Mansions and private mansions to visit Philipsburg

Willem Hendrik Rink was the last commander of Saint Martin (1790-1800) and kept his post during the French occupation (1795-1801). He was dismissed by the English occupiers in 1802. He was the owner of Retreat, in Dutch Cul-de-Sac. He bought a house on Front Street built in 1788. He had a stone floor added. In 1960, the building was divided in two and changed owners regularly. Unfortunately, the house cannot be visited today.

This old 19th century house was famous for its vineyards. Its architecture is reminiscent of the style of American colonial houses: the entire house was imported in pieces from Baltimore. It was delivered by schooner in 1871 by the Van Romondt family and assembled on site. This house has a twin in the United States: Martha's Vineyard, in Massachusetts. Today, the house is owned by the Bucamper family, who keep this historic building in perfect condition.