Museums

From its near-hundred year reign as Whaling Capital of the World to its current incarnation as a premiere summer resort, Nantucket’s living history is meticulously preserved in its diverse historic sites. From the Oldest House—dating to the 1600’s—to the stately whaling captain’s mansions lining Orange Street–with their traditional and oft-times whimsical quarter boards–you’ll be transported back in time the moment you set foot on the Faraway Island. The Old Gaol and Old Mill, African and Quaker Meeting Houses, and sundry museums dedicated to the iconic Lightship Basket, Whaling, and the island’s Shipwreck & Lifesaving history—among others—insure that the island’s rich history remains firmly ensconced for future generations. Explore by map location or by browsing the collection below