martha's vineyard history tour

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Guided tours and activities on the beautiful island of Martha's Vineyard.

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Martha’s Vineyard Sightseeing Tours

Discover the beauty and history of Martha’s Vineyard with Oak Bluffs Land and Wharf Co. We provide entertaining Martha’s Vineyard sightseeing tours so that you can experience the entirety of the island in a snapshot. Our Martha’s Vineyard tours last between 2.5 and 3 hours and engage visitors of all ages.

Our Martha’s Vineyard Tours

We explore the six central locations on Martha’s Vineyard that craft the history of our stunning island. Our tour narrative was uniquely devised with the curators and experts at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum so that you have a historical foundation to the beauty of the island.

Our tour weaves together elements of current events with fascinating history to paint a complete picture of Martha’s Vineyard. Our tour guides know the area intimately and thrive on sharing that knowledge with you and other visitors.

The Martha’s Vineyard sightseeing tour includes a 30-minute comfort stop in Aquinnah. Explore the famous clay cliffs or Gay Head Lighthouse as you enjoy some clam chowder from Cliffhangers. You can also enjoy the Aquinnah Cultural Center for more insight into the island’s culture.

On our Martha’s Vineyard tours you’ll experience the entire island, including:

• West Tisbury
• Vineyard Haven

Discover the history of Martha’s Vineyard with our tours.

Our Tour Vans

The tours begin and end in Oak Bluffs and include entrance to the Cottage Museum, including the Gingerbread Cottages. We also offer storage for luggage and strollers in Oak Bluffs so that you can come at any point in your travels to Massachusetts.

Our tours use 14 passenger vans that are extended height so that people of all heights can comfortably experience Martha’s Vineyard. We strive to accommodate all people on our tours, so if you have specific accommodation needs, contact us.

With Oak Bluffs Land and Wharf Co., you can experience the history and beauty of Martha’s Vineyard. Call 508.684.8595 or use our  online form  to learn more about our Martha’s Vineyard sightseeing tours today.

Martha's Vineyard's #1 Tour

With over 1000 more excellent or good reviews than our nearest competitor!

Experience Martha's Vineyard

We offer the best, top rated Island tours. See our reviews on Trip Advisor below.

History abounds, The Whaling Church, Whaling Captain's homes, eclectic boutiques, and restaurants.

Enjoy Up-Island views including the Aquinnah Cliffs, and the Gay Head Ligthouse

Why Tour with us?

Experience Martha's Vineyard with Martha’s Vineyard Tours and Transport — the original and largest local tour company providing vehicles capable of traveling to all the wonderful locations on the island that larger buses are prohibited from traveling. Destinations include tours of historic residences of whaling Captains from days gone by with their beautiful gardens and captivating architecture. Other areas on our route that are inaccessible by bus include two lighthouses and the quaint fishing village of Menemsha.

Read our reviews on Tripadvisor

Martha’s Vineyard 3 or 4 hour Island Tour

This 3 or 4 hour tour will introduce you to our 100 Square mile island by giving you the history both past and present of our 6 unique towns.

Budget Friendly Shared Island Tours (departs from Oak Bluffs)

Ages 10+ • 3 Hour Full Island Tour • Budget Friendly - (Book Online & Save!)

African American Heritage Tour

Experience the rich African American history of Martha’s Vineyard. Your experienced tour guide will talk about the graveyard and the formation of the NAACP on MV, as well as the connection between the Vineyard’s Grace Church and the one in Mississippi.

Our knowledgeable and well versed drivers are here to make your Vineyard experience the best. There are many options for touring our beautiful and historic island in our clean, air conditioned and comfortable 14-passenger touring vans. Find your perfect tour with Experience Martha’s Vineyard Tours. Our fleet is fully insured and we are a State of Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities registered entity. Our local drivers provide an immersive and fully narrated experience of our diverse and historical New England island.

Our Up-Island tours include a stop in Menemsha— a quaint working fishing village, which is located in Chilmark.

Specials & Packages

Check out some of our popular tours below, starting at just $60 per person. Our private tours are available for groups from 6 people, and can accommodate up to 12 people.

Shared Island Tours

Private Tours

4hr Private Jaws Tour

Plan Your Visit

• Edgartown Lighthouse
• East Chop Lighthouse
• Children’s Memorial
• View Exhibits
• View Events
• Evening of Discovery
• Join & Give
• Mission & History
• Staff & Board
• Fellowships

Experience the Vineyard’s unique history and culture.

MUSEUM HOURS

Please note, last admissions are sold one half hour before scheduled closing time.

OPEN TUESDAY – SUNDAY

10:00 am – 4:00 pm.

October 10, 2023 – May 26, 2024

10:00 am – 5:00pm

May 28, 2024 – October 13, 2024

MUSEUM CAMPUS CLOSED

The Museum campus is closed for the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve Day, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

STAFF OFFICES CLOSED

Staff offices are closed for the following holidays: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, 4th of July, Labor Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve Day, Christmas, December 26, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.

SPECIAL CLOSURES

The Museum will close at 3pm on June 8 and June 29, 2024.

INDIVIDUAL ADMISSION

Adults: $18 Seniors: $15 Children 7-17: $5 Children 6 & Under: Free

YEAR-ROUND ISLANDER RATES

Adults: $15 Seniors $12

MV Museum members are always free.

Group rates are available for parties of 10 or more.

GALLERY WALKS

Fridays & sundays at 2pm.

Learn more about the highlights of the collection on a brief guided tour of the Museum’s permanent exhibits.

Free with Museum admission.

WALKING TO THE MUSEUM

The Museum is situated overlooking Lagoon Pond and Vineyard Sound in Vineyard Haven. The Campus is a 10-minute walk from the Steamship Authority’s Vineyard Haven terminal and a 6-minute walk from Five Corners.

TRAVELING BY BIKE

Bike racks are available for your convenience at the bottom of the stairs on Lagoon Pond Road and in the parking area at the back of the property.

TRAVELING BY CAR

Parking is available at the top of the driveway including room for bus drop-off and pick-up. There are additional parking spaces located behind Doherty Hall at the back of the property.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Take Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) routes #1, 2, 3, and 13 to the Steamship Authority terminal in Vineyard Haven. The Museum is a 10-minute walk away. If you like, ask to be let off at Five Corners, and walk up Lagoon Pond Road (keeping the Post Office on your right). For the VTA’s routes and schedules,  click here .

• Saltzman Cabinet of Curiosities
• Hands-On History
• Challenge of the Sea
• Main Entrance
• Welcome Center
• Morgan Learning Center
• Waggaman Community Gallery
• On This Site
• History Highlights
• One Island, Many Stories
• Linnemann Pavillion
• Fresnel Lens
• Flashes Of Brilliance
• First Light Café
• Bodman Courtyard
• Doherty Hall
• Rose Styron Garden
• Hackney Research Library
• Beim Conference Room
• Grain Family Gallery
• Cox Gallery
• Fleischner Family Gallery
• Hollinshead Gallery

VISITOR GUIDELINES

• Food or drink can not be brought into the Museum. Please use proper receptacles when dining outside.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
• MVM is a smoke-free property. The use of tobacco or e-cigarettes is prohibited.
• Skateboards, hover boards, and similar recreational equipment are prohibited from the campus. Bicycle racks are provided at both the top and bottom of the driveway. Please keep bicycles off the Lewis Lawn and Bodman Courtyard.
• Photography is permitted for personal, non-commercial use, except where posted in certain galleries. The use of tripods, free-standing lights, and similar equipment is not permitted inside Museum buildings. Flash photography is not permitted.
• MVM regularly produces publications and posts content online that features the Campus, exhibits, and visitors. Your presence here constitutes your consent to be photographed, filmed, and/or otherwise recorded for the purposes of MVM communications and related outreach activities, in perpetuity.

ACCESSIBILITY

The Museum buildings, walkways, courtyard, and vehicular drop-off area are all 521 CMR compliant and accessible. Handicapped parking is available onsite including a designated spot for a handicapped van. The Museum provides complimentary non-motorized wheelchairs during your visit to those who request them. Please speak with the Visitor Services staff at the front desk at the beginning of your visit or call 508-627-4441 x110 prior to your visit to request use of a wheelchair.

DISCOUNTS & PARTNERSHIPS

Active and veteran military personnel and their families are invited to tour the Museum for free with proper identification.

BUY LOCAL ISLAND CLUB

Club members receive 10% off in the Museum Shop.

NORTH AMERICAN RECIPROCAL MUSEUM (NARM) ASSOCIATION

Members from other NARM institutions who present a current membership card validated with a gold North American Reciprocal sticker are entitled to: free admission to the Museum, 10% off in the Museum shop, and the MVM member discount on lecture/talk admission.

RECIPROCAL ORGANIZATION OF ASSOCIATED MUSEUMS (ROAM)

Members from other ROAM institutions who present a current membership card validated with a silver ROAM sticker are entitled to: free admission to the Museum, 10% off in the Museum shop, and the MVM member discount on lecture/talk admission.

MASSACHUSETTS CULTURAL COUNCIL

Holders of an EBT receive free admission to the Museum through the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s Card to Culture program.

MUSEUMS FOR ALL

Recipients of SNAP benefits receive free admission to the Museum by showing an EBT card as part of the Institute for Museums and Library Services Museum for All program.

NEW ENGLAND MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

New England Museum Association members are welcome to visit the Museum for free with their NEMA member card.

AMERICAN ALLIANCE OF MUSEUMS

American Alliance of Museums members are welcome to visit the Museum for free with their AAM member card.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF STATE AND LOCAL HISTORY

American Association of State and Local History members are welcome to visit the Museum for free with their AASLH member card.

MASSACHUSETTS TEACHERS ASSOCIATION

Massachusetts Teachers Association members receive half-off admission at the Museum and 10% off in the Museum Shop with their MTA Member Card.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS

Big Brothers Big Sisters members receive free admission to the Museum with their member card.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts Oak Bluffs Bar Crawl

Martha’s Vineyard History Tour and Oak Bluffs Bar Crawl

from $8 per person

Looking for an unforgettable adventure that blends history, culture, and fun in one epic experience? Look no further than our Martha’s Vineyard History Tour and Oak Bluffs Bar Crawl, the ultimate way to discover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks of this charming Martha’s Vineyard town!

You and your team will explore the history of the Vineyard—from the bustling Circuit Ave to the iconic Gingerbread cottages, the serene Ocean Park, and the legendary Flying Horses merry-go-round.

Your tour kicks off at the Ocean Park Bandstand, where you’ll embark on a journey through the rich history and culture of Oak Bluffs—finishing off your crawl with a refreshing ocean view brew just a stone’s throw away from where you started.

Each tour is private. You and your team will work together to solve puzzles, and answer trivia questions, while competing with your friends for the top spot on our leaderboard! So, whether you’re a history buff, or a beer enthusiast, our Martha’s Vineyard Bar Crawl and Oak Bluffs History Tour is the perfect adventure for you!

Book your tickets now and come explore the charming town of Oak Bluffs!

Meetup with Friends

Get your friends together, explore the city, work together, grab a few drinks, amazing race meets drunk history, amazing race meets drunk history, there's a lot to love about martha's vineyard.

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Martha’s Vineyard should be on your travel list. Located just off the coast of Massachusetts , this charming island is known for its beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, sample fresh seafood, or explore historic landmarks, Martha’s Vineyard has something for everyone.

One of the island’s biggest draws is its stunning natural beauty. With over 100 miles of coastline, Martha’s Vineyard boasts some of the most scenic beaches in the country. From the soft sands of South Beach to the rugged cliffs of Aquinnah, there’s no shortage of breathtaking vistas to discover.

In addition to its natural beauty, Martha’s Vineyard is also rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore historic sites like the Gay Head Lighthouse , the Island Alpaca Company , and the Martha’s Vineyard Museum , or take a stroll through down Circuit Ave in Oak Bluffs to shop, eat, or enjoy many of the local beers that make island living worth every second of your summer vacation!

Always private

All of our bar crawl trivia tours are a private experience, just for you and your friends.

No time limit

Explore the city at your own pace. There's no tour guide rushing you to the next bar.

Start anytime

We're ready when you are. Buy your ticket today and start your tour anytime.

If you don't love your tour, quit by question 5 and we'll give you a full refund.

Any questions?

Meet at the starting location, create a team name, and log in with your team. The tour will guide you through the city while you explore historic landmarks, learn local history, answer trivia questions, and solve puzzles. As you go, you’ll be guided to some of the best bars in town!

Tours typically take 3-4 hours to complete, but every team goes at their own pace. There is no time limit. We encourage people to make a day of it and enjoy each location as long as they want without feeling rushed.

No drinks are included with the price of your Brews & Clues ticket. From time to time on the tour, we may recommend our local favorites, but ultimately it’s up to you to decide what (and how much) you drink along the way.

In order to answer some questions on your tour, you’ll be asked to go in and out of bars, pubs and tap rooms. Some of those places, depending on the time of day, may restrict entry to anyone under 21.

Absolutely. We designed Brews & Clues to work on any smartphone without the need to download an app. As long as you can get on the internet, you can access the tour.

We have several team sizes available for different groups of people. When you’re purchasing your tour choose the size that works for you.

No worries—drinking is not required on the tour. Whether you drink or not, the experience is designed as fun, interactive and challenging for everyone to enjoy. Even without a buzz, we’re confident that you’ll have a good time.  

We’ve built a help guide within the app if you have any questions as you go. If that doesn’t solve your problem, our team is always just an email away. Just shoot us a note at: [email protected]

It was a lot of fun! You didn’t feel like it was nearly 3 miles long because the stops are nicely spaced out. You get to experience a lot of historical landmarks while enjoying some equally great bars and pubs! The trivia is fun and challenging with a few tricky questions 😉 We liked that it was self guided and we were able to go at our own pace.

2-person team

12-person team

6-person team

Email us anytime at: [email protected]

OUR MISSION

Brews & Clues believes that the world is better when you share it with friends.

African American Heritage Trail of Martha's Vineyard

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African American Heritage Trail of Martha's Vineyard - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites

4 Essential Martha’s Vineyard Tours for Guided Island Sightseeing

The nuances of island history, architecture, and culture tend to hide in plain sight — if you really want to get to know them, guided Martha’s Vineyard tours are your best bet. Now, a number of Martha’s Vineyard tour companies will take your money, pack your group into a bus or van and try to show you the whole island in 2-3 hours. Here at Vineyard Square, we say slow down. Our favorite tours are either free, cheap, or offer a far greater value than your typical bus tour. Most of these Martha’s Vineyard tours are site-specific, so their guides have time for the details and you have time to explore before or after your tour.

Gingerbread Cottage Walking Tours – Oak Bluffs

The Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association gives walking tours of this historic community on Tuesdays and Thursdays in July and August, and private tours can be arranged. Known as the Campgrounds, the neighborhood — now clustered with pastel-colored Victorian cottages — began hosting religious meetings in 1835. The tours are inexpensive (free for kids!), and include admission to the Cottage Museum.

Edgartown Historic Property Tours

Step inside history with tours of Edgartown’s oldest properties. The Vincent House, Martha’s Vineyard’s oldest residence, was built in 1672 and is now a museum featuring rare colonial architecture and artifacts. Old Whaling Church, a popular Martha’s Vineyard wedding venue , includes original whale-oil lamps lit by prosperous captains in the 19th century. Dr. Daniel Fisher became one of the wealthiest men in the country during whaling’s heyday, and his elegant residence, too, is still standing. The Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust runs guided tours of all three of these properties on weekdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. A bonus: they’re within easy walking distance of our Edgartown hotel.

African American Heritage Trail Tours

From Baptist gatherings in the 1800s to the Civil Rights movement to present day, African-American history runs deep on Martha’s Vineyard. The 27 stops along the African-American Heritage Trail span the entire island and include historic homes of notable residents, religious leaders, and political activists, along with meeting houses, cemeteries, and other points of interest. For a first-time visit, we recommend the 1.5-hour Oak Bluffs tour option, but if you’re feeling ambitious, the longer tours cover far more ground.

Martha’s Vineyard Boat Tours

If you haven’t seen the island from the water, you haven’t really seen the island (no, the ferry doesn’t count!). This is the one Martha’s Vineyard tour option worthy of breaking our rules about pricing and sticking to one area. Consider the following three options, and be sure to book well in advance: • Mad Max Catamaran cruises daily out of Edgartown harbor, just a few blocks from Vineyard Square. • Magic Carpet  is a wooden sailboat offering public tours and private charters and also departs from Edgartown Harbor. The Sunset Sail is one of our favorites. • Pirate Adventures is exactly what it sounds like and more—fun for the whole family on a custom-built pirate ship that sails around searching for treasure. It’s hands-down our favorite kid-friendly activity on Martha’s Vineyard .

Getting to Your Martha’s Vineyard Tour

Getting around the island (without bringing a car!) is easier than you might think. If you’re looking for a customized island tour and/or on-call transportation, Stagecoach Taxi is by far your best bet. Vineyard Transit Authority buses run frequently and reliably all summer. We’re always happy to assist our hotel guests with transportation needs at the Vineyard Square front desk.

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If you’re looking for a vacation filled with charm and adventure, look no further than Martha’s Vineyard. The New England island is home to numerous charming towns, including Edgartown. Home to Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, the seaport village has countless things to do and see. However, before you can enjoy all the fun, you […]

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 Martha's  Vineyard

I'm a little bit of this and a little bit of that....

Welcome .... My name is Dolores Borza and I am a 3rd generation Islander with roots dating back to 1909. Thats when my great grandfather came here and bought a house to raise his family...  He then started a cobbler shop on Circuit Ave Oak Bluffs... 

I grew up with my grandparents and everything I learned, my Pepe taught me along with years of research.... I treasure the history and have many many favorites... There are also an abundant of personal stories that are funny, jaw dropping and also emotional, but they are what makes the tour come to life... We treat our clients like family... most of the time we leave each other with a hug and a lifetime friend. 

My dna says im 99% European, but I must say that the one percent of Portuguese is where my grandparents are keeping the history alive in me... 

I love sharing the history and beauty with everyone and appreciate the time given,  so I may do so.... Im honored to spread the love about our special and magical place... you will never forget time spent here and the team of HomeGrown Tours to make it everything you'd hoped it to be. 

4 reasons to book with us

Expert  knowledge, tailor-made holidays, tours to fit your schedule, 100%  money protected.

HomeGrown Tours is the most unique tour company on Martha's Vineyard. Your tour is not only narrated by a 3rd generation Islander but it is also a hands on learning experience. I pass around items that relate to the Vineyard to get a feel of how we live here, I have a screen that shows what certain sites looked like in the 1800s, I offer cold bottled water and lite snacks and rain ponchos for those wet days. Our bus tours are fun, safe and full of history! Book privately and we go where other tours buses dont go. I treasure Martha's Vineyard and the history and beauty. Book a tour with us and make it the highlight of your vacation. Thank you for letting me show you where I live, you wont be disappointed.

Museums & Historic Sites

7 must-see historic sites on martha’s vineyard.

October 16, 2023

Martha’s Vineyard is a beautiful island off the coast of Cape Cod with a rich history and many historical sites to explore. From lighthouses to historic homes and cultural landmarks, you’ll find a variety of historical sites on Martha’s Vineyard.

Notable Historic Sites on Martha’s Vineyard

1. vincent house museum.

Address: 99 Main St City/State/Zip Code: Edgartown, MA 02539

The Vincent House Museum, located in historic Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard, is a captivating glimpse into the island’s past. This elegant 18th-century home, built in 1672, has been impeccably preserved, displaying the island’s colonial heritage. Visitors can explore period furnishings, antique artifacts, and exhibits that shed light on the island’s history, whaling era, and maritime traditions. The Vincent House Museum is a must-visit for those seeking to delve into the rich cultural and historical fabric of Martha’s Vineyard.

2. East Chop Lighthouse

Address: 229 E Chop Dr City/State/Zip Code: Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

The East Chop Lighthouse, perched on the northeastern bluffs of Martha’s Vineyard, is an iconic maritime landmark with a rich history. This historic lighthouse was first constructed in 1869, and its distinctive red-brick tower, standing at 40 feet tall, overlooks Vineyard Haven Harbor and Nantucket Sound. The light’s purpose is to guide ships safely through these waters. Visitors are drawn to its picturesque setting and the adjacent keeper’s house, making it a charming spot to explore and appreciate the island’s maritime heritage.

3. Gingerbread Cottages & Museum

Address: 11 Trinity Park City/State/Zip Code: Oak Bluffs, MA 02557

The Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association in Oak Bluffs is famous for its unique and colorful Gingerbread Cottages built in the early 19th century for the New England Methodists religious revivals. Eventually they built about 500 permanent cottages to house the attendants, and the place became known as ‘Cottage City’.

Today over 300 cottage houses remain in Martha’s Vineyard, each having a unique name. Stroll around the old Cottage City or visit the Cottage Museum to learn about the history of this charming community.

4. Edgartown Harbor Light

Address: 121 N Water St City/State/Zip Code: Edgartown, MA 02539

Edgartown Harbor Light, also known as “Edgartown Lighthouse,” is an iconic landmark located in Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard. This historic lighthouse stands as a sentinel on the eastern entrance to the Edgartown Harbor, guiding mariners through these treacherous waters. Originally built in 1828, it has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years. The current structure, a white wooden tower with a red lantern room, serves both as a navigational aid and a picturesque symbol of the island’s maritime heritage, drawing visitors to its scenic location along the island’s shores.

“Every monument of civilization is a monument of barbarism”. – Walter Benjamin

5. aquinnah cliffs & gay head lighthouse.

Address: 31 Aquinnah Cir City/State/Zip Code: Aquinnah, MA 02535

The Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook on Martha’s Vineyard, also known as Gay Head Cliffs, is a captivating natural wonder renowned for its stunning red and white clay cliffs. Resting on top of these picturesque cliffs is the historic Gay Head Lighthouse, open July through August and weekends through Indigenous Peoples Day.

The site is not only known for its remarkable geological features but also holds cultural significance for the Wampanoag Tribe, who reside in the nearby Aquinnah Wampanoag Indian Reservation. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural heritage on Martha’s Vineyard.

6. African American Heritage Trail

Address: Multiple Locations Town/State: Oak Bluffs & Edgartown, MA

Explore 30 sites related to African American history and heritage on the island. The trail leads visitors across the island exploring a range of stories and sites relevant to the black experience on the island throughout its history.

A range of daily tours are given over the summer months, varying in length and focus. You can also download a map from their site and take a self-guided tour in the off-season.

“Our democracy is not a product but a continual process. It is preserved not by monuments but deeds. Sometimes it needs refining; sometimes it needs amending; sometimes it needs defending. Always, it needs improving”. – Lee H. Hamilton

7. old whaling church.

Address: 99 Main Street Town/State: Edgartown, MA

The Old Whaling Church, now a property of the Vineyard Trust, was built in 1843 by skilled shipwrights for the Methodist whaling captains in Edgartown. Known as some of the finest Greek Revival architecture within New England, it is certainly worth a visit on your history tour of the Vineyard.

The Church, now a cultural center, is used for community events, concerts, and performances throughout the year. If you attend a performance here, be sure to arrive early to admire the intricate murals and carvings throughout the building.

Explore More History of Martha’s Vineyard

To make the most of your exploration of historical siteson Martha’s Vineyard, consider taking guided tours and visiting the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, which provides valuable insights into the island’s past.

Be sure to check out the Museums on Martha’s Vineyard Enjoy your journey through the island’s history and culture!

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Outstanding Places to Visit on Martha’s Vineyard

<ul> <li>Craig is Your Source for Local Insights into the Area’s Best Food, Drinks, & More! </li> <li>Don’t Just Read the History of the Island, See it (& Experience it) First Hand! </li> </ul>

<ul> <li>Fully Air-Conditioned Vans</li> <li>Leather Seats</li> <li>Comfy Captain Chairs</li> <li>We’ll Pick You Up & Drop You Off at Your Desired Location</li> </ul>

3-HOUR TOUR

<ul> <li>Our Guide Shows You All 6 Towns on the Island</li> <li>Stand on the Sets of “JAWS”</li> <li>Explore Gingerbread Cottages, Shop at the Island’s First Store, Climb Up the Lighthouse, and View the Colorful 200ft Clay Cliffs</li> <li>Up to 6 People Per Group Per Tour</li> <li>Your Own Private Tour of the Island! </li> <li>Your Guide Will Show You All the Best Sites & Locations </li> </ul> <p>Recommended for Travelers Looking for a Faster Experience</p>

4-HOUR TOUR

<ul> <li>Explore Everything included in the 3Hr Tour PLUS:</li> <li>Enjoy a Private Harborside Seafood Picnic</li> <li>Complimentary Bottle of Wine</li> </ul> <p>*Private harborside seafood picnic!</p> <p>*We will stop for a harborside seafood picnic where you can purchase the freshest seafood from Menemsha Fish market and dine on the set of \'JAWS\'!</p> <p>We pick up customers and drop off friends. We wish you were here!</p>

Click on a card below and find out more

• Craig is Your Source for Local Insights into the Area’s Best Food, Drinks, & More!
• Don’t Just Read the History of the Island, See it (& Experience it) First Hand!
• Fully Air-Conditioned Vans
• Leather Seats
• Comfy Captain Chairs
• We’ll Pick You Up & Drop You Off at Your Desired Location
• Our Guide Shows You All 6 Towns on the Island
• Stand on the Sets of “JAWS”
• Explore Gingerbread Cottages, Shop at the Island’s First Store, Climb Up the Lighthouse, and View the Colorful 200ft Clay Cliffs
• Up to 6 People Per Group Per Tour
• Your Own Private Tour of the Island!
• Your Guide Will Show You All the Best Sites & Locations

Recommended for Travelers Looking for a Faster Experience

• Explore Everything included in the 3Hr Tour PLUS:
• Enjoy a Private Harborside Seafood Picnic
• Complimentary Bottle of Wine

*Seafood not included with tour cost, you’ll have the chance to purchase any seafood in the area to enjoy seaside.

Martha’s Vineyard is one of the most well-known and popular tourist destinations in the country but how often do you get the chance to truly see everything it has to offer? 

With Craig leading the way, our tours are designed to give you a true local sense of the area while seeing & experiencing the best that the island has to offer.

We offer 3hr & 4hr tours that give you plenty of time to see all 6 towns and experience your favorite stops at your preferred pace. Our tours accommodate groups up to 6 but we only book one party per tour, meaning you & your group will enjoy your own private tour!

This makes it an even more personal & unforgettable experience!

If you’re planning a trip to Martha’s Vineyard then this tour is a must, nowhere else can you enjoy an intimate tour that allows you to truly see & experience everything that makes the island so popular & so beloved.

Space is limited to be sure to book your tour now or give us a call with any further questions you may have!

• Group Tours
• 3 Hour Tour
• 4 Hour Tour
• Vineyard Haven
• West Tisbury

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Welcome to the African-American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard

We are the builders of the African-American Heritage trail on Martha’s Vineyard. Read more.

Embracing the American dream

February 7, 2024

Ambler Wormley will be honored with a plaque on the African American Heritage Trail.

Every community has its stories tucked away and almost forgotten, but as long as someone remembers, the story is not lost. There are many people whose lives of everyday heroism and refusal to give up hope are lived quietly and without fanfare.

Read the full story on the MV Times

Dr. Keith Motley Joins Board of Directors

The African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard is delighted to welcome Dr. Keith Motley to our board of directors.  It is an honor to have him join us in our ongoing mission to document and share the African-American history of Martha’s Vineyard.

What’s in a name?

October 25, 2023

The Charter School collaborates with the African American Heritage Trail on research projects.

The African American Heritage Trail and the Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School began an exciting collaboration in 2020, when Deirdre Brown’s history classes worked with the trail to clean and restore the Old Marine Cemetery in Oak Bluffs. Brown’s landscaping expertise was very valuable as years of undergrowth were cut back to reveal a clear path to the site at the cemetery honoring the life of Rebecca Martin, whose mother, Nancy Michael, was born into enslavement on Martha’s Vineyard, and whose son, William A. Martin, became the Island’s only African American whaling captain.

What the African American Heritage Trail Means to Jarrett Campbell

July 26, 2023

Twenty-five years ago, the notion of creating an African American Heritage Trail on the Vineyard was inspired by the questions of a group of my students, who asked, “Where were all the Black people then?”

The journey since that time has been to uncover and celebrate that history, and students have been involved with each stage of the reclamation project. One young man who grew up immersed in the work, Jarrett Campbell, 42, recently reflected on the importance of the trail to him, and the impact it has had on his life.

Graves Machine & Tool Company is the first stop on the new Black Business Trail.

July 27, 2023

The African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard (AAHTMV) unveiled a new site along its trail on Wednesday, honoring an old business in Oak Bluffs. 

The site is the first of AAHTMV’s Black Business Trail, which will include both historical and contemporary examples of Black enterprise in Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven. 

The African American Heritage Trail plans to continue building this section of the Trail throughout the year.

The 37th site recognizes Robert and Shirley Graves’ business, Graves Machine & Tool Company. After raising eight children in Springfield, Robert and Shirley Graves took their business to Uncas Avenue in Oak Bluffs, which is now the Barn Bowl & Bistro.

2023 is Our 25th Anniversary

A very happy New Year to all our supporters and community of friends from all of us at AAHTMV.  We worked very hard in 2022.  We emerged from the lock down with strength and our commitment to continue to build this vitally important Trail, to continue our education program and to share the amazing stories of African American people on Martha’s Vineyard.  Our thanks to all the people who toured with us during 2022 and brought their stories and their passion for the history.  During 2022, we dedicated three new sites during 2022 and our total now stands at 36 with many more to come.

Dunmere by the Sea, an inn featured in the Green Book was added to he Trail, and two sites at the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association both of which told tragic stories of racism and exclusion and finally recognition.  

A dream came true for us when we installed a sculpture of Nancy Michael, the once enslaved woman who dominated the waterfront in Edgartown.  It took many years to achieve that goal, and we were proud to unveil the sculpture at Memorial Wharf, Edgartown on Juneteenth, 2022.

Our plans for 2023 our 25 th anniversary

We have ambitious plans for 2023 that include building a Black Business Trail in the towns of Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven.  This trail will include historical examples of Black enterprise and initiative and contemporary Black owned businesses in both towns.  We will develop this Trail so that we can offer it to our community as a walking and driving and even shopping opportunity.  Plaques and markers will be placed on the buildings involved and a full description of the Trail will be included on our website (mvafricanamericanheritagetrail.org)

It is planned to designate the former home of the Reverend Jackson on Central Avenue in the Martha’s Vineyard Campground as a site on the Trail.

We are working on a large project with the Martha’s Vineyard Charter School to further develop our site in West Tisbury and to educate a new generation about the heroic story of those who traveled to North Carolina to register voters during the Civil Rights Struggle, and who built relationships between the African American community of Williamston, North Carolina and Martha’s Vineyard.

We will be offering a series of workshops on financial literacy given by our Tour Leader, Chris Edgerly who feels inspired by the struggles and successes of working class African Americans to build successful communities on Martha’s Vineyard and hopes to offer participants the financial advice that will help them to replicate the success of former generations. As 2023, is our 25 th anniversary we will be holding a series of events to honor the path we  have made and to celebrate the people whose lives we celebrate in our work.

2022 African American Heritage Trail Update!

2022 has been a very busy year for the Trail organization: we have dedicated three new sites, educating schools and colleges who have visited the Trail and taken part in several symposiums to promote community education.

During the Juneteenth celebrations we unveiled a sculpture of the wise woman Nancy Michael   at the Memorial Wharf in Edgartown.  It had long been our ambition to place the sculpture there as a permanent memorial to the life of this remarkable woman who though born into enslavement rose to a position of influence in the town of Edgartown.  Dunmere by the Sea , an inn featured in the Green Book, was also added to the Trail as site #34.

On June 24th, the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association (the Campground) was added to the Trail as site #35 in honor of thirty families of color who were removed from the Campground in the period 1910-1920  as part of a policy of racial segregation and white supremacy.  The plaques placed at the Campground tell the story, and list the names of the families who were removed.

The work goes on and the Trail is actively engaged within the community in gathering histories and disseminating the stories.

Heritage Trail Honors Esther

> Kaur, Dina (30 June 2021) Do you know Esther’s story? Underground Railroad’s Martha’s Vineyard ties celebrated Cape Cod Times

> Hufstader, Louisa (28 July 2021) New Island Landmark Honors Esther, Who Refused to Be Enslaved . Martha’s Vineyard Gazette.

> Seonwoo, Eunki (28 July 2021) Esther’s story will teach future generations . Martha’s Vineyard Times.

Heritage Trail Receives Grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation

The African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard is a proud recipient of one of 40 grants just awarded by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and funded by its African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund.

Watch Trail Co-founder Dr. Elaine Weintraub’s Recent Interview on the Strong Inspirations Channel!

Nameless Trail is Dedicated on May 20th

Site #32 of the AAHTMV was dedicated on Thursday, May 20th at the MV Charter School. It is the only monument on the Vineyard dedicated to enslaved people and created by children.

New Children’s Book

A Good Name is More Precious than Gold and Silver: Stories of Enslaved People of Martha’s Vineyard is now available in three parts . It’s a new series of books honoring those who lost their liberty and their names through the crime of enslavement in the context of Martha’s Vineyard. 

Aquinnah site added to National Network of Freedom

The National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom accepted the Martha’s Vineyard African American Heritage Trail site “Randall Burton”, also known as “Edgar Jones,” as the second Vineyard site to join the program.  Read more on the MV Times .

Women Making History

A collaborative event by the NAACP of Martha’s Vineyard and the MV African American Heritage Trail. The recording of the event is available here .

Heritage Trail Stop is Added to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

The Escape of Esther from Edgartown Harbor has been officially added to the National Park Service’s Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

Letter of Acceptance from the National Park Service

Edgartown Harbor gets Underground Railroad designation ( MV Times )

Consulting on an inclusive anti-racist education

We are the builders of the trail now comprising 30 sites, we provide:.

• A Cultural heritage tourism program
• Research and share the Vineyard’s African American history
• economic opportunity for Vineyard youth
• Mentorship of Vineyard youth
• Advocacy for students in the Vineyard’s public schools
• Educational programs in the Vineyard’s schools

Read more about the African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard.

Founders of the African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard

Carrie Camillo Tankard and Elaine Cawley Weintraub met in 1989 and recognized that they had a common mission. Both women were determined to introduce the history of people of color into the Vineyard schools.

Elaine Cawley Weintraub

As a teacher, Elaine, who is of Irish heritage, realized that the students did not have access to the African American history of the Vineyard and found that history was not available anywhere, and so began her research. That research uncovered a rich, undocumented history. She will never forget the years spent researching old archives, burial records, birth records, wills and the joy of finding the career of William A. Martin, and the obituary of his remarkable grandmother, Nancy Michael. William A. Martin’s great grandmother was Rebecca Amos, the woman from Africa enslaved on the Vineyard.

Ms. Carrie, who is of African American and Latina heritage, had spent many years in her role as vice president of the NAACP of Martha’s Vineyard visiting the Island schools, presenting them with teaching materials, and strongly advocating for an inclusive history. For several years, she presented exhibits showcasing African American history in all of the Vineyard libraries.

Carrie Camillo Tankard

In 1989, they began their plan to combine their areas of expertise and the notion of building a physical Trail celebrating the stories of African American people on the Island was born. Their vision was to place bronze markers on the selected sites that told the story. They envisioned creating a Trail of four sites, and in 1998 dedicated the Shearer Cottage, the Vineyard’s oldest African American owned inn. Over the years, an active cultural heritage program was created and this helped to finance the further building of the Trail. In 2019, they dedicated site number 30, the Dukes County Courthouse where the career of Judge Herbert E. Tucker was celebrated.

They will continue to build the Trail, and dedicate many more sites.

The African American Heritage Trail continues to offer the cultural heritage tourism program and educational programs for schools and colleges, employment opportunities within the Vineyard community, and provides mentorships, scholarships for graduating seniors from the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School and advocacy services for students experiencing difficulty within the school system. The Cultural Heritage tour program each summer generates the income to provide all of these services, and to continue to build the Trail. The tours offered are authentically researched and our tour leaders are educated to provide a unique experience for our visitors.

Those who build the Trail can tell its story!

Are you interested in suggesting a new site for the Trail?  Please visit our Criteria for New Sites.

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MARTHA'S VINEYARD

Martha's Vineyard is a picturesque island paradise, just 7 miles off the coast of Massachusetts but a world away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. The Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center is your trusted resource to plan a dream vacation, find the best hotel or home rental, recommend restaurants and businesses, and so much more!

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