New Way to Explore Nantucket History
In May, the Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) launched a new podcast titled The Nantucket Gam to explore a wide breadth of Nantucket history, reach a broader audience, and connect the island’s history to present-day island life. Listeners can enjoy a different interpretive style of Nantucket history that is conversational rather than a traditional museum experience.
“We are very excited to launch The Nantucket Gam after much discussion and consideration. Our Research Library and visitor services staff has researched and planned extensively to get this off the ground and we are eager for our members and new audiences to listen in,” said Niles Parker, NHA Gosnell Executive Director.
The podcast name—Nantucket Gam—was inspired by what islanders called a social meeting or informal conversation among whalers at sea. Each episode follows a particular theme, consisting of about 20 minutes of storytelling and conversation around the topic, followed by a guest offering present-day information about the theme. The most recent episode “Free in the Sea” examines the 1977 Secession Movement with Senator Dylan Fernandes adding perspective.
Listen to the NHA’s Nantucket Gam podcast at the NHA’s website: nha.org
Free Rides to Nantucket Cottage Hospital
In response to a request from the social workers at Nantucket Cottage Hospital and some island residents, the Nantucket Regional Transit Authority (NRTA) has added a stop to their Mid-Island and Miacomet Loop routes directly in front of the portico at the main entrance of the hospital.
“Nantucket Cottage Hospital’s new onsite bus stop now offers a free, convenient, and year-round transportation option for both patients and staff,” said Amy Lee, hospital president and COO. “By encouraging riders to use public transit, the [NRTA] stop eases pressure on the hospital’s limited parking spaces and supports smoother traffic flow along our busy summer roads. This addition demonstrates our commitment to sustainable mobility solutions that benefit the entire island community.”
In addition to the new stop at the hospital for those two routes, the NRTA has also adjusted some stops to better serve the public. The outbound stop at Orange Street and Landmark House has been moved to Orange Street and Dave Street. The Atlantic Avenue and Prospect Street stop has been relocated to Vesper Lane and Surfside Road. Thanks to support from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, passengers ride for free on NRTA busses during 2025.
nantuckethospital.org • 508-825-8100
Marine Science for Students
Maria Mitchell Association, in collaboration with Great Harbor Yacht Club Foundation (GHYCF), the Nantucket Shellfish Association (NSA), and the Town of Nantucket Natural Resources Department Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery (ToN BPSH), is offering a two-week Marine Science Research and Mentoring Program for students grades eight through twelve.
This immersive, hands-on research experience is centered on Nantucket’s iconic bay scallops. Students will explore ecology, fisheries policy, economics, chemistry, and mechanics. They’ll take part in every stage of the histology lab process. The program culminates in a group lab presentation, along with individual presentations on mentored research topics.
This student-driven work contributes to a larger phenology study on the health and spawning potential of our Harbor’s wild bay scallop population. Instituted in 2016 by Dr. Valerie Hall, this program offers a unique blend of professional guidance, scientific exploration, and academic career development. Some scholarships are available for Nantucket students.
As of press date, there are spots left for students in the following sessions:
- Session III: June 30 – July 11
- Session III: July 14 – July 25
- Session IV: July 28 – August 8
- Session V: August 11 – August 22
For details, contact Katherine Whittle at marine.ed@mariamitchell.org