The Virgin Islands Trail Alliance is proud to announce the completion of a community stewardship project centered around the historic Estate Grove Baobab Tree on St. Croix.

The completed project included a tree health assessment, the removal of destructive termite nests, refreshed paint on the protective roadside posts and chains surrounding the site, the installation of a new interpretive sign sharing the history and cultural significance of the baobab and the Estate Grove Place area, and the addition of two handcrafted benches built by young people from My Brother’s Workshop.

The interpretive sign highlights both the botanical importance of the African baobab tree and the deep historical significance of Estate Grove Place, one of St. Croix’s best known historic plantation sites and later an important location connected to the St. Croix Labor Union and David Hamilton Jackson.

Botanical information for the sign was provided by Olasee Davis of the University of the Virgin Islands. Historical information was provided by George Tyson of the VI State Historic Preservation Office. The health of the tree was evaluated by Amy J. Dreves of UVI, whose guidance helped support efforts to protect the long-term well-being of the baobab tree.
The Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture removed of the termite nests that had threatened the tree, helping preserve one of the territory’s most significant living landmarks.

The project was created to help preserve and honor a living piece of Crucian history while creating a welcoming space where residents and visitors can gather, reflect, and connect with the island’s natural and cultural heritage.

Special thanks are extended to the Estate Grove community, including The Grove Place Action Committee, the family of the late Ms. Magdalene Edney, and Ms. Olive Henry-Fergus for their support and permission to complete the work. Appreciation is also extended to the VI Department of Agriculture, the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, the University of the Virgin Islands Cooperative Extension Services,  Amy J Dreves of UVI, George Tyson of the VI State Historic Preservation Office, Olasee Davis of the University of the Virgin Islands, St. Croix Hiking Association, My Brother’s Workshop, CHANT, Black Heritage Tree Project, St. Croix Administrator Sammuel Sanes, and all partners, volunteers, and community members who contributed to this effort.

The Virgin Islands Trail Alliance also recognizes the young craftsmen of My Brother’s Workshop for their work building the benches installed at the site.

Funding for this project is provided by the U.S Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. USDA and the Virgin Islands Trail Alliance, Inc. are equal opportunity providers and employers. For more information, visit vitrails.org.