From Rubble to Rebirth, the Great American Outdoors Act Restores Historic Warehouse in Virgin Islands National Park

A crew member installs a new 3”x12” lintel above a window shutter.

NPS

In the wake of Hurricane Irma's devastation in 2017, the Virgin Islands National Park faced a daunting task: rebuilding a beloved landmark. The historic Cinnamon Bay Danish Warehouse, a centuries-old structure, lay in ruins. But thanks to the Historic Preservation Training Center (HPTC) and the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), this story isn't about loss— it's about rebuilding, preserving our nation's heritage, and investing in further developing skilled tradespeople.

The GAOA provided funding through the Legacy Restoration Fund, making it possible for the HPTC to restore the warehouse. The team worked hard to stabilize and rebuild the warehouse, even though they had limited access to materials and had to deal with bad weather.

The project involved many detailed tasks, from fixing the foundation and cracks in the walls to rebuilding the base and applying a protective layer to the roof.

The restoration of the Danish Warehouse is a great example of the good work that the GAOA does. This law provides money for important projects in national parks, helping to preserve history for future generations. By funding projects like this, GAOA is not only preserving our heritage; it is also directly contributing to reducing deferred maintenance costs in our national parks.

These projects also play a crucial role in addressing the nationwide shortage of skilled workers in the trades. They provide valuable training and opportunities, allowing people to learn new skills while contributing to preserving our national treasures. The NPS is not only addressing a critical gap but also ensuring the continued preservation of our nation's heritage for generations to come.

The project also shows how important it is to save old buildings. The Danish Warehouse, once a busy trading center and a museum showcasing the island's cultural heritage, now stands as a reminder that we should protect our cultural treasures.

But this project is about more than just the building itself. It's about preserving the stories that shape our understanding of the past and inspire future generations.

The restored Danish Warehouse stands as a symbol of resilience, a testament to the dedication of the NPS, HPTC, and the support of the American people. It's a reminder that by investing in our parks, we invest in our future.

Virgin Islands Cinnamon Bay Da...

12 Images

Images of the Virgin Islands Cinnamon Bay Danish Warehouse preservation work.