II 1 ill tm^ •Vw,,^," i-y/\.,!:<">S'»'^ J!^msi^mmm. ..LH.RC H'liif'/imJWivka&^^ssESff^w^r?!?^:^?;^^ GUIDE TO NANTUCKET BY J. H. ROBINSON of Nantucket Member of The Nantucket Historical Association THIRD EDITION Copyright, 1918, by J. H. Robinson CONTENTS DESCRIPTIVE INDEX to ALL POINTS OF INTEREST Roads, Drives, Lighthouses, Lightships, etc., are shown upon the MAPS of the Island and County of Nantucket, Town of Nantucket, Village of Siasconset, end the Steamboat Route. LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF Nantucket Island Town of Nantucket History of Nantucket Nantucket Whale Fishery and All Points ai' Interest for w.hiJbh' Consult Index on opposite page. Note. — All distances are in statute, or land, miles. ©CI.A497962 r \= DESCRIPTIVE INDEX to POINTS of INTEREST Page AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY, First exhibition held in 1856. Fair- ground south end of Orange Street, just beyond where State Road turns off for 'Seonset. See Cattle Show 11 ATHENEUM, Publie Library 29 ATHLETIC CLUB. Organized in 19C3. See Brant Point 32 BANKS, Pacific National at the head of Main Street Square; Nan- tucket Institution for Savings, Tvlain Street Square. BATHING, Cliff Bathing Beach, page 39; 'Seonset, page 45; Wau- winet, page 52; Quidnet, page 51; Tom Never 's Head, page 49; Warm Salt Water Baths, bathhouse near steamboat wharf, and 'Seonset. Beacon Hill. See North Vcstrv 34 BELL. See Tower 35 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN SPRING. See Maddaket 55 BOAT HOUSES of the Massasehusetts Humane Society, equipped with all the apparatus necessary to render assistance in case of shipwreck, are located at Tuckernuck, Head of Hummock Pond, Forked Pond, '.Seonset and Quidnet. See Road Map. BOATS, Sailboats, with or without skippers, are for hire at Steam- boat or Old Nortli wharves for FISHING and SAILING par- ties; CLAMBAKES can also be arranged for. Rowboats can be hired at Old North wharf for ROWING, fishing in the Harbor, or CRABBING in The Creeks netir Monomoy. Books p'laLing to Nantucket 57 BRANT POINT 31 "CAMELS" 23 Cable. 18 Camping. See Quidnet 51 CAPTAINS' ROOM. See Rotch Warehouse 40 CASINO. See 'Seonset 48 Cattle Show. See Agricultural Society. CEMETERIES 55 CHURCHES: First CONGREGATIONAL, see North Vestry, page 34. UNITARIAN, page 35. METHODIST, Centre Street near Main, erected 1823, pillars in front added in 1840, first Metho- dist church built in 1799, S. W. corner Fair and Lynns Streets. EPISCOPAL, "St. Paul's," Fair Strest, erected 1901, pre- sented to the parish by Miss C. L. W. French, or Boston, as a memorial to her father; the first Episcopal church '"Trinity" was erected in 1839, on north side of Broad Street, near the corner of Centre ; it was burned in the great fire of 1846. FIRST BAPTIST, Summer Street, society formed 1839, building erected 1840, tower and vestry added in 1841. CATHOLIC, "St. Marv's," Federal Street, erected 1896, services first held in Town Hall in 1849 and later in Pantheon Hall. In 1858 Harmony Hall was secured and used until it was removed to mak( room for the present structure. Churches are indicated upon Map of the Town of Nantucket. CLIFF NORTH SHORE 41 BaiJiing Beach 39 Cli >ek. See Tower 35 COASTGUARD STATIONS. See L^tesaving Stations. COATUE, The nairow strip of land, opposite Brant Point, which separates the Harbor from the Sound and from which the EASTERN JETTY is built out to deepen the entrance to thu Harbor. 3 DESCRIPTIVE INDEX TO POINTS OF INTEREST Page Coffin House ^ 28 Coffin, "Miriam." Sec "Miriam Coffin's County Seat." COFFIN SCHOOL 37 CONSUE SPRING, See Springs. COSKATA, that part of the island immediately north of the Head of the Harbor where THE COSKATA LIFESAVING STA- TION, erected 1883, is located. See Great Point, page 53. See Lifesaving Stations. See Cliflf — North Shore. Crabbing. See Boats. Cranberry Bogs. .See 'Sconset, page 45; Maddaket, page 54. The Gibbs Pond cranberry bog is the LARGEST SINGLE, CULTIVATED, CRANBERRY BOG IN THE WORLD. DRIVING 9 EAT FIRE SPRING, Fountain abotit three-fourths of a mile beyond Polpis, on the road to Wauwinet, is supplied with water from Eat Fire Spring, which is located several hundred feet north. See Road Map. Express Office, Main Street Square. FAIR, FAIRGROUND. See Agricultural Society. First, Church, House, Schoolhouse, Townhouse, Jail and Road, page 16; Water Works, page 43; Maddaket, page 54. Lighthouse. See Brant Point 31 Magistrate 16 Purchasers 14 Settlers 15 Steamboat 19 Town. See Water Works 44 FISHING. See Boats. Quidnet, page 51. Good perch fishing is found in most of the larger ponds. FRANKLIN SPRING. See Maddaket. 54 Friends' Meetinghouse. See Historical Association 25 " Burving Ground. See Cemeteries 55 GEOLOGY. Morain of the glacier 10 GOLF. See Cliff— North Shore, page 42; and 'Sconset 45 Great Fire 18 Great Neck, that part ot the island between Long Pond and Hither Creek. .See Road Map. GREAT POINT Lighthouse, page 53. See Cliff— North Shore 41 Gulf Stream. See Chff Bathing Beach, page 39, also 21. Gut Bridge. .See Maddaket 54 "HAUL-OVER." See Wauwinet 52 HIGHEST POINT on the island. See 'Sconset, 48 " " on the coast line. See Sankaty Head 50 on the North Shore. See The Cliff 41 HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION 25 HISTORY OF NANTUCKET .' 13 "Horseshoe House." See the Oldest House on the Island 28 HOTELS. See back part of guide. House of Correction 41 Humane Society. See Boathouses. INDLANS ; 14 "Inquirer and Mirror." See Newspaper. JAIL and House of Correction 41 Jethro Coffin House. See Oldest House on the Island 28 Jetties. See Cliff Bathing Beach, page 39; and Coatue. LIBRARY 29 LIFESAVING STATIONS. All stations are known as Coast Guard Stations and designated bv number. See Surfside, No. 46; Maddaket, No. 47; Coskata, No. 45; and Muskeget, No. 48. During the months of June and July stations are in charge of the keeper only ; they are fully manned all the other months of the year. The REGULAR DRILLS, giyen by the station crews, are most interesting. All are connected by telephone. DESCRIPTIVE INDEX TO POINTS OF INTEREST Page LIGHTHOUSES. See Sankaty Head, page 50; Great Point, page 53 ; Brant Point, page 3 1 ; Cliff Bathing Beach 39 Lightships. See maps. See 'Sconset. page 48; Quid.net, page 51; Wauwinet, page 53 ; Great Point 53 "LISBON BELL." See Tower 35 Low Beach. See 'Sconset 48 MADDAKET 54 MAP of the Island of Nantucket. See folder. " " " Town of Nantucket. See folder. " " " Village of Siasconset. . 46 " " " Steamboat Route — - lights and lightships. Sec folder. MARIA MITCHELL MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION 30 Massachusetts Humane Society. See Boathouses. Massasoit Bridge. See Maddaket 54 MEETINGHOUSE, Friend.s'. See Historical Association 25 Milestones. See 'Sconset. MILL 27 "Mill Hills." See Mill. "Miriam Coffin's County Seat," at Quaise, that part of the island reserved by Thomas Mayhew. See History, page 14. also books relating to Nantucket. "Miriam" Cofhn, born 1723, died 1790, was a large shipowner and smuggler; her house at Quaise had many concealed closets and passageways where goods were stored; she was eventually arrested and stood trial. The pres- ent farmhouse is located on the same site, and has in it much of the timber of the old Coffin house. Marker by roadside. See Polpis 54 MitcheU, Maria. See Maria Mitchell Association 30 MONOMOY. Just across the Harbor from Nantucket, about 1 mile from Steamboat wharf, and 2 MILES by road. See Polpis, page 54, and Road Map. MONUMENT, Soldiers' and Sailors' 31 " Site of oldest burial ground. See Cemeteries 56 " Site of first house. See index, under First, etc. MUSEUM. See Historical Association 25 MUSKEGET, Island of. The Muskeget Lifesaving Station stands on the north beach, illustration, page 43. Boat house at the east end. The station was established in 1883, destroyed by fire in 1889, temporarily located on the North Head, Tucker- nuck. Present station was built in 1896. Tlie eastern por- tion of the island is owned by private parties, the remainder being set apart as a public park. ELEVEN AND THREE- FOURTHS MILES from Brant Point. See Lifesaving Stations, also Cliff— North Shore 41 NANTUCKET, Island of. Location, description, etc 8 " Town of. Location, description, etc 11 " Histors' of. Discovery, settlement, etc 13 " Whale'Fishery 20 " Indians 14 " Maps of. Island and Town. See toldci'. " Historical Association 25 Athletic Club. Organized, 1903. See Brant Point. . . 32 NANTUCKET, How reached. See Town of Nantucket, page 11; " and Steamboat Route Map. Town Meeting 11 " Books relating to 57 Golf Club 42 " Cottage Hospital 12 Naval Battle 49 Newspaper, "Inquirer and Mirror." Office, Orange Street, near Main. DESCRIPTIVE INDEX TO POINTS OF INTEREST Page "Newtown Gate." In the earlier days when thousands of sheep roamed the pasture?, this gate stood across the south end of Orange Street, near the first milestone; just beyond the Asy- lum. The toll was one cent. Discontinued in 1821. "North Church" "North Tower" 34 North Shore 41 NORTH VESTRY 34 Noted People: Lucretia Mott, noted philanthropist, born 1793, cor- ner Fair and School vStreets. Abiah Folger, mother of Benjamin Franklin. See Maddaket 55 William Mitchell, noted astronomer; father of Maria Mitchell. Maria Mitchell 30 Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury. OBSERVATORY ; . . . 30 Ocean Steamship. See 'Sconset 48 Old Buildings. See MILL, Jail, House of Correction, NORTH VESTRY, OLDEST HOUSE, Meetinghouse, ROTCH WARE- HOUSE, BIRTHPLACE MARIA MITCHELL, Atheneum, Coiifin School, PADDOCK HOUSE, page 28. Pacific Bank, page 18. GARDNER HOUSE, 'Sconset, page 47. See Churches and Lighthouses. JOSIAH COFFIN HOUSE stands southwest corner ClifT Road and Norch Liberty vStreet, erected 1724. OLDEST HOUSE ON THE ISLAND 28 " Burying Ground. See Cemeteries, page 55. Warer Works 43 Opening. See Wauwinet 53 PACIFIC CLUB. See Rotch Warehouse 40 Paper. See Newspaper. POLPIS 54 Population. See Town of Nantucket 11 Post Office — Main Street Sauare, corner of Union .Street. PUBLIC LIBRARY— Atheneum 29 Pumping Station. Water Works 43 QUAISE. See "Mariam Coflfin's County Seat." Quaker Meetinghouse. See Hisiorical Association 25 QUIDNET 51 RANGE LIGHTS. See Brant Point 32 REFORESTATION 10 Road Ma]). See tolder. ROTCH WAREHOUSE 40 Rowing. See Boats. SACACHA POND. See Quidnet 51 SACHEM SPRING. Sec Cliff, page 42; and Road Map. Sailing. See Boats. SANKATY HEAD LIGHTHOUSE 50 SAUL'S HILLS. .See 'Sconset 48 Schools: Three in the Town of Nantucket. See Schools, page 18. Coffin SchoOi, page 37; Grammar School, Orange Street, upper part used as Town Hall. Sec 'Sconset, Polpis and Tuckernuck. 'SCONSET 45 vSettkrs, jjage 15. Water Works, page 43. Maddaket 54 SHAWKEMO SPRING, on the road to Polpis (page 54), about a (juartcr of a mile south of the road. See Road Map. Sheep Raising, Sheep Common, Shearing 15 Sherburne. See History of Nantucket 16 SHORE DINNERS. See Wauwinet, Ouidn.-t, Surfside, and Boats. SIASCONSET or 'Sconset 45 Map of 46 SOLDIERS' AND SAILORS' MONUMENT 31 South Shore. See Surfside. "South Tower" 35 6 DESCRIPTIVE INDEX TO POINTS OF INTEREST Page SPRINGS. See Franklin Spring, Sachem Spring, Shawkcmo Spring, Eat Fire Spring, Consue Spring, south end of Union Street. See Map of the Town of Nantucket. SQUAM HEAD. See Wauvvinet 52 STANDPIPE. See Water Works. State Road, begun in 1894. See 'Sconsct, page 45, and Road Map. Steamboats. See Town of Nantucket, and vSteamboat Route Map. Sunset Hill. See Oldest House 28 SURFSIDE; the Surfside Lifesaving Station, built 1874, located on th" South vShore; it is a fine walk of THREE AND ONE- HALF MILES from the Post- Office. From Main Street take Pleasant Street to Atlantic Avenue. vSee Map of Town of Nan- tucket and Road Map. Dinners can be arranged for nearby. See Lifesaving Stations. TELEGRAPH OFFICE, Orange Street, just south of Main Street Square. (Also at the Weather Bureau on Orange Street, and the Wireless at 'Sconset.) Teleohonc Exchange, Fair Street near Main. TEMPERATURE. vSee Nantucket Island 8 Ticket Offii'c, on Steamboat wharf. TOM NEVER'S HEAD 49 TOWER 35 Town, Asylum. See map Town of Nantucket. Building, Washington Street, just south of Main St. Square. Clock . See Tower 35 Hall, Orange Street. Meeting 11 of Nantucket. Description, page 11; map, see folder. Trees. Sec Reforestation. TUCKERNUCK, Island of. NINE MILES BY BOAT FROM NAN- TUCKET, or 3 miles from Warren's Landing at Maddakct. This charming little island is a delightful destination for sail- ing parties. A number of families live here throughout the year and about 20 dwellings are dotted about the island; the main settlement is on the north sid?, overlooking the EAST POND, and just south of BROOKS'S LANDING. A path which passes the SCHOOLHOUSE (formerly an engine house on Milk Street, moved to Tuckernuck in 1867) leads to the NORTH POND, thence to the NORTH HEAD and back to the East pond. A BOATHOUSE of the Massachusetts Humane Society stands near the SOUTH POND. In 16.S_9, the island was sold by Thomas Mayhew to Tristram Cofifin and son, James and Peter Coffin, for the sum of 6 pounds. See illustration, page 44. See Cliff — Xortli Shrn-e 41 UNITARIAN CHURCH. 35 VESTRY 34 WALKS, See Surfside. 'Sconset, Wauwinet and Great Point. Wannacomet Water Works. See Water Works. Warm Baths. Bathhouse near Steamboat wharf, and 'Sconset. WATER WORKS 43 WAUWINET 52 Wivitlier Bureau. Established 1886, formerly in Rotch Warehouse, moved to Orange Street in 1904. Signals ar? displayed to in- dicate the approach of storms or high winds. WHALE FISHERY 20 Wir^k'ss Telegraph. See 'Sconset 48 Wrecks, in the fail of 1902 the writer tramped around the island, camping at various points along shore. At that time there were 6 huge pieces of wreckage to be seen; in 1909 there were 8, the largest, practically the entire hull of a large schooner, lying on the western side of Muskeget. N a n u a n NANTUCKET is the largest of a group of islands known as Nantucket County, Massachusetts, its greatest LENGTH being 15 miles, east and west, by about 4 miles in WIDTH, with an AREA of about 50 square miles. It lies about 100 miles from the eastern end of Long Island and 25 miles SOUTH OF CAPE COD, from which it is separated by Nantucket Sound, its eastern and southern shores being washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The NEAREST LAND on the east is Portugal, at a dis- tance of 3,188 miles, and on the south the West Indies, 1,463 miles. Nantucket is one of the most delightful summer resorts on the Atlantic Coast and its climate the most healthful, its location precluding all possibility of a land breeze. The tempera- ture of the atmosphere is RARELY 85 DEGREES, while that of the water is from 70 to 74. Excellent and safe surf BATH- ING is found upon the eastern and southern shores; at other points on the sound and harbor the finest of still water. To those in search of health and recreation the conditions are ideal, the broad SANDY BEACHES, covered by an end- less variety of seashells, pebbles and finely wrought seaweeds, with now and then an old hulk of a vessel tossed up by the waves, afford a most comfortable lounging place and attrac- tive tramping ground. The pleasure seeker will find all that can be desired at the seaside: Motor BOATING, sailing, rowing, FISHING, tennis and bicycling, while fine GOLF courses, resembling closely the famous courses of Scotland, are maintained near the towns of Nantucket and 'Sconset. The Nantucket ATHLETIC CLUB and the 'Sconset CASINO con- tribute much in the way of amusement. A sojourn upon the island has been likened to an ocean voy- age with the disagreeable features eliminated. There is AL- WAYS A BREEZE and the pure invigorating salt air and bright sunshine, with the peace and quiet whicli pervades, are most soothing alike to the tired brain-worker and the person of nervous temperament. Relief from hayfever is assured and MALARIA IS UNKNOWN. That the climate is most beneficial for recuperative purposes is the unanimous indorse- ment of many prominent members of the medical profession. The nature of the country is ideal for HORSEBACK RIDING and the sport is most popular. A STATE ROAD connects the town of Nantucket with the villaj^e of Siasconset and there are PLEASANT DRIVES to all parts of the island, with a never ending variety of exquisite marine views or stretches of moor- lands covered with wild flowers and overgrown with bayberry and huckleberry bushes, wild roses and sweet fern with here and there a small pond around which and nestling among the many graceful grasses grow the beautiful pink marsh-mallows, buttercups and violets. Many of the beauty spots lie hidden among the HILLS, away from the main thoroughfares and to see which it will be necessary to turn off into the old deep rutted roads which form a network over the MOORS or wander along the bluffs where an occasional patch of IRISH BROOM or SCOTCH HEATHER blooming in all its native l^cauty mav be found. ARTISTS and BOTANISTS will find a wealth of material in store. Although NEVER THICKLY WOODED much of the timber used for building purposes in the earlier days was of island growth. Today no large trees are found outside of the town, but groves of sturdy dwarf pine, scrub oaks and cedars are scattered here and there about the island. Several attempts at REFORESTA- TION have been made. In 1847 Josiah Sturgis planted the grove of pines to the east of the fair grounds. Between 1875 and 1877, 40,000 Scotch larch and Scotch pine or fir trees, imported from vScotland by G. B. Emerson of Winthrop, Mass., were set out near Miacomet Pond. In 1912 the setting out of 80,000 young white pine trees was begun under the supervision of the State Forester. The tract is south of the fair grounds and 75 acres in extent. Nantucket's fine OLD ELMS, one of the most attractive features of the town, were set out iii 1851. The BUTTON - WOOD on Main Street, corner of Ray's Court, is the OLDEST TREE on the island ; it was planted in 1793. On the east side of Centre Street, opposite Quince Street, there stood until 1918 a willow tree, from the plot which contained Napoleon's grave on St. Helena. It was taken down to avoid accident, being badly decayed. Two of the three trees originally planted were blown down. The slips were brought to the island in 1842 by Capt. William Plaskett, of Nantucket, in the whaleship "Napoleon," whose name-board hangs in the "keeping room" at the "Oldest House." Numerous large boulders on the face of the hills, which traverse the northern portion of the island proper and extend due east and west, record the MORAIN OF THE GLACIER, which, melting at its contact with the Gulf Stream, formed the island of Nantucket. Many of them have been broken up and used for road building material. Near, and to the wes'fc of, Gibbs Pond is one of these large boulders around which an iron fence has been placed with the hope of preserving it. 10 Centre Street ^- J From the Tower Looking Toward the North Shore T h Town f Nantucket This interesting^ and picturesque old town, loeated on a beautiful harbor about midway of the island, is charming in its quaintness and in the simplicity of the design of its fine old buildings, many of them dating back beyond the days when Nantucket led the world in the whaling industry. On the housetops the queer little "roof- walks," from which it was customary to view the surrounding waters and watch for the incoming whale ships, are still in evidence, while the ivy-grown houses, well kept yards and pretty flower gardens attract the eye. Stately shade trees line the walks, arching over the streets and winding thoroughfares, many of which are modern surfaced while on others the old cobble paving still remains, peculiarly adapted to the artistic surroundings and preserving the same air of refinement and substantiality for wliich the old town is famous. Nantucket is the COUNTY SEAT of Nantucket County and has a POPULATION of 3,000 augmented during the summer months by thousands of visitors. The island affairs are adminis- tered bv a BOARD OF SELECT- MEN elected at the annual TOWN MEETING held in February, as- sisted by a Board of Health, Civic League and S. P. C. A. vSociety. The annual "CATTLE SHOW" and fair is held the latter i)art of August and the exhibits are varied and interesting. Farm products and fine specimens from the tested lierds are displayed while horse racing and various other sports add to the pleasure of the oc- casion. 11 From the Tower Looking Toward the South Shore Dviring the summer, with the exception of one Sunday boat, STEAMBOATS arrive from and depart twice daily for Woods Hole and New Bedford on the mainland : Woods Hole, BOSTON CONNECTION, and New Bedford for Taunton, Fall River and Providence, also NEW YORK CONNECTION via Sound steamers. New Bedford line from New Bedford, Fall River line from Fall River. Communication with the mainland may be had by TELEPHONE, also by TELEGRAPH, both cable and wireless. All parts of the island can be reached by telephone. The HOTELS are first class and there are excellent board- ing houses, many private houses having rooms for rent. There is a POSTOFFICE, National BANK, Institution for Savings, six churches, Town Hall, schools, LIBRARY, antique shops and moving picture theatres. Band concerts are frequently given on the "Square." The "Inquirer and Mirror," the only news- paper published on the island, is issued every Friday after- noon. Gas, electricity and ice are furnished bv local enter- prises. The NANTUCKET COTTAGE HOSPITAL is open to all, while the services of ex- cellent physicians and dentists are to be had. WATER OF THE PUREST QUALITY is furnished the town, which has an efficient fire department and sewerage system and is well sup- plied with all necessaries inci- dent to the health, convenience Quince Street and amusement of the summer visitors. 12 The South Eeach and ^lonomv History of Nantucket Nantucket, meaning "at the land far off at sea," was DIS- COVERED in 1602 by Bartholomew Gosnold, an English mariner, who, in a small bark with 28 companions, sailed from Falmouth in April of that year with the intention of establish- ing a colony in America. In May they reached the shores of New England, near Nahant, in Massachusetts Bay, but not being favorably impressed with the surroundings they reim- barked and sailed around Cape Cod, so named by them on account of the quantity of codfish caught in the neigliboring waters, passing close to Nantucket, Marthas Vineyard and the Elizabeth islands, from which group they selected Cuttyhunk and established a settlement. They remained but a few months when they decided, owing to fear of the Indians and lack of food supplies for the winter, to return to England, their venture, except for the furs and sassafras root which they had accumu- lated, ending in failure. That Nantucket was in reality discovered many years before there is little doubt, for it is reasonable to suppose that the shores were visited in 1002 by Eric the Red, a famous Norwe- gian sailor, but positive proof is lacking. The PILGRIMS, upon reaching this side of the Atlantic, sailed close to the shores of Nantucket, and the "Mayflower" was nearly wrecked on Nantucket shoals, causing them to give up further venture and return to Massachusetts Bay, which they had just left, having determined, after hastily viewing the country along shore, to seek a landing place and establish a settlement near the Hudson River. The CLAIM OF THE ENGLISH GOVERNMENT to these islands, by right of discovery, was based upon the voyage of John Cabot and his son Sebastian, who, in 1498, cruised along the coast from Florida to Labrador. 13 Near Commercial Wharf In 1635, William, EARL OF STERLING, obtained the grant, including the islands south of Cape Cod, from the "Council for the Affairs of New England," known as the Plymouth Com- pany, created by King James I in 1621, for the purpose of en- couraging and establishing colonial settlements in America. In 1637 JAMES FORRETT came to New York, appointed by Lord Sterling as his agent to dispose of and settle the terri- tory thus acquired. In October, 1641, some twentv years after the landing of the Pilgrims, Forrett SOLD THE ISLAND of Nantucket to THOMAS MAYHEW and his son Thomas, who sailed for England in 1657 and was never again heard from. In Febmarv, 1659, the elder Mavhew for "30 POUNDS CURRENT PAY AND TWO BEAVER HATS, one for myself and one for my wife, "sold all but one-tenth interest, which in- cluded that part of the island called Quaise, to nine others, viz. : Tristram Coffin, vSr., Christopher Hussey, Richard Swaine, Thomas Barnard, Peter Coffin, Stephen Greenleaf, John Swaine, Thomas Macy and William Pile. Each purchaser chose an associate, viz.: John Smith, Nathaniel Starbuck, Robert Pike, Thomas Look, Robert Barnard, James Coffin, Tristram Coffin, Jr., Thomas Coleman and Edward Starbuck. The tenth part which belonged to William Pile was divided one-half to John Bishop and one-half to WilHam Mary, Ann and Martha Bunker. These were the purchasers who bought the right of the Indian sachems to the island. When the settlers arrived the island was inhabited by 700 INDIANS, one hundred years later there remained but 358; in 1763-4, 222 were carried away by disease, the remainder gradually disappearing, the last full blooded Indian, Dorcas Honorable , dying in 1822. 14 The main settlement of the Indians was just north of Mia- comet pond although the last settlement was at Squam, on the west bank of Sacacha Pond — near Quidnet, where three wig- wams were standing in 1795. In 1917, at Quaise, the skeletons of two Indians and a dog were found buried on the edge of the bluff overlooking the beach; arrow heads and broken pottery were found nearby. The relics were placed in the Historical Association Museum for preservation. A half-l^reed by the name of Abram Ouary, the last man with Indian blood in his veins, died in 1854, aged 82 years and 10 months. He lived on Abram's point on the south side of Nan- tucket harbor, not far from an old Indian burying ground. Thomas Maoy, Edward Starbuck and Thomas Coleman, representing the SETTLERS, spent the winter of 1658-9 on the island, building their hut at Maddaket. They came to confer with the Indians in regard to purchasing certain rights and privileges from them and to determine the best location for their dwellings. Satisfactory arrangements having been made for the lands to be used by them, an agreement was made with the Indian sachems, Wanackmamack and Nickanoose. to sell certain parts of the island. This agreement was concluded in 1665 by the payment of 12 pounds cash and 14 pounds within three months. In June, 1661, the settlers then Hving in Amesburv and vSalisbury, Massachusetts, embarked for their new home ac- companied by Peter Folger of Marthas Vineyard, an inter- preter of the Indian language and whose daughter was the mother of Benjamin Franklin. They landed at Cupaum harbor, now Cu]jaum pond (closed by a storm about the A^ear 1700). and built their homes not far distant (site of TRISTRAM COFFIN'S HOUSE marked by granite post just southwest of the pond) and took up fishing, fanning and SHEEP RAISING as a means of obtaining a livelihood. The territory obtained from the Indians outside of the dwelling sites was held in common and was used by all for sheep graz- ing. The number of sheep any one person could own was determined by the proportion of his interests in the original island shares, to the land available for such purpose. It was agreed that an acre of common land was sufficient to maintain one sheep, hence the term "SHEEP COMMONS," an expression readily understood Ijy the Indians. In 1775 the flocks numbered over 15,000 head and the annual SHEARING, which commenced on the Monday nearest the 20th of June, was the oc- casion for a general celebration and in later Site of -'^^"^^ many strangers from the mainland, Tristram Coffin's called "coofs"' by the islanders, came to at- House tend the festivities. The western shear-pen 15 was located near Maxcys pond and the eastern B— ■■kj_^__ near Gibbs pond; when the eastern shearing was finished the western commenced. The last shearing occurred in 1847, at which time the shear-pen was located near Miacomet pond. The FIRST WHITE CHILD born on the island was Mary Starbuck in 1663. Tristram Coffin was the FIRST CHIEF MAGISTRATE of the island and was ap- pointed in 1671 by Governor Lovelace of NEW YORK, to which colony the island be- longed, and to whom was paid an "annual tax of FOUR BARRELS OF MERCHANTABLE CODFISH." The name of the town at that time was SHERBURNE. The FIRST ROAD extended from the settlement to the harbor, being the same as West Chester and Chester Streets of today. The FIRST CHURCH, school house, town house and jail were on this road and stood near Maxcys pond (see Wanna- comet Water Works, page 44) about one mile west from the junction of West Chester and North Liberty Streets. In 1666 a GRIST MILL was built near Chester Street, between Centre and North Water Streets, on the bank of the LILY POND brook, which emptied into the harbor, and in 1676 a fulling mill was built and operated nearby. The Lily pond, at this time called "Wesquo" pond, was large and deep and covered the area inclosed by West Chester, Centre, Lily and North Liberty Streets. Gull Island, so called because of the gulls which used tb frequent it, was sur- rounded by water and the LILY POND DAM was located near the comer of Centre and Chester Streets. In 1722 a little girl dug a gutter across the dam to see the water run and the next morning the dam was gone, the fulling mill carried away and several small boats, lying in the creek, stove to pieces. In 1673 the TOWN WAS MOVED to its present site, known to the Indians as "Wesquo," meaning "a bright stone," retain- ing the name of Sherburne until 1795 when it was CHANGED TO NANTUCKET. In 1692 the island was annexed to the province of Massachusetts. In 1723 the FIRST WIND MILL was erected on Mill Hills and the FIRST WHARF, "Straight Wharf," was built at the foot of State Street, name changed to MAIN STREET in 1835 and paved with cobbles two years later. In 1772 a fulling and coloring mill was built over a small stream at Polpis and operated for 25 years. The manufacture of duck started in 1792, the population at that time number- ing close to 6,000, of which one-half were QUAKERS. In 1797 the STREETS were NAMED and the manufacture of cut nails, probably the first made in this country, commenced. SHIPBUILDING started on Brant point in 1810 and two years 16 The Lifesavers Landing in the Surf at South Shore later a woolen factory, employing 200 people, was built on New North Wharf operating successfullv for a number of years. The "Nantucket Gazette," the FIRST NEWSPAPER pubHshed on the island, made its appearance in 1816, and in 1821 the localities known as Middle Pasture, North Pasture, Smooth Hummocks, Trotts Hills, Maddaket and Head of Plains were laid out, some of the earlier divisions being Great Neck, Foot of Plains, The Woods, Monomoy, South Pasture, Southeast Quarter, Plainfield, Squam, Coskata, Polpis, Shimmo, Shaw- kemo and Quaise, the portion reserved by Thomas Mayhew for himself. The FIRST POWDER HOUSE, where powder was stored with which to blow up buildings in case of fire, was built in 1823, and in 1831 fourteen humane houses were built about the shores of the island by the MASSACHUSETTS HUMANE SOCIETY, some of them equipped with lifeboats, etc., while others were houses of refuge offering shelter to the shipwrecked mariner. In 1840 a system of communication, by means of SIGNAL POLES with movable arms at the top, was established between Nantucket and the mainland. The signal pole station on Nantucket stood at the highest point on the Cliff, similar poles being loca'ed on the islands of Tuckernuck and Muskeget Edgartown and West Chop on Marthas Vineyard, and Woods Hole on the mainland, messages being transmitted according to prearranged code and relayed from station to station. The system, while expensive, was maintained for about six years, gradually falling into disuse as the decline in the whaling in- dustry set in and the necessity for communication between the islands became less important. 17 Pacific National Bank and Methodist Church In 1845 Nantucket had 14 SCHOOLS. In 1800 a private academy was erected near the site of the present High School at the head of Gay Street, erected in 1856, replacing the origi- nal high school built in 1836. The locality has since been called Academv Hill. The GREAT FIRE of July 13, 1846, destroyed a million dollars worth of property, wiping out the entire business sec- tion of the town, including many of the finest buildings. Start- ing Monday evening at 11 o'clock in a tailor shop which stood near the corner of Main and Union Streets, the fire burned all night and extended in a wide swath, which reached from the "North Church" to the "South Tower" and to the harbor, the boundaries being marked by white MARBLE BLOCKS at the street corners. As the fire spread to the wharves the oil from the bursting barrels caught fire and the harbor appeared to be ablaze as the burning oil flowed over the water. Before re- building, MAIN STREET below the PACIFIC BANK build- ing, erected in 1818, was widened bv 20 feet on the north side, thus forming the "SQUARE." In 1854 GAS was lighted for the first time and the town asylum called "Our Island Home" erected. Two years later an attempt was made to connect Nantucket by CABLE with the mainland. The cable was laid from Great Point to Mon- omoy island but was out of commission in a few hours; it was pulled ashore and the following year was laid from Nantucket to the mainland via Tuckernuck, Muskeget and Marthas Vineyard. The section between the Vineyard and the main- land was soon out of commission but for several years fair 18 Summer Residence on Cliff Road service was maintained between Nantucket and the Vineyard. In 1886 a cable was laid by the Government connecting Nan- tucket with the maitiland and a weather bureau station es- tabhshed. The ''WIRELESS" at 'Sconset was installed in 1901 and telephone connection with the mainland \\'as es- tablished in 1916 when a submarine TELEPHONE CABLE was laid and placed in operation by the New England Tele- phone and Telegraph Co. The FIRST STEAMBOAT to run between the island and the mainland was the "Eagle," which crossed the Sound in 1818, but many years elapsed before steamboats were running with any degree of regularity, sailing vessels being depended upon for communication with the ports of New Bedford, Boston, New York, Albany and Baltimore and a fair schedule was maintained by these ''PACKETS," the last of which was the sloop "Tawtemeo," which remained in service until 1881. It was not until 1870 that Nantucket, on account of its CLIMATE SO WONDERFULLY BENEFICIAL for recupera- tive purposes, began to attract attention as a SUMMER RESORT, since which time it has steadily grown in popu- larity. The population since 1875 has averaged about 3,000, whose occupation, besides the entertainment of summer visi- tors, is fishine, farming and the cultivation of cranberries. 19 Old Whaler "Morning Star" The illustrations of this old whaleship are from photographs taken by the writer the day be- fore she sailed on a cruise which lasted four years, returning safely with a cargo of oil. The Nantucket Whale Fishery Thirty years after the settlers had taken up their abode on the island or about the year 1690, the catching of whales com- menced. It was evident from the number of dead whales washed ashore (which it had been agreed that the Indians should have) that the waters about them held in store an additional means of obtaining a livelihood. Whales were frequently seen spouting and sporting in the sea not far from shore and to devise a method of capture was a problem which they undertook to solve. That they were successful was evidenced by the fact that whales were soon being taken by means of small boats which put out from shore. The south side of the island was divided into four beats and MASTS WERE ERECTED on the bluffs bordering the beach where lookouts with horns were stationed to call the boat crews, made up of 6 men each, and point out to them the whereabouts of the whale. After capture the whales were towed ashore to the TRI WORKS on the beach, where the oil was extracted, placed in barrels and carted across the island. The growth of the industry was rapid and in the course of a few years, about 1712, sloops and even small schooners were fitted out for short voyages. STRAIGHT WHARF was built in 1720. In 1773 three Nantucket whale ships, the "Dartmouth," "Beaver" and "Bedford," belonging to the firm of William Rotch & Sons, sailed for London with cargoes of oil; 20 Deck of the Old Whaler "Morning Star" after unloadiuf^ they were chartered to bring cargoes of TEA TO BOSTON. Upon their arrival the tea was promptly thrown overboard, thus making a famiHar bit of history. At the breaking out of THE REVOLUTION, in 1775, the fleet numbered 140 seagoing craft, including brigs of considerable size. The war proved a severe blow to ths industry, the ves- sels being nearly all lost by capture. After the PEACE OF 1783 business was revived, larger vessels were built and longer voyages taken. Capt. Timothy Folger of Nantucket was first to chart the course of the GULF STREAM, voyages up and down the coast leading to its dis- covery. The FIRST SHIP TO FLY THE AMERICAN FLAG in a British port was the "Bedford," Capt. Mooers, from Nantucket. She arrived in The Downs, February 6, 1783, loaded with 487 butts of whale oil. The cruising grounds were no longer confined to the Atlantic and in 1791 the ships of Nantucket became the PIONEERS OF THE PACIFIC whale fishery and thirty islands were discovered by them. The first whaler to round Cape Horn was the ship "Beaver," Capt. Paul Worth. During the WAR WITH ENGLAND, 1812-14, many vessels were lost and the inhabitants suffered the greatest distress. After the declaration of peace the industry was prosecuted with renewed energy; new and larger vessels were added to the fleet and the wharves, lined with whale ships and strewn with anchors, tripots, spars, whale boats, timber, oil casks, etc., were alive with busy workmen, stevedores, coopers and truckmen, while the riggers and ship carpenters were putting 21 Deck of the Old Whaler "Alorning Star" cvcr\-lhin,u: in readiness for the renewal of business. In 1822, 85 WHALE SHIPS hailed from Nantucket and the voyages were becoming more and more successful. In 1830 the ship "Sarah" brought home the LARGEST CARGO OF SPERM oil ever taken, 3,497 barrels, value $98,000. In 1838 the ship "Joseph vStarbuck" was built on Brant Point. In 1840 Nantucket had a population of 9,712 and was the LARGEST WHALING PORT in the world. SHIPBUILD- ING was carried on quite extensively on Brant Point and nearly everything to meet the local demand was manufactured and included whale boats, blocks, pumps, hoop rivets, nails, harpoons, lances, knives, candles, duck, boots, shoes, brushes, bellows, silk, straw and cordage of all kinds, such as standing and running rigging, bolt rope, worm line, marline, spun yarn, whale lines, twine, etc. Ten ROPE WALKS, 36 oil and CAN- DLE HOUSES, several tanneries and an iron and brass foundry were in operation besides numerous sail and rig lofts, spar yards, 11 blacksmiths, 22 COOPER SHOPS where casks and candle boxes were made. Nantucket was the first place to manufacture SPERM OIL AND CANDLES, the spermaceti from which the candles were made was separated from the oil. Later whale and elephant oils were included. The GREATEST NUMBER OF WHALE SHIPS at any one time was 90. As the larger ships of greater draft were built the difficulty in passing to and fro over the BAR (about where the jetties end) increased, the water even at high tide being too shallow to permit them to pass freely and it became necessary for many of them to fit out at Old Town (now Edgartown) on Marthas Vineyard, or New Bedford, on the mainland. In 1842 Peter F. Ewer 22 Old Candle Housi sotiglit to overcome this difficulty by the invention of the "CAMELS." These were twin floats resembUng in appear- ance a large scow 135 feet long, secured one to the other by heavy chains. The inner sides were shaped to fit approxi- mately the hull of a ship. They were floated, with chains let clown, one on each side of the ship, having first been submerged to the proper depth by allowing the water to flow in. The chains were then hove taut and the water pumped out lifting the ship bodily between them as they arose higher and higher out of the water. Although the "Camels" had their own power it was customary for the steamer to tow them in ; as the affair was clumsy and unmanageable, they were unsatisfactory, and after several vears use were abandoned. In 1859 the ship "Three Brothers," Capt. Charles E. Cleveland, returned with 6,000 barrels of oil, the LARGEST CARGO ever taken. The LAST WHALE tried out on Nantucket was on the bark "Amy" while lying at the Old North Wharf in 1870, although two whales captured in 1886 were tried out on Tuckemuck yielding oil and bone worth $2,400. Nantucket's MOST SUCCESSFUL WHALING MASTER was Capt. Charles Grant. He was born in 1814 and "rounded the Horn" on his first voyage at the age of eleven. He spent 56 years of his life aboard whale ships sailing seven voyages as master, his wife accompanying him from 1849 to 1881, and their children were born aboard ship. On one voyage of about four years he returned with a cargo of 3,000 barrels of sperm oil and 16 pounds of ambergris, valued at $180,000. While 23 sailing as master he brought home 17,000 barrels of oil and more sperm oil than any other whaling master, one voyage netting him $24,000. After 1859 he sailed from Fairhaven and New Bedford. He died in Nantucket March 18, 1906, aged 91 years and 9 months. In 1913 Capt. Thaddeus C. Defriez, the LAST WHALING MASTER, died. The decline of the whaling industry dated from the fall in tlie price of oil, in 1842, due to the growing popularity of lard oil and the discovery of mineral oil fields. Other ports were growijig in importance and the business was being overdone. Whales were becoming scarce, voyages of four years very often ending in failure. A great fire in 1846 destroyed nearly $1,000,000 worth of property and the gold fever of 1849 drew heavilv upon the male population of the town. The LAST WHALE SHIP sailed in 1869 and the industry, so far as Nan- tucket was concerned, became extinct, although for many years it was the headquarters of the American whale fishery and the people of the island its pioneers. Old Fish Cart and Oil Truck 24 Inr :3s '^ Iff 1911 ?w ~~ JIIH ^illttUyiU AiUiiiiii ^:- ^^^■■■■1 The Nantucket Historical Association Nantucket Historical Association Museum From Main Street, take Fair Street. OPEN DAILY, EXCEPT SUN- DAY, 9 TO 5. ADMISSION 15 CENTS. Adjoining the Friends' Meetinghouse on Fair Street is the new building of the Historical Association, in which is a MU- SEUM, considered one of the best in the State. The Association was organized in May, 1894, and incorpor- ated two months later, with headquarters in the old meeting- house, which they bought during the year. In 1904 the Asso- ciation erected the present fireproof building to insure the preservation of the many old records and articles of historical interest which they have on exhibition. The DEED FROM THE INDIANS to Edward Starbuck, dated 1665, is carefully preserved, and among the exhibits can be seen many fine specimens of "scrimshont" work. In the basement is an old time oil truck. One of the most interesting exhibits is the JAW OF A SPERM WHALE, taken in the Pacific Ocean by the bark "Islander," Capt. Cash of Nantucket. It measures 17 feet in length, weighs 800 pounds, and has 46 teeth. The length of the whale was 87 feet, circumference 36 feet, weight about 200 tons and yield of oil 110 barrels. In the vestibule of the new building is a MEMORIAL TAB- LET upon which is inscribed the names of the 21 Nantucket 25 A CurniT in the Museum sailors who served on the "Ranger" and "Bon Homme Rieh- ard," under Commodore John Paul Jones, in the Revolution- ary War, and that of Lieut. Pinkham, U. S. N., of Nantucket, whose personal efforts were the means of preserving the birth- place of John Paul Jones at Arbigland, vScotland, in 1831. At the entrance to the Association building, set in the ground and properly inscribed, is the DOORSTONE of Benjamin Tashma, who died in 1770. He was the grandson of sachem Autopscot and grandfather of Dorcas Honorable, the last full- blooded Indian. His "Wigwam" stood just beyond the fifth milestone on the 'Sconset road. He was buried near the head of Miacomet Pond. The MONUMENTS set in the sidewalk in front of the Association building and on Main Street opposite the end of Fair Street mark the town's meridian (north and south line). They were placed in position by the U. S. Coast and Geodetic Survey. The OLD MEETINGHOUSE was built by the Friends in 1838, being originally used by them as a school. It was transformed into a place of v/orship in 1864 and used as such until the last member of the society on the island passed away. The furnishings and arrangements are the same as in former years. ,- ,, The old mill, in the south part of the town, Meridian '^^^ ^^^ Gardner House in 'Sconset belong to the Stone Association. 26 Old Windmill The Old Mill From Main Street, take Pleasant to South Mill Street. ADMISSION 15 CENTS. On Popsquatchet Hills, just sotithwest of the town and in that locality known as the "MILL HILLS," stands the Old Mill. It was BUILT in 1746, the date cut in the doorstep, and the timbers used in its construction are said to have grown just across Dead Horse Valley, to the south. Upon examina- tion it would appear that the larger timbers are ship timbers and it is probable that they were taken from wreckage cast upon the shore or from some old hulk unfit for further use. In 1776, THREE MILLS were in operation on the hills, the one now standing being known as the "East Mill" and the westernmost as the "Spider Mill," which stood on the site of Prospect Hill Cemetery. The FIRST WINDMILL, built in 1723, was blown up in 1836 to ascertain the effect of blowing up buildings with powder in case of fire. During the REVOLUTION the vanes of the mills were set to warn incoming shipping of the approach of British vessels. The Mill is now the property of the Historical Association and was purchased in 1897 to insure its preservation. 27 Old Coffin House The Oldest House on the Island From Main Street Square, take Centre .Street, West Chester and Sunset Hill Streets. OPEN FROM 9 TO 12 AND 2 TO 5. ADMIS- SION 15 CENTS. This route passes OLD NORTH VESTRY— First CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH (page 34). An interesting relic of the earlier davs of Nantucket is the old JETHRO COFFIN HOUSE, BUILT in 1686. It stands on SUNSET HILL, faces south and has a hu^^e HORSESHOE formed of brick on the front of the chimney, put there pos- sibl}^ to keep out the witches. It was a wedding gift to Mary Gardner and Jethro CoflEin and was built for them by Peter Coffin on land given by John Gardner, fathers of the bride and groom. Among the interesting features are the old FIREPLACES built of large BRICKS laid in mortar made from LIME ob- tained from seashells, and the winding STAIRWAYS, ship knee BRACES at the corners, the original FLOOR BOARDS, split cedar LATH and hand made NAILS. The OLD HEAD- STONE which marked the site of the oldest burying ground is placed here for preservation. The little OPENING NEAR THE DOOR, through which to observe those seeking admit- tance, was also a most desirable feature when it is remembered that several hundred INDIANS roamed at will about the island. The northeast corner of the house was destroyed b}^ fire many years ago and repairs were made without regard to the original rectangular lines. Within a stone's throw, and southeast of the Coffin Hous3, stands the OLD PADDOCK HOUSE, built in 1720. 28 The Nantucket Atheneum Public Library — Atheneum The Atheneum is on Federal Street — a short distance from Main Street Square. The Hbrary occupies the lower floor of the building and numbers nearly 15,000 VOLUMES. All the leading magazines and reviews are found in the reading room. STARTING IN 1820 WITH 26 VOLUMES when The Nantucket Mechanics Social Library Society" was formed, the Library has grown to its present proportions. In 1823 another society was started called "The Columbian Library Society," which, after an existence of four years, combined with the first as the "United Library Association." In 1836 a lot on Main Street was offered the association, provided the sum of $3,500 was raised with which to erect a suitable build- ing, $4,200 was realized, but the lot being small it was ex- changed with the proprietors of the Universalist Church and their building, which was purchased, was fitted up as a library and the association incorporated as "THE NANTUCKET ATHENEUM." The Church building was destroyed in the great fire of 1846 and from the insurance thereon the PRESENT STRUCTURE, OPENED IN 1847, was erected. Above the library is a HALL. The museum, which for many years occu- pied a room in this building, has been placed in the fireproof structure of the Historical Association on Fair Street. 29 Mi'iiiiiiilllllf] Birthplace of Maria Mitchell Maria Mitchell Birthplace and Memorial Main Street to SOLDIERS' AND SAILORS' MONUMENT (page 31). Milk Sireet to Vestal Street. OPEN DAILY, EXCEPT SUNDAY, FROM 9.30 TO 12 AND 2.30 TO 5. ADMISSION 15 CENTS. This old hotisc, now the property of the MARIA MITCHELL MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION of Vassar graduates and others, founded in 1902, was BUILT in 1790 and stands on Vestal Street, just west of Milk Street, where in August, 1818, this noted astronomer was born. In 1847 while studying with her father, whose observatory stood on the southwest corner of Gardner and North Liberty Streets, she DISCOVERED THE COMET which bears her name and received, from the King o.f Denmark, a gold medal offered for the discovery of a new comet. Upon being PRE- SENTED WITH A TELESCOPE in 1858 she built an observa- tory v\?hicli stood just back of the Coffin School and in 1863 was made PROFESSOR OF ASTRONOMY and director of the observatory at Vassar College, which position she held until 1888, when on account of felling health she retired, being made professor emeritus, her death occurring in 1889. In the yard of the Vestal Street house stands the fireproof MEM- ORIAL OBSERVATORY, a square brick building with revolv- ing dome, built by subscription in 1908 and equipped with the telescope presented to Prof. Mitchell in 1858. To women astronomers the Association oilers an astronomical fellowship of $1,000. The LIBRARY contains many interesting books relating to Nantucket. 30 Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument Main Street to MONUMENT SQUARE. IN 1874, with the money raised b\" local subscription, the ircnnmcnt was erected in memory of the 74 fellow-townsmen who gave up their lives in battle (luring the Civil War. Nan- ui elect gained the distinction of "BANNER TOWN" of the com- monwealth, by sending into the army and navy 339 men, 56 more than her quota. For the base of the monument was used one of the millstones from the "ROUND TOP MILL," which stood on the hill in what is now the North Cemetery. It was taken down in 1873. Brant Point From Main Street Square, take Federal, Broad, Beach and Easton Streets. THREE-QUARTERS OF A MILE. Passes tlie ATHENEUM— PUBLIC LIBRARY (pas^e 29), and I he NANTUCKET ATHLETIC CLUB. As a CONTINUOUS LIGHT- HOUSE SITE this is the OLDEST IN AMERICA, and the second Hghthouse on this side of the Atlantic was ERECTED here in ' 1746. The first Old Lightho r?e, Erant Point 31 Nantucket Athletic Club lighthouse was built on Great Brewster island, Boston Harbor, in 1716, but in 1754 this site was abandoned and the light has since been maintained on Little Brewster, now called Light- house island. The third lighthouse was erected at New London, Connecticut, about twenty years later. Brant Point light was not controlled by the Government until 1795, being among the first eight taken* over at that tim.e. No less than TEN LIGHTHOUSES have been built on this point, and two are standing at the present time, the others having been blown down or destro3^ed by fire. The small white LIGHTHOUSE ON THE TIP OF THE POINT, which guards the entrance to the harbor, was BUILT in 1901. The LIGHT is 26 feet above the water, of 490 CANDLE-POWER, and is visible 6]/2 miles. The lantern was taken from the OLD TOWER standing 600 feet west, which was built in 1856, the change in location being due to the making out of the point. The new RANGE LIGHTS of skele- ton construction, erected in 1908, were made necessary by changing the course of the dredged channel, since which time the old cliff range beacons, erected in 1838 near the bathing beach, have been discontinued. All lights on the point are fixed white. In former years a ROPEWALK stood near the point and SALTWORKS were in operation, considerable quantities of sea salt being obtained. SHIPYARDSVere located on the harbor side and shipbuilding was carried on quite extensively, two marine railways being available for the removal of the larger vessels from the water. 32 COPYRIGHT, 1910. BY J.H ROBINSON Distance TO THE Horizon DEGINNINIG with five feet, the height of the aver- age eye above the water when stand- ing at the water's edge, the table be- low will give the distance at which an entire object can be seen from the height given. Stat. Miles 280 |22.1« 22.50 22.89 2.3 . 28 23.63 24.01 21.38 24.74 25 . 08 25 . 43 25.77 26.11 26.44 20.77 27.09 27.42 27.73 28.03 28.35 28.66 28.95 29.26 29.56 29.85 30.14 30.43 30.72 30.99 31.29 31.57 31.84 32.12 32.38 32.93 1 WAREHAM MARION MATTAPOISETT fi) ^WAMSU FAIR HAVEN BUZZARDS BAV MONUMENT BEACH NGS NrCK Hfc ^ ^ -S-FALMOUTi c3 w^ui,,,>r„oV!)_y v^;;-p .., -/ t^ ^ iJ^/ D WEST CHOg^V O /HAVEN V ^ MARTHAS ^^"^^^^ (% \ .^M^. V Fi:i"I)P Si C N A N T U C 1< F- T 5 U N. ■^= POLLOCK RIP POLLOCK nrp ^ CO o -ng: 'HANOKLRCmCF O '-'^^S'-^ 4 /\ 7 /- /^ ,v r / c C F A N ''^ STANiTpiPE • CLirr^^RANT PT. ^ ^ADDAKET L.s.s. NANTUCKET NANTUCKET SIKNMATV M' \[> T. 19^0 » HV J.HJ»0D(NSON Steamboat Route, Lighthouses and Lightships The route traveled by the steamboats plying between Nantucket and the mainland is shown by the dotted red line, and the points of interest visible on a clear day are shown by dotted lines. Figures indicate the distance in statute miles from the nearest point on route to the object designated. From New Bedford to Woods Hole, 16 miles, 1 hour and 20 minutes; from Woods Hole to Oak Bluffs, 8 miles, 40 minutes; from Oak Bluffs to Nantucket, 30 miles, 2 hours and 30 minutes. Total distance, 54 miles; total time, 4 hours and 30 minutes. On a clear day land is visible at all times from the upper deck of the steamer, the point farthest away being near Cross Rip Lightship where Cape Poge Lighthouse and the Muskeget Lifesaving Station are equidistant, 714 miles. The route passes close to the lightship, papers, magazines, etc., being frequently thrown on board. The lightship is half way between Oak Bluils and Nantucket, about Ij^ hours being required to reach the wharf. In addition to the Muskeget station, the following points appear along the horizon, in the order named: Houses on Tuckernuck, Maddaket Lifesaving Station, Standpipe, and the houses on the Cliff, back of which the town of Nantucket is hidden. Note. — Shovelful Shoal (lightship north of Great Pt., Nantucket) changed to Stonehorse. NANTUCKET IvtASSiVCHUSETTS 'MONOMCl' /V A N T ij C K F- I b U N /D^^-HAHD^LRcwcFSKOflL -^' POLLOCK RIP ^ o Mus>.e§ey^ C F A N %k SHOAL ikSfi'EAT PT. .rjKATV HFAL^- houses and Lightships le mainland is shown by the dotted red line, and the points of interest mce in statute miles from the nearest point on route to the object designated. om Woods Hole to Oak Bluffs, 8 miles, 40 minutes; from Oak Bluffs to >tal time, 4 hours and 30 minutes. teamer, the point farthest away being near Cross Rip Lightship where lidistant, 7J^ miles. frequently thrown on board. The lightship is half way between Oak )ng the horizon, in the order named: Houses on Tuckernuck, Maddaket i'hich the town of Nantucket is hidden, iged to Stonehorse. 33 Old North Vestry North Vestry — First Congregational Church *'North Church'' or ''North Tower" From Main Street Square, take Centre Street, to the Church. STANDS IN THE REAR. VESTRY 'North Church' This old meetinghouse, now used as the North Church Vestrv, is BUILT OF ISLAND TIMBER and was ERECTED IN 1711 near Maxcys pond about one mile west from the junction of West Centre and North Liberty Streets. In 1765 it was moved to BEACON HILL, where the Congregational Church now stands, and in 1834 was again moved to make room for the pres- ent church in connection with which it is still used. In the tower of this old building in 1787, the FIRST NIGHT-WATCH- MAN was stationed to keep a look- out for fire, and in 1800 a BELL weighing 1,000 pounds, the FIRST ON THE ISLAND, was hung in the belfry, a new tower having been 34 erected, and the CUSTOM OF RINGING THE BELL, morn- ing, noon and night, inaugurated. The tower was taken down when the meetinghouse was moved to its present position in 1834 and the NEW CHURCH building was ereeted in the same year. The present edifice originally had a steeple but it^was considered unsafe and was taken down, being replaced byj^the four minarets which adorn the belfry. In April, 1914, the old bell, being cracked, was replaced hyja NEW BELL bearing the following inscription: Ring out the old, ring in the new ; Ring out the false, ring in the true ; Ring out the darkness of the land ; Ring in the Church that is to be. Presented to the First Congrega- tional Clnirch of Nantucket, Mass. by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lang A. D. 1914. Tlic l)ell was cast bv the Mcneely Bell Co., of Troy, N. v., weighs over 1,200 pounds, and was rung for the first time on Easter Sundav. The OLD BELL, after remov- ing the tongue as a momento of its many years of service, was sent to the melting pot. Unitarian Church ''South Tower'' From Alain Street Srjuare, take Orange Street. ADMISSION to the tower (not open at all hours) can be obtained of the attendant who rings llie bell at seven in the morning and at noon. ERECTED in 1809 the old church and tower, with its gilded dome flashing in the sunlight, stands guard over the town, ever ready to give warning in case of danger. In its oaken tower is located the TOWN CLOCK and historic OLD BELL which sounds the alarm in case of fire and rings out the hours of the day, pealing forth for a little while at SEVEN in the morning, at NOON, and at NINE in the evening, a custom which has prevailed in the old town for many years. In 1787, as a precaution against fire, a watchman was sta- tioned in the tower of the Congregational meetinghouse, now 35 the old North Vestry. Upon completion of this, the vSecond Congregational Church (now Unitarian), with its fine tower, the "South Tower," the * 'TOWER WATCH" was transferrsd and for nearly 100 years the nightly vigil was here maintained, being discontinued in 1907, the "watch" being considered unnecessary owing to the installation of the AUTOMATIC FIRE ALARM. Diagram of the Points of Interest Visible from "South Tower" From the LOOKOUT, the floor of which is 80 feet above the street and 120 feet above sea level, a FINE VIEW of over 14 miles in any direction can be had of the town, island, and surrounding waters. From the base of the tower to the tip of the vane spindle is 110 feet. The clock dials are 9 feet 4 inches in diameter. The FIRST TOWN CLOCK was placed in the tower in 1823. It was built on the island and gave manv vears of service, being replaced by the PRESENT CLOCK in 1881, a gift to the town by William Hadwen Starbuck. In the belfry hangs the OLD LISBON BELL, noted for its remarkable sweetness of tone. It weighs 1,575 pounds and was one of a set of six bells cast 36 Coffin School for a church of fjreat veneration, at Mountain, in Lisbon, Portugal. Capt. Charles Clasbv, of Nantucket, who in 1812 visited the FOUNDRY IN LISBON where the bell was cast, was charmed by its mellow tone and expressed a desire to have it. As the bell had not been consecrated he was able to pur- chase it and another was substituted to complete the chime of six to which it belonged. It was BROUGHT TO THE ISLAND in the whaleship, "William and Nancv," Capt. Thomas Carev, and in 1815 was HUNG IN THE TOWER. The inscription on the bell is in Portuguese, and is as follows; "AO BOM JEZUS DO MONTE COMPLETAO ST^US VOTOS OS DEVOTOS DE LISBOA, OFFERECENDO LHE HUM COMPLETO JOGO DE SEIS SINOS PARA CHAMAR POS OVOS ADORALO NO SEU SANTUARIO. "JOZE DOMINGUES DACOSTA OFEZ EM LISBOA NOANNO DE 1810." Translation : "To the Good Jesus of the Mountain the devotees of Lisbon direct their prayers, offering Him one complete set of six bells, to call the people and adore Him on His Sanctuary. "jose Domingos da Costa has done it in Lisbon on the vcar 1910." Coffin School Main Street to Winter Street. The school was FOUNDED IN 1827 BY SIR ISAAC COF- FIN, BART., a British Admiral, for the sole benefit of the descendants of Tristram Coffin. In later years all students 37 Cliff Bathing Beach and North Shore Cliffs were admitted upon the payment of a small fee. It was closed in 1898, the fund being inadequate for its successful operation. Legislative permission having been obtained and the per- manent funds added to by donation, it was reopened in 1903 to all students, without charge, as a MANUAL TRAINING SCHOOL, in cooperation with the public school system. It is managed by a BOARD OF TRUSTEES, while the rais- ing of additional funds with which to broaden its sphere of usefulness is looked after by the Coffin School Association of Nantucket, organized to promote the interests of Admiral Sir Isaac Coffin's Lancasterian School. CLASSES in mechanical drawing, wood working, cabinet work, sewing and basketry are taught, and an addition to the building has been made for a department of domestic science. The school was ORIGINALLY LOCATED on the east side of Fair Street, a short distance north of Lvons Street. The PRESENT BUILDING WAS ERECTED in 1852. ISAAC COFFIN was born in Boston in 1759 and died at Cheltenham, England, in 1839, aged 80 years. At the age of fourteen he entered the British Navy, became an Admiral, and after retiring from active life returned to America. Visiting Nantucket, where his great-grandfather, Tristram Coffin, was one of the first settlers, he found a thriving town of 8,000 population, many of whom were akin to him. Interested in their welfare he established the school which bears his name, and which, under careful management, has increased in value and become one of the prominent institutions, reflecting his sound judgment and thoughtfulness for the betterment of others. 38 »< CYSi Bathin" Beach The Cliff Bathing Beach From Main vStrect Square, take Federal, Broad, Beach and Nortli Bcacli Streets to llie beach road. ONE MILE. Passes the PUBLIC LIBRARY— ATHENEUM (page 29), and the NANTUCKET ATHLETIC CLUB. CONVEYANCES MAKE REGULAR TRIPS from Main Street Square. BOAT leaves OLD NORTH WHARF daily at 10, 11 and 12; returning leaves beach at 10.30, 11.30 and 12.30. Under the NORTH SHORE CLIFFS, where the WESTERN JETTY jilts out into the sound, is the CHff Bathing Beach, noted for its fine STILL WATER bathing. The proximity of the GULF STREAM direct from the Straits of Florida, which flows nearer the island than at any other point on the coast, renders the water of a warmer TEMPERA- TURE than is usually found at this latitude, the average being from 70 to 74 degrees during the summer months. The land upon which the PAVILION stands, and in the hnme- d'ate vicinity, has been set apart as a PUBLIC PARK to insure for all the full enjoyment of this broad expanse of beautiful beach overlooking Nantucket sound. Further in shore and just back of the pavilion is the site of the "BUG LIGHTS," or cHff range beacons, erected in 1838 by the Government as an aid to the mariner in passing in and out over the bar. (See page 22.) The building of the JETTIES, commenced in 1881, together with the new range lights on Brant Point, made unnecessary the further continuance of this station. LIGHT and FOG SIGNALS are located on the outer end of the eastern jetty; the light FLASHES WHITE and is of 290 CANDLE POWER. 39 Rotch (Roach) Warehouse This old building is located at the foot of Main vStrect Square and was ERECTED in 1772 as an office and warehouse bv William Rotch & Sons, FAMOUS SHIPOWNERS and the leading whaling merchants of that day. In 1773, three whale ships belong- ing to the Rotch firm, the "DART- MOUTH," "BEAVER," and "BED- FORD," after discharging cargoes of oil in London, were chartered by the East India Company to carry tea to Boston. Upon their arrival, landing was refused owing to an objectionable tax having been ])laced upon the tea by the King, the vessels were boarded and the ' 'BOSTON TEA PARTY" was held upon the decks of the Nantucket whale ships, the tea being thrown Rotch Warehouse overboard into the harbor! The FIRST SHIP TO FLY THE AMERICAN FLAG in a British port was the "Bedford" and the FIRST WHALESHIP TO ROUND CAPE HORN in search of whales in the Pacific was the "Beaver," both belonging to the trio of famous tea ships and the Rotch firm. In the old whaling days it was the custom for the shipmasters to meet in the "CAPTAINS' ROOM," which is on the lower floor looking out upon the "Square," and discuss the news of Old Jail and House of Correction 40 The North Shore, Westward Toward Tuckernuck the day. The room has been preserved as a meeting place by the "PACIFIC CLUB," the present owners of the building. Jail and House of Correction Main Street to SOLDIERS' AND SAILORS' MONUMENT fpagc 31). Milk Street to Vestal Street, passing BIRTHPLACE OF MARIA MIT- CHELL (page 30) to jail, which is located back of the jailor's house where application should be made for admission. When these buildings were ERECTED in 1805, Nantucket was a thriving town of about 6,000 population, growing in the following 3S years to nearly 10,000, the largest whaling port in the world. As the population gradually decreased to 3,000 so has the institution outlived its usefulness, until today the old buildings stand, interesting relics of the past. With its whitewashed interior, huge wooden doors and heavy iron fastenings, the OLD JAIL stands as a menace to the wrongdoer, with rarelv an unfortunate to test its crude fasten- ings. The HOUSE OF CORRECTION, the larger of the two buildings, was built at Ouaisc and moved to its present site in 1854. The Cliff— ^North Shore From Main Street Square, take Centre Street to North Shore Hill to Cliff Road, thence to bluff by roads which turn off to right. Distance ONE MILE. See map of the town or Road Map. This route passes OLD NORTH VESTRY (page 34). The HIGHEST POINT on the "NORTH SHORE" of the island is one mile northwest from the center of the town of Nantucket, at which point the bluff, extending away to the westward and southeasterly toward the town, rises to a HEIGHT of 62 feet. (See signal poles, page 17.) 41 This locality, known as the "CLIFF," with its many beauti- ful summer homes, is one of the most charming sections of the island. It is not far distant from the Cliff bathing beach and on the west adjoins the links of the Nantucket Golf Club. From the bluff, overlooking the broad sandy beach, a FINE VIEW may be had, on a clear day, of the surrounding waters and the distant shipping going DOWN THE SOUND. On the right hand the eye follows the long, sandy stretches of COATUE BEACH, making out to the COSKATA LIFESAV- ING STATION (index), and on beyond to GREAT POINT LIGHTHOUSE (page 53), the white tower standing out plainly eight miles across the water. On the left can be seen the island of TUCKERNUCK (index), six miles away, and three miles beyond, the island of MUSKEGET and the MUSKEGET LIFESAVING STATION (index), the first object to be seen on approaching Nantucket from the mainland. The STEAMER IS VISIBLE, from the bluff, for nearly an hour before it reaches the wharf. The Clubhouse of the NANTUCKET GOLF CLUB is located on the Cliff road which leads to the waterworks (page 43) nearly opposite the end of Hinckley Lane, THE COURSE, which extends for some distance on both sides of the road and as far as the standpipe, traverses, the section known to the Indians as Wannacomet, meaning "a beautiful field." Hinckley Lane runs from the Cliff Road to the beach. At the foot of the lane and below the bluff is SACHEM SPRING. 42 Standp'.pe — Wannacomet Water "Works Wannacomet Water Works From Main Street Square, take Centre Street to North Shore Hill to Cliff Road, passing Clubhouse and Links of the NANTUCKET GOLF CLUB (page 42). TWO AND ONE-QUARTER MILES. Or lAIain Street, INIaddaket Road and across the commons. On the north side of the island, just beyond the course of the Nantucket Golf Clvib, is one of Nantucket's most familiar landmarks, the STANDPIPE of the Wannacomet Water Works. On approaching the island by steamer from the main- land it is the FIRST OBJECT SEEN on the north shore, and is of particular interest as it stands near and practically marks the landing place of the first settlers. The ORIGINAL TANK, elevated on iron columns, was ERECTED in 1879, being re- placed bv the PRESENT STANDPIPE in 1909. It is 30 feet in DIAMETER, 80 feet high, and the top is 141 FEET ABOVE SEA LEVEL. The area of the Washing pond close by, from which the water is taken, is about eight acres with a capacity of about 33,000,000 gallons, in some places it is 15 feet deep, the bottom is sandy, and it is fed by STRONG SPRINGS. There are TWO PUMPING PLANTS AT THE POND AND AN AUXILIARY AT WYER'S VALLEY, just south of the town at the beginning of the State road to 'Sconset and near the fair grounds, water from DRIVEN WELLS being forced into the mains when required, at this station. IMuskeget Lifesaving Station 43 Tjic East i'uiiJ/i'uekernuck The plan for supplying Nantucket with water was originated and worked out by Moses Joy, Jr., of Nantucket, in 1877, at which time the rain barrel and pump were the sources of supply. Two years later water was led into the town. While it would be hard to find a like area so ideally situated and FREE FROM CONTAMINATING SOURCES as that from which the town of Nantucket and nearby sections derive Iheir water supply, still further assurance of purity may be had from the fact that the WATER IS REGULARLY ANA- LYZED by the state Department of Health as required by the laws of Massachusetts. The MOST HISTORIC QUARTER OF THE ISLAND is in the vicinity of the waterworks and the site of the standpipe affords a most interesting point of observation. Just below is the WASHING POND, so called because it was here that the settlers washed their sheep, and a half mile beyond is CUPAUM POND, fonnerly a harbor open to the sea, where the SETTLERS LANDED, the site of TRISTRAM COFFIN'S HOUSE being marked by a granite post just southwest of the pond, (v^ee page 15.) On a knoll across the road, and south of the standpipe, is the site of the OLDEST BURYING GROUND (see page 55), and a short distance beyond stood the FIRST CHURCH (now the old North Vestry) , schoolhouse, townhouse, and jail. The site of the FIRST TOWN, called Sherburne, extended from thic quarter still further on toward the head of Hummock Pond. Looking back over the LINKS OF THE NANTUCKET GOLF CLUB is the section known to the Indians as Wanna- comet, meaning "a beautiful field." 44 'Sconset Beach Siasconset Regular connection with steamboats at Nantucket by motor bus. From Main Street Square, take Orange Street to the STATE ROAD, along which are the MILESTONES set out in 1824, thence direct SEVEN AND ONE-HALF MILES. Passes site of "NEWTOWN GATE" (index), Wyer's Valley PUMPING STATION (see Wannacomet Water Works, page 43), the Gibbs pond CRANBERRY BOG (Index), Road to TOM NEVER' S HEAD (page 49) and Siasconset GOLF CLUB. OR VIA POLPIS (page 54), and follow guide boards or Road Map TEN AND ONE-HALF MILES. Beyond Polpis this route passes SANKATY HEAD LIGHTHOUSE (page 50). OR BOAT TO WAUWINET (page 52), thence along shore, passing SQUAM HEAD, QUID NET (page 51), and SACACHA POND, thence along the bluff, passing SANKATY HEAD LIGHTHOUSE (page 50), to 'Sconset. FIVE AND ONE-HALF MILES. 'SCONSET VILLAGE, formerly a quaint FISHING HAM- LET, dating back to the vear 1680, is situated at the eastern end of Nantucket island, FURTHER AT SEA than any of our Atlantic coast resorts. It is sepa- ^ rated from the shores of Spain and ^ Portugal, the NEAREST LAND ON THE EAST, by over 3,000 miles of open water. The ever-increasing popularity of 'Sconset bespeaks its charm to lovers of the genuine seashore. The village, with its grass-grown streets and tiny fishermen's houses, fenced off in rectangular plots with narrow ways or lanes running be- tween, is BUILT ON THE EDGE OF A BLUFF, or " 'Sconset Bank," about 30 feet high. "Under the Bank" and stretching away to the ocean is a SANDY BEACH an eighth of a mile wide, where the 'Sconset Way people gather in the forenoon to 45 Centre Street, \Sconset enjoy the fine SURF BATHING, free from the dreaded under- tow, or lounge about the sands, breathe the pure air, laden with the ocean's saltness, and watch the breakers as they dash upon the shore. In the village is a POSTOFFICE and a number of good stores, wlicre provisions of all kinds can be obtained. There are several HOTELS, a schoolhouse and a CHAPEL, where services are held bv all denominations in turn, including Roman Catholic. Of historic interest is the OLD TOWN PUMP, where for nearly a hundred years the villagers gathered to await their turn for the daily supply of water, a general meeting place and news distributing center. The well was dug in 1776. It lias been superseded by a MODERN WATER SYSTEM, built in 1904 which furnishes the purest of water derived from driven wells. In 1914 a MODERN SYSTEM OF SEWER- AGE DISPOSAL was installed. While there are many old houses in the village, one of the oldest, and most interesting, is the OLD GARDNER HOUSE on Broadway. It is now the property of the Nantucket His- torical Association, who purchased it to insure the preserva- tion of a typical 'Sconset dwelling. A well-equipped CAS- INO, TENNIS COURTS, and natural 18 hole GOLF COURSE, with the excellent and safe surf bathing, and a PAVILION where warm salt water baths can-, be had, suggest a few of the attractions. To SANKATY HEAD LIGHTHOUSE (page Old 'Sconset Pump and Shell Street 50) is a most delightful 47 'Sconset Casino walk. It is reached by a well worn FOOT PATH ALONG THE EDGE OF THE BLUFF, which, rising gradually from LOW BEACH, extends northward to Sankaty Head, l^/^ miles from the village, at which point it reaches an elevation of 92 feet, the HIGHEST POINT ON THE COAST of the island. A tramp of 234 miles over the moors, and among the hills west of Sankaty, ''brings one to the HIGHEST POINT ON THE ISLAND, where the summit of Saul's Hills reaches an eleva- tion of 102 feet above the level of the sea. In 1901, the FIRST COMMERCIAL WIRELESS TELE- GRAPH STATION IN AMERICA was located in 'Sconset, and stood directly south of the present station and on the opposite side of Main Street. It was moved to its present position in 1905, and more powerful apparatus installed. Communication can be had with the NANTUCKET SHOALS LIGHTSHIP, anchored about 50 miles southeast of the island, or with the OCEAN LINERS which pass at still greater dis- Broadway 'Sconset 48 Surf, at 'Sconset tance. On January 23, 1909, this station caught the distress signal "C-Q-D" sent out by the steamship "RepubHc," then in a sinking condition with several hundred passengers on board, who, but for the timely call for assistance sent out by this station, would haye gone down with the vessel. The collision took place 26 miles southwest of the lightship, or about 70 miles south of the island. Along the bluff and across Low Beach, on the southwest, 13^ miles from 'Sconset, is Tom Never*s Head and Pond From Nantucket take State Road, as for 'Sconset (page 45), to the "Tom Never's" Road, which turns off just bevond the fifth milestone. SIX AND ONE-HALF MILES. Tom Never's Head is the SOUTHERNMOST POINT of Nantucket island, distant from the NEAREST LAND ON THE SOUTH, the West Indies, by about 1,500 miles. From the beach the HEADLAND, where the Tom Never's Lodge is located, rises to an elevation of 60 feet, the HIGHEST OF THE BLUFFS ALONG THE SOUTH SHORE, and affords an unobstructed view of the ocean and the surf as it breaks upon Low Beach and on toward 'Sconset. Fine and safe SURF BATHING, a broad, SANDY BEACH, and PURE DRINKING WATER insure amusement and the healthfulness of this section. In October, 1814, a NAVAL BATTLE took place jiist off shore. The American privateer "Prince de Neufchatel," with a crew of 33 men, was returning to port, having captured the ship "Douglas," when she was attacked by 111 men, in small boats, from the British frigate "Endymion." The British loss was iZ killed, 37 wounded and 30 taken prisoners; but one boat escaped. The American loss was 7 killed, including 49 Sankaty Head Lighthouse Charles J. Plilburn of Nantucket, pilot, and 15 wounded. The wounded British were landed at vSacacha, about half-way between Quidnet and Sankaty Head, and transported in carts to town, while the prize ship "Douglas" was beached and wrecked near Squam Head, about a mile north of Quidnet. Sankaty Head Lighthouse One and one-half miles north of 'SCONSET (page 45). Or, via POL- PIS (page 54), and follow guideboards or Road Map. NINE MILES \-ia either Polpis or 'Sconset. This LIGHTHOUSE, which stands on the eastern shore of the island, is FARTHER AT SEA than any of our Atlantic coast stations. It was BUILT in 1849 and stands on Sankatv Head, 92 feet in height, the HIGHEST POINT ON THE Sacacha Pond, Looking Toward Sankaty Head Lighthouse 50 Quidnet, Looking Toward Sankaty Head Lighthouse COAST of the island. The LIGHT, one of the finest on the coast, is 166 feet above the wat ^r and can be seen at a distance of 17 miles. It is FIXED WHITE for 50 seconds. VARIED BY A WHITE FLASH, of 99,000 CANDLE POWER, for 10 seconds. The TOWER is white at the top and bottom, with a broad band of red around the middle. Quidnet Via POLPIS (page 5-t), and follow guideboards, or Road Map SEVEN AND ONE-HALF MILES. Ouidnet is distant about one and three- quarter miles from WAUWINET (page 52), or SANKATY HEAD LIGHT- HOUSE (opposite). Shore dinners can usually be arranged for. On the eastern shore of the island, in that quarter known to the Indians as SQUAM, just north of Sacacha pond and about half wav betweeti Wauwinet and Sankaty Head, is the former FISHING HAMLET of Quidnet, now a'dehghtful resort with a flourishing SUMMER COLONY. It is a favorite CAMPING PLACE, has a broad SANDY BEACH, and unsurpassed SURF BATHING. The POND is about a mile wide and affords excellent BOATING and PERCH FISHING. The last settle- ment of the Nantucket INDIANS was on the west bank of the pond, numerous arrow heads and stone implements having been found, while the hollowed boulders and traces of the foundations of their wigwams still remain. As early as 1682 Quidnet and Sacacha, the latter settlement standing just south of the narrow strip of beach which sepa- rates the pond from the ocean, were great CODFISHING STA- TIONS. The last building at Sacacha was inovedto 'Sconsct in 1820. Just north of Quidnet stands one of the BOAT HOUSES of the Massachusetts Humane Society and about a mile further along the beach is SQUAM HEAD. Great Round Shoal LIGHTSHIP is anchored about seven miles off shore. For aaval battle east of the island see Tom Never's Head (page 49). 51 Wauwinet and the "Haul-over" Wauwinet Reached BY BOATS which leave North or Steamboat Wharf at 9.30 and 11.30 a. m., 2 and 4 p. m. Returning leave Wauwinet at the same hours. SIX MILES UP THE HARBOR. FARE 25 CENTS. Or via POLPIS (page 54), and follow guideboards or Road Map. NINE MILES. Bevond Polpis this route passes EAT FIRE SPRING (index). From 'SCONSET (page 45), follow path along the blufif, passing SAN- KATY HEAD LIGHTHOUSE (page 50), to SACACHA POND, thence along shore, passing QUID NET (page 51), and SQUAM HEAD to Wau- winet. FIVE AND ONE-HALF MILES. Wauwinet, named after the Indian sachem whose lands included this part of the island, is located at the HEAD OF THE HARBOR about an hour's sail from Nantucket. It is a most interesting and popular resort, ideally situated for the full enjoyment and benefit of the unadulterated seashore. Within a short distance of the landing, the HOTEL and cottages look out upon the HARBOR on one side and the OCEAN on the other, separated by a nar- row strip of beach called the "HAUL-OVER," be- cause the fishermen used to haul their boats across it. Five miles northward along the beach (passing at 2]4 miles from Wauwinet, within half a mile of the COSKATA LIFE SAVING STATION) is GREAT POINT LIGHTHOUSE (page 53), while to the southward is SQUAM HEAD, distant one mile Great Point Lighthouse along the beach or by road. Great Round Shoal LIGHTSHIP bears northeast six and one-half miles. Waiiwinet offers both SURF AND STILL WATER BATH- ING, BOATING, FISHING, etc. SHORE DINNERS can be had at the Wauwinet House. During the easterly storm of December 15, 1896, an OPEN- ING was made by the surf cutting its way through the "Haul- over" into the harbor, of width and depth sufficient to allow the passage of vessels drawing from six to eight feet of water, the inlet remained open for twelve years gradually working its way northward, traversing the entire length of the "Haul- over," about one mile, until the rising ground of Coskata was reached. A photograph, taken by the writer, just before the opening was closed by the heavy surf, can be seen at the His- torical Association in Nantucket. Great Point Lighthouse BOAT TO "WAUWINET (page 52), cross the narrow beach called the "Haul-r.ver" to the ocean side, thence north along the beach, passing COSKATA POND and at two and one-half miles from Wauwinet, within half a mile of the COSKATA LIFESAVING STATION to GREAT POINT. Distance FIVE MILES. Requires about TWO HOURS time each wa^^ The first lighthouse on Great Point, a frame structure, was built in 1784, and stood until November, 1816, when it was destroyed by fire. In 1818 the PRESENT STONE TOWER was erected, and stands about one-fourth mile from the end of the point. The LIGHT is 70 feet above the water and is visible 11 miles. LIGHTSHIPS on Great Round Shoal, a little north of east, and Handkerchief Shoal, a little west of north, are distant about seven miles from the lighthouse. The light is FIXED WHITE, 53 The Polpis Road of 12,000 CANDLE POWER, with a RED SECTOR covering Cross Rip and Tuckcrnuck shoals. The TOWER is white. Polpis From Main Street Square, take Orange Street to State Road, and follow auideboards, orRoad Map, SIX MILES, passing site of "NEWTOWN GATE" (index), Wyer's Vallev PUMPING STATION (see Wannacomet Water Works, page 43), MONOMOY (index), "SHAWKEMO SPRING," (index), "MIRIAM COFFIN'S COUNTY SEAT," at QUAISE (index). Marker by roadside. At the head of Polpis Harbor, an arm of Nantucket Harbor, and on the road to Wauwinet, is the little FARMING SETTLE- MENT of Polpis, consisting of a few dwellings and a SCHOOL- HOUSE. Just across the road from the schoolhouse there stood for nearly 200 years one of the oldest houses on the island, built about 1700. In 1772, a FULLING AND COLORING MILL was erected here and the little stream which operated the mill has since been known as the FULLING MILL BROOK. Oysters are grown in the harbor. Maddaket Main Street, bv SOLDIERS' AND SAILORS' MONUMENT (page 31) to Maddaket Road, SIX AND THREE-QUARTER MILES. Passes FRIENDS' BURYING GROUND (page 57) BENJAMIN FRANKLIN SPRING (oi)posite), and the Long Pond CRANBERRY BOG. Northern route erosses LONG POND at the "GUT BRIDGE," Southern route at "MASSASOIT BRIDGE." Consult Road Maps. vSee Lifesaving Sta- tions. This is the site of the MADDAKET LIFESAVING STA- 54 TION, built in 1891, and a few dwellings at the western end of the island, over- looking Hither CREEK and Maddaket HARBOR. It was here that EDWARD STARBUCK, THOMAS COLEMAN and THOMAS MACY built their hut and spent the winter of 1658-59. Thev came as REPRESENTATIVES OF THE FIRST SETTLERS, to negotiate with the Indians regarding the purchase of their lands; also to look over the ground, decide upon a suitable landing place and determine the best location to erect their dwellings. SMITH POINT, the westernmost end of the island, extends about two miles west of the Lifesaving Station. A BOAT- HOUSE stands on the point a short dis- tance west of the station, to which it belongs. From "WARREN'S LANDING" at Maddaket to "BROOKS'S LANDING" at Tuckernuck (index) is about three miles. The fountain, or BENJAMIN FRANKLIN SPRING, on the Maddaket road was erected in 1900 and is inscribed as follows : "This tablet is erected by the Commonwealth of Massachu- setts in commemoration of Abiah Folger Franklin, daughter of Peter Folger, wife of Josiah Franklin, and mother of Ben- jamin Franklin. She was born August 15, 1667, in a house which stood 225 feet, north fifty-two degrees west, from this spot, and died in Boston in 1752. "This fountain is given to the town of Nantucket by the Abiah Folger Franklin Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution." Franklin Fountain Cemeteries All (.'fnutcries, with the exception of the oldest one, are SHOWN UPON THE MAP of the town. The cemeteries are interesting, because of the QUAINT EPITAPHS and the bits of histor\^ inscribed upon the old moss- covcrcd stones. The OLDEST BURYING GROUND is on a hill near Maxcys pond, near the site of the first town, a short distance south of the standpipe of the Wannacomet Water Works (page 43), and two miles west of the town. The cemetery site is marked by a GRANITE MONUMENT inscribed as follows : "Erected A. D. 1881, by a descendant of the first settlers of Nantucket, in memory of those whose remains are buried on this hallowed spot, where stood the first church gathered here 55 in 1711, since removed to where it now stands as the vestry of the First Congregational Society. 1609— Tristram Coffin —1681 1598— Thomas Macv —1682 1604— Edward Starbuck —1690 1617— Peter Folger —1690 1624— John Gardner —1706 1664— John Swain, Jr. —1738 1644 — John Coleman — 1715 1626— Richard Gardner —1688 1598— Christopher Hussev— 1686 1 640— William Bunker — 1 7 1 2 "Many of the descendants of these worthy sires have been distinguished for their courage and energy, and left a record for others to emulate." Another stone standing about 30 feet to the eastward bears the following: "Here lyes buried ye body of John Gardner Esq. aged 82 who died May 1706" This stone, erected in 1881, REPLACES THE OLD ONE removed to the "Oldest House" for preservation, which marked the spot for 175 years. CAPT. JOHN 'GARDNER, was one of the great men of his time. Invited to settle on the island "to set up the trade of fishing for the taking of codfish," he left his home in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1672, and moved to Nantucket. He was a man of much influence among the Indians, and in 1680 was appointed CHIEF MAGISTRATE, the highest office that a Nantucketer could hold. The last burial in this old cemetery took place in 1773. The NEXT OLDEST CEMETERY is the Old North or Gardner's Burying Ground, on the northwest corner of New and Grove Lanes, dating back to 1709. Near the entrance is the stone in memory of Robert Ratliff , Born at New Castle upon Tyne, England, Feb. 25, 1794, Died at Nantucket, Feb. 20, 1882, aged 88 "He was a seaman on board the ship Northumberland 84 guns under command of Sir George Cockburn that conveyed Napoleon Bonaparte to St. Helena in 1815. And received marked notice from the Great Emperor. He was also a sea- man in the Albion 74 in the attack on the city of Washington 1814. "In 1820 he was shipwrecked on the island of Nantucket where he resided the remainder of his life. He was well known as a successful master rigger for 50 years. Honored for his 56 integrity, respected for his uni- form courtesy and beloved for his kindness and generosity." Within a short distance are TWO OTHER STONES mark- ing the graves of shipwrecked seamen, dated 1771. The FRIENDS' BURYING GROUND, on the corner of Entrance Prospect Hill Cemetery y^^^^ ^^^ Saratoga Streets, con- tains more than 5,000 graves, where lie the remains of the ANCESTORS of nearly every Nantucketer. The cemeteries, with the exception of the oldest one, are marked upon the map of the town, viz.. Old North, North, Friends', Prospect Hill, Catholic, Colored, and New Town or South . At the Historical Association rooms will be found a CARD CATALOGUE of every legible inscription found upon the old gravestones. Books Relating to Nantucket Title. Author. Miriam Coffin James C. Hart Trustum and His Grandchildren Harriet Worron There She Blows William Hussey Macy History of Nantucket Obed Macy History of the American Whale Fishery. . . .Alexander Starbuck Nantucket Scraps Jane C. Austin 'Sconset Cottage Life A. Judd Northrup Quaint Nantucket William Root Bliss An Island Plant Mary Catharine Lee Wrecks Around Nantucket Arthur H. Gardner Plants of Nantucket Maria L. Owen Views of Nantucket J. _H. Robinson Publications of the Nantucket Historical Association. 57 SEA CLIFF INN NANTUCKET NANTUCKET ISLAND, MASS. GOOD hotel accommodation is essential to an enjoyable visit to any place, and the visitor to Nantucket is fortunate in this respect, for here is to be found one of the best of New Eng- land's seaside hotels, having many original and distinctive features which make it widely different from the regular hotels found in most resorts. It provides a perfectly comfortable place to live for a long or short time. Attractive in its surroundings, complete but modest in its ap- pointments, having that air of refinement essential to the com- fort of cultivated people. Every effort is made to have the place as nearly like a home as a public house can well be made, and in carrying out this idea conventional hotel features which are not essential to a proper service are eliminated. ISLAND SERVICE COMPANY INCORPORATED Topi Nevers Head S C0PYRICHT,1907.BV J H ROBINSON COAL WOOD LUMBER GASOLINE ICE OILS BUILDERS' SUPPLIES— DOCKING FACILITIES OLD SOUTH WHARF TELEPHONE CONNECTION 5cS Anthony W. Ayers Company REAL ESTATE ESTABLISHED 1900 FOR SALE Shore Front Estates completely and elaborately furnished. Summer Cottages fully furnished, all modern conveniences. Shore Front Lots on the Beach in best neighborhoods. Improved Property on the Cliff, unobstructed views. Old Nantucket Houses in the Town, furnished and unfurnished. Farms and suburban land in all parts of the Island. FOR RENT Gentlemen's Estates on water front, fully furnished. Water Front Cottages, one, two, and three baths, electric lights. Cottages on the Cliff, unobstructed view of water, conveniences. Renovated old Nantucket Houses in the Town, fully furnished. At MONOMOY — across the harbor from Nantucket — fully fur- nished Cottages, with modem conveniences. For Everything For Sale or For Rent at Nantucket, consult ANTF-IONY W. AYERS COMPANY, 14 Pearl Street TELEPHONE CONNECTION TOM NEVER'S LODGE Tom Never's Lodge is located on Tom Never's Head, Nantucket, sixty feet above sea level, ha? 2200 square feet of fiazzas, sun parlor, electric lights, b=itlis, running hot and cold water in every room. Surf bathing, tennis and croquet grounds, music and summer entertainments for the pleasure of our guests. NANTUCKET LAND TRUST, O.vners 50 CONGRESS ST., BOSTON, MASS. RATSS REASONABLE TELEPHONE CONNECTION 59 OCEAN HOUSE LODGE AND COTTAGES I The Ocean House, directly up Broad Street from Steamboat wharf, offers I every facility for the comfort and convenience of patrons. Situated on corner I of two wide streets, on high ground, surrounded by fine shade trees, within J a few minutes walk of steamboat landing, post office, business streets and all I points of interest, its location is unsurpassed. Rooms en suite, with or with- J out bath: also several suites with private piazzas. Latest style of sanitary I plumbing. Gas and electric lights, steam heat; open fire-places; large sun J parlor and dance hall; orchestra; tennis court, free to guests. i The Ocean House for years has been noted for excellence of table, courteous I treatment and personal attention to comfort and pleasure of all guests. I For Booklets and Rales Address I W. D. CARPENTER, Proprietor, NANTUCKET, MASS. PITMAN HOUSE ESTABLISHED 18S5 CENTRE STREET NANTUCKET MASS. TELEPHONE CONNECTION WRITE FOR CIRCULARS HAYDENS' HOT SEA WATER BATHS BENEFICIAL TO THOSE SUFFERING FROM [nsomnia, Indigestion, Nervousness, Rheumatism, Etc. Strictly sanitary in every way BEACH STREET NEAR STEAMBO.AT WH.^RF also OCEAN B.\THING AT THE CLIFF BEACH ALBERT G. BROCK FIRE, LIFE AND CASUALTY INSURANCE PACIFIC BANK BUILDING MAIN STREET, NANTUCKET, MASS. TELEPHONE CONNECTION 60 WAUWINET HOUSE I I WAUWINET, NANTUCKET ISLAND, MASS. I JAMES A. BACKUS, Proprietor \ OPEN FROM JUNE 15 TO SEPTEMBER 15 \ SHORE DINNERS BROILED LOBSTER A ! SERVED DAILY SPECIALTY { TELEPHONE CONNECTION | I R. E. CONGDON DEALER IN DRUGS, MEDIGINES, GHEMIGALS J PRESCRIPTIONS ^TorsT .^T^fS.o^^ '^^ PERFUMERY, FINE STATIONERY, CHOICE CON- FECTIONS, FANCY GOODS, TOILET ARTICLES, ETC. MAIN STREET, NANTUCKET, MASS. CENTRAL MARKET R. E. BURGESS & SONS MAIN ST., NANTUCKET, MASS. ESTABLISHED 186.S DEALERS IN MEATS AND PROVISIONS BRANCH STORE IN SIASCONSET TELEPHONE CONNECTION BROWN & CO. HARDWARE TINWARE, AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS, ETC. [ MAIN STREET, NANTUCKET, MASS. TELEPHONE CONNECTION 61 JOHN K. AYERS SANITARY PLUMBING STEAM, GAS AND HOT WATER FITTING MAIN STREET, - NANTUCKET, MASS. TELEPHONE CONNECTION I „ . . T. C PITMAN CARPENTER, BUILDER AND GENERAL JOBBER ESTABLISHED 1885 Furniture Crated at Reasonable Rates Storage Privileges for Rent Office, 46 Centre St. Shop, Cor. South Water and Oak Sts. TELEPHONE CONNECTION WILLIAM H. WYER LIVERY, BOARD, SALE AND SADDLE STABLES NORTH CENTRE STREET, NANTUCKET, MASS. TELEPHONE CONNECTION THE CORNER STORE JOHN F. ROBERTS, Prop. CHOICE FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC GROCERIES FRUITS, VEGETABLES AND TABLE SUPPLIES 1 OUR MOTTO QUALITY FIRST I FAIR PRICES PROMPT SERVICE I Corner Main and Centre Streets Telephone Connection 62 I N. E, LOWELL i CONTRACTOR and MASON I FIREPLACE CONSTRUCTION I RUBBLE-STONE, CEMENT BLOCK i AND PLASTERING \ 133 MAIN STREET, NANTUCKET, MASS. ! TELEPHONE COMNECTION I AYERS LIVERY STABLE HORSES, CARRIAGES, AND HACKS SINGLE OR DOUBLE TEAMS SIGHTSEEING CARRIAGES WITH DRIVERS TO ALL PARTS OF THE ISLAND LAWRENCE AYERS, Proprietor Telephone Connection- H. PADDACK & COMPANY The Oldest Paint Shop under one name in Alassachusetts PAINTERS GLAZIERS AND PAPER HANGERS WHOLESALE AND RETAIL DEALERS IN PAINTS, OILS, VARNISHES AND WALL PAPERS Main Street, Nantucket, Mass. Telephone Connection Nantucket Fish Company FRESH and salt FISH FISHING TACKLE, ICE CREAM SALT PROMPT SERVICE MAIN STREET, - NANTUCKET, MASS. TELEPHONE CONNECTION I . , ... 63 CITIZENS ' E. A. LAWRENCE 62 CO. GAS, ELECTRIC AND dealers in POWER CO. DRY AND FANCY AT YOUR SERVICE ' KrUUU^i ■n,- , , ,• „f Ladies rurnishines, Etc. v\ e carry a complete line of >-i^ >-vj t, , GAS AND ELECTRICAL ' Agent for the Sale of MERCHANDISE = BUTTERICK PATTERNS of standard makes : , AND PUBLICATIONS TELEPHONE CONNECTION \ Boston Stofc Main Street '" i C. E. COLLINS & CO. ] | NANTUCKET DOMESTIC DEALERS IN \ " BAKERY BOOTS, SHOES " " Thomas B. Sickerstaff. prop. Fresh goods. Prompt de- A.\ D liveries, Homemade Bread, ^ - _ ^ Pies, Doughnuts, Cakes, etc. ]X^U JjJ3 L^IXO - A specialty made of cater- ing both to large and small MAIN STREET ^ ^ower Pearl St., Nantucket, Mass. NANTUCKET, MASS, ] Telephone Connection ' "°k^,^L''Ks"°- ' " C. W. ELLIS : s . ^ ^ i No. 3, South Water St. • CONTRACTORS ^ Nantucket, Mass. BUILDING MOVERS - ! JOBBING ; GO TO ELLIS Done in a Workman- ' FOR like Manner | FIRST CLASS : Nr;;Tuc;s;."^" ^Iss. ! shoe repairing 64 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 014 076 508 9