THE JEWEL OF KINGS QUARTER
- a history of hospitality -
Step back in time and stay where legends once stayed or dined. Hotel 1829 has hosted some of the most iconic figures in history. From Hollywood stars to world leaders, our halls have whispered the stories of greatness.
Who stayed here? Just to name a few...Oscar de la Renta, Paul McCartney, Jackie Onassis, King of Romania, Muhammad Ali & Robert plant.
One thing’s for sure—you’ll be in great company!
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1829
The property was constructed in 1829 by Alexander Lavalette, a prosperous French sea trader. His initials, A.L, are still visible in the wrought iron of the upper balcony. Situated on Government Hill, it stands as one of the largest residences in the Kongens Quarter (King's Quarter) of Charlotte Amalie.
SAN NARCISO HURRICANE
Cat. 3, sunk the RMS Rhone (BVI) still a popular dive site - this year is also known for an earthquake and tsunami
HOTEL ORIGIN
Dr. Herbert Taylor & Emma Taylor,
opened as the Grand Hotel, later changing to the Grand Hotel Taylor, and finally as Hotel 1829
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1906
Hotel 1829, located in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, began its journey as a private residence before being converted into a hotel in 1906 by the Taylor Family. The hotel boasts the perfect location stunning views of the town and the harbor. The bar, which was once the old kitchen, features a veranda that offers fantastic vistas. This hotel stands as one of the best-preserved examples of early 19th-century urban architecture in St. Thomas. Conveniently positioned near Blackbeard's Castle and the renowned 99 Steps, it is only a hundred yards from the harbor and main street.
2024
THE RENOVATION
Owners Jessica Geller and Mark Wiechnik of At Home in the Tropics are in the process of revitalizing Hotel 1829 in the Virgin Islands. Their vision is to restore this historic hotel as the "Jewel of Kings Quarter," featuring fifteen newly designed guest rooms inspired by history, alongside a pool, restaurant, bar, and café in a prime location. Guests will be able to immerse themselves in the hotel’s rich heritage, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional dining experiences, all set within an elegant, Caribbean-themed backdrop. Hotel 1829 aspires to reclaim its status as the premier destination in Charlotte Amalie.
HURRICANE LUIS + MARILYN
Luis, cat. 2 caused moderate damage was followed only 9 days by Marilyn, at only a cat. 1 caused catastrophic damage leaving 20% of the population homeless
HURRICANE IRMA + MARIA
Both Cat. 5, Irma was the strongest Atlantic forming hurricane ever recorded. Just 2 weeks later Maria hit causing more catastrophic damage
NEW OWNERSHIP
Mark Wiechnik & Jessica Geller, purchased, fully renovating and reopening Hotel 1829 early 2025