About this Event
Your experience begins at the Carnegie Heritage Center, , where guests will gather in the building’s stunning atrium and be welcomed by Vineyard Preservation Trust educators Sissy Biggers and Laura Pla. Following a brief introduction to Edgartown and the Trust’s work preserving the Island’s historic landmarks, guests will explore the exhibits, which include behind the scenes of the restoration of the historic Old Whaling Church and the Trust's famous Flying Horses Carousel. Then two intimate groups of no more than 15, will steop off into town led by one of these seasoned educators.
The approximately 75-minute guided walking tour explores the heart of historic Edgartown, from its elegant streets and landmark buildings to the waterfront that once powered its economy.
Walk along Edgartown’s historic harbor, once known as Great Harbor, where whaling and maritime vessels returned from voyages around the world and unloaded their cargo along the bustling waterfront. The tour includes a stop at the Vineyard Preservation Trust’s own Norton Boathouse, a rare surviving dockside structure that brings Edgartown’s maritime past vividly to life.
Guests will also enjoy special access to the magnificent Old Whaling Church, built in 1843 at the height of Edgartown’s whaling prosperity, as well as the Vincent House, the Island’s oldest residence, dating to the 17th century. At the Vincent House, visit Independence on Martha’s Vineyard: Then, Now & Forever, a special exhibition exploring the Island’s distinctive history of independence across generations.
Along the way, discover the people, stories and architecture that have shaped Edgartown for more than three centuries—and how the Vineyard Preservation Trust is preserving these remarkable gathering places for generations to come.
Transportation:
For guests disembarking in Oak Bluffs, the Carnegie Heritage Center is easily accessible via the FREE #13 VTA bus from Ocean Park to downtown Edgartown. The trip is approximately 15 minutes and the buses leave every :30 in October. The noon start allows ample time for your transfer and a short stroll to the Carnegie.
The tour conveniently concludes adjacent to the Church Street bus station in downtown Edgartown, providing easy transportation back to Oak Bluffs or time to independently enjoy Edgartown’s shops, restaurants and waterfront.
Event venue & nearby stays
The Carnegie Heritage Center | Vineyard Preservation Trust, 58 North Water Street, Edgartown, United States
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