Introducing The Grange Estate
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 the town of 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, which makes it St. Croix’s newest historic attraction, one that St. Croix residents and visitors can enjoy as the owners create new opportunities to host visitors.
Estate Grange Historical Significance
Originally called Estate Grange, it was one of the earliest sugar plantations established on St. Croix, and most of the original acreage and many of the structures associated with the historic sugar plantation remain today. The greathouse was built in 1753 by Alexander Hamilton’s aunt and uncle, James and Ann Lytton, who owned the property from 1738-1764. Hamilton’s mother, Rachel Faucett Levien, was married at Estate Grange in 1745 and she is 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 which was cast in 1761 in Amsterdam. The property also houses a monument in memory of Danish gendarmes who died here during an outbreak of yellow fever in 1886 when the Estate Grange 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 now available as an event venue. The new owners, Steve and Young Baker, hope to see many community events, private parties, luncheons, weddings, and other events take place at The Grange Estate. They also plan to eventually renovate the other buildings on the property for short-term and long-term rentals, 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, which is now being introduced in a new historic tour and luncheon.
When the gates are open, the public is welcome to visit the historic estate and property.
Now Available as a Venue
At The Grange Estate you can host your 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 can be accommodated in the outdoor patio and lawn spaces. Rent the entire venue, or just a room a 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 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.
NEW! Heritage and History Tour Luncheon
Every Saturday 12-2pm
The Grange Estate is now offering a Heritage and History Crucian Culinary Experience, which includes a guided tour of the historic Grange Estate, followed by a delicious luncheon showcasing local cuisine. Local Hamilton expert Wayne Nichols, and property owner 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 where you’ll discover the fascinating history that unfolded here. Then, enjoy a delectable buffet of native Crucian cuisine.
Learn more AND purchase tickets here!
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, ensuring 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
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The Grange Estate
The Grange Estate is an unforgettable event venue. Whether you are planning a wedding, corporate event, retreat, bridal shower or social gathering, The Grange Estate is the perfect venue. Nestled in the heart of the island just over a mile from the town of Christiansted, this historic estate offers a stunning backdrop for any occasion.…