The value of the harbor of St. Thomas and its strategic advantages have been recognized since the days of the Spanish buccaneers. Once the headquarters for ships sailing under the black flag, the memories of those days will always form a romantic and fascinating side of the life that was. Today there are modern harbor works, floating docks, marine slips and wharves provided with electric cranes, oil reservoirs, coal depots, fresh-water tanks, machine shops, and many other things that contribute to the commercial advantage of St. Thomas as a port of call.
We must not overlook the political importance of extending American jurisdiction over islands situated in the Caribbean Sea. The possibility of a change of sovereignty of any of the islands under foreign jurisdiction is of grave concern to this country.
The Monroe Doctrine, a settled national policy, would have caused this country to look with disfavor upon the acquisition of the Danish West Indies by any other power. The treaty of cession of these islands to the United States is therefore a matter of no small moment.
A BAY RUM CARRIER
Island of St. John
A NATIVE ON THE WAY HOME FROM MARKET
“BLUEBEARD’S CASTLE,” CHARLOTTE AMALIE