French Heritage Week: Neville James Thanks French Descendants For Contributions To Territory

ST. CROIX – Senate President Neville James extended well wishes to all those celebrating French Heritage Week in the Virgin Islands, according a press release James’ office issued on Saturday.

The week-long holiday began July 8 and continues through July 14, culminating on Bastille Day — one of France’s most notable holidays.

On Bastille Day, French nationals around the world commemorate the storming and destruction of the Bastille prison in 1789, an act that triggered the French Revolution. The act of bravery resulted in the establishment of a Republic and won freedom for many French citizens.

In the Virgin Islands, many families, particularly on the island of St. Thomas, can trace their heritage to settlers who moved to the capital from the French island of St. Barthelemy in the 1700s and 1800s. They were mostly farmers and craftsmen seeking economic opportunities, many of whom possessed useful trades in the areas of fishing, farming, and other professions and vocations.

“The French migrants who came to St. Thomas back then and settled in Frenchtown made significant contributions to the political, economic, and social landscape of this territory,” said Sen. James.

Senate President Neville James

“I want to thank all of the local organizations and institutions like the Frenchtown Civic Organization and The French Heritage Museum, for the preservation of this important part of our culture.

“I join with all Virgin Islanders this Bastille Day to celebrate the important contributions made in the territory by residents of French heritage,” James concluded.

On St. Thomas, several events celebrate French Heritage Week, including the Northside Sportfishing Club’s 27th Annual Bastille Day Kingfish Tournament will be held on Sunday, July 12 at Hull Bay. The event has been named one of the Top Ten Best Ways to Celebrate Bastille Day in the World by online travel advisor, Hotwire.com.

The festivities will include live bands, a beach party and local food. Cool Sessions Brass Band will play after the fishing competition, and proceeds from the event will go to community organizations to help provide college scholarships.

Feature Image: Armored vehicles parade down the Champs Elysees as part of the Bastille Day Military parade in Paris, France, on July 14. The Bastille Day, the French National Day, is held annually on July 14 to commemorate the storming of the Bastille fortress in 1789.