Places hold different meanings to those who visit them.
For some, Martha’s Vineyard is simply a place to spend the summer. They don’t see past its lush greenery and glistening shores. Just further north, however, is Oak Bluffs. It looks similar to the other port communities in town, but it’s more than just an American tourist destination.
As one of the first places in the United States to welcome freed African Americans with open arms, it’s also a symbol of freedom, empowerment, and inner peace. In their Power of Place exhibition, the National Museum of African American History and Culture recognizes Martha’s Vineyard as a place of leisure and escape during the tumultuous 20th century.
This gorgeous seaside town is as rich in history as it is in natural beauty. Carefully preserved, its scenery is the same as it was a century ago. It’s a place where history, community, and nature meet.
A Brief History of Martha’s Vineyard
The oceanic oasis of Martha’s Vineyard is found south of Cape Cod. Nestled among hills and trees, it is at the complete mercy of the sea breeze that dances in from the Atlantic Ocean.
Countless families visit during the sweltering summer months. They all plan to enjoy natural attractions, sandy beaches, quaint restaurants, and water sports. But for Black Americans who find their way here, this town holds special relevance beyond the usual tourist appeal.
First Inn for Black Vacationers
Though Massachusetts was the first state to abolish slavery, it was certainly not without its prejudices.
You really could call Oak Bluffs an oasis. During the Jim Crow period in the early 1900s, it was one of the few areas that were not outwardly segregated. As you can imagine, the freedom found in this bucolic beach town was both spiritually and physically liberating.
In the center of Oak Bluffs is Shearer Cottage, the town’s first inn to welcome African Americans. This was a rarity throughout the country when it was founded in 1912. Many Black Americans flocked to the area to seek shelter. As years passed, it became a sanctuary where they could become happier among the beauty of nature and a community of their peers.
Almost frozen in time, Shearer Cottage has maintained pieces of nature and scenes enjoyed over a century ago: the thin shoreline of Inkwell beach and abundant greenery throughout is an escape from a more developed, modern world.
A Getaway for Creative Minds
The scenery of Martha’s Vineyard was once reserved for the wealthy and elite. Patrons and residents came in droves to refresh and recharge during the summer months.
But it didn’t just refresh — it inspired. During the explosive Harlem Renaissance, the popularity of Oak Bluffs increased significantly. Writers, musicians, and artists of all forms were energized by the salty sea air and relaxed social barriers.
For these creative souls, the natural energy of Martha’s Vineyard was rejuvenating. As American poet and activist Maya Angelou noted, Oak Bluffs was a place where she and her contemporaries could “go as [they] are and not be questioned.”
It was a space that allowed the community to exist freely in nature, where visitors could be themselves and create. They could be in touch with themselves and one another. They could become happier.
And that sentiment holds true to this
Visiting Martha’s Vineyard Today
The summery seaside of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts remains a testament to African American history, perseverance, and community. Families who visited a century ago would see their descendants walking on the same roads and jumping into the same waves.
Aside from Oak Bluffs, there are several other places where you can be in tune with both the local environment and heritage.
Recently recognized as a stop on the Underground Railroad, one can visit the Edgartown Lighthouse, near the historic site that was recently recognized as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
The Aquinnah Cliffs tell stories of the town millions of years into its past. The crashing waves and sea spray are enough to take you back in time to when the space was wandered by generations of settlers and travelers who took those same steps.
The entire town is dotted with wildlife refuges, parks, and nature preserves that can be visited and patronized during the summer months. You never have to go far to find yourself in nature, among the local flora and fauna, and to reconnect.
And if you’re seeking recreation, you won’t be disappointed! As a seaside town, there is no end to the number of water sports and activities to choose
Visiting Martha’s Vineyard Today
The summery seaside of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts remains a testament to African American history, perseverance, and community. Families who visited a century ago would see their descendants walking on the same roads and jumping into the same waves.
Aside from Oak Bluffs, there are several other places where you can be in tune with both the local environment and heritage.
Recently recognized as a stop on the Underground Railroad, one can visit the Edgartown Lighthouse, near the historic site that was recently recognized as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
The Aquinnah Cliffs tell stories of the town millions of years into its past. The crashing waves and sea spray are enough to take you back in time to when the space was wandered by generations of settlers and travelers who took those same steps.
The entire town is dotted with wildlife refuges, parks, and nature preserves that can be visited and patronized during the summer months. You never have to go far to find yourself in nature, among the local flora and fauna, and to reconnect.
And if you’re seeking recreation, you won’t be disappointed! As a seaside town, there is no end to the number of water sports and activities to choose from.
Celebrating History and Nature
a.c.e. Nature believes (rightfully so!) that your mental health improves when you reconnect with the earth. We celebrate our community and friends coexisting with the environment, and encourage all to find space to reconnect with themselves as members of those communities.
We at a.c.e. Nature want to help you reach the mindfulness, happiness, and tranquility that you can only find in the world’s beauty around you, especially in the United States. Stay in touch with us via our website and online channels for more upcoming travel and recreation guides, and sustainable ways to become happier by getting outdoors!