Closed since the passage of the destructive hurricanes, Irma and Maria, in September 2017, the Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum and Art Gallery will be restored, with works set to begin later this year. Photo: VINO

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) said as the territory repositions tourism for the future, Government is also investing in heritage and cultural tourism. Photo: VINO

According to the Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund, this project will include the full restoration of the 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum, including structural works, mold remediation, ground works, and cleaning and restoration of artifacts. Photo: VINO

The 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works is an important historic building from the Plantation Era. Photo: VINO

This announcement was made by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) at his State of the Territory Address titled, ‘Keep Moving Forward: Building a Sustainable Nation' at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

According to the Premier, as the territory repositions tourism for the future, Government is also investing in heritage and cultural tourism.

"History is one of our greatest assets, and that is why Government will shortly begin the restoration and redevelopment of the Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum & Art Gallery, preserving an important historic site while strengthening its role as both a tourism attraction and a community-centred educational institution."

Premier Wheatley said funding has already been identified for restoration works to begin during the second half of 2026 and continue into 2027.

'Full restoration'

The 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works is an important historic building from the Plantation Era. It was built by the McCleverty slaves and sugar was produced there until the 1940s. 

It also served as a cotton and lime producing factory in the 1900s.

The 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works was later transformed into a museum featuring life in The Virgin Islands when it was a subsistence economy and its natural history. 

According to the Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund, this project will include the full restoration of the 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum, including structural works, mold remediation, ground works, and cleaning and restoration of artifacts.

The project will also feature improvements to the visitor experience through exhibition development, enhancement of the art gallery and creation of a café, garden and education room.