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Book Signing at St. Croix Landmarks Museum Store

Dec. 13, 2005 – Robert Merwin will be signing copies of his new book Friday evening, Dec. 16, at the St. Croix Landmarks Museum Store at 6 Company Street, Christiansted from 6 to 8 p.m.
The History of Rob't. L. Merwin & Co.—1892 to 2005: Changing with the Times and Business Opportunities on St. Croix, US Virgin Islands by Robert L Merwin and John J. Connor chronicles the 113-year history of one of the Virgin Islands' oldest and continuously operating companies. Established on St. Croix in 1892, Rob't. L. Merwin & Co. is still going strong today. Over the years the firm has played an integral role in the history of the island of St. Croix. This book tells this story, drawing from corporate records, correspondence, newspapers, magazines, and the personal recollections of some of the principals.
A reviewer wrote, "It's a story of a business, of a family, and also of an island. It tells of the changes, of the ups and downs, of the sugar cane and hurricane years. And it's a tale of survival, strength and flexibility."
In its early years Rob't. L. Merwin & Co. provided the lighterage, stevedoring, and cargo-handling services needed to move imports onto St. Croix and to export the locally produced sugar and rum. The company also represented Lloyd's of London for more than a century beginning in 1894.
Over time the services provided were adjusted to the varying market conditions. Through good times and bad, the company evolved to meet the needs of changing times, doing business as Merwin Lighterage Co., Merwin Electric Power Co., Merwin Shipping Agency, Merwin Insurance Agency, Merwin Truck Sales and Service, Merwin Commercial Park, St. Croix Industrial Park, Merwin Hardware Inc., Merwin Construction and Maintenance, Cargo Services Inc., Maritime Contractors Inc., St. Croix Port Services Inc., Merwin True Value Hardware, Merwin Building Supply Center, and Merwin Commercial Properties.
The soft cover book consists of 192 pages and contains 169 illustrations, including vintage photographs and historic documents. Proceeds benefit the St. Croix Landmarks Society's restoration, preservation and education projects. The book is available at The Royal Poinciana, Undercover Books, The Whim Museum Store, and St. Croix Landmarks Museum Store.

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