Wheatley Center Celebrates 50 Years of Resilience and Community Spirit

The Wheatley Center, a beloved commercial hub on St. Thomas, marked its 50th anniversary Saturday with a festive event that showcased its resilience and deep-rooted connection to the community. Despite enduring a fire and several Category 5 hurricanes since its inception in the 1970s, the center has stood the test of time, evolving into a bustling spot where residents gather for shopping, socializing, and more.

The celebration, held in the center’s parking lot, was a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of St. Thomas. Families and children reveled in activities like Jenga and cornhole, transforming the usually busy space into a playground of joy and laughter. Disc jockey Tony T kept the energy high with his excellent music selection, while entertainment was further enriched by the performances of Happy Time.

The event was graced by the presence of the Wheatley family—Luana, Maurice, and Henry Wheatley—whose legacy continues to shape the center. Property managers Anthony Chaline and Alexandria Holder were also on hand, ensuring the event ran smoothly and reflecting on the center’s rich history and promising future.