Aquinnah Town, Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

On the westernmost point of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, lies foaming sprays, rocky cliffs, an expanse 150 feet above sea level and the town Aquinnah, formerly called Gay Head. The Wampanoag Native Americans called it Aquinnah, meaning "High Land".
Wampanoag have lived on Martha's Vineyard for centuries. When white settlers arrived, the story is unusual for its lack of bloodshed and for the community accord with the Wampanoag. In 1642, under the leadership of Thomas Mayhew Jr., laws were such that the Wampanoag's land could not be taken without consent and fair payment. The Wampanoag taught farming, whaling techniques to the settlers, and were in high demand for whaling vessels. The tribe descendants were recognized in 1987; today they make up about one third of the voting population and own a variety of stores on Aquinnah. Aquinnah's population as of 2000 Census is 344 residents.
When you arrive to this western town of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, you'll be struck by the splendor of high, clay cliffs, towering above sandy, rocky beaches. Waves crash against the shore. New England salty scents linger in the air. Biking and walking trails wind through roads, beaches, and vegetation. John Quincy Adams had a wooden lighthouse constructed. Refurbished, it stands to this day for visitors on foot and by boat.
While the rest of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, hums the tune of day and night life, Aquinnah awaits you with its geological design, yet low-key, low-profile, modest atmosphere. In Aquinnah, if you are fishing on- or off-shore, it'll feel like the Old World, where countless fishermen, whalers, Wampanoag, have been before you. Martha's Vineyard has the same Old World feel. While you may not sleep in Aquinnah, you'll want to stay in this ancient jewel, carved from the essence of New England.