Over a century ago, the people of Frenchtown built something extraordinary — not just a chapel, but a lasting symbol of strength, faith, resilience, and unity that continues to define our community today.

In 1838–1839, families from St. Bartholomew, facing severe economic hardship, journeyed to St. Thomas and settled in what became known as Frenchtown. In 1918, a priest fluent in French began celebrating Mass in the small schoolhouse that served the community. Just a year later, a devoted Frenchtown resident donated land at the top of Gallows Hill — once a place of sorrow and execution — to build a chapel for the people.

The U.S. Navy helped blast the foundation, while the fishermen of Frenchtown volunteered their labor. The women and children carried rocks up the hill and cooked meals for those who worked. Gravel and sand from Water Island were transported by canoe and carried by hand. Their shared determination led to a miraculous accomplishment: the first Mass celebrated in the Chapel of Sainte Anne on Christmas Day, 1921.

For over a century, Sainte Anne’s has stood proudly on Gallows Hill — a testament to the strength, unity, and spirit of the Frenchtown people. It has weathered hurricanes, the elements, and the passage of time. And once again, it needs our help.

Today, the historicChapel of Saint Annestands as a beautiful but aging monument to our island’shistoryand faith.