Governor de Jongh Mourns Death of Erik Lawaetz; Territory Loses Extraordinary Man Who Pioneered Change and Had a Significant Influence on Tourism

Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. said Monday he was shocked and saddened to learn of the recent death of Erik Lawaetz. “The people of the Virgin Islands join me in extending sincere condolences to Erik’s wife Jennie and the entire Lawaetz family, as well as Erik’s legions of friends and admirers throughout the Caribbean and the world. Erik Lawaetz was an extraordinary man who envisioned and then pioneered change in many parts of the region. He will be sorely missed.”

de Jongh noted that Lawaetz was born prior to the transfer of the Virgin Islands from Denmark to the United States and grew up on the Lawaetz plantation on St. Croix where he gained an appreciation for agriculture, husbandry, sailing, and the beauty of the islands. Following education in Denmark and a stint at sea, he returned to St. Croix and his entrepreneurial career began in earnest. “He became a real estate developer, foreseeing homes and neighborhoods where sugarcane plantations and cattle pastures had been. Recognizing and understanding the need for Virgin Islanders to own their own homes and land, he offered $400 lots to first time local buyers, with only $25 down and pay-as-you-can lending arrangements.”

The governor also recalled Lawaetz’s significant influence on tourism. “He built and owned the largest hotel and condominium complex on the island in the 1960’s. Through brochures, articles and personal appearances, he promoted the island as an ideal vacation destination for both United States and Danish visitors. Jennie and Erik Lawaetz envisioned a “Caribbean Riviera,” a paradise for both local residents and a world of travelers. Their plans encompassed not only St. Croix, but the islands of St. Maarten and St. Lucia and the country of Panama as well. The couple was a pioneering influence in responsible development, one that embraced local residents and relied heavily on locally produced foods and products.”

Erik Lawaetz’ love and appreciation of St. Croix included the history and culture of the island, too. He authored the extensive “St. Croix – 500 Years: Pre-Columbus to 1990” and “Emancipation: The Virgin Islands of the United States Celebrates its 150th Anniversary.” He was instrumental in establishing the Christiansted Museum and securing artifacts for it.

“I can think of very few Virgin Islanders who have had the depth of influence of the late Erik Lawaetz. From home ownership to tourism, from history to self-sufficiency, he dreamed of a Caribbean that adequately supported its resident populations and yet welcomed visitors from far and near. He wanted to share his appreciation of the rich culture and heritage of the region, and yet ensure that its development should be nurtured with forethought, renewability and opportunity for all.”

“Cecile joins me in offering our sympathies to Jennie, the Lawaetz children, grandchildren and great-children, and the extended family of relatives, friends and associates. With the passing of Erik Lawaetz, the Virgin Islands has lost a treasure,” de Jongh said. 

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