Even if only seen for simple beauty, conservation on Martha’s Vineyard is vividly impressive. On this roughly 100 square mile island, many miles of walking path weave through majestic oak woodlands, gorgeous native prairies and picturesque deep-sand beaches. Each of the island’s six small towns boast their own pride in the way they have conserved their individual sense of serene beauty. Aquinnah’s miles of pristine native prairies end at rainbow-colored clay cliffs. Oak Bluff’s gingerbread houses would be a maintenance nightmare indeed, but those who have embraced the challenge have created a marvelous recluse of whimsical fantasy. In Edgarton, city ordinance mandates white paint or cedar shakes covering all houses and black or dark-green trim only. When this sophisticated New England palette is displayed on historic fishing houses circa the 1600’s and matched with lush, flower filled gardens it creates an idyllic backdrop to a peaceful harbor filled with sailboats, yachts, and jetties. Here the American flag has never fit in so perfectly.
I want to go and have a lobster boat.
Wonderful pictures! I’ve been a life-long summer vacationer of the Vineyard (over fifty years), and you are correct; the integrity of the island landscape has been well preserved. In fact, some things are just as they were when I was just a young boy. Thanks for sharing!
Kevin, thank you! How lucky you are to have visited every summer. I can’t wait to go back!