Celebrating Mongoose Junction's 30th Anniversary Season
As unique as the island itself, Mongoose Junction, along Northshore Road in Cruz Bay, is one of St. John's most impressive architectural features. Though well known for its quality shops and dining establishments, Mongoose Junction is also enjoyed as a beautiful example of 18th century Danish building technique with a modern twist. Walking through archways made from local stone, and over walkways spanning the brook that runs from the mountainside to the bay, it is easy to forget that the oldest buildings around you are only 30 years old.
The original buildings surround an open-air courtyard on the eastern side and are home to some of Mongoose Junction's first shops: R & I Patton Goldsmithing, The Canvas Factory, The Fabric Mill, and Hurricane Alley (originally called St. John Water Sports). Passing through the courtyard, visitors who remember Mongoose Junction from its early days will be greeted with a pleasant surprise. This newly renovated area is now home to The Deli Grotto, The Ocean Grill, and The Tap Room. One of the changes especially close to Glen's heart is the re-landscaped garden that runs through the center of the complex.
The second phase of Mongoose Junction started in 1988, following the request by fellow architect and developer, T.A. Carter, for Glen Speer to design and build a 21,000 square foot addition on the adjacent lot. This new addition was designed with a larger shop format in mind. But there are still some smaller, owner-operated businesses, such as Bajo el Sol Gallery. Two bridges seamlessly span the gardens and brook linking the first and second phases of Mongoose.
To celebrate Mongoose Junction's 30th Anniversary, the 2008 season will be filled with special events, surprises and new shops! The Junction is especially pleased to welcome Friends of the National
Park to the Hawksnest Building, alongside Northshore Road. Stop by and join the celebration.
For those who appreciate Mongoose Junction's contribution to the natural beauty of St. John, visit some of Glen Speer's other island projects, such as the Dining Pavillion at Cinnamon Bay and the new picnic area Gazebo at the National Park Visitors Center.
Comments
I would have never thought that mongoose was that old.
Posted by: Waterguy | November 8, 2007 7:59 AM
Mongoose is like a cool oasis on a hot St. John day. it seems like the stone helps keep everything so cool there. A great place to go have a sandwich or a beer while thge wife shops!
Posted by: augie | November 8, 2007 8:08 AM
I always love Mongoose at Christmas, it is so beautiful!
Posted by: Xislandgirl | November 8, 2007 8:17 AM
Mpngoose is such a pleasant enviornment. I love it there.
Posted by: Mary Beth | November 8, 2007 8:42 AM
Good food, drinks, and shopping..
Posted by: Capt. John | November 8, 2007 8:53 AM
I love Mongoose, always my first stop (after customs). Deli Grotto, has the best sandwiches, and Mongoose has very clean washrooms (very important to every women).
Posted by: ScubaGirl | November 8, 2007 9:34 AM
Mongoose is a must-stop for me on any St. John trip thanks to some of the best shopping and a couple of great places to grab a drink or a snack. It's nice to know a little more about it!
Posted by: VickiH | November 8, 2007 9:36 AM
I plan to visit Mongoose Junction in 17 days. YAY!
Posted by: sapphirecat | November 8, 2007 9:42 AM
We love Mongoose Junction. There's something there for everyone. Our teens enjoyed shopping, and we enjoyed relaxing with a cold drink.
Posted by: Pam | November 8, 2007 9:43 AM
Great place !!!
Posted by: onthelake | November 8, 2007 9:43 AM
Its hard to believe that its been 30 years. The place looks great!
Cheers, RickG
Posted by: RickG | November 8, 2007 10:19 AM
I love Mongoose Junction too. The Tap Room, Deli Grotto and Ocean Grill are great additions that we head to multiple times each trip, and I love our wedding bands from RI Patton.
Of course, my ultimate shopping goal for Mongoose Junction is to one day make a purchase from St. John Properties up on the third floor. Hey, I did say "dream!"
Posted by: liamsaunt | November 8, 2007 10:45 AM
Love Mongoose, very serene. Agree with Augie, nice to sit and relax while wife shops at Caravan Gallery.
Posted by: jerseyboy | November 8, 2007 11:05 AM
We love strolling through Mongoose Junction - with a stop at the Gecko Gazebo.
Posted by: Janet | November 8, 2007 11:18 AM
The celebration of Halloween at Mongoose Junction is not to be missed. The shopkeepers and parents have as much fun as the children!
Posted by: Chet | November 8, 2007 11:36 AM
Mongoose Junction has the neatest shops and we always each lunch at Deli Grotto - the food is so fresh and delicious! The stone architecture is beautiful - I wish I could bring it home with me!
Posted by: greyhoundmom | November 8, 2007 12:29 PM
We really enjoyed eating and shopping at Mongoose Junction. I find it hard to believe that it has been there that long! It's a great place.
Posted by: kygirl | November 8, 2007 12:47 PM
How did I miss this last time? Newbie-syndrome I guess. Can't wait to check it out in June!
Posted by: Karen | November 8, 2007 12:49 PM
On our honeymoon I found a beautiful emerald ring for my bride at Mongoose Junction. A very cool place indeed.
Posted by: FlaGeorge | November 8, 2007 3:49 PM
MY FAMILY AND I LOVE MONGOOSE. WE STARTED COMING TO ST. JOHN IN 1970. OUR FIRST STOP IS MONGOOSE
Posted by: HERB ROBINSON,CAMB.MD. | November 29, 2007 9:35 AM