Reviving an old gem in St. Croix
Club Comanche reinvents itself
Maura Curley
Club Comanche, St. Croix’s oldest operating hotel in downtown Christiansted was looking weary, amidst all the renewals around it. It’s taking vision - and an undisclosed amount of capital- to bring the landmark to its former elegance, and position it for a new wave of tourism to the island.
Jack Pickel, an attorney and land developer, who moved to St. Croix, from Las Cruces Mexico, didn’t plan on buying the Danish townhouse, which dates back to the 1750s, and has been operated as a hotel since 1948. But Pickel appeared thrilled with his decision during a 60th anniversary party he hosted for Club Comanche, just 14 months after purchasing property. Island residents, government officials, Pickel’s friends, and visitors all turned out to toast the revival.
Some former patrons shared memories of the Club Comanche’s glory days, when it was center of island activity. Pickel who calls Comanche “a fabulous property” is sparing little expense in upgrading the rambling 27 rooms, pool and grounds. He’s transforming the space into an executive boutique hotel, while preserving its authentic West Indian charm.
The massive pool- the first in St. Croix- has been redone, and converted to a freshwater filtration system. Floors have been stripped and laid with red pine, and guest rooms furnished with Caribbean hardwoods, beds with Sealy pillow top mattresses, and bamboo cotton towels.
Located in a prime location on the boardwalk overlooking Christiansted Harbor and only a short saunter from Government House, Pickel predicts Club Comanche will attract a new brand of clientele. He is already expecting some “ high powered media people” from Washington D.C.
When all the renovations are complete Club Comanche will feature a boardwalk bar and grill, a lobby wine cellar, wine shop and tasting room, banquet and conference rooms, a business center, retail shops, spa, and docking facilities.
Pickel chuckles when asked if this is his retirement project. He says "Developers never retire.”
Maura Curley is publisher of virginvoices.com
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