Purchase and Initial Development
Epstein purchased Little Saint James island in the U.S. Virgin Islands in 1998 for approximately .95 million. At purchase, the island had limited development. He immediately began extensive construction.
Initial Construction Phase
The first decade of construction established the basic infrastructure: the main residence, guest accommodations, a helipad, dock facilities, desalination plant, and power generation. The island needed to be self-sufficient.
The Blue-Striped Structure
Among several notable structures, the building featuring blue and white stripes sometimes topped with a gold dome attracted significant online attention and speculation. The structure required Virgin Islands building permits; its stated purpose was recorded in permitting documents.
The Massage Parlor Building
Victim accounts consistently described a prominent structure used as a massage facility. This building was separate from the main residence.
Construction Workforce
Construction on the island required ongoing labor from USVI workers. Local workers and contractors were employed. Some construction records became part of legal proceedings examining Epstein’s USVI activities.
Later Additions
Epstein continued developing the island through the 2010s. By his death in 2019, it had become a fully equipped private island compound.