Frederiksted is a town on the west end of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. It is home to Fort Frederik, constructed to protect the town from pirate raids and attacks from rival imperialist nations. It was named after Frederick V of Denmark, who purchased the Danish West Indies in 1754.
Frederiksted is often referred to as "Freedom City" by locals. This nickname has to do with the fact that the town was the site of the emancipation of slaves in the then-Danish West Indies. The emancipation of slaves was proclaimed on July 3, 1848 at Fort Frederik on the waterfront at the northern edge of Frederiksted by Governor-General Peter von Scholten after slaves led by General Buddhoe (a slave) revolted.
Frederiksted is home to one of two deep water ports on St. Croix, the other being located at the Hovensa oil refinery. It is the main port for cruise ships visiting the island. Passengers are typically escorted from the ships to waiting taxis to bring them to the more picturesque and developed Christiansted.
