Author: shelley dewese

With over 40 years in the Virgin Islands, I am a New Yorker with deep roots in the Danish West Indies, researching surnames Bough, Beaudhuy, and Gasper. Uncovering my history has revealed unknown aspects of my ancestry, shaping my present identity. I find joy in sharing stories and connecting with others.

As a transcriptionist researcher, I compiled the digitized St. Croix Population Database, drawing from Danish, American, and Virgin Islands archives. I am a proud member of organizations like the Society of Virgin Islands Historian, Friends of Denmark and Ujima Genealogy Research Group.

My dream of exploring Danish West Indies ancestors became a reality through the St. Croix Population Database and access to collections at the St. Croix Landmarks Society. I recently launched the VI Headline Rewinds podcast, delving into vintage Virgin Islands newspapers.

I appreciate the support of collaborators and followers. For assistance with Danish West Indies genealogy, feel free to reach out via email. its.sheldew@gmail.com

52 Ancestors # 10 Stormy Weather in Tortola BVI

The theme for week #10 of 52 Ancestors (stormy weather)  is so fitting to describe the historical backdrop of a schooner in Tortola called the “Fancy- Me”.  This brief account will show how a Hurricane back in 1926  impacted a Community, Family and a Caribbean Island to a heartbreaking misfortune. For this story I invited…… Continue reading 52 Ancestors # 10 Stormy Weather in Tortola BVI

Sarah Beaudhuy Close to Home (#9 of 52 ancestors)

Week 9 (Feb 26-Mar 4) – Close to Home. Which ancestor is the closest to where you live? Who has a story that hits “close to home”? When I look at the family tree and look at residences, my 4th great-grandmother Sarah Beaudhuy is the closest to where I live, six blocks over on 15…… Continue reading Sarah Beaudhuy Close to Home (#9 of 52 ancestors)

52 ancestors #8 August C. Bough born 1866: Holder of deeds & Did great deeds.

I’m participating in “52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks: 2015 Edition” by Amy Johnson Crow of No Story Too Small. Week No. 8 of this challenge I used the optional weekly theme (Deeds) August C. Bough, my extraordinary great-grandfather was born in St. Croix, one of the largest islands in the Virgin Islands of the United…… Continue reading 52 ancestors #8 August C. Bough born 1866: Holder of deeds & Did great deeds.