The Free Gut Project

Where History Lives & The Future Thrives

Transforming Free Gut into a Hub for Culture, Art, and Affordable Housing

#38 Hospital Street, Frederiksted, STX

Welcome to the Free Gut Project

Nestled in the heart of Frederiksted, St. Croix, Free Gut is a historic Black neighborhood dating back to the mid-1700s. Once home to free Black artisans, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs, this community was a beacon of self-sufficiency and resilience nearly a century before emancipation.

Today, the CHANT Free Gut Project is working to restore this neighborhood’s vernacular architecture, transform abandoned spaces into affordable housing and artist workspaces, and preserve its rich cultural history. Through historic preservation, workforce development, and creative placemaking, we are rebuilding a sustainable future for Frederiksted while honoring the past.

Join us as we restore history, empower local artisans, and breathe new life into this extraordinary community.

Project Focus:

  • Restoring six historic buildings in Free Gut
  • Creating affordable housing for local residents
  • Establishing artisan live-work spaces
  • Training young people in traditional building arts
  • Revitalizing Frederiksted’s historic identity

Vision

Our vision is to preserve, restore, and revitalize Free Gut as a vibrant, culturally rich community that honors its history while providing modern opportunities for housing, artistry, and economic growth.

Mission

The Free Gut Project is dedicated to:

  • 1
    Preserving historic architecture through traditional craftsmanship
  • 2
    Providing affordable housing for local families and artisans
  • 3
    Revitalizing community spaces with public art and cultural exhibitions
  • 4
    Training young people in masonry, woodworking, and heritage conservation

Goals

  • 1
    Restore six historic buildings in Free Gut
  • 2
    Establish four affordable housing units
  • 3
    Develop two mixed-use spaces for artisans
  • 4
    Train local apprentices in building restoration techniques
  • 5
    Showcase public exhibitions on Free Gut’s history and culture

Community Background

Free Gut holds a unique place in American history. Established in 1750, it was one of the first neighborhoods in the United States where free people of African descent could own property, run businesses, and build independent lives. Despite economic hardships, hurricanes, and social challenges, the spirit of self-determination and craftsmanship remains strong.

CHANT’s Free Gut Project is bringing that spirit back—restoring homes, empowering artisans, and revitalizing Frederiksted for generations to come.

Project Partners

Our work is made possible through partnerships with:

  • National Park Service Hurricane Recovery Grant
  • Building Arts, LLC
  • American College of Building Arts (ACBA)
  • St. Croix Foundation for Community Development
  • Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office
  • Global Giving & Other Community Supporters

Call to Action

  • Support the Free Gut Project – Donate, Volunteer, or Spread the Word!
  • Follow our journey on social media for restoration updates.
  • Visit #38 Hospital Street for our upcoming installation showcase!