The history of St. Thomas is steeped in rich and colorful hues with elements of the past still visible in the present. From the time the first settlers arrived from South America to modern day life, the Spanish, French, Dutch, English – even pirates and buccaneers – have flown their flags over St. Thomas's soil. Thus, the culture is a tapestry of West Indian sensuality, European grace and Caribbean charm.

Excavations have uncovered rock drawings and a prehistoric village, indicating that the Botany Bay site was first settled long ago. However, the area remained largely unoccupied until the early 18th century, when several sugar cane plantations were established. They eventually consolidated and became the Botany Bay Plantation, the ruins of which include a factory building, curing house, animal mill and domestic structures. These ruins remain preserved on the property’s slopes and beach.