I was recently reading a collection of articles called Nantucket Voices by Mary Miles when I came across a passage that made me chuckle. In one essay, an old islander named Bill Broughton, who many will still remember, explains what qualifies somebody as a “real” Nantucketer.
Tag: Nantucket History
Bringing Island Research to Life
To enhance the public’s knowledge and understanding of Nantucket’s heritage, the Nantucket Historical Association offers an annual fellowship, with the selected researcher encouraged to further their study with resources from the Research Library collection. The 2026 E. Geoffrey and Elizabeth Thayer Verney Fellow is Dr. Lynne Anderson, whose research will […]
Beyond the Harpoon: Nantucket Has More than Just One Story
With more than a thousand works of art, artifacts, and treasures on display in nine premium galleries plus films, daily programs, and a fully accessible rooftop deck offering stunning views, the Nantucket Whaling Museum on Broad Street is the best way to discover our island’s fascinating maritime history and to gain a deeper appreciation for the people and events that helped define Nantucket.
Building Summer
There comes a moment every July when Nantucket settles into itself. The fireworks have faded from Jetties Beach, the last parade chairs have disappeared from Main Street, and another Independence Day has become part of the island’s memory. Families unpack their suitcases, restaurants find their rhythm, gardens burst into bloom, and the island seems to slip effortlessly into the busiest weeks of the year.
Remembering the Bicentennial on this 250th
The summer of 1976—what a time to be a kid on Nantucket! The entire island was gearing up to throw a 200th birthday party for the greatest nation in the history of mankind. This was a big deal, I tell ya! Main Street, Federal Street, and much of the downtown area was completely blocked off for the festivities. Planners were planning, costumes were being sewn, and floats were being constructed. Oh yeah, the Bicentennial celebration had Nantucket a-buzzing!
A Lightship Basket Collector’s Dream
Greg and Judi Hill of Hill’s of Nantucket are offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own the tools used to create thousands of exquisite lightship baskets—approximately 70 handcrafted Nantucket lightship basket molds by the late Master Basketmaker Paul Willer.
Always Be Curious
There’s a wonderful Walt Whitman quote that had my attention today. The esteemed poet, writer, and all-around observer of his fellow humans said, “Be curious, not judgmental.” Sage advice, right?
Island Juneteenth Festivities This Week
Nantucket Island’s Juneteenth celebration has become an annual tradition on our island. The festivities transform York Street into a block party with music, food, local vendors, arts and crafts, family-friendly activities — drawing attendees of all races, ages, and backgrounds. The celebration will be held this Saturday, June 20, with […]
At the Center of an Economic Revolution
Did you know that there once was a tree that spiked an economic bubble in the US? And there are Nantucket ties with a legacy that we can still see (and visit) on the island today?