Libraries, Bookstores, & More: Martha’s Vineyard
The History
First inhabited by the Wampanoag, it was originally called Noepe, which means “land amid the streams.” And if you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting Martha’s Vineyard, and basked in its beauty, you’d understand exactly why that is. From its clear streams to ocean blue waters that extend from stunning beaches, The Vineyard, as it is often called, is a place that offers tranquility and wonder.
The first European to reach the island was English explorer, Bartholomew Gasnold in 1602. European settlement followed in 1642 in what would become known as the town of Edgartown, with the purchase of the island by Thomas Mayhew. In its inception, the Vineyard grew to prominence through the whaling industry. However, the demise of the use of blubber for oil, began the island’s transformation into the resort islet we know today.
The Bookstore
Tucked away on main street in Edgartown, you’ll find the beautiful bookstore of Edgartown Books. It’s white siding with green shutters, speaks of its colonial roots, and makes you feel like you’re coming home. Upon entering the store, you’re greeted with a flight of stairs that rounds up toward the second floor, which houses works of fiction for youth. As you make your way upstairs, take a moment to note the hand painted steps; each one marks a different genre in literature, and they are absolutely beautiful.
On the first level of the bookstore, you’ll find an array of contemporary works of fiction, art supplies, children’s books, and puzzles. If you’re looking for something special for a loved one, they also have a myriad of knick-knacks and things that can be gifted. But what’s unique about the shop is its structure. As it is housed in a former colonial home, there is an air of intimacy that is given to potential readers. There is nothing sterile and commercial about Edgartown Books; instead, its hominess makes you feel like you’re taking a book from your own library rather than one from a store. And it is this level of invitingness that makes you want to crawl into one of their cozy corners and relax with one of their many books.
For the Kids
As previously mentioned, Edgartown Books has plenty of things for even the pickiest child to choose from. However, there are many places on the island to take young ones. Just a twelve-minute walk from the bookstore, you will find the Edgartown Lighthouse. The walk alone to the historic lighthouse will have the whole family in awe. From the charming cottages to the picturesque harbor views, it is a walk that all will enjoy. Once there, you can either choose to climb the lighthouse or spread out your beach gear at Lighthouse Beach and enjoy the sun.
If you and your little ones are in the mood for some thrills, then head over to the Flying Horses Carousel in Oak Bluffs. There you will find America’s oldest platform carousel. Originally created in 1876 as an attraction for New York City’s Coney Island, the carousel was acquired by Oak Bluffs in 1884, and still entices families today. While there, be sure to grab some hot chocolate, popcorn, or cotton candy. Arcade games are also available to play.
Play
Like many places on the coast, Martha’s Vineyard has a myriad of beaches and outings to enjoy. If you don’t have a car to get around the island, I recommend getting a bus day pass with Vineyard Transit. Passes run anywhere from one-day, three-day, and seven-day passes. As we only stayed the day, a day pass was purchased for our family. With the pass we were able to explore the island at a very reasonable price. I’ll put it this way—what we paid utilizing the Vineyard Transit to explore the entire island for our family of six, was less than the cost of a one-way taxi ride to ONE destination on the Vineyard. Also, passes are readily available for purchase on the bus.
Once you figure out your way around, you can see, or try your hand at jumping off Jaw’s Bridge. If you guessed it, it is the infamous bridge that was featured in the movie Jaws. After your thrill-seeking adventure, settle yourself along Joseph Sylvie State Beach and soak up some sun and enjoy the water. Or take a walk along downtown Oak Bluffs and explore the Gingerbread Cottages.
Eat
Although there is plenty to choose from, that would please any palate on the Vineyard, as day trippers we indulged in a light lunch at MacPhail’s Corner Café. I recommend that you try their lobster rolls—they’re amazing. If you’re still hungry and in the mood for a treat, then grab some ice cream at Big Dipper Ice Cream and Café to cool off in the heat. If you’re not in the mood for ice cream, then pick-up some donuts at Back Door Donuts.
Stay
As a day trip, I didn’t have a chance to explore any lodging. So, I’ll leave this spot to the experts. To find out more about the best places to stay on the Vineyard, click HERE.
So, visit Martha’s Vineyard. A place whose beauty is only magnified by its tranquility. And where the people are welcoming and friendly. A home away from home.
