St. Joseph Village – St. Joe

St. Joseph (known as St. Joe) is a picturesque coastal village on Dominica’s west coast within the Saint Joseph Parish. The Edward Oliver Leblanc Highway borders the village to the east, which connects it to other major settlements on the island. Nestled between the smaller rural areas of Layou and Mero, St. Joseph boasts a rich blend of history, community life, and natural beauty. Its landscape is characterized by the flowing St. Joseph River, which runs through the heart of the village. Layou Road connects the residential areas, adding to the village’s overall accessibility.

Natural Beauty and Ecotourism

St. Joseph is known for its natural attractions and proximity to Dominica’s Eco-tourism hotspots. Mero Beach, located just 5 minutes from St. Joseph, is one of the most popular beaches on the island. The beach is known for its black volcanic sand and calm waters, making it a favourite spot for locals and tourists. On weekends and during holidays, Mero Beach becomes a hub of activity, with beachgoers enjoying the scenic environment and vibrant social gatherings. The Layou River, another key natural feature, offers opportunities for river tubing, fishing, and picnics, drawing eco-tourists to the area.

In addition to its rivers and beaches, the lush, fertile lands surrounding St. Joseph contribute to the village’s agriculture-based economy. Crops like bananas and root vegetables are major in residents’ livelihoods. This agricultural activity also supports local eco-tourism initiatives, as visitors can experience the village’s traditional farming methods.

Community and Infrastructure

The village has a robust infrastructure that supports its local population and surrounding areas. Two key institutions provide educational services: the St. Joseph Primary School and the St. Joseph High School. Both play a significant role in educating and developing the community’s youth. These schools are central to the village’s efforts to foster a sense of community and educational achievement.

The St. Joseph Village Council manages local governance and oversees development projects, community activities, and infrastructural improvements. The St. Joseph Health Centre provides essential medical care to the village’s residents. The St. Joseph Police Station maintains law enforcement and public safety, ensuring the peace and security of the community.

Religious life in St. Joseph is diverse. The St. Joseph Catholic Church and the St. Joseph Seventh-day Adventist Church are the primary places of worship. These institutions are spiritual centres and are gathering places for social and community activities.

Recreation and Sports

St. Joseph has several recreational facilities that foster community involvement and sporting activities. The St. Joseph Playing Field is a central location for cricket and football matches, serving as a venue for local and regional competitions. The St. Joseph Basketball Court is another recreational space where local teams gather for games and events, contributing to the village’s vibrant sports culture.

Notable People from St. Joseph

St. Joseph has produced several notable individuals who have made significant contributions in politics, sports, and literature. These individuals have played important roles in Dominica and the international stage, shaping the village’s reputation for excellence.

1. Dr. Vince Henderson
   A distinguished politician and diplomat, Dr. Vince Henderson has had a long and impactful career in public service. He served as Dominica’s Parliamentary Representative for the St. Joseph Constituency. He held several high-profile positions, including Minister for Education and Planning, Economic Development, and Climate Resilience. Henderson has also represented Dominica internationally as the country’s Ambassador to the United Nations and the United States.
2. J. R. Ralph Casimir
   J. R. Ralph Casimir is a poet, editor, and pioneering pan-Africanist. Born in 1898 in St. Joseph, Casimir played a pivotal role in Marcus Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), organizing its Dominican branch. He was also instrumental in promoting black pride and awareness through his poetry, which is recognized across the Caribbean.
3. Grayson Shillingford
   Grayson Shillingford was one of Dominica’s most celebrated cricketers. Between 1969 and 1972, he represented the West Indies in seven Test matches. Hailing from St. Joseph, Shillingford’s contribution to cricket earned him a lasting legacy in the sports community.
4. Bentley Royer
   A politician and former schoolteacher, Bentley Royer played a significant role in local governance. He served as a senator and was a member of the Dominica Labour Party, contributing to educational and political landscapes.
5. Doreen Paul
   A banker and politician, Doreen Paul has made notable contributions to Dominica’s infrastructure development as the Minister of Health and Social Security. Her efforts led to the construction of health centers, sports complexes, and other essential public services.

St. Joseph is a vibrant coastal community with deep cultural roots and a solid connection to Dominica’s natural environment. Its rivers, beaches, and fertile lands support a thriving agricultural and eco-tourism economy. The village’s infrastructure, educational institutions, and community services provide a solid foundation for local development. St. Joseph’s contributions to politics, sports, and literature, through the achievements of its notable residents, have further solidified its importance within Dominica’s broader national narrative.