Yes, railroads.
Reports indicate the presence of narrow-gauge rail flatbed cars at Estate La Grange in the West End of St. Croix. Photographic evidence from the steam era highlights the use of these rail systems, along with ox-drawn carts, to transport sugarcane from the fields to the mill for crushing.
A particular postcard, attributed to Bethlehem (likely Bethlehem Old Works), shows these activities and is believed to date back to before 1917, as indicated by the reference to “St. Croix, D.W.I.” (Danish West Indies) on the card. This historical detail places the photograph in the period before the transfer of the islands to the United States.
Additional sources suggest that the rail system was eventually sold to Mexico, indicating a change in the utilization of these transportation resources over time. This information provides a fascinating glimpse into the historical logistics and agricultural practices of St. Croix during the early 20th century.
