[Illustration: PLOUGHING ON ST. CROIX]
There is but one paved highway on St. Croix, and that extends from
Christiansted to Frederiksted at the west end of the island. A macadam
road twenty-one miles in length connects the two towns, and over this
highway passes practically all the traffic on the island. Here we see a
curious procession of natives driving all kinds of queer vehicles drawn
by diminutive ponies or donkeys.
Women carry upon their heads loads that would stagger the average man.
They are able to balance almost anything, and one sees them carrying
boxes, barrels, and even pianos, although the latter require about four
women to balance their weight.
Agriculturally, St. Croix offers a good field for development. Cotton
as well as sugar can be grown profitably, and, with modern American
methods, its products can be materially increased.
[Illustration: ON A SUNNY ROAD, ST. CROIX]
_System of Education_
When the Americans first took possession there was much confusion.
Danish law conflicted with American law, Danish customs differed
from American customs, there was a Danish postmaster and an American
postmaster; but these things are now straightened out and order has
been completely restored.
The Danish method of instruction, which has long been in use, has been
continued by the United States. The system differs from our own in that
the schools are in session practically the year round, and religious
training is required. The religious training in the schools will be
discontinued, but otherwise the Danish method will obtain.
Virgin Islanders pride themselves on their low percentage of
illiteracy. Only about two per cent. of the inhabitants are unable to
read and write.
[Illustration: LONGSHOREWOMEN COALING A SHIP