Christiansted, St. Croix, September 5, 2025
News Summary
Winthrop University is spearheading archaeological efforts to locate the historic Maroon settlement, Maronberg, in St. Croix. This research emphasizes uncovering the community’s artifacts, crucial for understanding their resistance against slavery in the Caribbean. Recent initiatives, enhanced by GIS technology, focus on identifying potential escape routes and sites relevant to the Maroon community. The establishment of the U.S. Virgin Islands Maroon Territorial Park marks a significant step in preserving this vital heritage and enhancing historical education about the Maroons’ legacy.
Christiansted, St. Croix – Winthrop University Leads Archaeological Hunt for Historic Maroon Settlement
Winthrop University has engaged in collaborative archaeological efforts aimed at locating the historic Maroon settlement known as Maronberg in St. Croix. These initiatives are driven by the desire to uncover the artifacts and historical remnants that detail the lives of the Maroon community, which is historically significant for its resistance against slavery in the Caribbean.
The interest in locating Maronberg was reignited by research that began in 2007, focusing on mapping potential escape routes used by enslaved individuals. Researchers utilized geographic information systems (GIS) to model these routes, assisting in identifying locations that might have served as hideouts for the escaped enslaved. The exact physical remains of the Maronberg settlement have not been confirmed as of yet, but advanced methodologies such as computer modeling and high-resolution mapping are being employed to identify possible sites.
Key Developments in Maroonberg Archaeology
A notable milestone was achieved in August 2025 when the local government purchased 2,386 acres of land, designating it as the U.S. Virgin Islands Maroon Territorial Park. This development is pivotal as it aims to protect the history and artifacts relevant to the Maroon community. The significance of Maroon settlements comes from their strategic locations, often in rugged terrains, which served as barriers against colonial forces. As such, locating these sites through archaeological efforts brings unique challenges.
Historical Background of the Maroon Community
The Danish missionary Christian Oldendorp first documented the existence of a Maroon community on Maroon Hill in St. Croix in 1767, during an era when the Danish West India-Guinea Company oversaw the island after purchasing it in 1733. St. Croix became an economic hub due to its sugar and cotton production, which, unfortunately, also resulted in a dramatic increase in the enslaved population.
By the end of the 1700s, over 10% of the enslaved population in St. Croix—almost 1,400 individuals—had managed to escape. Many assumed that escape routes, often through sea passages or hidden paths, were necessary for survival. The archaeological focus on Maronberg seeks to provide deeper insights into the Maroon lifestyle, their resistance efforts, and the eventual decline of their population on the island, potentially revealing fascinating aspects of their history.
Advanced Models in Archaeological Research
Leading this archaeological endeavor is Justin Dunnavant, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at UCLA, in collaboration with researchers from other academic institutions like Vanderbilt University and Winthrop University. In recent studies, researchers developed a more dynamic model that employed digital elevation models and lidar data to assess the reduced land availability for clandestine Maroon settlements. Their findings revealed a dramatic decrease of over 90% in suitable areas for these settlements over a span of 50 years, attributed to colonial developments.
This ongoing archaeological work aims not only to further historical knowledge but also to honor the legacy of the Maroons. The artifacts recovered would contribute to educational programs and help illuminate a critical chapter of Caribbean history that remains underrepresented in traditional narratives.
Conclusion
As the search for Maronberg continues, the joint efforts of Winthrop University and other institutions stand to enhance our understanding of the Maroon communities, their resilience, and their enduring cultural legacy. The establishment of Maroon Territorial Park marks a significant step toward commemorating and preserving this important aspect of history.
FAQ
What is Maronberg?
Maronberg is a historic Maroon settlement in St. Croix documented first by Christian Oldendorp in 1767. The archaeological efforts aim to locate and preserve it, reflecting on the history of enslaved individuals who escaped captivity.
What is the significance of the U.S. Virgin Islands Maroon Territorial Park?
The U.S. Virgin Islands Maroon Territorial Park is designated to protect the archaeological sites and artifacts associated with the Maroon community, providing an area for education and commemoration of their historical significance.
How has technological advancement helped in the search for Maronberg?
Technological advancements such as GIS mapping, computer modeling, and lidar data have significantly enhanced the ability to identify potential sites for Maronberg by modeling escape routes and assessing land suitability over time.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Maronberg | Historic Maroon settlement in St. Croix. |
| Research Start Year | 2007 |
| Land Purchased for Park | 2,386 acres in August 2025. |
| Percentage of Enslaved Who Escaped | Over 10%, approximately 1,400 individuals. |
| Colonial Impact | Reduction of suitable settlement area by over 90% in 50 years. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Conversation: Escaped slaves on St. Croix
- Wikipedia: Maroon Communities
- St. Thomas Source: Preserve Hams Bluff Lighthouse
- Google Search: St. Croix Maroon Settlement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Maroons
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