History of Edgartown, Massachusetts, USA

Edgartown, Massachusetts
Dukes county. County town and port of entry on the island of Martha's vineyard—91 miles S.E. from Boston, 20 N.W. by W. from Nantucket, 28 S.E. by E. from New Bedford, 20 S. from Falmouth, and 495 from Washington. First settled, 1641. Incorporated, 1671. Population, 1837, 1,625. Edgartown (Old Town) harbor is on the east side of the town, in lat 41°25'N.; lon. 70°25'W. This township includes the fertile island of Chappequiddick, on the southeast, on which are some Indians. This island is 5 miles in length and 2 1/ 2 in breadth. It is very pleasant and forms Old Town harbor. Eight whale ships belong to this place and a number of coasting vessels. This is said to be the only place in the state where grouse [the Heath Hen] are native. The value of sperm oil imported, in the year ending April 1, 1837, was $65,598. The value of salt, oil casks, boats and hats manufactured the same year, was $7,260. The value of wool, the product of 2,150 sheep, was $1,590.

Edgartown, a port of entry and seat of justice of Duke's county, Massachusetts, on the E. side of the island of Martha's Vineyard, 80 miles S. E. from Boston. It contains 3 or 4 churches, several stores, and 1 newspaper office. The harbor is well protected, and has a depth of 4 1/ 2 or 5 fathoms. At its entrance, on a pier extending 1000 feet from the W. beach, is a fixed light 60 feet above the level of the sea. Lat. 41° 26' N., Lon. 70° 27' W. The shipping of the district, June 30th, 1852, amounted to an aggregate of 5796 tons registered, and 2174 tons enrolled and licensed. Of the registered tonnage 8963 tons were employed in the whale fisheries, and of the enrolled and licensed 1498 tons in the coast trade, and 473 tons in the cod and mackerel fisheries. The foreign arrivals for the year were 82, (tons, 14,999,) of which 78 (tons, 14,386) were by American vessels. The clearances for foreign ports were 18, (tons, 6537) all in American bottoms. The district includes Martha's Vineyard ...

Ed'gartown, a post-village and port of entry, capital of Dukes co., Mass., on the Atlantic Ocean, on the E. shore of Martha's Vineyard, and on the Martha's Vineyard Rail road, 5 miles S. by E. of Cottage City, and about 30 miles S.E. of New Bedford. It has an excellent and safe harbor, a court-house, 3 churches, a national bank, and a newspaper office. Pop. of the township, 1156.

Edgartown Lighthouse: Start your visit with a trip to the iconic Edgartown Lighthouse. This classic New England lighthouse is a popular spot for photos and offers breathtaking views of the harbor.

South Beach: Enjoy a day of sun, sand, and surf at South Beach. This scenic beach is known for its pristine shoreline and rolling waves, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Chappaquiddick Island: Take a short ferry ride to Chappaquiddick Island, which is part of Edgartown. Explore the beautiful Mytoi Japanese Gardens, hike the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, and visit the historic Cape Poge Lighthouse.

Martha's Vineyard Museum: Learn about the island's history and culture at the Martha's Vineyard Museum. The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays.

Main Street Shopping: Stroll down Edgartown's charming Main Street, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It's a great place to pick up unique gifts and...