Martha's Vineyard: A History

by Thomas Dresser

Martha's Vineyard is cherished by many as a summer paradise, but few know of its rich past. Descendants of the first Native American inhabitants still reside on the Vineyard. Once a critical whaling hub, the island's success drew in newcomers from around the world. Following the Civil War, land developers set their sights on attracting tourists to the island's scenic beaches, and soon thereafter, a visit from President Grant established Martha's Vineyard as a vacation haven. From a movement to secede from Massachusetts to the making of the summer blockbuster Jaws, author Thomas Dresser weaves together the threads of the Vineyard's fascinating history. Discover how this remarkable island adapted to the times and came to be one of the most sought-out vacation destinations on the East Coast.

Genres: Nonfiction

179 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 4, 2015

Reviews

[Jeremy Lucas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maybe it was being on the island, and reading, that tied me to the contents of such an isolated and mostly tranquil history. Details trumped the narrative, of course, as this still felt very much like the work of a local Historical Society, but the writing had its merits, enough to keep me flipping back and forth between the book and a map. We arrived at the island in late November, when most of the towns had closed up shop(s) for the winter, but there remained a calm, safe, and remote sense of liberal neutrality, a feeling that residents are as thoughtful as they are reserved, willing to speak up when called upon, but content to leave the world alone when it does not. Thank you, Thomas Dresser, for adding historical insights to our Thanksgiving vacation.

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book is exactly as advertised in the title. I think there are many kind of histories and this book falls in the category of "written by a local, for the locals". Although the author gives a glimpse into many interesting aspects of the island's past that warrant additional reading (e.g. Secessionist movement).

[Joshua · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author tends to jump around a lot in this book within chapters but it’s the only book I’ve found that really dives into the nitty gritty of Martha’s Vineyard history from start to finish. Definitely recommend for anyone who is interested in MV history or just needs something to read while at the beach.

[Frazier Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nothing magical. A very brief introduction that is sufficient to prepare for visiting the island. My stay on Martha's Vineyard was significantly more grounded and enjoyable with the minimal hour or two it took to read this book.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been to Martha's Vineyard a few times.

Reading this book is like revisiting it all over again. It also reminds of its rich history and a very tightknit community.