Maison Dinzey, located on what was once called Wästra Strandgatan during the Swedish era and now named after Joan of Arc, is a remarkable testament to St. Barth’s architectural heritage. Built in the 1820s, it stands as one of the few wooden structures to survive the devastating fire of March 2, 1852. The house’s excellent state of preservation, both inside and out, is credited to a comprehensive renovation by its current owner. During the Swedish period, the prominent Dinzey merchant family resided here, lending their name to the property.
Many locals still refer to it as ‘Le Brigantine’, after a restaurant that once occupied the ground floor, now home to a shop. Maison Dinzey offers a vivid glimpse into the opulent merchant houses of Gustavia’s golden age as a bustling port city. Its roof, covered in wood shavings, reflects a common island practice of the past. The building’s design, featuring a stone foundation with a wooden superstructure, mirrors the style of county governor buildings in Gothenburg, Sweden – a construction method adopted in many Swedish towns following several major fires. The house holds particular historical significance as the final home of Julia Dinzey, who lived there until her death in 1959 at nearly 90 years old.
Julia was the last Swedish citizen residing on the island from the time of Swedish rule. Adding to its historical importance, two traditional slave cabins behind the main building, now available for rent, provide a stark reminder of the island’s complex past.
