Nantucket Sound: A Maritime History

An ancient fishing ground, vital shipping passage and final resting place for those unable to navigate its rocky shoals, Nantucket Sound–bordered by Martha’s Vineyard, Cape Cod and, of course, Nantucket–remains one of New England’s most historic waterways. Here, the first rays of morning sunlight touch the United States before sweeping westward. In fact, the area’s early inhabitants were called Wampanoag: People of the Dawn. From whaling culture and infamous shipwrecks to legends of Vikings, sea gods and John Smith, local author Theresa Mitchell Barbo unearths the stories hidden beneath these rough waves. At once unforgiving and generous, Nantucket Sound has seduced countless seafarers with its siren song but still overflows with diverse marine life.