Steeple Building

The Steeple Building was the first Danish Lutheran church on the island and one of the few government buildings not directly involved in international trade. From 1754 to 1831, it embodied the Danish state religion, and all government administrators as well as the fort’s garrison were required to worship there. Official proclamations, including the abolition of the Danish slave trade, were read from its pulpit. The building evolved over time, and in 1831 the Lutherans bought the Dutch Reformed church on King Street instead of continuing mainly with repairs. Original furnishings from the Steeple Building, including the altar, pulpit, chandeliers, baptismal font, and governor’s box, can be seen there. Officially named the Church of our Lord God of Sabato, it has been restored to its ca. 1800 appearance, and the yard behind the church served as the congregation’s cemetery.

Saint Croix