transported from Frenchtown to Hassel Island by SeaTow for a cost of $6 per person round trip, departing at 9 a.m. and returning to St. Thomas no later than 2 p.m.
Members interested in attending should e-mail Robin Swank at robinlynnswank@gmail.com. To sign up to become a member of the SJHS for just $20, visit www.stjohnhistoricalsociety.org.
