1901 Map of Nantucket

About this map

Nantucket island is captured here as it appeared in the late nineteenth century, showing a landscape defined by its maritime heritage and early tourist development. The Nantucket Central R. R. stretches across the south shore, linking the main settlement of Nantucket town with Surfside and the village of Siasconset. This rail line reveals the island's transition from a whaling hub to a seasonal destination. Along the eastern and northern shores, isolated settlements like Quidnet and Wauwinet sit near prominent landmarks such as Nantucket L.H. at Great Point and Sankaty Head. The interior is marked by numerous glacial ponds including Sesachacha Pond and Miacomet Pond, while the complex shoreline of Nantucket Harbor is protected by the long, narrow reach of Coatue Beach and its distinctive features like Five Fingered Point.