U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has announced the official observance of the 109th Anniversary of Transfer Day, to be commemorated across the Territory on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Transfer Day marks the historic moment on March 31, 1917, when the islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix were formally transferred from Denmark to the United States, establishing what is now the United States Virgin Islands. Transfer Day commemorates a pivotal turning point that reshaped the Territory’s governance, identity, and future.
At precisely 4:00 p.m. on that day in 1917, the Danish flag was lowered for the final time after more than two centuries of rule, and the American flag was raised, symbolizing a new chapter for the people of the Virgin Islands.
“Transfer Day is more than a date on the calendar—it is a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of the Virgin Islands people,” Governor Bryan said. “For 109 years, we have continued to shape our own identity while honoring the complex history that brought us here.”
The United States acquired the islands for $25 million in gold under the Treaty of the Danish West Indies, recognizing their strategic importance in the Caribbean and opening a new era of political and economic development.
Governor Bryan emphasized that the anniversary is both a celebration and a moment of reflection.
“As we commemorate this 109th anniversary, we honor those who came before us—the generations whose labor, sacrifice, and perseverance laid the foundation for the Virgin Islands we know today,” he said. “Transfer Day challenges us to reflect on our journey, acknowledge our past, and recommit ourselves to building a stronger, more equitable future for all.”
Throughout the Territory, Transfer Day will be observed with ceremonies, cultural presentations, and historical reenactments that pay tribute to the events of 1917 and the rich heritage of the Virgin Islands.
“On Tuesday, we celebrate not just a transfer of flags, but the enduring pride of a people who continue to rise, evolve, and define their own destiny,” Governor Bryan added. “Let us honor this legacy by continuing to invest in our people and our future.”
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to participate in commemorative activities and reflect on the significance of this historic milestone in Virgin Islands history.
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