Good morning! March is VI History Month. As we celebrate, let’s take a moment to honor the sacrifices and legacies of our ancestors, whose footsteps paved the way for us to revel in the richness of the beautiful US Virgin Islands.
Amidst the historical significance and cultural treasures of St. John lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: the Ram Head Trail. This trail not only offers a glimpse into the island’s past but also presents an exhilarating adventure for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders.
Fun Fact: Did you know that atop Ram Head, just before the breathtaking sunset, awaits a panoramic view that extends as far as the eye can see? But remember, to catch this natural spectacle, it’s essential to rise early and stay late, as the great views of the moonrise in the west and the sun’s ascent in the east are not to be missed!
If you’re planning your next vacation, make sure to add the Ram Head Trail to your bucket list. You can park at the entrance of Salt Pond Bay and start your adventure by walking along a short muddy trail that leads to Salt Pond Beach. Take your time to explore the entirety of the beach before continuing your hike.
Before embarking on this memorable journey, ensure you come prepared. Lightweight shoes are a must, as the rocky terrain demands sturdy footing. Leave your sandals behind and opt for practicality. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated under the warm Caribbean sun, along with sunblock to protect your skin from its rays.
Once you’re ready, prepare yourself for the more challenging terrain of the Ram Head Trail. The path becomes steep and rocky as you make your way towards the point of St. John’s Ram Head. When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view that stretches all the way to St. Croix.
The history of St. John encompasses not only its stunning natural beauty but also the resilience and struggles of its people. One of the most significant events in this history is the Akwamu Insurrection, a rebellion led by enslaved Africans from the Akwamu ethnic group in 1733. This uprising stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of resistance against oppression.
In recognition of the importance of this event, a plaque ceremony was held on March 3, 2024, along the Ram Head Trail in St. John. The purpose of this ceremony was to commemorate the 1733 St. John Slave Rebellion and honor the bravery and sacrifice of our ancestors. The plaque, titled “Akwamu Insurrection,” serves as a poignant reminder of the struggle for freedom and the resilience of those who fought for it.
The impact of the rebellion reverberated throughout the island, leaving an indelible mark on its history. It played a crucial role in shaping the collective consciousness of the people of St. John and eventually contributed to the liberation of many enslaved individuals.
As you explore the Ram Head Trail, take a moment to reflect on the significance of this historic event.
So, grab your swimsuit, hat, and shades, and get ready to embark on a journey through time and nature on the Ram Head Trail. Experience the beauty, history, and adventure that St. John has to offer, all while paying homage to the legacy of the Akwamu Insurrection. Happy exploring!
This article was written by Keana Jacobs, a native of St. John.
The Rams Head Trail is a great hike with marvelous views. In addition to the view from the top, there is a lovely view about halfway up the steep part of the trail. Go a few yards east to find it.
The first part of the trail along the shore is fairly level, but once you reach Cobblestone Beach and turn away from the shore it quickly becomes quite steep; footing is not terrible, but it is strenuous. You should be healthy and fairly fit to do this trail.
Stay on the trail; follow all the switchbacks. You will probably see evidence of how surprisingly much erosion can be started by just a few off-trail footsteps. Don’t add to it!
We attended the event while visiting the island. We had hiked up to Ram Head several days before the event and saw the commemorative plaque. When we found out the event we gladly attended and met some great people. It was a great event and it is always amazing at Ram Head including the hike from Salt Pond Bay.
What a great write up. For anyone interested the book: Night of the Silent Drums/Jonathan Lorenzo Anderson
Is historically factual. He used letters, research etc.