The Department of Planning and Natural Resources has secured a $750,000 federal grant to support critical preservation and restoration at the Fort Frederik National Historic Landmark Site Museum in Frederiksted, Commissioner Jean-Pierre L. Oriol announced in a press release Tuesday.
The funding comes from the National Park Service’s Semi-Quincentennial Grant Program, a competitive initiative established by Congress in 2020 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The program supports restoration of sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places that reflect the nation’s founding history, according to the press release.
Fort Frederik played a pivotal role during the American Revolution, serving as a safe harbor for trade while the island was still under Danish rule. Merchants and planters from St. Croix maintained strong connections to the thirteen colonies, contributing profits from sugar and rum exports to support military operations and sustain the Continental Army, the press release stated.
According to the release, the grant will fund a three-year project that includes roof repairs, masonry and plaster restoration of the fort’s walls, stables and bell tower, electrical and plumbing upgrades, improved security systems, new guardrails and accessibility enhancements. Work is expected to begin in late December or early January 2026.
“We are thrilled to receive this funding to restore Fort Frederik Museum,” Oriol said. “This site is a cornerstone of our cultural heritage, and DPNR remains committed to preserving historic landmarks for future generations.”
For more information, residents may contact Amy Parker DeSorbo, DLAM director, at amy.desorbo@dpnr.vi.gov or Monica Marin, territorial curator, at monica.marin@dpnr.vi.gov.
