History of Chilmark, Massachusetts, USA

1671 - Chilmark is settled

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

September 14, 1694 - Chilmark is incorporated

1839 - Chilmark
Chilmark, Massachusetts
Dukes county. This town lies on the S. and W. part of Martha's Vineyard. Gay Head, in this town, is the south point of the island; it is 150 feet above the sea and is crowned with one of the five lighthouses in this county.
Gay Head is about 60 miles E.N.E. of Montauk, on Long Island, and bears marks of having been subject to volcanic eruptions. The place abounds in specimens of minerals worthy the notice of geologists. This part of the island is inhabited by some descendants of the native Indians, who own part of the lands. There is some salt manufactured at this place, and about 7,000 sheep are kept. Chilmark was incorporated in 1714. Population, 1837, 700. It lies 92 miles S.E. from Boston, 33 W. from Nantucket, 23 S.E. by S. from New Bedford, and 12 S.W. by S. from Edgarton.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839

1854 - Chilmark
Chilmark, a post-township in Dukes county, Massachusetts, 93 miles S. E. by S. from Boston.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1895 - Chilmark
Chil'mark, a post-township of Dukes co, Mass., is in the S.W. part of the island of Martha's Vineyard. It is washed by the ocean on all sides except the E. It has 2 churches and a brick-kiln. Pop. 476.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Chilmark:
Lucy Vincent Beach: Start your visit to Chilmark with a trip to Lucy Vincent Beach. It's known for its pristine sandy shores, clear blue waters, and dramatic clay cliffs. The beach is private, so you'll need a beach pass, but it's well worth it for a day of sunbathing and swimming.

Menemsha Beach and Harbor: Menemsha is a quintessential New England fishing village. You can watch the fishing boats come in with their daily catch or relax on the small beach. Don't forget to try some freshly caught seafood from one of the local seafood shacks.

Chilmark Chocolates: Indulge your sweet tooth at Chilmark Chocolates, a local institution known for its delicious handmade chocolates. It's the perfect place to pick up some sweet souvenirs to take home.

The Grey Barn and Farm: This working farm offers tours and the chance to meet their animals. They also produce some amazing cheeses, so be sure to sample and purchase some during your visit.

Chilmark General Store: This charming store is ... Read MORE...