On November 16, 1493, Christopher Columbus landed briefly on St Croix's north shore. At the time, Columbus, confused about where he and his ships actually were, believed he had discovered a passage to India. His visit marked the beginning of a long list of occupying nations who left their historical stamp on the Virgin Islands. The United States bought the Islands from Denmark in 1917; since then, St, Croix, like its sister islands, has benefited from tourism.
St. Croix has two town centers: Frederiksted and Christiansted. A portion of Christiansted is now a National Historic Site; the town also has abundant shopping opportunities. Frederiksted, also known as Freedom City, has recently become the subject of renewal efforts to help revitalize its tourist trade.
At 82 square miles of land area, St. Croix is the largest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands. Surrounded by the blue Caribbean, this island invites vacationers with its sandy beaches, tremendous views, and rich natural and human history.
