Historic Fire Burn Queen Statue Stolen
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Historic Fire Burn
Queen Statue Stolen
M.A. Dworkin
St. Croix - The Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) through the Division of Libraries, Archives & Museums, is alerting the public to the confirmed theft of one of the three Fire Burn Queens - a mahogany crafted statue - from the North Art Gallery at the Fort Frederik Museum in Frederiksted, St. Croix.
The Department reported the theft to the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) on February 24, 2026, and an investigation is currently underway.
The missing statue is one of three Fire Burn Queens commissioned for Fort Frederik in honor of the 150th Anniversary of Emancipation, a project initiated by the Emancipation Commemoration Committee. These statues honor the legacy of Mary Thomas, Axeline “Agnes” Salomon, and Mathilda McBean, three heroines of Virgin Islands history who symbolize resistance, courage, and the fight for freedom during the October 1878 rebellion that protested the post-emancipation slavery-like conditions imposed by the Danish government. The event led to the dismantling of the Danish contract system and allowed laborers to buy land. The artwork holds deep cultural and historical significance, and belongs to the people of the Virgin Islands.
“These statues are not just pieces of art,” stated Fort Frederik Curator Monica Marin. “They are part of our collective heritage. We ask the public to help ensure this important cultural artifact is safely returned. To those responsible for its removal, we strongly urge you to return it immediately. It belongs to all of us.”
DPNR is urging the community to assist in locating the missing statue. Anyone with any information is asked to contact VIPD or the museum directly at 340-249-0765. All tips can be provided anonymously.
