During the colonial period, St. Thomas was known as a pirates’ den. The island’s location as a major trade route, the ability to anchor in the harbor, and the ability to get supplies made conditions for piracy ideal. Pirates stopped in St. Thomas to repair their boats, supply their vessels and sell their booty. Some Danish governors even traded with the pirates. Jean Hamil, a French pirate captured the merchant vessel La Trompeuse, set up headquarters on St. Thomas with the governor’s protection (for a price) and continued his raids. There are also the legends, Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, who sipped rum laced with gunpowder. Blackbeard’s Tower sits directly above town and was built in 1689 by Danish Governor Schmidt. Bluebeard’s Tower, another buccaneer stronghold, is said to be the home of Bluebeard who married a St. Thomas beauty and sailed away with her, never to be seen again.

Bluebeard’s Castle is now a famous resort and Blackbeard’s Castle is a museum which is great fun to visit and view the pirate folklore.