Jost Van Dyke

Jost Van Dyke is located an island of the British Virgin Islands, 5 miles north- west of Tortola. With about 8 square kilometers, it is the smallest of the four main islands.

History

The island was named after the Dutch pirate Joost van Dyke. Its first settlers were Quakers who came early 18th century on the island to grow sugar cane.

Geography

Like many of its neighboring islands is also Jost Van Dyke volcanic origin and very mountainous. The highest point of the island is the Rouch Hill with 321 meters. In the southern part of the island there are three anchorages for sailors: the White Bay, Great Harbour and Little Harbour. Jost Van Dyke is inhabited by approximately 260 people.

Personalities

• William Thornton (1759-1828), architect and inventor
• John Coakley Lettsome (1744-1815), Physicist