This Transfer Day celebration marks the 90th year of the sale of the Virgin Islands, from Denmark to the United States, since March 31, 1917, on the 90th day of 2007. A coincidence of this sort can happen only once in an event's history. We were happy to be in attendance. The morning was breezy and of an ambient temperature. The sun's dappled light pierced the canopy of trees to fall gently on the proceedings.

	To arrive at the Lawaetz Museum in Estate La Grange, within the confines of the rainforest, we drive on tree-lined Mahogany Road for a short way and then the museum comes into view.

	We enter over the bridge gateway and continue onto the lawn where a tent has been erected for the occasion.

	Many Danes from the Danish West Indies Society are on island for the holiday. Some have come over from St. Thomas and represent their country, Denmark, here on this day.

	While waiting for the festivities to begin, we are entertained by the St. Patrick's School steel band. Many people took the time to get to know one another and visit with elders who were alive at the original changing of the flag.

	More of the scenery in this lush area of the island.

	The Santa Cruz Brass Ensemble played a few selections as we wait for the events to begin.

	Final preparations were made by the honor guard as the Lt. Governor arrived first and then the Governor and his family. The benediction was given by Fr. Kenneth Gaddy of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, and the ceremony began.

	The colors were posted by the Central High School JROTC, the original American National Anthem was played by the Santa Cruz Brass Ensemble along with the Danish National Anthem. The current Star Spangled Banner was not played since it did not become the American National Anthem until 1931 - some 14 years after the transfer. The Virgin Islands March was sung by Ms. Janet Cochran and the Danish March was played by the Santa Cruz Brass. Mr. Bill Bass, President of the Friends of Denmark introduced the guests.

	Mr. Robert Merwin, chairman of St. Croix Landmarks Society, gave some background about Danish times and the history at the turn of the 20th century. Then, Governor John deJongh spoke, welcoming all visitors and recognizing our longtime residents who remember the Danish times.

	As the governor spoke, the First Lady, her mother and the Danish Ambassador to the United States H.E. Friis Arne Petersen and his wife looked on. The next to speak was the Delegate to Congress Donna Christensen who spoke on the topic of self governance.

	The Ambassador from Denmark to the United States, H.E. Friis Arne Petersen spoke on behalf of Denmark. He spoke of our shared history with Denmark and the influences that we have given to each other's societies. He urged us to maintain the relations between our two countries, not only in tourism, but in politics, as well, for a positive shared future.

	Miss Janiqua Byam of Arthur A. Richards Jr. High School, and winner of the St. Croix Landmarks Society's 15th Annual John McCollum Essay Contest, was introduced by Mr. Paul Chakroff, St. Croix Landmarks Society Executive Director. She spoke of her grandmother's memories of St. Croix in a much more genteel time of more congeniality, less crime, litter and high utility bills. Her proud mother and her teacher, Ms. Kitchens, were in the audience cheering her on.

	Everyone was listening intently to what the young lady had to say about the past and the future.

	Mr. Leif Pedersen, Chairman of the Committee of the Cultural Exchange Program spoke next about the reinvestment in the Virgin Islands that we all must make. He also spoke of a history that cannot be abolished.

	The many guests included one of our elders, Mrs. Eulalie Rivera. Pastor Wakefield of the Trinity Lutheran Church gave the closing benediction.

	The next segment of the day's activities was a quadrille dance performed by the Pearl B. Larsen School's Dancers dressed in traditional costumes.

	As the dance ends, we take a look at the surroundings. The Lignum Vitae trees are in bloom now. We visit the space set up with a continuous film about the transfer, and then head up to the museum.

	The expansive lawn and plantings around the museum. The Ambassador, his wife and the First Lady.

	The Friends of Denmark set up a concession area for lunch after the ceremony. There were many local dishes to be tried.

	Pates, beef and saltfish varieties, various cakes and drinks were available.

	A little food and a little music, what could be better.