Two non-profit organizations, Crucian Heritage and Nature Tourism (CHANT) and the Society of Virgin Island Historians (SVIH) have joined resources to present a morning of learning and hands-on demonstrations Saturday, Jan. 24. There is no charge for the event, and refreshments will be served.
From 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., participants will learn how Christiansted and Frederiksted neighborhoods have changed over the years from Frandelle Gerard and Vivian Ebbesen Fludd, local historians.
Participants will also see woodworking students displaying their craft in real time. Artist and Chant instructor Afreekan Southwell has guided many students on their creative journey from beginning to end – during a 12-week course through CHANTS Building Arts Institute.
CHANT was founded in 2007 with a goal to preserve St. Croix’s heritage and culture, while promoting community workforce development based on traditional skills and heritage tourism. Previous projects include training local youth in building restoration techniques and training young adults in practical conservation skills.
In the past, CHANT has created and supported educational outreach for students and adults with classes, art shows, and meetings at the Crucian Cultural Center in Frederiksted.
SIVH was founded in 1986 and promotes the study and advancement of V.I. history with monthly ZOOM meetings and an annual conference free to the public. Annual dues are $50. They work closely with the University of the Virgin Islands and the V.I. Education Department. The organization supports and encourages research on history and culture.
Saturday’s event will be held at CHANT’s Crucian Cultural Center, 215 Custom House Street, Frederiksted. For more information, call 340-988-4147 or email vihistorians@gmail.com.
