Built in the days when sugar was king, The Grange Estate is located in an area of rolling hills approximately 1.5 miles inland from Christiansted. The 26 acre estate includes a tree lined driveway leading up to the lovingly restored greathouse originally built by Alexander Hamilton’s aunt and uncle, James and Ann Lytton. As you stroll the manicured grounds you’ll find local flora and fauna, historic masonry, marble monuments, and other glimpses into the history of The Grange Estate. It has not been open to the public for 100 years. Now, it’s St. Croix’s newest historic attraction – one that St. Croix residents and visitors can enjoy.
Estate Grange Historical Significance
Originally called Estate Grange, it was one of the earliest sugar plantations established on St. Croix. Most of the original acreage and many of the structures associated with the sugar plantation remain today. The greathouse was built in 1753 by Alexander Hamilton’s aunt and uncle, James and Ann Lytton. They owned the property from 1738-1764. Hamilton’s mother, Rachel Faucett Levien, was married at Estate Grange in 1745. She is also buried on the premises. A gravestone was erected in the 1930’s to commemorate her death.
On the north side of the structure, in an area that was once a formal botanical garden, stands the original plantation bell. This bell was cast in 1761 in Amsterdam. The property also houses a monument in memory of Danish gendarmes who died here during the 1886 outbreak of yellow fever. During this time, the estate was used as a convalescent house for those stricken at the Christiansted barracks.
Introducing The Grange Estate
This is what the Grange Estate looks like now. The greathouse and surrounding area have been beautifully renovated and are available as an event venue. Steve and Young Baker, the owners, hope to see many community events, private parties, luncheons, weddings, and other events take place at The Grange Estate. They also plan to renovate the other buildings on the property for short-term and long-term rentals. Moreover, they will add gardens, solar power, and other updates to run to property more efficiently. Historian George Tyson did extensive research about the property of Estate Grange. This research is now being introduced in a new historic tour.
When the gates are open, the public is welcome to visit the historic estate and property.
Now Available as a Venue
Host your next event, large or small, at this historic venue. The Grange Estate can accommodate up to 120 people in the air-conditioned greathouse, and 100 more in the outdoor patio and lawn spaces. Rent the entire venue, or just a room or two for your event. The greathouse offers a fully-furnished sitting room, a meeting room, the greatroom (or ballroom), two bathrooms and a full kitchen.
This beautiful and historic venue is perfect for a sunset cocktail reception under the canopy of trees. Or, plan a formal luncheon or dinner in the greathouse dining room. You and your guests can make an unforgettable entrance on the grand staircase, and dance the night away in the air conditioned greatroom. The possibilities are endless! Find out more here.
Guided Tour of Grange Estate
The Grange Estate is now offering weekly guided tours of the historic property. Young Baker will take you on a guided tour of the Grange Estate – where Founding Father Alexander Hamilton spent his formative years. Wander the meticulously preserved grounds. There you’ll discover the fascinating history that unfolded here. Tours take place Wednesday – Saturday at 10am, and take approximately 45 minutes. Tickets are $10.50 per person.
Frangipani Boutique
Located on the Grange Estate, Frangipani Boutique offers the perfect blend of sophistication and trendsetting clothing, shoes, accessories and more. Young Baker has carefully curated collections that boast a diverse range of styles. This ensures there’s something for every fashion-forward individual and women of every size. Frangipani Boutique is open Saturdays from 11am-5pm.
Christiansted Guide
Learn more about the things to do, places to eat, shops and boutiques, attractions, activities and excursions, scuba diving, water sports, tours, and more available in and around Christiansted in our Christiansted Guide.
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Jennie Ogden, Editor
