French Heritage Week ended in grand style Wednesday night with a Bastille Day celebration at Government House.
Four hundred invited guests were treated to music, dance and delightful commentary provided by members of St. Thomas' French Community — with one notable addition coming from the mayor of St. Barthelemy Bruno Magras, who delivered his remarks first in French — then in English.
Gov. Charles W. Turnbull opened the ceremonies saying the "Storming of the Bastille was a defining moment in world history."
"The French community is one of rich culture and traditions," he said. "Long live the people of French descent; long live French heritage in the Virgin Islands."
Anne-Marie Danet and Aimery Caron were honored for their contributions to the French community.
Danet is an historian of note who has chronicled the history of the French emigrants to the Caribbean.
Caron, who is the brother of French film star Leslie Caron, came to St. Thomas in the 1940s. He is a scientist and professor of chemistry and a contributor to the keeping of the history of the French people in the islands.
Highlights of the evening were the dancing of waltzes by four students of French descent and a short piano recital by Jason Quetel.
Sen. Lorraine L. Berry as mistress of ceremonies presented certificates and commendation plaques to students from the French community who had graduated from high school and college this year.
Though the room was packed and hot during the ceremonies most guests — of French descent or not — remained to eat, drink and dance to the music of the Sea Breeze Band.
Editors' note: We are happy to welcome historian and writer Anne-Marie Danet as a new and regular contributor to St. Thomas Source.