The Department of Agriculture in partnership with the Office of the Governor, the Christiansted Community Alliance, the Waste Management Authority and the Department of Public Works is planning the “Revitalization of the Christian ‘Shan’ Hendricks Market” in Christiansted, St. Croix. The revitalization effort will be celebrated with a series of market events beginning on Oct. 26 and continuing every Saturday thereafter, according to a press release issued on Monday by the V.I. Department of Agriculture.
“We thought it was a good idea to refurbish this venue for farmers to sell their produce and revive activities in the Christiansted market, which has been practically dormant for many years,” Commissioner Louis E. Petersen Jr. said.
Activities have significantly declined in the once thriving market where residents purchased much of their produce for preparing family meals. Presently the market is primarily used for annual breakfast events and occasional food sales. Commissioner Petersen noted that, “We would like to see increased economic activity at this historical place which means so much to the residents of St. Croix.”
Residents are urged to attend the inaugural event starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, and to continue supporting the vendors throughout the year. “There is an increased demand for local, fresh agricultural products, and we encourage the community to come out and support the vendors,” said Petersen.
Persons interested in selling local produce and other agricultural commodities such as fruits, vegetables, honey, preserves, plants and pastries made with local fruits are asked to call Audrey Browne at 778-0998, ext. 228 to reserve a space. Vendor fees will be waived for the first six months.