The commemoration of the 1892 Coal Workers on St. Thomas will appear in a different venue over the Veterans Day weekend. Organizers are inviting residents and visitors to join them on a cultural, historical tour aboard the motor vessel Kon Tiki on Sunday.
Those who have enjoyed the land-based tour over the past 20 years know the event as the Dollar fo’ Dollar history tour. According to those who recount the tale, the phrase comes from a slogan used by striking coal carriers protesting underpayments made when they received devalued Mexican tokens instead of Danish silver.
The commemoration also pays homage to 19th-century labor leader Clothilde Simonet — also known as Queen Coziah — who led hundreds of St. Thomas coal carriers through a successful job action.
Historic and cultural tours are a popular attraction among residents and visitors throughout the Caribbean. Regional travel sites found online point to the walking tours of Old San Juan, the cultural tours in the Dominican Republic and historic tours in Curaçao and Antigua. The Fortsberg History Tours on St. John will soon mark its 42nd year, remembering the 1733 Akwamu uprising in Coral Bay.
Event cofounder Aisha-Zakiya Boyd said the seagoing Dollar fo’ Dollar event has been very popular in the past, attracting up to 300 participants. “This is our 20th anniversary of honoring the coal workers … This year we’re doing our tour on Sunday, Nov. 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s going to be on board the Kon Tiki this year. We’ll be boarding at 10:30 at Yacht Haven behind Moe’s grocery,” Boyd said.
In addition to presentations by historians, Sunday’s event is expected to feature bamboula dancers, drummers and dramatic presentations. Those who wish to are encouraged to wear white, in honor of the St. Thomas coal workers.
Proceeds from ticket sales will help organizers cover expenses for use of the vessel, Boyd said.
Those wishing to attend Sunday’s event are encouraged to wear white in honor of the St. Thomas coal carriers.