Beyoutiful Blog

Martha’s Vineyard

In 1602 Martha’s Vineyard got its name when explorer, Bartholomew Gosnold discovered it. He noticed there were vines everywhere so he added the name of his daughter & called it Martha’s Vineyard.

(The same explorer found Cape Cod and named it that because of the abundant population of cod fish.)
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The first Black Dog General Store opened on Water Street, in Vineyard Haven, in 1992.
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Edgartown Lighthouse is 1 of 5 lighthouses on the island.
(that is the Big Eagle in the background!! this may be my favorite pic from the whole trip!)
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Gay Head Cliffs 
The multi-colored clay Cliffs are at the western end of the Island.  The Cliffs rise 150 feet above sea level, and due to their outstanding contribution to Martha’s Vineyard national heritage, they were designated a National Natural Landmark in 1965.
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Some Fun Facts about Martha’s Vineyard that I learned on our tour

  • Martha’s Vineyard was formed 10,000 years ago due to a glacial action
  • Martha’s Vineyard was considered a part of New York until 1692
  • There are 6 towns and several villages on the island
  • During the revolutionary war residents feared the British would invade Martha’s Vineyard. They thought it would help to say they were neutral. Their symbol to show this was to paint their chimney white with black tops.
  • 65% of the homes on island are seasonal
  • The island is home to the Flying Horses Carousel, which was built in 1876 and is the country’s oldest operating platform carouse

 

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