The Historian’s Guide to Nantucket

For history lovers, Nantucket offers an immersive experience where you can truly step back in time and explore the island’s deep-rooted past. With its rich maritime legacy, historic architecture, and a preserved sense of time, visitors can choose from a plethora of sites, museums, and experiences as they explore the island. Can’t miss highlights include:

The Nantucket Whaling Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the island’s whaling heritage. Once the whaling capital of the world, Nantucket’s history is deeply intertwined with this industry, and the museum offers an in-depth look through exhibits that include a 46-foot sperm whale skeleton, artifacts, ship models, and the fascinating story of Nantucket’s whalers.

Nantucket’s downtown area is a designated National Historic Landmark District, known for its cobblestone streets, historic 18th and 19th-century buildings, and old homes with weathered shingles. A walking tour of the downtown will introduce history lovers to colonial architecture, historic churches, and landmarks such as the Atheneum Library and the Pacific National Bank.

Both are historic homes that provide insights into different eras of Nantucket’s past. The Hadwen House, a Greek Revival mansion, offers a glimpse into the life of a prosperous whaling merchant, while Greater Light was transformed by Quaker sisters into an artist’s studio and home, reflecting the island’s artistic legacy.

This site is part of the Museum of African American History and highlights the significant African-American community that once lived on Nantucket. It is one of the oldest African-American churches in the United States, dating back to 1827, and it plays an important role in the island’s abolitionist history.

Nantucket is home to three iconic lighthouses: Brant Point, Great Point, and Sankaty Head. Brant Point Lighthouse, in operation since 1746, is one of the oldest lighthouses in America. Sankaty Head, located in Sconset, has a rich history dating back to 1850, and offers spectacular views of the ocean. These lighthouses have guided sailors for centuries and are symbolic of the island’s seafaring history.

Built in 1686, the Jethro Coffin House is the oldest residence on the island. It offers visitors a look at how the island’s early settlers lived and is a well-preserved example of saltbox-style architecture. It's a great stop to understand early colonial life on Nantucket.

Now serving as Nantucket’s public library, this gathering place was founded in 1834 and has long been a center for learning and culture on the island. It was rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1846 and became a hub of intellectual and abolitionist thought, including hosting Frederick Douglass for one of his first public speeches.

The waters around Nantucket were notoriously treacherous for sailors, and the island was known as the “graveyard of the Atlantic.” This museum, located outside of town, preserves the dramatic stories of shipwrecks and rescues that are part of the island’s maritime history.

Nantucket often hosts historical reenactments, lectures, and walking tours, particularly during the off-season. Events like the Nantucket History Month in October include special exhibits, tours, and talks focused on the island’s heritage.