Discover the Captivating Charm of Old North Wharf in Nantucket
On the storied shores of Nantucket, Old North Wharf serves as a breathtaking portal into the island’s rich maritime heritage. Built originally in the late 18th century, this historic landmark has evolved over the centuries from a bustling hub of fishing and nautical craftsmanship into a picturesque enclave of artistic inspiration and seaside retreat. For tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the spirit of Nantucket, a stroll down Old North Wharf offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty.
As you traverse the wharf, each step reveals a tantalizing glimpse into the past. At 2 Old North Wharf, the legacy of Barzillai Burdett, a renowned 19th-century boat builder, continues to captivate visitors. Here, Burdett crafted elegant whaleboats, row boats, and catboats, leaving behind a legacy of maritime craftsmanship that still echoes across the waterfront today. Picture the catboat Dauntless carrying sun-drenched bathers to the island’s cliffside beaches—a testament to Burdett’s enduring impact on Nantucket’s aquatic adventures.
Pivotal to the wharf’s narrative is the enduring presence of a working warehouse at 4 Old North Wharf. Amidst quaint resort cottages, this building stands as a bold relic of the island’s industrious spirit. It serves as a tangible link to an era when the waterfront thrummed with the sounds of labor and enterprise, offering a unique juxtaposition to the contemporary charm that now pervades the area. This blend of the old and new creates a unique tapestry that invites tourists to appreciate the island’s resilient spirit.
No visit to Old North Wharf would be complete without a pause at the Austin Strong Boathouse at 10 Old North Wharf. Built in 1923 by the multifaceted artist and playwright Austin Strong, this whimsical “land yacht” captures the imagination as it embodies Strong’s colorful legacy. As the brain behind the iconic Rainbow Fleet and a patron of the arts, Strong transformed the wharf with his inventive spirit, weaving a narrative that continues to enchant visitors today. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, or simply a traveler in search of beauty, Old North Wharf promises a delightful exploration of Nantucket’s vibrant past and present.
