St Eustatius (Statia) is located close to St Kitts and Saba. With Oranjestad as capital, the island is a special municipality in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

In 1636 the Dutch claimed the isle for the West India Company. Since then St Eustatius has changed hands at least twenty two times. 
In the 18th century the economy flourished from the island's status as free port and trade in slaves and contraband.

Statia is known for the "First Salute". In Nov 1776 the  Dutch returned the salute shots from the visiting American brig Andrew Doria, and so became the first nation to recognize the United States. 
The British retaliated under Admiral Rodney, Statia was plundered and the local Jews were treated very harshly. The loot was so big that greedy Rodney was late for the decisive Battle of the Capes that brought the USA its independence.

In 1816 the Dutch regained possession. 

Statia has no flashy beaches, but Fort Oranje, Fort de Windt and Quill National Park are certainly worth a visit.

We  visited a sleepy Statia in December 2007.