Chatham Living by the Sea - 2021 Spring/Summer Issue
SONNETTE™ CELLULAR ROLLER SHADES
Here's one place where we don't discount quality and service. Getting value means more than low price. It means quality, service and confidence knowing your satisfaction is guaranteed. Find it all at our Hunter Douglas Gallery®, stop in and see us today!
Hunter Douglas Certified Master Installer • Certified Interior Designer
Chatham | 2504 Main Street | 508.432.0558 | windowtreatmentscapecod.com Tuesday – Friday 9 am – 4 pm • Saturday 9 am – 1 pm
CHATHAM Etc.
DesignerFabrics
POLHEMUS SAVERY DASILVA
INSPIRING FAMILY LEGACIES SINCE 1948.
For generations, Pine Acres Realty has been helping families find desired homes that inspire great traditions. As the #1 real estate agency in Chatham partnering with Compass — a technology driven brokerage, we’ll help you find the perfect setting for your life today and for generations to come.
938 Main Street, Chatham 508.945.1186
509 Main Street, Chatham 508.945.9450
Also Available: 56 Stage Island Road, Chatham
TILIPI RUN
Sited on a dramatic bluff overlooking Chatham Harbor and endless ocean vistas beyond, this modern contemporary Cape home exudes urban charm, coupled with barefoot elegance. Almost three acres of green, rolling hills dotted with a nuance of trees and plantings surround the property, creating a quiet sanctuary for endless summer days of enjoyment. The private enclave of Quitnesset offers access to a pristine sandy beach. In 2017, this six-bedroom, nine-bath home was completely renovated by internationally acclaimed builders and renowned decorator Ally Coulter, featuring soaring 20’ ceilings, a floating staircase, freestanding fireplace, and awe inspiring views from almost every room. Although built to satisfy the most discerning tastes, this home still offers the perfect backdrop for fun family gatherings.
“FLAG DAY”
FEATURES
96 A Magical Oasis
Despite landscape and construction challenges, a dream team creates a spectacular waterfront home that echoes the neighborhood’s character.
110 Rooted in Memories
A passionate, hands-on gardener puts her own stamp on her Chatham property with meaningful plants and flowers, bursts of color and unique sculptures.
124 HeART & Soul
Four Chatham artists express themselves through vibrant brush strokes, whimsical ceramics and striking sculptures.
136 Summer Lovin’
A refreshed Chatham home that’s all about family—inside and out.
150 A Perfect Day in Chatham
From the Chatham Fish Pier to the Cape Abilities Farm Market, a family of five explores Chatham while wearing the hottest summer fashions from local boutiques.
172 Trash to Treasure
Artist Scott Feen finds purpose and beauty in transforming reclaimed materials into one-of-akind pieces for businesses and homeowners.
150
188
136
178 Fresh Off the Boat
Last year, when the pandemic upended traditional markets, numerous Chatham fishermen pivoted to selling their catch right from the harbor to consumers.
188 Ocean to Table
Five chefs at Chatham restaurants share delicious recipes inspired by locally caught seafood.
202 A Reimagined Retreat
A couple’s small remodeling project morphs into a major renovation of their uniquely designed Chatham home.
213 Sea’renity Now
Custom-made quarterboards from Chatham Sign Shop add a personal touch to properties locally—and around the world.
220 Painting Chatham History, One House at a Time
Maryalice Eizenberg is on a mission to paint Chatham’s historic homes.
228 Bernard Cornwell: At Home in Chatham
The prolific and best-selling author of historical novels discusses his latest work.
20 Behind the Scenes 24 Editor’s Letter
28 Contributors
36 Around Town Rock Lobster
A New Look For Big Fish
L ife Lessons from an Ocean Voyage
T he Hydrangea Whisperer
Tailgate Tales
C hatham Village Market:
W here Everybody Knows Your Name
5 Page Turners
I A m of Chatham
Milestones and Memories
How Does Your Garden Grow?
A rt in the Park
T he Natural
87 A Look Back
Godfrey Windmill
of
256 Last Bite
A homeowner’s garden features a vibrant palette and stunning views of Crow’s Pond. See story, page 110. Photographed by Betty Wiley
Reunited… AND IT FEELS SO GOOD!
We are excited to announce that art director Alison Caron is back on our team! Caron, who was part of the original Chatham Magazine crew, worked with editor Lisa Leigh Connors and publisher Janice Rogers on several issues back in the day. In 2014, Caron started her own successful graphic design business— Alison Caron Design—where she specializes in branding, advertising and publishing. She first rejoined us for our Fall/Winter 2020 issue, and we couldn’t be happier. She transforms our stories, photos and ideas into visual magic. Let’s pop the cork and make a toast to our new chapter together. Cheers!
Behind the Masks: ON LOCATION
It’s hard work to produce a magazine during normal times. But when you throw a pandemic into the mix, it makes it all the more challenging—especially on photo shoots. When we started planning this issue in May 2020, mask-wearing was in full force on Main Street, inside retail stores, businesses, restaurants, docks—just about everywhere.
At Chatham Living by the Sea, safety was paramount for our staff, contributors and subjects on photo shoots. Of course, we required everyone to wear masks, but we preferred not to have a magazine full of masked people. So we planned photo shoots very carefully and limited our staff on location (sometimes it would be just the photographer, the editor and the subject). When it was time to take the photo, subjects removed their masks. For the fashion feature in five different locations around town, we strategically hired a real family of models so they would be comfortable being photographed together. We realized in some cases, it made sense for subjects to leave their masks on—especially for the story about Chatham Village Market, since customers are required to wear masks inside the grocery store.
As we start to work on our next two publications this summer, the mask wearing will likely continue. Our goal with each issue is to lift your spirits, brighten your mood and provide a little escape—even if we have to follow a few extra safety protocols to get the perfect shot.
Editor Lisa Leigh Connors, publisher Janice Rogers and art director Alison Caron celebrate their reunion at the Chatham Fish Pier.
Chef Maria Pollio of Del Mar Bar & Bistro prepares Mussels Dijon for the Ocean to Table feature starting on Page 188; and photographer Julia Cumes captures Julie Dykens at her studio for an artist profile on Page 128.
SHOWING ON CAPE COD Munson Gallery (Chatham), Mark August (Chatham), Pisces Restaurant (South Chatham), Bluefins (Falmouth), BOSTON Copley Society of Art, PORTLAND, MAINE Portland Art Gallery To schedule a studio visit contact Whitney at whitneyheavey@gmail.com
$4,500,000
Perched high above the bay ideally situated for privacy with breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay out to Provincetown and 100 yards from Howes
and
and
$3,500,000
Dennis Village
Beach. Rare opportunity to enjoy spectacular sunrise
sunsets views. The quality
detail throughout the house begin as you enter the foyer. 4,699 square feet of living space with a Chef’s kitchen fitted with highend appliances, large center island and dining area for formal and informal entertaining.
East Orleans
Architecturally designed home is located in the Snow Point neighborhood, offering sunsets and mooring access from this 1.3 acres fronting on Rachel’s Cove & Town Cove from the back and from the front spectacular views of sunrises over Woods Cove, Nauset Beach & the Atlantic Ocean. The first floor features a breath-taking open floor plan, an expansive dining room and kitchen that open to the large deck overlooking the water.
The Power of Gratitude
Cruisin’ Into Summer
s I scrolled through my Facebook page recently, an image by photographer Julia Cumes brought a smile to my face: Her dog, Ocho, was running on a beach with the word “Grateful” written in the sand. As I write this letter during a time of social distancing, we have so many reasons to be thankful for this beautiful sandbar—walks on nature trails, runs on the beach, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, witnessing acts of kindness, and reading stories about people giving back.
It’s fitting we begin this issue with a kitchen vignette showing lemons and end the book with a photo featuring a glass of lemonade. That old saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” could be the theme for this issue, which showcases how the Chatham community persevered and found hope during trying times.
As you explore our Spring/Summer edition, you’ll discover inspiring stories about businesses and organizations providing plenty of sunshine. For Art in the Park, a community works together to bring nearly 60 vibrantly colored whales to life; Where the Sidewalk Ends Bookstore reinvents traditional story time in its parking lot; and the beloved Chatham Village Market, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, steps up in a time of need and serves as a lifesaver for local residents.
Along the theme of giving back, one of our stories in this issue features six young individuals who find ways to strengthen the town they love. A few of these familiar faces include Aaron Polhemus, owner and CEO of Polhemus Savery DaSilva; Emma Carroll, manager of Chatham Clothing Bar; and Wyatt Sullivan, a popular teacher at Monomoy Regional Middle School.
Throughout this issue, you’ll find an abundance of rich and interesting content. Learn about Chatham’s connection to the Mayflower in the story “The Turning Point,” discover different Chatham towns across America in “Chatham, U.S.A.” and step inside The Cape Cod Chronicle newsroom in “Read All About It.” Kick off summer with our “Ultimate Summer Bucket list,” which includes everything from sightseeing tours in a Cessna Skyhawk to dancing on the sidewalks at Mondays on Main. Looking for a good beach read? We’ve got that, too, with a list of recommended books, including Elin Hilderbrand’s new novel “28 Summers,” coming out in June.
Another uplifting story came from our local seafood industry: In 2020, consumers were presented with the opportunity to buy fresh lobsters, scallops, clams, mussels and oysters right from the dock. Local fishermen pivoted to selling their catch directly from the harbor after the pandemic disrupted traditional markets. In the story, “Fresh Off the Boat,” writer Lisa Cavanaugh visits with Chatham Harvesters Cooperative, Chatham Shellfish Company and Chatham Lobsters. Fortunately for seafood lovers, direct sales will continue this summer and fall. And after you purchase your favorite seafood, how should you prepare it? Thankfully, five chefs in town serve up some innovative recipe ideas, including roasted scallops, lobster ravioli and mussels Dijon. Yum!
And if you started your own edible garden, you’re not alone. Many people decided it was time to get their hands dirty and grow their own backyard veggies and herbs. In “How Does Your Garden Grow,” writer Marjorie Pitts digs into gardening tips from experts at Agway of Chatham and seasoned plant-whisperers. The story offers advice on the best ways to grow veggies, tips for working with limited space, the importance of compost and deciding what to grow in our short season. There’s nothing like fresh veggies picked from your own backyard!
Lisa Cavanaugh, Carol K. Dumas, Bill Higgins, Dave Kindy, Debra Lawless, Marjorie Pitts, Jennifer Sperry, Amy F. Tagliaferri
Rachel Arroyo, Lisa Cavanaugh, Kelly Chase, Carol K. Dumas, Bill Higgins, Laurel Kornhiser, Debra Lawless, Marjorie Naylor Pitts, Joseph Porcari
PHOTOGRAPHERS
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Julia Cumes, Dan Cutrona, Marcy Ford, Alex Hillman, Michael and Suz Karchmer, Greg Premru, Kim Roderiques, Brian Vanden Brink, Björn Wallander, Betty Wiley
Julia Cumes, Dan Cutrona, Michael and Suz Karchmer, Michael J. Lee, Kim Roderiques, Christine Walsh Sanders, Jen Stello, Judith I. Selleck, Brian Vanden Brink, Betty Wiley
We have also added plenty of FUN, too! We catch up with two young sailors who traveled from the Cape to the Bahamas on their 28-foot Cape Dory Micron; profile hydrangea queen Pamela Vasques at Chatham Bars Inn; showcase a red lobsterthemed kitchen; and follow a family of five wearing the latest styles as they explore Chatham on foot, riding bicycles and cruising around in a Moke!
While you spend time reading this issue, pay close attention to all of the businesses advertising in this publication. We are incredibly grateful to every single one of them for staying behind us and supporting Chatham Living by the Sea during these unprecedented times. We couldn’t produce this magazine without them. So please support these amazing and wonderful businesses—buy a gift card, go out to dinner, treat yourself to a new outfit, follow them on their social media pages and like their posts. After every storm comes a rainbow. Cheers to brighter days ahead!
The publication you are holding has been a year in the making. We hope you enjoy it as much as we loved putting it together! #laboroflove
Lisa Leigh Connors Editor-in-Chief lisa@chathamlivingmag.com
Lisa Leigh Connors Editor-in-Chief lisa@chathamlivingmag.com
chathamlivingmag.com
Order copies online at chathamlivingmag.com @chathamlivingbythesea @chathamlivingmag
@chathamlivingbythesea @chathamlivingmag
Stage Harbor Media, LLC
P.O. Box 5, Chatham, MA 02633
Stage Harbor Media, LLC P.O. Box 5, Chatham, MA 02633
Single copy price $8.95/$9.95 Canada. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher. Publisher disclaims all responsibility for omissions, errors and unsolicited materials. Printed in the USA.
Spring/Summer $8.95/$9.95 Canada All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher. Publisher disclaims all responsibility for omissions, errors and unsolicited materials. Printed in the USA.
JULIA CUMES
Schulenburg
Maryalice Eizenberg Crystal Clear oil
x
Maryalice Eizenberg Porch Sitting oil
x 20
Your valued real estate advisor, matching extraordinary people with extraordinary properties
Ella fell in love with Cape Cod during her years of sailing trips om Newport RI to the Cape and Islands. A consummate professional with a creative flair, Ella is committed to providing all of her clients, both Sellers and Buyers, with a high level of service. She offers knowledge of the local market and important real estate trends; strong negotiating skills; attention to detail; and honesty and integrity. Ella is known for her ability to make the process of buying and selling a home an exciting, happy experience.
Chatham
Ella Leavitt, Realtor ABR, SRS, SRES, RSPS
LISA CAVANAUGH grew up in Massachusetts and Connecticut and spent most of her summers on Cape Cod. After college, she moved to Los Angeles, where she became a Hollywood story editor, producer and writer. She now lives in Yarmouth with her husband and writes stories about the lifestyles, occupations and interests of Cape Codders. In this issue, Cavanaugh takes readers inside the redesigned Shark Center, catches up with fishermen who sell directly to consumers from their boats, visits with artist Scott Feen, takes us inside a beautifully renovated home and dives into the pages of upcoming books.
Born into a U.S. military family in Germany, MARJORIE PITTS moved to the Cape at age 7 and developed a deep love for all things Cape Cod. A graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (B.A.), and the University of Idaho (M.A.), she worked around the country and abroad in the field of international education before returning to the Cape to teach at a local high school. In this issue, she visited with the owners of Chatham Sign Shop and spoke with local nurseries and experts about the best ways to start your own garden.
MICHAEL AND SUZ KARCHMER are Harwich-based husband-and-wife photographers who love to capture the people and places of the Cape. They share a particular fascination for photographing theater and musical performances. In this issue, the Karchmers photographed Art in the Park, the annual summer display and community project at Kate Gould Park; photographed ice sculptures at First Night Chatham; captured a professional baseball scout at Veterans Field; and share photos from their archives of author Bernard Cornwell on stage at Monomoy Theatre.
A 20-year resident of Cape Cod, MARCY FORD has focused on the natural world and photography throughout most of her education and various careers. In this issue, she photographed Chatham Bars Inn’s Fine Gardener Pamela Vasques for the story “The Hydrangea Whisperer.” When she’s not wandering the beaches and woods of Cape Cod photographing wildlife and the wonderful patterns in nature, you’ll find her in a garden, taking in all the colors and beauty surrounded by hummingbirds and flowers.
A self-professed history nerd, DAVE KINDY loves to read, research and write about anything related to the past. The Plymouth resident has authored articles for Smithsonian, Air & Space, Military History, World War II, Vietnam, South Shore Home Life & Style and other magazines and online publications. He gets a particular geeky thrill interviewing noted scribes like Bernard Cornwell, whom he interviewed for this issue, and sharing the historical details of Cornwell’s books.
CAROL K. DUMAS, editor of Cape & Plymouth Business magazine, is enjoying a second chapter in her career as a freelance writer and editor. Her writing has appeared in the Boston Globe, Cape Cod Times, New England Living and South Shore Home & Garden, among other publications. Dumas, the former editor of the Cape Codder newspaper, also works as a content marketing specialist for a number of companies. In this issue, she visits with four Chatham artists who work in a variety of mediums, transports us to a spectacular waterfront home near Stage Harbor and profiles artist Maryalice Eizenberg.
BILL HIGGINS is an award-winning former newspaper sports editor and writer who has covered everything from World Series and Super Bowls to the Masters golf tournament and Boston Marathons. He’s happily married to a Yankees fan and likes to remind her that the Red Sox have won four World Series since 2004. In this issue, Higgins sits down with professional baseball scout Matt Hyde for the story “The Natural.”
AMY F. TAGLIAFERRI
has worked in Chatham for nearly 50 years—more than two decades at the Chatham Squire as an assistant manager and 22 years and counting at the Cape Cod Chronicle in ad sales and as a contributing writer. She is on the Chatham Merchants Association board and chairs the Oktoberfest celebration every year. “I love Chatham,” says Tagliaferri. “Chatham is a special blend of hard-working locals and active retirees who work together on both annual events and projects. It’s fun to be a part of all that!” Tagliaferri wrote the story about Chatham Village Market celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
JULIA CUMES is a South African–born photographer based on Cape Cod. Her work has appeared in the New York Times and the Boston Globe. For this issue, Cumes photographed a summer tailgate reading event; restaurant chefs and their unique dishes created with locally caught seafood; fishermen selling your favorite seafood from the docks; the redesigned Shark Center; clever quarterboards from Chatham Sign Shop; and five artists who work in a variety of mediums.
BETTY WILEY is a well-known freelance photographer and instructor on Cape Cod who specializes in landscape and nature photography. Her work has appeared in numerous local magazines and guidebooks, including Chatham Living by the Sea, Falmouth Living and Cape Cod & the Islands magazine. Wiley, an instructor with the Cape Cod Art Association in Hyannis, where she teaches Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop and other post-processing software applications, also holds an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate to fly drones. In this issue, Wiley photographed the cover image and a stunning garden at a residence near Eastward Ho! Country Club.
DAN CUTRONA’s work has appeared in Chatham Living by the Sea, South Shore Home, Life & Style and Gulfshore Life. In this issue, Cutrona photographed artist Scott Feen and captured a family of five modeling clothes from local retailers for our annual spring/summer fashion shoot at five locations: Chatham Fish Pier, Chase Park, the Godfrey Windmill, Cape Abilities Farm Market and Hollway Street. Cutrona divides his time between Miami and Cotuit with his wife and three young children.
Brewster resident DEBRA LAWLESS is a prolific freelance writer and published author. In this issue, Lawless penned stories about businesses and organizations celebrating special anniversaries; a history piece about the Godfrey Windmill; and a beautiful garden near Eastward Ho! Country Club. Lawless is the author of a two-volume history of Provincetown— Provincetown Since World War II: Carnival at Land’s End and Provincetown: A History of Artists and Renegades in a Fishing Village. She is currently writing a mystery novel set in a seaside village.
A native of South Coast Massachusetts, JENNIFER SPERRY grew up vacationing on the Cape in a rotating roster of rental cottages. As a freelance writer, she has written about the Cape Cod lifestyle for more than 20 years, focusing on home and interior design. In this issue, she takes readers inside a new Chatham home built for maximum summer enjoyment. (Its cedar-lined boathouse is a must-see!)
UNIQUELY THOUGHTFUL WOMEN’S ACCESSORIES.
DESIGNED IN CHATHAM, MA
Rock Lobster Rock Lobster
BY LISA LEIGH CONNORS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX HILLMAN
What’s red, white and lobster all over? A vintage-style kitchen in a charming rental property called the White Foam House on Chatham Bars Avenue, with access to Claflin Landing Beach across the street.
“The theme of the kitchen started with a retro red radio and a couple of red countertop appliances,” says Edward Skopas, who owns Chatham Village Vacation Properties with his wife, Kathleen. The next thing you know, the Skopases are buying retrofitted red Whirlpool appliances and hanging lobster curtains and wallpaper themselves. “It’s a fun house, and people love it,” says Skopas, adding the same families return year after year.
When the couple purchased the property in 2012, they repainted the kitchen cabinets and converted a kitchen closet into a pantry. Throughout the 3-bedroom, 2½-bath house, they replaced the floors, installed new windows and renovated the bathrooms. They also added new siding, a new roof and an outdoor shower.
Lobster crackers, $13 apiece; flexible red cutting board, $13 (2-pack), The Cook’s Nook Chatham 618 Main St., 508-945-0310
Red and white tulips from Chatham Village Market, 20 Queen Anne Road, 508-945-9783, chathamvillagemarket.com
Wooden lobster cutting board, from b+b woodworks, sold at Yankee Ingenuity, 525 Main St., 508-945-1288, yankee-ingenuity.com; and The Mayflower Shop, 475 Main St., 508-945-0065, themayflowershop.com
Salt and pepper mills by Fletchers’ Mill, $49 and $53; Eat Local and lobster towels, $10 apiece; red-and-white splattered bowls, $9 apiece; The Cook’s Nook Chatham, 618 Main St., 508-945-0310
“We haven’t done anything structural to the house,” says Skopas, emphasizing that all five of their rental properties in town reflect the vintage charm and history of Old Cape Cod and Chatham.
“When my wife and I would visit the Cape from Connecticut, we always wanted a place that was vintage Cape,” says Skopas, whose other rentals include a restored post-and-beam windmill cottage and a historic bungalow featuring a retro beach aqua kitchen. “We didn’t want to stay in a house that looked like any house anywhere else.”
Goal achieved: They’ve cracked the shell that leads to a memorable Cape Cod vacation!
To see additional pictures of the White Foam House and other rental properties from Chatham Village Vacation Properties, visit mychathamvacation.com
The redesigned Shark Center in North Chatham features new paths and improved flow, interactive exhibits, white shark displays and memorabilia from the movie “Jaws.”
BY LISA CAVANAUGH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA CUMES
For many visitors to Chatham, learning everything about sharks tops the list of must-do activities. “Sharks have been a hot topic, and we anticipate that they will continue to be in the coming years,” says Marianne Long, education director at the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, whose Shark Center in North Chatham provides an opportunity to learn about sharks in our coastal waters. “Whether it is from fear, or fascination, people have questions, and we are excited to have a facility where people can come and get those questions answered.”
However, with more than 17,000 visitors annually, the Shark Center was due for a refurbishment. After
running a successful fundraising campaign and completing the remodeling process, the AWSC was ready with a new logo and a new look. “We added green water hues to the new logo, and we brought those same new colors into the space here,” says Heather Ware, the Shark Center and Merchandise Manager.
The renovation has created new paths and improved flow, so visitors are able to easily navigate the exhibit areas. The redesigned traffic patterns proved to be effective when the AWSC had to adjust to new Covid-19 protocols. The Shark Center also launched a new reservation system in 2020 to better manage the crowds.
The recently remodeled Shark Center features interactive exhibits, educational videos and eye-catching displays, including an 18-foot replica of the largest tagged white shark from the Northwest Atlantic. At right, Marianne Long, education director at the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, says one of the center’s main goals is to educate visitors on one of the ocean’s most misunderstood species.
The team expects to see many repeat visitors since opening its doors in 2016, as well as thousands of newcomers, all of whom will be eager to learn as much as possible about these fascinating apex predators. “We introduce visitors to who we are as an organization, show them what a day of Atlantic White shark research on the water is like, and explain what makes sharks so special,” says Ware. Fun and informative displays include a photo-ready shark cage, shark species identifiers, a map of the Conservancy’s acoustic tagging buoys and some memorabilia from the Hollywood movie “Jaws,” including the mouth of “Bruce,” the mechanical shark used in the film. Most impressively, suspended above the exhibit area, is an 18-foot-long replica of the largest tagged white shark from the Northwest Atlantic, a female named Curly.
“We like to make the comparison with “Bruce,” says Ware, “so you can see how much they exaggerated the size of that shark for the movie. It helps put it into perspective for our visitors, and helps educate them about the reality of white sharks.”
Download the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy’s Sharktivity App to view white shark sightings—or submit your own!
The Shark Center offers fun and informative displays, such as how you can help keep our oceans free of debris, and memorabilia from the movie “Jaws.”
Whichever member of the AWSC team is hosting, they always make sure to end the visit by sharing Shark Smart tips. “Communicating the Shark Smart guidelines, and sharing information related to recent sightings or detections, helps visitors to better understand what they need to keep in mind when entering the water,” says Long.
“Visitors ask what beach they can visit to try and spot a fin, or what types of tours are available to get out on the water and see them,” says Long. “The Shark Center itself allows visitors to the Cape to make that connection with white sharks and develop an understanding of their biology and role in the ecosystem and learn about the research opportunity we have to further understand these animals.”
Note: As of press time, masks were required to enter the Shark Center. Socially distanced subjects in this feature removed their masks before their photos were taken.
The Shark Center is located at 235 Orleans Road, North Chatham. For more information or to book a 60-minute guided tour of the Shark Center, visit atlanticwhiteshark.org
At the end of the tour, visitors can browse merchandise in the center’s gift shop. At right, many people love to take selfies in the photo-ready shark cage.
UPDATE: LIFE LESSONS
from an Ocean Voyage
Aboard the Micron with two Cape sailors
BY NAN FORNAL
When we checked in with Ian Johnson and Jan Lapinski last fall, the young men were readying their 28-foot Cape dory, Micron, for a voyage south. In early spring, we caught up by email with Ian and Jan, whose latest port was Eleuthera, The Bahamas.
While their gap-year sailing adventure didn’t include reaching their goal of volunteering for marine-conservation work in the Virgin Islands, Ian and Jan matured as sailors and they learned a lot along the way. Setting sail in November, Ian and Jan expected to reach warmer conditions much sooner than they did. “Neither of us ever would have guessed that we would be in South Carolina and still dealing with temps in the 30s,” said Ian. Jan added, “The majority of the first three months was 45 degrees or less and without a heater on board. We required a lot of resilience to push onward.”
Jan Lapinski’s brothers, Christian (center) and Trey (right), catch up with him in Miami. Top, Ian Johnson looks out over the coral on an uninhabited island off Spanish Wells.
Besides the cruelty of Mother Nature, our Cape salts had to deal with a trick of the seabed when Micron ran aground on a shoal that shouldn’t have been there, smack in the middle of channel markers that promised clear sailing, and another time when their anchor didn’t hold—and they found themselves landlocked on a beach one morning.
Character-building is another lesson the voyage presented. “What has surprised me the most is what we can do because we are forced to by outside factors,” says Ian. “Many times, we were presented with either no options at all, or a couple of terrible ones. We were forced to choose the lesser of two evils. It is truly
astonishing to me what you can accomplish when the only other option is to give up and go home.”
The new plan is to explore the Bahamas and the Gulf of Mexico before sailing north to Sarasota, Florida, where they’ll leave the boat in May and head back to Cape Cod. Jan said they are taking with them lessons of perseverance and acceptance. Ian offers this experience-based advice: “When in a tough situation, stay calm, devise a plan and think everything through multiple times before executing your plan.”
Lessons for sailing. Lessons for life.
(Top left, clockwise) An unforgettable adventure: Ian Johnson and Jan Lapinski at Pink Sand Beach of Eleuthera in the Bahamas; a Barracuda catch in the Berry Islands; exploring the sights on Harbour Island in the Bahamas; and docked in South Carolina.
Pamela Vasques and her team maintain 25 acres of Chatham Bars Inn’s lush and colorful gardens, which include about 4,000 hydrangeas in 12 different varieties.
HYDRANGEA The WHISPERER
What’s the secret to caring for the blooming beauties?
Chatham Bars Inn’s Fine Gardener Pamela Vasques provides the answers.
If you explore the winding paths around Chatham Bars Inn during the summer months, you might think you have arrived in hydrangea heaven. Visitors from near and far marvel at the sea of beautiful hues, from purples and pinks to blues and burgundies.
Since the ubiquitous Cape & Islands flower has endless admirers and fans, we were curious about how to best maintain and care for the iconic (and finicky!) flower. For answers, we reached out to Pamela Vasques, Fine Gardener at Chatham Bars Inn, where she and her team maintain 25 acres of the inn’s lush and colorful gardens, which include about 4,000 hydrangeas and 12 different varieties. “It’s my retirement job and it’s
probably been the best job of my entire life,” says Vasques, who also teaches flower box design and wreath-making classes at the inn.
Vasques and her team add 250 to 300 hydrangeas to the property every year and introduced a new variety last summer called Sensation. This new addition joins Merritt’s Supreme, Tellers Blue, Glowing Embers, Lace Cap, Blushing Brides and climbing hydrangeas in the gorgeous garden beds and along the brick walkways. But perhaps the most popular and well-known hydrangea is Endless Summer, which can be seen on about 75 percent of the property in eight or nine different colors.
BY LISA LEIGH CONNORS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCY FORD
“I have been here for five years, so we have added almost 1,400 new hydrangeas,” says Vasques, who buys hydrangeas locally from Hart Farm in Dennis as well as from growers in Connecticut and New Jersey. The passionate gardener commutes from Falmouth five days a week and arrives at the property at 5 a.m. and works until 2 p.m. “It’s just me and the seals,” she says. “The sunrise is absolutely stunning every day.”
“It’s my retirement job and it’s probably been the best job of my entire life,” says Pamela Vasques, who commutes from Falmouth to Chatham Bars Inn five days a week.
On an overcast July morning, we strolled the grounds at Chatham Bars Inn with Vasques, chatted with her about the correct way to water, how to change the colors of the beautiful blooms and the proper ways to prune. We’re definitely onto something—during our interview, several guests on bicycles stopped to listen and chimed in with a few of their own questions!
Insider tips from Pamela Vasques of Chatham Bars Inn:
PLANTING
1
Ideally, hydrangeas should have morning sun and afternoon shade, a 50/50 mix, says Vasques. Before planting hydrangeas (typically in June), place Bio-tone and a pinch of Soil Moist in every hole (This lasts about six months.) “It’s enough to keep it established so that if our irrigation isn’t enough, the Soil Moist turns into pearl water beads.”
FERTILIZER FOR THE HOMEOWNER
4
Vasques recommends fertilizing with organic Hollytone, a wonderful product for hydrangeas. “We do it twice a year, in March and October. We prune and fertilize with commercial-grade fertilizer.”
WATER, WATER, WATER
2
Always water from the bottom and give it a good soak at dawn and at dusk. “Never, ever let the water touch the leaves because if it doesn’t dry, the sun is going to scorch the leaves and they will turn brown,” says Vasques. If you have irrigation, make sure the heads don’t spray the leaves. “We don’t have heads that come out and spray—we surround the plant with a tubing that drips water.”
HOW TO PRUNE
5
Don’t cut the wood. “People will cut wood and the wood is what carries the buds.” When pruning, only take off 30 percent; go down only three buds. If you take off more than that, you will only see leaves for the next season. “At the end of July and August, we start taking off the mop heads (dead-heading) and prune in the fall.” Vasques also recommends removing dead wood. “If you can twist it easily, take it out because nothing is going to grow on dead wood.”
CHANGING COLORS
If a homeowner wants to change the color of the blooms for Endless Summer, Vasques suggests using Aluminum sulfate to turn the flowers blue and Sulfur for pink— both of which can be purchased at your local garden center. Or, place Garden Lime (also available from your garden center) around the base of the plant and water it in. This must be done before you see a bud, usually in March. “We do not change colors on the property,” says Vasques, adding the inn’s soil type is clay, sand and plain old soil.
3
CARING FOR THEM IN VASE
To extend the life of the flowers after cutting them and putting them in a vase, Vasques suggests using Floral Life Clear Growing Glory Solution, a hydrator for hydrangeas. After you cut the flowers (on an angle), spray the bottom of the mop and top of the mop, place them in a vase and hydrangeas should last about a week (instead of two days).
Chatham Bars Inn, located at 297 Shore Road, invites visitors to stroll their pathways, take in the stunning water views and enjoy their beautiful gardens throughout the year!
6
Tailgate Tales
BY LISA LEIGH CONNORS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA CUMES
It’s a little before 7 p.m. on a summer Wednesday evening as SUVs and minivans begin pulling into the parking lot at Where the Sidewalk Ends Bookstore. After securing a spot, parents set up folding chairs and spread out blankets and pillows in the back of their vehicles.
Welcome to Tailgate Story Times, a fresh-air family event where kids are encouraged to dance, engage in activities like bingo and jumping games and listen to books read aloud in the comfort of their pajamas. Each event comes with a parking space and a packet of books and goodies for the evening’s theme, ranging from back-to-school jitters to learning about patterns.
“With the band concerts and baseball games canceled in the summer of 2020, there weren’t a lot of evening activity options for families, and kids really embraced the pajama-wearing, listen-tobedtime-stories atmosphere!” says Caitlin Doggart, co-owner of Where the Sidewalk Ends Bookstore. Doggart’s sons, Mateo, 5, and James, 8, enthusiastically supported the fresh-air story time. They helped pick out books, brainstormed activities and assisted with the evening’s setup.
ventured out as a family since early March of 2020. It was so nice to have something to do that felt safe, but also really engaging for the whole family,” says Elizabeth, adding her kids loved receiving the picture books, LEGO rulers and reusable straws. “When we read these books at home, the kids love talking about all the fun we had at story time.”
As Doggart reflects on the summer of 2020, she says there was fear of losing the summer tourism season entirely. “What better place to have fresh air than on the elbow of Cape Cod with the salt air and evening fog?” says Doggart, who reads the books behind a microphone, plays music and gets the kids moving.
Part-time Harwich residents Elizabeth and Nick D’Ascensao, along with their children, Nicky, 5, and Grace, 7, attended two tailgate story times last summer. “It was the first time we had
“It was nice to see that customers continued to shop local and supported the independent stores in town. There were moments of real joy!”
Fresh-air story time at Where the Sidewalk Ends Bookstore’s parking lot was a welcome addition last summer. The weekly Wednesday night event kicks off in June.
Tailgate Story Times will be held every Wednesday throughout the summer, beginning at the end of June, at Where the Sidewalk Ends Bookstore, 432 Main St., 508-945-0499. To sign up and reserve a spot, visit booksonthecape.com
CHATHAM VILLAGE MARKET: Where Everybody Knows Your Name
As the beloved grocery store celebrates its 10th anniversary year, the market continues to be an invaluable resource to the community.
Once upon a time, Chatham had two A&Ps: The “big” one in West Chatham and the “little A&P” located at the town’s “front door,” near the set of lights before entering downtown. Then, suddenly, the once-popular grocery stores began closing across the country after the owners declared bankruptcy. The West Chatham store was the first to shut its doors in 2002; the little A&P closed in June 2003.
Scott and Tina MacDonald, Jeffrey Heap and Bob White were experienced A&P managers/employees with local roots who worked at both locations in Chatham. The four decided to take over the lease from A&P’s
landlord, Bromley Realty Trust. Thus, Chatham Village Market was born.
When they opened Chatham Village Market, the owners enhanced the grocery store experience by adding hot breakfasts and lunches, prepared foods, a seafood department, a top-of-the-line meat department, a florist and fresh baked goods. The market soon proved to be invaluable to the community, and the town was grateful to the four who had kept a grocery store in Chatham.
If it hadn’t been for the perseverance and determination of its owners, Chatham Village Market might not even
BY AMY F. TAGLIAFERRI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA CUMES
Chatham Village Market owners Jeffrey Heap, Scott MacDonald and Bob White have enhanced the grocery store experience by adding hot breakfasts and lunches, prepared foods, fresh local seafood, a top-of-the line meat department, a florist and fresh baked goods.
exist today. As the market celebrates its 10th anniversary in its current location this year, the owners reflect on its early days, explain how they took on a big corporation (and won) and worked with the town and residents to keep the market going.
In early summer 2009, the group was abruptly informed by Bromley Realty Trust that CVS was taking over the location when their lease ran out in 2011. The people of Chatham were shocked. They loved and depended on Chatham Village Market.
The team of four wasn’t ready to give up. They scouted other spots in Chatham to set up a new store, but finding another location proved difficult. A petition was started to keep the market in its exact location. Chatham has a year-round population of 6,000, yet the petition acquired nearly 18,000 signatures of support. Chatham had spoken.
“We wanted to stay open—and the town wanted us to. It was a nice feeling,” says Scott MacDonald, adding the group was grateful for the town support, and the petition helped with negotiations.
After nearly 40 meetings with the different boards— including the Historic Business District Commission, and two years of discussion, Scott MacDonald says they finally got the green light to build a new building adjacent to their previous location. The four cashed in their retirement funds, mortgaged their homes and jumped through hoops for an SBA loan before construction could begin.
“Frankly, without Scott, we wouldn’t be here,” says White. “It really was a gamble; CVS was bigger and a corporation. But Scott did all the projections and figured out how much money we would need to accomplish our goal.” And with the townsfolk behind them, “plus the support of our families and the dedication of our employees, we figured out how to do it. And we actually opened before CVS did!” says Scott MacDonald. “We’d also like to publicly thank Chuck Comeau, general contractor (what a fantastic guy!) with Comeau & Kelly Construction; B.K. Architects; and AG of New England wholesale grocers, who helped with the equipment,” he added.
“The best thing is working here with these guys,” says Heap. “Scott has taught me so much. These people are like family to me.”
Opening day was May 25, 2011. “We closed for only one week!” says Scott MacDonald proudly. Chatham resident Gloria Freeman, who helped spearhead the petition, was invited to cut the ribbon. “Everyone was crying in the parking lot that day,” says White.
In 2020, Chatham Village Market served as a lifesaver for local residents. They stocked up on necessities—even when the big supermarket chains couldn’t, offered curbside pickup service and provided delivery for housebound residents. From the start, they were on top of the COVID-19 safety protocols: They supplied gloves, hand-sanitizing stations, six-feet markers and plexiglass partitions, providing peace of mind when the world was in disarray. They shopped for as many as 40 to 50 customers per day for curbside pickup at the height of the time when many people were quarantining—and did it all with smiles under their masks!
“We are deeply indebted to the wonderful townspeople,” says Tina MacDonald, who retired to take care of a family member in 2018. “Everyone played such an important part in the preservation of the Market. Talk about feeling the love of a town! There are not enough words of thanks that could ever be sufficient.”
Chatham Village Market, located at 20 Queen Anne Road, is open seven days a week. For more information, call 508-945-9783 or visit chathamvillagemarket.com
LISA
Page Turners
BY LISA CAVANAUGH
5
AS THE WEATHER WARMS UP and we head back to our favorite outdoor reading spots, why not grab something written by a local author or with a Cape Cod–area focus? Here are five upcoming summer publications to check out, as recommended by Caitlin Doggart, co-owner of Where the Sidewalk Ends Bookstore. “We always have a special place in our hearts for Cape Cod and Islands authors!” says Doggart.
Consistently entertaining and reliably prolific, Nantucket-based author Elin Hilderbrand has yet another beachy read coming up for summer seaside consumption: Golden Girl, on tap to be released in June, is a quasi-mystical story about a famous Nantucket novelist, who after being killed in a hit-and-run accident, is given an other-worldly opportunity to both watch and affect the life she left behind, as well as worry that a secret from her past will tarnish her earthly reputation forever. (Little, Brown & Company, 384 pages)
From renowned neuroscientist, New York Times best-selling author and Chatham resident Lisa Genova comes Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting. With her trademark combination of science and relatable writing style, Genova explores how memories are made and how we retrieve them, as well as offering calming commentary on how natural and normal forgetting can be. You will read how memory can be deeply affected by emotion and stress, and how to improve your own ability to remember. This summer, watch for an event with Genova hosted by Where the Sidewalk Ends Bookstore at Wequassett Resort and Golf Club. (Harmony, 272 pages)
Eminent illustrator and author Bob Staake has a new Random House Beginner Book coming out in June called I Can Be Anything! Staake, who lives and works in a 200-year-old house in Chatham, has written and/or illustrated more than 75 books, in addition to creating illustrations for hundreds of notable magazines across the nation, including The New Yorker I Can Be Anything! features his wonderful, brightly colored illustrations so beloved by both children and adults. (Random House, 40 pages)
Brewster resident and critically acclaimed historical novelist Sally Cabot Gunning has a new novel coming out in June entitled Painting the Light. Set on Martha’s Vineyard in 1898, this vividly rendered story of love and loss follows a former painter who has given up her artistic pursuits to be the wife of a local salvage company owner. After an unexpected tragedy turns her life in a new direction, the heroine finds depths of persistence and reinvention within herself. (William Morrow, 368 pages)
Starting with the 1916 launch of the Provincetown Players through the present day, former Cape Cod Times arts, entertainment and features writer Sue Mellen shares the story of our region’s fascinating century of presenting drama and comedy in A History of Theater on Cape Cod. Well-researched and filled with historic anecdotes and photos, Mellen’s book explores how Cape Cod theater grew from that first experimental artists’ colony into today’s expansive and diverse world on stage. (The History Press, 144 pages)
Richard Costello, longtime owner of the Chatham Squire
Mary Beth and Stephen Daniel, founders of the Chatham Coronavirus Impact Fund, with dogs Olive and Merlin
Regan and her mom, Karen Murdoch, founder of WOOF (Women of Fishing Families)
I AM OF CHATHAM
BY LISA CAVANAUGH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM RODERIQUES
INSPIRED BY IRISH PHOTO BOOKS that used a similar “I am of” construction for their titles, which was itself a reference to the vernacular of earlier Irish poets, writer John Whelan invited Dogs on Cape Cod photographer Kim Roderiques to work with him on I Am of Cape Cod, a 2017 collection of stories and photos of people from all 15 towns on the Cape. “It was truly a fascinating experience, meeting people across Cape Cod from every walk of life,” says Roderiques.
The book was a success, and the pair was urged to consider a sequel. But while they both felt there were still many interesting subjects throughout the Cape, the two Chatham residents ultimately decided to produce a book focusing solely on their own town. I Am of Chatham, set for an early summer release, features essays from more than 90 people working in a range of industries: Andy Baler, owner of Bluefins Sushi & Sake Bar; Sandra Wycoff, owner of Chatham T Company; Angela Zoni Mault, executive director of the Creative Arts Center; Shareen Davis, a photographer, community advocate and Chair of the Chatham Select Board; and author and photographer John King, among dozens of others.
Knowing Chatham as well as they did, they picked 92 subjects they felt said something about the town. “For I Am of Chatham , we have chosen a number of descendants of William Nickerson, Chatham’s first settler,” says Whelan. “I think it is significant that William Nickerson was so determined to live in Chatham that he actually purchased the land for his new town, not once, but twice.”
Whelan says that they found that, like Nickerson, each of their subjects felt very strongly about living here. “Chatham is a town of natural beauty, landmarks and museums, but in my mind, the most important attribute of Chatham is the good people who choose to live here. This book is a tribute to those people.”
“I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to photograph such interesting people of Chatham,” says Roderiques. “I believe readers of I Am of Chatham , will be intrigued by the personal essays written by many of their neighbors. I am always reminded that everybody has a story. This book will be no exception!”
Milestones and Memories
Organizations and businesses gear up to celebrate big birthdays in 2021.
BY DEBRA LAWLESS
20 YEARS • HOOKERS BALL
The first Hookers Ball, an annual fundraiser for the Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance, was advertised as a cocktail party at a house on Seaview Street. A couple of years later the event— named for fishing gear—grew exponentially and moved to a larger venue. By 2007, the event was attracting 700 people and held under a big tent at the Chatham VFW ballfield. The Hookers Ball “is a celebration of the long-standing history of commercial fishing here on Cape Cod, but [it’s] also a call to action to support the work of the Fishermen’s Alliance,” says Jennifer Bryant, the group’s philanthropic officer. The alliance advocates for the local fleet and a balanced ecosystem. The fundraiser traditionally features fresh seafood, delicious drinks, fantastic music and a one-of-a-kind auction. Hookers Ball XX will be celebrated during the week of Aug. 2, leading up to a livestreamed event on Aug. 7. Watch parties are encouraged. capecodfishermen.org
A fireworks display typically ushers in the new year. In 2020, however, organizers cleverly renamed it First Night Chatham On Ice. The reinvented celebration featured a virtual town photo collage, Main Street ice sculptures viewed from a safe distance, a noise parade in vehicles and virtual music performances. What 2021 will bring has yet to be determined. firstnightchatham.com
30 YEARS • FIRST NIGHT CHATHAM
While First Nights have come and gone in many communities, First Night Chatham remains a success that is still going strong each New Year’s Eve. The event was the brainchild of resident Marie Williams who, after attending First Night Boston, perceived that “Chatham is such a nice, walkable place,” a perfect spot for a First Night. “Volunteers rallied around the concept and have driven it ever since,” says John Reed, the group’s publicist. Forty volunteers plan the event and 300 show up on Dec. 31 to run it. The day kicks off at noon with an all-town photograph at Chatham Light. This is followed by afternoon events, including a noise parade, and evening dance and musical performances. First Night Chatham ends at midnight at Oyster Pond with the Countdown Cod descending from a crane to count down the last seconds of the year.
50 YEARS • YANKEE INGENUITY
Yankee Ingenuity, located at 525 Main St., opened on April 24, 1971, two days after the second Earth Day. In the early years, owner Jon Vaughn and his late wife, Lynne, searched for rundown nautical antiques and other items that Vaughan could refinish and sell. Today, the gallery and gift shop stock the work of Cape Cod’s artists including Vaughn, an award-winning photographer, and his wife, Sharon Hayes, a painter and printmaker, as well as affordable, fun and functional gifts. For sale are jewelry, unique lighting, sculptures and whimsical folk art—between 4,000 and 5,000 individual items—displayed in retrofitted antique cases. Don’t miss the adorable harbor seal puppets! Hayes describes the store’s merchandise as “a museum shop in search of a museum.” Vaughn, 76,
is selling the business to his niece, Michelle Millet, but he and Hayes still report to work every day. The group is planning a fun series of events to celebrate the store’s half-century this summer. yankee-ingenuity.com
50 YEARS FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
The Festival of the Arts will be held Aug. 20 to 22 in Chase Park. For half a century, the popular festival, dubbed a “rite of summer,” has attracted more than 10,000 arts and crafts collectors and enthusiasts. “It’s a crowd pleaser,” says Angela Zoni Mault, executive director of the nonprofit Creative Arts Center, the festival’s organizer. Each year, 120 high-end artisans and craftsmen—all “at the top of their game,” says Zoni Mault—present their original and handcrafted artwork, jewelry, fabric, pottery, fashion, wood, glass and metalwork. A children’s arts and crafts tent, food trucks and shuttle bus service to downtown Chatham round out the offerings. Two vendors have been attending the event for more than 30 years, while each summer brings exciting new vendors, too. Ribbons and cash prizes for best booths will be awarded during the 2021 festival that organizers hope will be held as the pandemic winds down. capecodcreativearts.org
100 YEARS
Aviator Amelia Earhart relied on WCC for weather reports as did Antarctic explorer Admiral Byrd. WCC also communicated with the SS Santa Maria, which was hijacked to Brazil in 1961. WCC was in operation until 1997. A commemorative virtual lecture titled “World’s Greatest Coastal Station” premiered at 1:30 p.m. on April 18, exactly 100 years after WCC went on the air. A centennial exhibit “Chatham Maritime Radio—1921” will be on display this summer.
chathammarconi.org
125 YEARS ELDREDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY
CHATHAM MARCONI MARITIME CENTER’S STATION WCC
During the great days of ocean liner travel and commercial shipping, Chatham’s maritime ship-to-shore station, WCC (Wireless Cape Cod), created on April 18, 1921, grew into the largest coastal station in the U.S. Radio Corporation of America (RCA) repurposed WCC from Guglielmo Marconi’s telegraph receiving station, which he began building at 847 Orleans Road, North Chatham, in 1914 but was unable to open because of World War I. In its heyday, WCC received up to 1,000 Morse-coded messages daily.
The Eldredge Public Library, 564 Main St., was a gift from Chatham’s native son Marcellus Eldredge, and dedicated on the Fourth of July, 1896. This summer, on July 11, a reenactment of the library’s dedication will celebrate its 125th anniversary. Other events will include virtual talks on George Gershwin, barrier beaches and mystery writing. The modern library still operates in its Renaissance/Romanesque Revival building made of red West Barnstable brick, although the library’s footprint was expanded to 18,000 square feet in the 1990s. Circulation in 1896/1897 totaled 11,738—the town’s approximately 1,800 residents proved to be avid readers. “Marcellus Eldredge and the first Board of Directors would be amazed and proud that 125 years later the EPL continues to ‘serve as a beacon of light to guide future generations,’” says director Amy Andreasson. The library’s mission is to “enhance the quality of life in Chatham by providing Chatham residents and visitors with the library services they need and want.” A phased reopening of the library for 30-minute visits by appointment began in March. eldredgelibrary125.org
HOW DOES YOUR GardenGrow?
BY MARJORIE PITTS
ALocal experts offer tips and advice for beginners who are ready to dig into vegetable gardening.
s the days grow warmer and the sun shines longer, new and longtime vegetable gardeners in Chatham have begun to dig in: sowing seeds, planting seedlings and setting their sights on the bountiful harvests to come.
At Agway of Chatham, nursery sales representative Kristin Casey says that with the pandemic, more people have started growing their own produce. “There’s been a huge increase,” says Casey, “especially here in Chatham.”
With so many of us new to the local vegetable gardening scene, we look to seasoned plant-whisperers for advice and inspiration, gleaning tips to turn our thumbs a bit greener. Along with the rest of the team at Agway
of Chatham, assistant manager Robyn Mantel enjoys sharing her gardening expertise and enthusiasm with customers of every shade on the green-thumb spectrum.
Mantel, an avid vegetable gardener, advises beginners to start by assessing their space. “With vegetable gardening, it all depends on how much sunny space you have,” says Mantel. “For many people, raised beds are the best option, as they tend to be a lot easier to work in, offering more convenience than ground-level plots.” Agway offers raised bed kits that can be expanded to fit a gardener’s needs. For gardeners with more limited outdoor space, containers such as planter boxes or large pots are a great alternative and can accommodate a host of vegetable and herb varieties, transforming a deck, patio or even front stoop into a produce-growing Eden.
MARJORIE PITTS
Once you’ve determined the style and placement of your garden, it is time to get dirty—or at least get some good dirt. A lifelong vegetable gardener and longtime member of the Chatham Garden Club, Beth Taylor is all too familiar with our native soil. “The soil we have in Chatham tends to be sandy, so it drains really quickly, and that’s especially the case for properties closer to the shore,” says Taylor. “It’s really important to add a lot of compost and get enough organics into it to make it rich enough for good growing conditions.” For sandchallenged gardeners in need of a sizable amount of nutrient-rich soil, Taylor recommends TW Nickerson in South Chatham for delivery of topsoil in bulk.
Agway of Chatham offers a wide range of soilenhancement products, including Coast of Maine
Planting the Seed
The Chatham Community Garden provides a place for members to grow bounties of fresh produce.
BY MARJORIE PITTS
Founded in 2010, the Chatham Community Garden offers affordable garden plots for town residents interested in growing organic vegetables, flowers and herbs in a setting away—but not too far—from their homes, with the camaraderie and support of fellow gardeners from novice to master levels of expertise. Located adjacent to Chatham Agway on the corner of Route 28 and Lime Hill Road, the garden contains 29 plots, four of which are raised beds set aside to provide access to disabled or super senior members. “It’s very economical to get involved, with full 400-square-foot plots for $30 per year and half plots for $15,” explains Jeff Hendel, manager and current board chair. “Because it is a community garden, members are also required to do a certain number of hours of volunteer work to beautify the garden as a whole, and a variety of maintenance chores, like weeding the surrounding areas to keep the garden running well.” In the height of the growing season, the members’ neatly cultivated plots yield bounties of fresh produce, from standards like tomatoes, peppers and beans to somewhat more exotic crops like fennel and even peanuts. In addition to their harvests, the community gardeners enjoy one another’s company with occasional gatherings to celebrate and share their bounty. “It’s a diverse group, from commercial fishermen to retired white collar workers,” says Hendel. “We have a really good time.” To apply for a plot, visit chathamcommunitygarden.org
Lobster Compost. “It has a lot of nutrients in it,” says Mantel. “I find it works really well.” She also highly recommends the use of homemade compost. “If you set up your own compost bin, it creates a really beautiful soil mix,” explains Mantel. She also recommends amending the soil with additional fertilizer, preferably organic, two or three times during the growing season to achieve optimal harvests.
Next comes the fun part: Decide what to grow. Because the growing season on Cape Cod is relatively short compared to more southern climes, emerging local gardeners would do well to heed the advice of those hardy souls who came before us. “You start to think about what the old-timers used to grow, and there’s a reason for it,” says Taylor. “It’s what grew
A variety of seed packets are available at Agway of Chatham
easy here and kept over the winter: turnips and butternut squash, for example.” Of course, Taylor also recommends that gardeners first consider what vegetables their families enjoy eating.
Chatham Garden Club president Susan Curcio has been growing vegetables for upwards of 35 years, and in her family, tomatoes reign supreme. Her husband, Richard, likes to channel his Italian heritage, cooking up plenty of sauce to jar up and enjoy all winter long. “His tomatoes are his reason for existence,” says Curcio with a chuckle. “They’re sort of half our diet, along with our annual bumper crop of butternut squash— we grow enough to last the whole year.” A sampling of other crops that do well in our region include varieties of herbs, green beans, potatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, radishes, kale, eggplant, summer squash, peppers and, of course, zucchini. For gardeners looking to expand their repertoire, Agway’s Mantel suggests growing celery. “I don’t think people believe they can really grow it,” says Mantel, “but celery is becoming more popular, and it grows really well around here.”
Care and maintenance are also key to gardening success, and that includes settling into practices and routines, such as proper spacing, effective mulching and consistent watering. “In our climate in particular, you need to allow for good air circulation to avoid blight and powdery mildew,” says Mantel. “And you have to be consistent with watering, especially with tomatoes, or you will run into all kinds of problems.”
Resource Guide
Agway of Chatham
1005 Main St., 508-945-1555
agwaycapecod.com/stores/ agway-of-chatham/
TW Nickerson, Inc.
160 Mill Hill Rd., 508-432-1655 twnickerson.com
Chatham Garden Club chathamgardenclub.org
In addition, laying down a base of quality mulch over the topsoil and around the base of plants ensures better water retention, while also cutting down on pests and weeds. Local gardening pests include insects like cutworms and aphids. However, most can be managed naturally by introducing beneficial predators like ladybugs and praying mantises—both available at Agway. Rabbits, rodents and deer can also wreak havoc on a garden, so experts advise adding fence or chicken wire barriers. The good news: “We actually have a lot fewer pests and weeds on Cape Cod compared to many other climates,” assures Taylor. My thumb looks greener already!
With the pandemic, more people have started growing their own edible gardens, from cabbage, peppers, tomatoes and eggplant to herbs such as chives, parsley and thyme.
CLOCKWISE
- Audrey Hepburn
We couldn’t be more excited to share this year’s gardening season with you. Find everything you need for your Cape Cod yard, garden & pets at Agway. “To
Visit us at 1005 Main St. in Chatham or online at www.AgwayCapeCod.com
Thank you for shopping local!
A Whale of a Time
BY LISA LEIGH CONNORS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL AND SUZ KARCHMER
Vibrantly colored whales—nearly 60 of them—will once again be making a splash at Chatham’s Kate Gould Park this summer.
Art in the Park is an annual outdoor exhibition that takes place in the heart of the downtown and showcases the creativity of local artists. Whale cutouts are transformed into one-of-a-kind pieces of art, incorporating everything from paintings of coastal scenes and sea life to abstract images and whimsical folk art. And the materials aren’t just limited to acrylic
or latex paint. Mosaics, resin and photographs also create eye-catching designs and rich textures.
Originally known as Sharks in the Park, this public art installation was first established in 2013 and has incorporated different themes over the years. In addition to sharks and whales, artists have decorated mermaids and cutouts shaped like the iconic “arm” of the Cape. The majestic mammals, however, proved to be the most popular: Last year’s whales earned a record amount.
Local merchants and volunteers work together to bring Art in the Park to life every summer. With drills in hand, they dig small holes, install threaded rods into the bottom of each whale and anchor them into the ground. From left to right: Jonathan Guevera, Janice Rogers, Dave Ferraresi, Mary Cavanaugh, Steve Wardle, Susan Dimm, Lisa Leigh Connors, Heather McGrath, Chris Connors, Danita Scribner and Jerry Evans.
Here’s how it works: During the winter months, businesses and organizations sponsor a whale and connect with a local artist to create their artistic magic on a blank whale canvas. An online auction is open throughout the summer. When the auction closes, half of the proceeds go to the artists and half to the Chatham Chamber of Commerce and Merchants Association.
“The proceeds help support town events, activities and local charities,” says organizer Janice Rogers, adding that the group also sponsors the Oars in the Stores scavenger hunt every summer. “The art exhibit attracts visitors from all over the world, and in turn, helps boost business.”
Stello Construction, which has been involved with Art in the Park from the beginning, donates its services by creating the whale cutouts from Versatex, a durable material used for house trim. “This community has been really good to me,” says Robert Stello. “To see all of the summer people here with their kids, it’s a worthwhile event and it’s exciting to see all of the families here enjoying this art display together.”
Art in the Park will be installed June 25 at Kate Gould Park on Main Street and will be on display through Aug. 20.
For more information, visit echatham.com/chathamartinthepark.net
Mike Stello, Skylar Farnsley, Keith Reed, Paul Regan and Robert Stello of Stello Construction volunteer their time to create the whale cutouts—made from a durable material called Versatex—for Art in the Park. (Right) Lauren DiFerdinando of The Nines Art Gallery in Harwich Port took a vertical design approach for her whale in 2020.
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Additions, Renovations,
Additions, Renovations, Custom Homes
Custom Homes
No Job Too Small
No Job Too Small
Stello Construction, located on Cape Cod in Chatham, Massachusetts, takes pride in its quality work and attention to detail. Whether you are in need of a small repair, remodeling an existing home, planning an addition or wish to design/build a new home, you can be confident that Stello Construction will work closely with you to bring your ideas to life.
Stello Construction, located on Cape Cod in Chatham, Massachusetts, takes pride in its quality work and attention to detail. Whether you are in need of a small repair, remodeling an existing home, planning an addition or wish to design/build a new home, you can be confident that Stello Construction will work closely with you to bring your ideas to life.
Stello Construction Ent. Inc.
Stello Construction Ent. Inc.
www.stelloconstruction.com • 310 Commerce Park N, South Chatham, MA 02659 • 508.432.2218
www.stelloconstruction.com • 310 Commerce Park N, South Chatham, MA 02659 • 508.432.2218
Stello Construction, located on Cape Cod in Chatham, Massachusetts, takes pride in its quality work and attention to detail. Whether you are in need of a small repair, remodeling an existing home, custom woodworking including cabinets, stairs, decks, and windows, planning an addition or wish to design/build a new home, you can be confident that Stello Construction will work closely with you to bring your ideas to life.
www.elizabethwilliamsdesign.com • 45 Main Street, West Harwich, MA 02671 • 508.432.7900
www.elizabethwilliamsdesign.com • 45 Main Street, West Harwich, MA 02671 • 508.432.7900
stelloconstruction.com | 310 Commerce Park N, South Chatham | 508.432.2218
The Natural
OPENING DAY:
The Chatham Anglers will host the Orleans Firebirds at 7 p.m. June 13 at Veterans Field.
Professional baseball scout
Matt Hyde is ready to return to action this summer at Veterans Field.
It was an idyllic July afternoon, and Chatham’s Veterans Field was an emerald diamond shimmering in splendor. The Anglers should have been warming up for a Cape Cod Baseball League showdown with the Harwich Mariners. Matt Hyde, Northeast Area scout for the New York Yankees, was there early and normally would have had his sharp eyes on young players, searching for jewels to become polished gems.
Except this was the silent summer of 2020 and the field was empty, the bleachers quiet. Hyde was not in his usual perch behind home plate. Instead, he sat wistfully—socially distanced—in the third base dugout wearing a Yankees face mask and lamenting the coronavirus pandemic that turned life upside down, including canceling the Cape League season.
But now the sun is shining again, and Veterans Field will be alive with action. Baseball is back, and Hyde is anxious to return to the familiar rhythms of the game that have been part of his life since he was a batboy for Chatham in the 1980s.
“We’re all looking forward to the Cape League,” says Hyde, 47, who has been scouting for the Yankees since 2005. “It was weird last summer to not see any games.”
Covid-19 forced the nation’s premier summer collegiate league to shut down. Cape League baseball has been a cornerstone of the season for generations, and Hyde appreciates this more than most. He was 10 when his family moved from Connecticut to Chatham and soon after he became batboy for the A’s. It was love at first sight.
“Being around the players, it was like the big leagues to me,” says Hyde. “Jeff Bagwell (future Hall of Famer of the Houston Astros) was on one of those teams. I always tried to beat him and be first to the ballpark, but never could. I think that was the first time I was exposed to someone who loved baseball as much or more than I did.”
BY BILL HIGGINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL KARCHMER
COURTESY
Cape League Hall of Fame manager
John Schiffner and baseball scout
Matt Hyde share a love for the game.
The seed planted then has blossomed into a career in the game. Hyde attended Phillips Academy Andover, and during high school summers and into college at the University of Michigan he stayed connected to the Cape League as a bullpen catcher, first at Orleans and then Chatham. His dedication earned him a promotion to the A’s coaching staff in 1995.
Hyde was lured into professional baseball by Gus Quattlebaum, now a vice president with the Boston Red Sox and his best friend from high school. Quattlebaum, who played at Chatham when Hyde was a coach, had scouted for the New York Yankees. When he learned of an opening in 2005, he recommended Hyde.
“All this—going to Michigan and everything after—can all be connected to the Cape League,” says Hyde. “It goes back to this dugout as a batboy. The friendships and relationships, they’ve meant everything to me.”
And so it was only natural that when he joined the Yankees and switched allegiances as a Red Sox fan to pinstripes, Hyde’s territory for the last 15 years would include the talent-rich Cape League. Many of the brightest stars in the big leagues, including Yankees’ slugger Aaron Judge, played in the league. In all, 300 current MLB players are Cape League grads.
A scout’s job, says Hyde, is to watch today’s game and
gauge tomorrow’s performance. In short, the challenge is to assess the potential of a player and decide if he has the “tools”—a scout’s parlance for skills—to warrant a future in pro baseball.
Position players are rated on speed, hitting for average and power, arm strength and fielding; pitchers are evaluated on velocity, arm action and mechanics, breaking ball and changeup, and command (ability to throw strikes). In today’s game, advanced technology helps a scout quantify what his eyes see.
“A good scout has a Rolodex in his mind of players he’s seen over time,” says Hyde. “I might say this guy reminds me of so-and-so or has similarities to someone in the past that had success.”
In the end, it’s all a slice of Hyde’s summer in the Cape League, what he missed in 2020 and what he is yearning to return to. When he leaves his Canton home and crosses the bridge, the salt air—and yes, the Chatham fog rolling over Veterans Field—welcomes him home.
“I’ve been coming here for almost 40 years and everything looks exactly the same as it was when I was 10,” he said. “The players change, but summer after summer it’s still the Cape League. The continuity is comforting and the connection is special. I think that’s what we missed.”
And that’s why Matt Hyde—and why we all—will come back to the game.
Professional baseball scout Matt Hyde is anxious to return to the familiar rhythms of the game that have been part of his life since he was a batboy for the Chatham Anglers in the 1980s.
After falling into disrepair over its 200-plus years, the Godfrey Windmill in Chase Park operates today with new wind in its sails, thanks to restoration efforts from local historians.
BY DEBRA LAWLESS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX HILLMAN
BY
In the 20th century, Chatham’s Godfrey Windmill, known as “the old mill,” was a picturesque, if ramshackle, relic of the past beloved by residents and visitors alike. In a 1935 essay, Chatham author Joseph C. Lincoln ridiculed the fact that the windmills of his childhood were no longer working, and had been gentrified into “Mrs. Coles-Graham’s little guest house.”
At the time of Lincoln’s writing, Godfrey Windmill was standing idle and in extreme disrepair in its original site next to a summer house on a hill overlooking Mill Pond.
Chatham’s wind-powered grist mill began its existence in 1797, when Col. Benjamin Godfrey, a businessman who made his name fighting in the Revolutionary War, built the 30-foot, octagonal mill on the windy hill. Before Godfrey built his mill, farmers had to travel all the way to Plymouth to have their corn ground. The mill towered over the hill and “was also a significant maritime structure,” says Frank Messina, who was instrumental in the most recent restoration of the mill from 2009 to 2012. The mill proved a boon to sailors who used it to guide them in the years before lighthouses were built.
The mill’s second floor was used for grinding corn. The cornmeal would drop into a meal bin on the ground floor. The miller’s fee was one-third of the cornmeal; as the middleman who sold his third, Godfrey prospered, says Messina. A unique feature of the mill was a corncob breaker on the ground floor. The resulting silage was added to animal feed as roughage.
Godfrey’s heir and then subsequent owners ran the mill as a commercial operation until 1898. The mill stood vacant for a decade before Charles Hardy, known locally for building Chatham Bars Inn, bought it and ground corn for exhibition. In 1909, Nelson Floyd of Winthrop built his summer house by the mill on the hill overlooking the pond.
In the 1920s and early 1930s storms, lightning strikes and gale winds wreaked havoc on the mill, destroying the trundle top and one arm. Stuart Crocker, who bought the property in 1939, donated the derelict mill to the Town of Chatham with the stipulation that it be moved off his land. But it wasn’t until 1956 that the mill was moved to Rink Hill in Chase Park and renovated. The mill was then again used for grinding demonstrations and took on a new life as a tourist attraction. Still, over the next half century the mill would again fall into disrepair.
In 1978, the mill was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and in the 1980s was restored with a grant from the Massachusetts Historical Commission. But despite several restorations in the latter half of the 20th century, the mill again needed lots of loving attention by the 21st century.
renovated Godfrey
taken on a new life as a tourist attraction and is used for corn-grinding demonstrations during the summer months. Below, the mill is pictured in 1909 at its original site next to a summer house on a hill overlooking Mill Pond. The mill was no longer working and grew increasingly derelict during storms of the 1920s and 1930s.
The
Windmill has
(BOTTOM)
Messina, a retired electrical engineer who chairs the Chatham Historical Commission, has a keen interest in history, and enjoys visiting Nantucket for that reason. In 2008, he and his wife, Joan-Ellen, toured the Nantucket windmill.
“As an engineer, I was enthralled with the mill,” he says. “It’s actually a machine.” A few months later, when he visited Chatham’s mill, he found the vanes rotting on the ground and the interior in disrepair. Messina approached the town and soon an application for a $125,000 Community Preservation Act grant was in the works. A proposal was put together, and a restoration began that was completed by 2012, the year of the town’s tercentennial celebration.
A crew replaced the rotten beams and floorboards. More significantly, the main shaft, a long piece of pine, needed replacing. New shingles spruced up the exterior, and repair of the sails completed the refurbishing.
Life Is a Grind
BY DEBRA LAWLESS
Many common phrases in use today originated in the old days of windmills. Here are a few from the Chatham 300th anniversary souvenir pamphlet, “The Godfrey Windmill, Chatham, Massachusetts.”
Come to a Grinding Halt
As the wind slowed down, the mill would come to a “grinding halt” if the millstones ground too closely.
Daily Grind
The idea of the “daily grind” came from the repetitive nature of milling.
Fair to Middling
Ground meal would be described as fair, middling or fine. If the meal was “fair to middling,” it would be less than one’s best.
Grist for the Mill
An idea or thought to think about or “chew over.”
Milling Around
Revolving, and therefore wandering or strolling in one area.
Put Through the Mill
Like corn being ground between two stones, you are put through an ordeal.
Put Your Nose to the Grindstone
It was important for the miller to
keep his “nose to the grindstone” because if the millstones ground too hot, the flour would smell burnt—or even burst into flames.
Put Your Shoulder to the
Wheel
When a miller “put his shoulder to the wheel,” he pushed the wheel at the bottom of the mill’s tailpiece to turn the arms into the wind. Some tailpieces even had a yoke for the miller’s shoulders or for a horse.
Rule of Thumb
The miller would take a pinch of ground flour between his thumb and finger to test its quality. If it felt too coarse, the miller would grind it again.
Three Sheets to the Wind
If there were sails on only three of the four arms of the windmill, it would be unbalanced and look tipsy, like a drunk, when it turned.
“As an engineer, I was enthralled with the mill,” says Frank Messina, who chairs the Chatham Historical Commission and was instrumental in the most recent restoration of the mill from 2009 to 2012. At right, Bill Cullinane portrays Col. Benjamin Godfrey.
The restoration included installing new beams and floorboards, and replacing the main shaft, a long piece of pine. Below, Bob Hardy created the swordfish weathervane for the 2009–2012 restoration, taking his inspiration from one that had been on the mill more than a century ago.
While Messina’s philosophy is that “every building can’t be a museum—there has to be an adaptive reuse,” the windmill now functions again, grinding corn into meal. Each year, the town budgets a modest amount of money for millers, and about twice a year the cloth is put onto the mill’s sails, and the 37-foot tail pole is pushed to rotate the cap and blades into the wind.
“It’s kind of exciting,” says Messina. “Inside this monstrous piece of woodwork, it’s grinding corn.”
Step inside the mill when the wind is blowing the sails and the entire top is moving to grind the corn, and everything is moaning, shaking and humming.
Or, as Joseph C. Lincoln put it, recalling his childhood in the 1870s, “I can remember the groaning of the shaft as it turned and, when we went inside, the squeaking and trembling of the whole structure.”
The Godfrey Windmill, run by the Chatham Windmill Group, can be visited at Chase Park, 125 Shattuck Place. The 2021 summer schedule, including festive “Grinding Days,” when the mill grinds corn, will be determined by local public health conditions. For more information, visit chathamwindmill.com
Green Creative Furniture Since 1970
508-362-2676 • Open 7 Days 9 –4 2454 Meetinghouse Way, West Barnstable westbarnstabletables.com
Trestle Table made from 2” thick Antique Wormy Chestnut. 97" X 41 1/2" X 31"
“Duality in Blue” Sofa/Hall/Sideboard made from Antique Pine with custom inlays and original color. 66" X 17" X 33 1/2"
Oasis A MAGICAL
Despite landscape and construction challenges, a dream team creates a spectacular waterfront home that echoes the character of the neighborhood.
BY CAROL K. DUMAS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
BJ Ö RN WALLANDER
SStage Harbor is quintessential Cape Cod with its iconic lighthouse, silvershingled waterfront houses and ubiquitous fishing and pleasure boats that meander easily out to Nantucket Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.
The gambrel-style Stage Harbor Overlook house, newly constructed within the existing footprint of the original structure, fits seamlessly into this tucked-away part of town. The homeowners were looking for classic Chatham architecture that would retain the character of the neighborhood, but at the same time, they also wanted a contemporary house featuring an open-concept interior and outdoor living spaces with a swimming pool, kitchen and fire pit.
The 5,000-square-foot home appears modest from the front, but the waterside expands to three levels with panoramic views from large windows, French doors, decks and porches. An open, light-filled interior is finished with finely crafted millwork and built-ins.
“From the street, it’s a story and a half, but the rear of the property unveils a dramatic two-story view, and the waterside unfolds nicely. The house doesn’t read as a ‘McMansion,’” explains architect Patrick Ahearn. “We always try to echo the context of a place.”
The steeply sloped site and a variety of zoning stipulations (because of the lot’s location within 100 feet of a wetland) presented challenges, but the constraints ultimately led to creative solutions that maximized the magic of this harbor-view oasis.
General contractor Doug Whitla of Whitla Brothers Builders led the building crew for this spectacular waterfront home featuring tapersawn red cedar roof shingles. The construction took about 14 months to complete and included snowy wintry months. “The site was pretty tricky,” says Whitla, who has worked on several Ahearn-designed homes.
Among the challenges for construction: the six-foot drop on one side of the pool that abutted conservation land and the huge steel frame required to support the three-story glass window wall on the waterside.
The Gambrel-style, newly constructed home built within the existing footprint of the original house, appears modest from the front, but the waterside expands to three levels with panoramic water views. The sloping lot presented some obstacles for landscape design, but designer Dave Hawk of Hawk Design came up with practical and aesthetically pleasing solutions.
The home’s beautiful millwork and spectacular views inspired a neutral and fresh color palette with soft transitions.
As the design of the house was key to fitting in with the neighborhood, the landscape design needed to blend into the natural landscape. The sloping lot presented some obstacles for the landscape design, including getting from the front to the back easily, but designer Dave Hawk of Hawk Design came up with practical and aesthetically pleasing solutions. “The house was basically nestled into the slope,” he says, “so the topography was challenging; it was a tight property with setbacks. But there is opportunity in any topography.”
Hawk describes the overall design as a “cascade effect” in how the trees, grasses and shrubs—including roses, Rose of Sharon and hydrangea—flow from front to back. He chose native and non-invasive plant species in keeping with the coastal location. “It’s sort of a meandering garden,” adds Hawk, noting the handsome paths include
steps and landings from bluestone and Irish limestone.
Edson Eldredge of North Chatham Landscaping, who implemented Hawk’s ambitious landscape design and who also maintains the property for the homeowners, echoed the challenging nature of the sloping site. In addition, the harbor location with its north winds presented a complex environment for landscape plantings.
“Dave Hawk incorporated some interesting and unusual plants,” says Eldredge. “Some of my favorites were crepe myrtles that bloom a stunning red in the fall; the weeping dogwood out front; and the river birch that screens the pool. I also liked the choices of grasses, butterfly bushes and the mass plantings of roses, all of which give color yearround, which was Dave’s intent.” Continued on page 104
Interior designer Liz Caan worked closely with the client to choose sea-inspired colors and materials, including woven raffia, sisal, driftwood, rope and linens. Above, the handsome paths include steps and landings from bluestone and Irish limestone, designed by Hawk Design.
The classic and timeless home showcases woven fabrics and wellmade furnishings that offer durability for the clients’ children, grandchildren and English Pointer, Lucy.
Continued from page 101
Interior designer Liz Caan worked closely with the client to choose seaside-inspired materials—including woven raffia, sisal, driftwood, rope, linens and teak—and colors, grays and blues. “She had a vision for a very neutral and transitional home with some pops of color,” says Caan. “She has beautiful taste and wanted excellent quality as in woven fabrics, well-made furnishings and durability for their children and grandchildren. The house needed to be classic and timeless, yet not contrived and not stuffy.”
The home’s beautiful millwork and the spectacular view dictated a neutral and fresh color palette with soft transitions, Caan added. “We chose heavy Belgian linens, woven jacquards and durable indoor/outdoor fabrics to give the home the weight and substance it deserved while also being appropriate to the location on the ocean. Classic Roman shades and tailored drapes give privacy and soften the millwork while not obstructing the view.”
“ We chose heavy Belgian linens, woven jacquards and durable indoor/outdoor fabrics to give the home the weight and substance it deserved while also being appropriate to the location on the ocean,” says interior designer Liz Caan, who added pops of pink in the family room. At right, a shell mirror adds a coastal feel to the entryway.
Caan used a capiz-shell backsplash behind the bar to evoke “a glam yet seaworthy moment” and added pops of pink in the family room and bedrooms.
The contemporary kitchen, designed by Venegas and Company, features Caesarstone countertops, custom tile, Sub-Zero appliances, a center island with seating and white Shaker-style custom cabinetry. A coffered beadboard ceiling creates a more casual, cottagey feeling. Prefinished white oak flooring with a gray finish recalls driftwood.
Unusual lighting from the Urban Electric Co. and Waterworks adds striking accents throughout the home. “They make beautiful lights in the USA that are cleaned-up classics, which is what I thought this home deserved,” says Caan. “It’s a classic home on the water, but we wanted it to sparkle a little bit and not be too cliché for its location. Sconces and picture lights throughout also give the rooms layered lighting that feels very cozy and adds ambiance.”
The contemporary kitchen boasts Caesarstone countertops, custom tile and white Shaker-style custom cabinetry. Above, a Capiz-shell backsplash behind the bar evokes “a glam yet seaworthy moment,” says interior designer Liz Caan.
RESOURCE GUIDE
Patrick Ahearn Architect
Boston: 617-266-1710
Martha’s Vineyard:
508-939-9312
patrickahearn.com
Whitla Brothers Builders
Specializes in custom building and historic preservation
508-359-4292
whitlabrothers.com
Liz Caan & Co.
Interior design firm
617-244-0424
lizcaan.com
Hawk Design
Landscape architecture
508-833-8800
hawkdesigninc.com
North Chatham
Landscaping
Landscape and construction design, property management and maintenance
508-945-0205
Also on Facebook
Rooted in Memories
A passionate, hands-on gardener puts her own stamp on her Chatham property with meaningful plants and flowers, bursts of color and unique sculptures.
BY DEBRA LAWLESS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BETTY WILEY
WWhen visitors stop by the house named “Crow’s Nest” near Eastward Ho! they enjoy drifts of color, whimsical sculptures and rolling green lawns backed by stunning views of Crow’s Pond.
But when the hands-on gardener who lives here gazes at her yard, she sees nods to a lifetime of beloved people and places.
The early-blooming daylilies in front of the house and the bank of lupines in the back remind her of her late mother. She grows pink phlox from her sister-in-law’s garden and points to a hydrangea given to her by a friend. Her previous garden in Dover contained plenty of slugs, so her son gave her an antique slug sculpture. On the patio is a pot of ivy rooted from her own wedding bouquet—her two daughters-in-law carried the ivy in their bouquets when they married her sons. When she moved to Chatham, she divided her plants and introduced hostas and daylilies to her garden.
“Plants are like my children,” says the homeowner. “I moved plants that meant something to me. I do have a
When the homeowner and her husband looked for a home in Chatham, the wife immediately fell in love with this classic Cape. When you relax in the hexagonal three-season glassed-in room, “you really feel like you’re sitting in the garden,” says the homeowner.
lot of memories out there in the garden, even though we’ve only been here three summers.”
When she and her husband looked for a home in Chatham, she immediately fell in love with this “unassuming Cape, a classic Cape, from the front.”
She admired the arbor from Walpole Woodworkers at the western edge of the yard. As you look through it, you get your first glimpse of Crow’s Pond below the bluff.
She adored the David Austin roses “peeking” over the stone wall around the brick patio and “just the grace of the property.”
She especially loved the promise of what was to come with the turning seasons in this garden with “great bones.”
The homeowner and her husband bought the house in late 2017 and she got to work that first spring because she “could just see the potential of the property. It did not disappoint.”
A 10-foot privet hedge offers privacy from the road. In front of the house, the color begins on either side of the gravel driveway. A dark purple clematis weaves its way up through pink New Dawn roses on a trellis attached to the side of the cedar-shingled garage. In front of these blooms is a bank of blue hydrangeas. Window boxes add pink, white and green to the color scheme. She uses trailing verbena and sweet potato vine in her window boxes because “I like things that blow in the wind.”
And this is the spot for wind. A tornado in the summer of 2019 blew the 12-inch dahlias over sideways in her front window boxes.
“The wind can come from any direction, any way,” she says. Tall perennials, such as hollyhocks, are impossible to grow here.
The original plan for the gardens, which were installed in 2003, called for hydrangeas, boxwoods, lilacs,
The views through the arbor offer peeks of Crow’s Pond below the bluff.
The whimsical copper sculpture “Binocular Figure With Bird,” by Maine artist Scott Tindall, pops up among the hydrangeas and daylilies.
The property features a vibrant palette from April to the first frost. New Dawn roses intertwined with clematis climb up the trellis, while beautiful hydrangeas add pops of color.
viburnum, azalea and clethra—some of which are still there. But by the spring of 2018, the gardens needed work as they had been “somewhat neglected” for four years. That was not a problem, says the homeowner. “I love a good challenge.”
Take the invasive mugwort. She had to rip up a part of the garden outside the hexagonal three-season room. But extreme efforts paid off. When you relax in the glassed-in room, “you really feel like you’re sitting in the garden.” From there, you are at eye level with the knockout and carpet roses and Russian sage.
The gardens bloom from April to the first frost. In the fall, Japanese anemones provide color. Last year, she planted winterberry bushes and used cuttings in arrangements. Through the seasons, the color ebbs and flows. “That’s what makes gardening fun,” she says. “Everyone has its moment to shine in the garden.”
She has planted a few annuals to add constant color and complement the perennials. Some favorites are salvia and ground-level scaevola.
She wants to put her own imprint on the gardens. “I gain a lot of inspiration just walking around Chatham and reading the magazines,” she says. She also uses PlantSnap, an app that helps her identify plants, flowers and trees.
Through the seasons, the color ebbs and flows with David Austin roses, Blue Veronica and lady’s mantle.
And when plants aren’t working well together, she moves them. She broke up a patch of pink hydrangeas, yellow Happy Returns daylilies and white phlox. “It all bloomed at once,” she says. “It was too much at once.”
Walk around the curved lawns of the backyard, and spots of color delight your eye. On the eastern side of the yard, daylilies surround an adorable shed. Here, in the shade, deep green European ginger runs along a brick walkway. A Kousa dogwood is in full bloom.
A rustic birdhouse stands in an oval garden. A flagpole with daisies at its base draws the eye toward the pond. The morning sun rises slowly, dappling the lawn with sunshine.
In the patio garden, the whimsical copper sculpture “Binocular Figure With Bird,” by Maine artist Scott Tindall, pops up among the hydrangeas and daylilies. With his binoculars trained on the pond, his hair whips back as in a brisk wind. Because the homeowner bought the sculpture at a church sale, it reminds her of her church friends.
“I might argue my gardens are better than photo albums,” she says. “To me, they are living memories.”
The backyard patio provides an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining surrounded by gorgeous gardens and stunning views of Crow’s Pond.
“We highly recommend Chris at Alarm New England for your security needs. He is one of our most reliable and trusted vendors.”
—Fellman Brothers Builders, Chatham
Control your security equipment, lights, locks, thermostats, cameras and video doorbells with a single app.
Control your security equipment, lights, locks, thermostats, cameras and video doorbells with a single app.
Control your security equipment, lights, locks, thermostats, cameras and video doorbells with a single app.
Build a completely new alarm system or upgrade equipment you already own.
Control your security equipment, lights, locks, thermostats, cameras and video doorbells with a single app.
Build a completely new alarm system or upgrade equipment you already own.
Build a completely new alarm system or upgrade equipment you already own.
Industry-fastest police, fire and medical service response times.
Build a completely new alarm system or upgrade equipment you already own.
Industry-fastest police, fire and medical service response times.
Industry-fastest police, fire and medical service response times.
Industry-fastest police, fire and medical service response times.
New England’s Most Trusted Security Company
New England’s Most Trusted Security Company
AlarmNewEngland.com
New England’s Most Trusted Security Company AlarmNewEngland.com
AlarmNewEngland.com
For a one-on-one consultation, please email or call Chris Connors: chris.connors@alarmnewengland.com / 774-208-1956
For a one-on-one consultation, please email or call Chris Connors: chris.connors@alarmnewengland.com / 774-208-1956
22 White’s Path, South Yarmouth, MA 02664
For a one-on-one consultation, please email or call Chris Connors: chris.connors@alarmnewengland.com / 774-208-1956
New England’s Most Trusted Security Company AlarmNewEngland.com
22 White’s Path, South Yarmouth, MA 02664
22 White’s Path, South Yarmouth, MA 02664
For a one-on-one consultation, please email or call Chris Connors: chris.connors@alarmnewengland.com / 774-208-1956
22 White’s Path, South Yarmouth, MA 02664
H eART
& Soul
Four Chatham artists express themselves through vibrant brush strokes, whimsical ceramics and striking sculptures.
BY CAROL K. DUMAS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA
CUMES
Our four featured artists differ in their approaches and media: Amy Dare Middleton chooses acrylics for her expressionist seascapes and vibrant still lifes; Julie Dykens creates whimsical ceramic scenes of Chatham’s fishing life and nature; Carol Odell works in oils to paint her exuberant contemporary oil paintings that invite interpretation, and husband Tom Odell fashions handsome vessels and sculpture from bronze and creates striking gold jewelry.
One thing they have in common: Using beautiful Chatham as their muse.
Cherished memories of childhood summers spent at her family’s cottage in Chatham were the foundation for artist Amy Dare Middleton’s free-flowing artwork.
Raised in Atlanta and Vero Beach, Florida, Middleton graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, where she majored in studio art and advertising (“My grandfather encouraged me to study something practical; I couldn’t just earn a living being an artist”). After moving to Boston after graduation, she pursued post-graduate studies at Massachusetts College of Art, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and Montserrat College of Art in Beverly, Massachusetts.
Amy Dare Middleton
While Middleton loved Boston and its proximity to the Cape and other parts of New England, Chatham continued to beckon; she and her husband moved in 2000 to Chatham, where they raised a family of three sons who are now 20, 17 and 12.
Raising a family put her art on “pause” for a while, she admits, but now that her boys are older, Middleton has immersed herself in painting as well as teaching art at Chatham Elementary School. She also serves as director of Christian Education and Family Ministries at First Congregational Church, which also includes teaching art at the Main Street Bible Camp and directing weekly
Artist Amy Dare Middleton works on a floral still life in her studio, an adorable “she-shed” in her backyard. She also paints pastel paintings on cedar shingles (above) and small fruit paintings in acrylic (opposite page), shown here at Mark August.
summer tie-dye events.
Middleton’s work features colorful acrylics of seascapes and landscapes, rendered in a free-flowing expressionist style; vibrant floral still lifes; and unique pastel paintings on cedar shingles. “I like how the grain of the wood can mimic the sea or the sand.”
Amy Dare Middleton’s work is available at Mark August, 490 Main St. For more information on Middleton’s work, visit amydaremiddleton.com
She also paints scenes on sea scallop shells, which have been a hit with visitors to Mark August, the Main Street gift shop that sells her work. The shell art began when her friends, who operate the Midnight Our fishing vessel out of Wychmere Harbor in Harwich, dropped off a load of shells. “I think Abby [Our] thought I was going to use them in the kids’ art classes!”
The vast seascapes of Cape Cod never fail to inspire
her. Her favorite places to paint include Morris Island, Pleasant Bay and Cape Cod Bay (“the tide transforms the bay beaches”), as well as the view from shore of North Beach Island and its remaining camps (“I often embellish the composition with a few more, like it used to be”).
A Middleton composition often begins with a photo (her own or someone else’s) as a resource. Back in her studio—an adorable “she shed” in her backyard—she uses watered-down paint or charcoal to sketch out the composition before her imagination takes over and the subject is interpreted with shape and color.
She approaches florals differently. “I get more lost in it and play around with color and shapes and abstraction.”
Julie Dykens
Julie Dykens’s distinctive clay and metal work reflects an intimacy with her subject matter that only someone with a true knowledge of the sea and the beach can convey.
Fishermen plying the ocean’s waters, fish, birds and crabs are among her favorite subjects. Her work is whimsical, detailed and thoughtful, from single and multiple panels of tile collages to mixed media such as crafting cod with clay bodies and metal fins. (Dykens uses a bandsaw to shape pieces of metal.) “I always liked my dad’s tools,” says Dykens, who owns Local Color Art Gallery, a space that showcases local artwork in a variety of media.
Dykens grew up in Chatham. When she was an art student at Smith College, she would come home to work summers shucking scallops and crewing on fishing boats.
Dykens (nee Eldredge) knows the town’s history and its people well. She notes how the town’s fishing fleet transitioned from long-lining to gill nets and recalls the sad demise of the scallop industry. The talented artist can easily name legendary captains; remembers
the amazing sight of attracting bluefin tuna while chumming for cod offshore; and recalls the camaraderie between the fishing fleet and town. Her tile collage “Memories of Bay Scalloping” pays tribute to a time when the entire community would turn out for bay scalloping, a few days of harvest in the fall each year.
Living here, one cannot help but embrace Chatham’s natural beauty. Dykens’s daily ritual includes walking along Hardings Beach, from the parking lot to the lighthouse, always observing birds. She has more than a passing knowledge of avian life, as her work showcases species such as the great blue heron, oystercatchers, fish crows, Brant geese, spotted sandpipers and yellowlegs.
For the clay work, she starts by rolling out a slab, then adds “the bits,” such as detailed yet whimsical birds, fish, seaweed, crabs, boats, or figures, depending on the theme. After the clay is fired, Dykens paints the piece and then it’s glazed and refired. She makes her own frames from found objects, such as old lobster pots or driftwood. She often receives special commissions from customers.
Local Color Art Gallery, 1652 Main St., 508-945-0240, localcolorchatham.com
Local Color Art Gallery is seasonal, so pandemic business closures in 2020 were not a big factor. “It was a good season, and I’m so proud of the people who support local business,” she says.
Julie Dykens, owner of Local Color Art Gallery, works in ceramics, wood and metal. Her detailed and whimsical clay tiles showcase sea and avian life.
Carol and Tom Odell
Amid a region that’s abundant with realistic landscape paintings and sculptures of sea and bird life, contemporary artists Tom and Carol Odell have carved out a successful artistic life on Main Street, where they’ve been producing paintings, monotypes, jewelry and sculpture since 1975.
Married for more than 45 years, the couple first met at a summer creative arts fair. Tom hails from upstate New York, Carol from Maryland. Both had summered on the Cape for years.
“We had booths next to each other,” recalls Tom, who had been working in Cotuit making jewelry. Carol was working in silkscreen at the time and living in Orleans. “It was just so wonderful finding someone who had similar sensibilities and art interests.”
“We both appreciate what is important to the other person and the struggles they have, and we’ve always
supported each other,” adds Carol, who has taught workshops in her studio, at the Creative Arts Center, Castle Hill, PAMM and the Cape Cod Art Center.
They live on the premises and work in a two-story timber frame barn behind the gallery.
Their non-objective work complements each other’s. Tom creates sleek stainless-steel sculptures and irregularly shaped bronze vessels (both fabricated and cast) and unique jewelry in both precious metals and specialty Japanese alloys.
Carol creates vibrantly colored oils, encaustics and monotypes, where shapes swirl in a joyous, organized chaos. While her work is nonrepresentational, the titles she gives are a clue to her inspiration, such as “Blue Breeze Passage.”
Tom Odell makes sleek stainless-steel sculptures and irregular-shaped cast bronze vessels while Carol creates vibrantly colored oils, encaustics and monotypes, where shapes swirl in a joyous, organized chaos.
“I approach my work intuitively. I work with very little plan,” says Carol. “There’s a kernel there, and I let the work flow. It directs me,” explains Carol.
Striking and unique, their work invites interpretation from the viewer, rather than in a realistic work where the subject is clear and predetermined. The couple is always willing to explain their creative processes to visitors, who might be unsure about how to “interpret” a more abstract work of art.
“Many people see our work and they have no reference point, but they think about it,” says Tom. “It’s like instrumental music. There’s no words, but there is harmony and meter.”
“Don’t ask what it is, ask how is it,” adds Carol. “There is no wrong way to interpret our work.”
Tom often begins a work with a cardboard or paper model, to work out the design. Metal smithing involves soldering, using machinery like a bandsaw or drills and sometimes using wax to shape a form before it is cast in metal.
Besides the usual collection of painting supplies, Carol’s studio space includes a printing press.
Thirty-five years ago, the couple spent a year in Kyoto, Japan, with their two children. Tom worked as an apprentice to a master metalsmith and Carol discovered block printing. They were intrigued by the order and proportion of shodo (calligraphy). The Japanese aesthetic, flowing through every part of
“Many people see our work and they have no reference point, but they think about it,” says Tom Odell. “It’s like instrumental music. There’s no words, but there is harmony and meter.”
the culture, impressed them and was an additional influence on their own art. “Even the way they arrange vegetables in the market is aesthetically pleasing,” says Tom.
Their experiences here and afar have served to shape their own aesthetic. “Our major focus is to create new things, find new colors, combine new textures,” says Tom.
“We create a situation and then have to solve it,” continues Carol. “I think all artists do that, but that’s what’s so satisfying.”
ART BY SCOTT SMITH
“When
Melinda Loftus Headrick Principal Designer
SUMMER Lovin’
BY JENNIFER SPERRY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN VANDEN BRINK
Polhemus Savery DaSilva Architects Builders, celebrating 25 years of exceptional design and craftsmanship, helped a family create the beach house of their dreams.
A refreshed Chatham home that’s all about family—inside and out.
Summer on Cape Cod is defined by precious long days that go by way too quickly. Dewy hydrangeas, zigzagging bumblebees, flip-flops, crab hunts, barbecues, dripping ice cream, sand everywhere—summer is all about enjoying the little things and embracing a carefree mindset.
Summer is also, and maybe more importantly, about family time. It’s when everyone finally takes a vacation and gets to just hang out. Creating beautiful spaces that foster togetherness is a specialty of Polhemus Savery DaSilva Architects Builders (PSD). For the past 25 years, PSD has helped shape the fabric of Cape Cod’s architecture, preserving historic gems, remodeling the lackluster and contributing to the peninsula’s coastal canon with new, custom designs.
When a client—a couple with three daughters— decided to create the beach home of their dreams in Chatham, they turned to PSD for its reputation and local expertise. “We worked closely with the clients, from the property acquisition stage through design, permitting and construction,” says PSD owner and CEO Aaron Polhemus. “Combining these services under one roof results in a very seamless, effective process,” he adds. “The clients really appreciated our turn-key approach.”
With PSD onboard, the clients eyed a large property on a quiet cove leading out to Pleasant Bay. It boasted two bonus structures: a boathouse that jibed with their love of water sports and a guest house that promised plenty of room for guests. “It’s a very special property,” notes Polhemus of the multifaceted site. “It was the perfect choice for their generational retreat.”
Prefaced by a long gravel drive, the gracious shinglestyle house is evocative of a storybook cottage. A covered porch and built-in benches with curvy cutouts add additional character and a screened-in porch encourages maximum summertime appreciation.
For the main home, the owners envisioned a traditional exterior contrasted by a more contemporary interior. In response, PSD designed a gracious shingle-style house that nods to the past and fits naturally into the coastal environment. Prefaced by a long gravel drive, the structure greets with an orderly, dormered façade, evocative of a storybook cottage. Rows of double-hung windows line its water side.
Dosing the house with additional character, PSD graced the front entry with a covered porch and builtin benches. As a whimsical touch, they extended the exterior walls to frame the benches’ outer ends. “It gives you the sense that the wall was cut away to create an outdoor room,” explains PSD Senior Designer Sharon DaSilva of the design flourish.
“Our goal with the layout was to take advantage of the beautiful views,” continues DaSilva of the programming stage. “The idea was to have the common spaces stretch out across that view, so that every room overlooks the cove.” At the owners’ request, all
bedrooms are on the second floor, preserving the first floor for gathering and entertaining.
At the heart of the home is a light-filled kitchen, thoughtfully designed by Hyannis-based Classic Kitchens & Interiors. Kitchen designer Barbara Darcy delivered a timeless design, complete with white custom cabinets in a softened Shaker profile. To break up all the white, Darcy mixed different materials and shapes, including an oversized stainless steel hood, curved mullions, and polished marble. Outside the work triangle, a separate wall of cabinets does triple duty as a breakfast hub, wine bar and hutch.
Contemporary Lucite chairs surround the generous island, topped by both marble and wood. “Visually, the two pair well together,” explains Darcy of the material selections. “The wood’s natural texture and matte sheen contrast the marble’s high polish and sweeping vein pattern. And while the marble ensures easy water cleanup, the wood feels warm to the touch for anyone lingering over conversation or an informal meal.”
In the dining room, the homeowners chose wallpaper that would represent a piece of artwork. The Satori wall covering from Calico Wallpaper is a conversation piece in the space.
The light-filled kitchen, thoughtfully designed by Classic Kitchens & Interiors, features white custom cabinets in a softened Shaker profile. Contemporary Lucite chairs surround the generous island, topped by both marble and wood. Below, a separate wall of cabinets does triple duty with a breakfast hub, wine bar and hutch.
To one side of the kitchen is a large family room, where squares of V-groove paneling in alternating orientations break up the long, flat ceiling. The fireplace surround is lined with V-groove as well, while the mantel’s support brackets echo the curvy cutouts on the front porch. “It really helps pull a house together when subtle details are repeated,” notes DaSilva. On the kitchen’s other end, a dining room leads to a screened porch.
“The spaces are actually staggered,” describes DaSilva of the floor plan. “The dining room is closest to the water, then the kitchen steps back, then the living room steps back again. The spaces are open to each other and share light but are definitely well defined,” adds the architect.
Upstairs, the girls’ camp-style bedroom tops the garage, which faces sideways within the home’s perpendicular gable. Although it’s the only bedroom without glimpses of the cove, its unique cathedral ceiling and skylight make it feel light and bright, while built-ins lend cottage charm. On the second floor’s opposite corner, past two additional guest bedrooms, is the master suite, where the owners enjoy views in two directions.
The large family room features squares of V-groove paneling in alternating designs to break up the long, flat ceiling. The print above the fireplace is called “Cherry Maze,” by Zoe Bios, an abstract framed in an acrylic box, available at Trellis Home Design. At right, a Steve Lyons painting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The unique cathedral ceiling and skylight in the girls’ camp-style bedroom create a light and bright space. All of the bedrooms are on the second floor, preserving the first floor for gathering and entertaining.
The property’s coolest hangout spot is its cedar-lined boathouse along the coastal bank. “It’s a great hangout spot for the kids and a really unique entertaining destination,” says PSD owner and CEO Aaron Polhemus.
The boathouse on the property jibes with the family’s love of watersports. Since the original structure was in danger of being wiped out, PSD built a new one on a screw pier foundation to hold up long term.
“Overall, the interior is relaxed and clean—nothing is overdone or overly detailed,” summarizes Polhemus.
Establishing a comfortable connection between indoors and out was another priority driving the design. As the project’s landscape designer, PSD created a variety of outdoor living features, including a screened porch, covered porch, stone patio, spa, and fire pit. All encourage maximum summertime appreciation.
But arguably the property’s coolest hangout spot of all is its cedar-lined boathouse along the coastal bank. “The original was in danger of being wiped out,” notes Polhemus. “We built a new one on a screw pier foundation to hold up long term. It’s a great hangout spot for the kids and a really unique entertaining destination.”
Throughout the multi-phase project, PSD delivered relaxed, modern living spaces while still honoring the region’s shingle-style roots. “It’s just a great family home where everyone has plenty of places to gather,” says Polhemus. “It fits right into Chatham but with a fresh twist.”
SITE PLANNING, PERMITTING, ARCHITECTURE, LANDSCAPE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION
Polhemus Savery DaSilva Architects Builders 157 Route 137 East Harwich, MA 508-945-4500 psdab.com
It’s time to draw a line in the sand and embrace the activities you love with nothing holding you back.
Make the most of every moment by the water with a new line of waterwear that’s made to make an impact.
100% OF PROFITS TO OCEAN AND CANCER ORGANIZATIONS
MADE FROM 100% RECYCLED FISHING NETS
SPF 50+
CONCEIVED IN CHATHAM, MADE IN NYC
LyonsDesign
We are happy to introduce a special series of new work directed by Steve Lyons. Separate pieces by Steve that "harmonize" visually together in beautiful, creative ways have been merged into new works of art. Initial proofs are complete, and they look STUNNING.
Serving as Studio Assistant to Steve Lyons, Nick has acquired an intimate understanding of Steve’s creative process since the opening of the gallery and studio in 2014. Nick’s hand is present in nearly all of Steve’s work and in recent times has become even more integral. Nick’s own presence as an artist in the Cape Cod art community is growing, thanks in large part to Steve’s steady guidance.
Moon Bloom
Nick Heaney
Toward Hope
Perfect Day A IN CHATHAM
From enjoying ocean views in a Moke to watching boats and seals at Chatham Fish Pier, a family of five explores Chatham while wearing cool, casual looks from local boutiques.
MODELS: ANDRIA BLACKMAN-MURPHY, MP MURPHY AND FAMILY (BIG SISTER, LITTLE SISTER AND LITTLE BROTHER), MAGGIE INC. OF BOSTON
PRODUCED AND STYLED BY LISA LEIGH CONNORS AND JANICE ROGERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN CUTRONA
Cruisin’’Around in a Moke
On Andria: Scallop notched neck pique shell, blue-and-white pinstripe skirt with scallop hem, thick gold hoop earrings, Jubilee bracelet set and cashmere Ruana paired with Karma bag in natural, Sara Campbell; Charleston shoes available at Chatham Clothing Bar
On little brother: Whale sweater and Piping Prints whale shorts, available at Chatham T Kids
(previous spread)
On MP: Castaway short and button-down shirt, available at Chatham Clothing Bar
On older sister: Piping Prints whale dress, available at Chatham T Kids
FarmFresh Cape Abilities Farm Market
Outfits from JAKS Chatham and Chatham Dress Code Details on Page 156.
Green Day
On Andria: Linen/cotton dress and crescent moon necklace, available at Chatham Dress Code
On MP: L2brand polo, made out of recycled bottles, Bermies linen shorts and shoes made from recycled rubber and organic cotton, available at JAKS Chatham
On boy: Ellsworth & Ivey sweater, available at JAKS Chatham; market basket from Bali, available at Chatham Dress Code
Chatham Fish Pier’s New Observation Deck
On dad: Sharkbite shirt and Quiksilver hybrid shorts
On mom: Sharkbite shirt, NYDJ jeans and Charleston shoes
On sisters: Sharkbite shirts, Mayoral leggings, Native shoes and Wee Ones bows
On little brother: Sharkbite shirt, Mayoral leggings.
All available at Chatham Clothing Bar and Chatham T Kids
Catching All the Action
Pedal Power
Chase Park
On dad: Long-sleeve button-down shirt and shorts from Southern Tide
On big sister: Sleeveless polo shirt and blue gingham shorts from Classic Prep Childrenswear, available at Puritan Cape Cod
On little sister: Classic Prep Childrenswear dress, available at Puritan Cape Cod
On mom: Brodie fine cashmere sweater paired with Tribal white jeans with frayed hem, available at Sundance Clothing
Rope bracelet from Pig & Hen, available at Puritan Cape Cod
Bicycles courtesy of Wheelhouse Bike Co. LLC
Flying Solo
Brodie fine cashmere sweater paired with Tribal white jeans with frayed hem, available at Sundance Clothing
Chatham
Chase Park
On mom: Vineyard Vines dress
On sisters: Classic Prep Childrenswear dresses
On dad: Vineyard Vines polo shirt, shorts and belt
On little brother: Classic Prep Childrenswear gingham romper.
All available at Puritan Cape Cod
Canvas tote bag available at Chatham Threadworks
Custom chairs available at Cape Cod Beach Chair Company
Picnic basket available at Simpler Pleasures
A Memorable
Family Picnic
Matching at the Mill
Godfrey Windmill
On mom: Lilly Pulitzer South Ocean high-rise skinny jeans in resort white and Willa flounce-sleeve top in Treasure Trove print paired with Seaside Vibes necklace and McKim wedge sandal in gold metallic.
On daughters: Little Lilly classic shift dress in Treasure Trove print. All available at Lilly Pulitzer Anchor heart saks with dog, available at Chatham T Kids
CLOTHES
Chatham Clothing Bar
534 Main St., 508-945-5292 chathamclothingbar.com
Chatham Dress Code
585 Main St., 774-840-4937 chathamdresscode.com
Chatham T Kids
583 Main St., 508-945-3051 chathamclothingbar.com
JAKS Chatham
505 Main St., 508-348-1193 jakschatham.com
Lilly Pulitzer
483 Main St., 508-348-0106 lillypulitzer.com
Puritan Cape Cod
573 Main St., 508-945-0326 puritancapecod.com
Sara Campbell
578 Main St., 508-348-1702 saracampbell.com
Southern Tide 634 Main St., 508-348-5659 southerntide.com
MOKE
Moke America
West Springfield at Dean Auto 874 Memorial Ave. West Springfield, Mass. 413-733-7112 deanautosales.com
BICYCLES
Wheelhouse Bike Co. LLC 48 Crowell Road 774-840-4156 wheelhousebike.com
Get the Look
CUSTOM BEACH CHAIRS
Cape Cod Beach Chair Company 1150 Queen Anne Road East Harwich, 800-809-1750 capecodbeachchair.com
PICNIC BASKET
Simpler Pleasures 433 Main St., 508-945-4040 simplerpleasures.com
CANVAS TOTE BAG
Chatham Threadworks 400 Main St., 508-348-5179 chathamthreadworks.com
SPECIAL THANKS
Cynthia Nekvasil owner of the Moke
Dan Bergquist of Wheelhouse Bike Co. LLC for delivering bicycles to Chase Park
James Barnes Cape Abilities Farm Market
Steve Gennodie (pictured above) Owner of Chatham Pier Fish Market
Robin Rush For bringing her Goldendoodle, Skipper
Fresh lobsters arrive from the boat Persevere
# C hat h a
TRASH TO
Artist Scott Feen finds purpose and beauty in transforming reclaimed materials into one-of-a-kind pieces for businesses and homeowners.
F F
BY LISA CAVANAUGH | PORTRAITS BY DAN CUTRONA
rom his original gallery on Main Street to dozens of projects for local residents and businesses, craftsman and artist Scott Feen has long felt connected to the town of Chatham. “We have deep roots in Chatham,” says Feen, whose first workshop was located near Chatham Village Market, and later in Commerce Park. “Eventually, I needed a bigger property, so we ended up moving, but I still consider Chatham to be like home.”
Now based in Orleans, Feen’s Atlantic Workshop is where he takes raw, reclaimed materials— wood, glass, metal and more—and crafts them into striking pieces of utility and beauty. “We create bespoke furniture utilizing historically significant Cape Cod elements,” says Feen. “Every piece is unique and made with that family or business, and their specific space, needs and style, in mind.”
Feen was first inspired to work with resourced elements while he was working for a publishing company on the West Coast. “I was director of sales for Craft and Make magazines for O’Reilly Media, and that piqued my interest in the repurposing of things,” he says. “It was the whole reason I got into this.”
Scott Feen’s reclaimed pieces always spark meaningful and thoughtful conversation. “Every piece is unique and made with that family or business, or their specific space, needs and style, in mind,” says Feen, shown here creating custom table legs made from recycled aluminum at his Atlantic Workshop.
Upon returning to his native Massachusetts, Feen started his reclamation artistry after he saw homes being torn down, and high-quality, historic materials going to landfills. “It was a shame to see these items being thrown away so unceremoniously,” he says. “So, I began to gather and repurpose them.” Feen likes to use every type of material possible.
In his warehouse he has airplane wings, vintage chandeliers, pieces from JFK’s summer White House, sections of old lighthouses and iron and bronze from shipwrecks of the 1800s, just to name a few from his collection of artifacts. “All those pieces deserve respect,”
he says. “I try to use my creative eye to see their beauty and help tell their story about where they came from, and then incorporate them into their next life.”
Feen has created pieces for many businesses that line Main Street in Chatham, including Chatham Wayside Inn, where one of his distinctive tables resides, and Chatham Clothing Bar, for which he fashioned two multipurpose shelving units. “Sandy needed two smaller racks, almost like side tables, that would be about chest high,” he says, referring to Chatham Clothing Bar owner Sandra Wycoff. “I have an amazing, long-standing mutually respectful relationship with her, so I really enjoyed finding a solution to an underutilized corner in her shop.”
Feen created two separate pieces that can also clamp together and be rolled around the shop as needed. “They serve as full-display shelving for a trunk show or can be employed when the shop is used as a function space,” he says. “I love to make adaptable pieces and to help my clients find solutions.”
Feen has created pieces for many businesses that line Main Street, including the Chatham Wayside Inn, where one of his tables resides.
Feen’s handcrafted works of art include a wooden table commissioned for a boathouse—the side rails are teak boat rails from the Edward Gorey House and the wood top was repurposed from the bar at The Talkative Pig. At right, a metal hoop from an old horse hitch showcases design and function (“you can easily pick it up and move it.”) Below, a dramatic light fixture features a German surveyor’s tripod from the 1900s supporting a tugboat searchlight, and bronze portholes are given a second life on the legs of a table.
Walk a little farther down on Main Street, and you’ll discover Feen’s work at Mahi Gold Outfitters. Look up to see “Lobstahh Light,” a chandelier created from lobster traps. He also built a display from the stern of a sailboat and crafted wall accents like hand-cut sharks, ship embellishments and flip-down wood awnings throughout the store.
Feen also has been working recently on a residential project at a home located near the Eastward Ho! golf course. “I am in the midst of a year-long rehabilitation for a Chatham homeowner,” he says. “It began with one antique mantel and has expanded to an entire room.” Using reclaimed materials from both on and off Cape, Feen is helping his customer realize her vision for a music room that overlooks the golf course. “It is fun to work with people and accommodate their needs,” he says. “It truly makes me happy to assist them, and offer a concierge level of service for their project.”
While Feen does the majority of the work himself, for some of his larger projects he will bring in other expert craftspeople. “It helps to have talented subcontractors with different skills, such as a stonemason or
electrician, to bring in on a case-by-case basis,” he says. “It helps me exceed the expectations of my clients in every area: form, function and design aesthetic.”
As one of his favorite places on the Cape, Chatham is both the source and the repository of some of Feen’s most interesting finds. “I’ve made tables out of old wooden doors from St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church next to the Orpheum as well as reclaimed segments of the Mitchell River drawbridge,” he says. “I have pieces from an old Chatham light keeper’s home and materials from the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center.”
Ultimately, what Feen hopes is that, no matter where the stone, wood, glass or other intriguing element comes from, his finished products will be part of the future as well as the past. “It means something to me to put well-crafted items back out in the world and have people appreciate them,” he says. “I see them as the next generation of these materials, which can be modified throughout time.”
For more information, visit atlanticworkshop.com
Scott Feen has crafted a “Lobstahh Light” chandelier made from lobster traps and nautical wall accents at Mahi Gold Outfitters on Main Street.
Fresh
BY LISA CAVANAUGH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA CUMES
OFF THE BOAT
What’s better than fresh, local seafood? Buying it direct from the people who catch it. Last year, when the pandemic upended traditional markets, numerous Chatham fishermen pivoted to selling their catch right from the harbor to consumers. These direct sales programs proved popular enough to now have become a fun and reimagined way to buy your favorite fish and support local fishermen.
ChathamCooperativeHarvesters
Chatham Harvesters, a fishermen’s cooperative, was formed a few years ago with the mission to rejuvenate the regional seafood economy, ensure a fair price for family fishermen in Chatham and build community relationships. So when the opportunity to sell fresh seafood straight from the boats presented itself last year, the organization embraced the new opportunity to connect with consumers.
“We have previously done some direct sales with preordered weir-caught squid, mackerel, scup, butterfish and more,” says Shareen Davis, a fishing industry expert and consultant with Chatham Harvesters. “But last year, we saw how local fishermen were challenged
Fresh sea scallops are sold directly from the boat at Bridge Street, near Stage Harbor, thanks to this hard-working crew (from left to right): Luther Bates, F/V Joanne A III crewmen Jim Bremser and Cristian Amaru, Chatham Harvesters President Doug Feeney and Capt. Jason Amaru (Christian’s father).
by restaurant closures and the fish auction houses not running at peak capacity, so we implemented a way for consumers to directly source fresh fish from them.”
Davis worked with participating fishermen on obtaining the state permits for direct sales, created an online ordering system and launched a social media campaign. “It is a great program that supports the community,” says Davis. “Both the consumer and the fishermen benefit. Fishermen are getting fair pricing for their catch and customers are able to get good quality, healthy protein directly sourced from local waters.”
Participating fishermen landed their catch, such as sea scallops, at Bridge Street (near Stage Harbor) and an organized system was implemented for customers. Safety in all areas was a priority, says Davis. “We limited the number of customers at any time, staggered the pickups and insisted on masks and social distancing,
so everyone could feel safe while still making great connections with local fishermen.”
“People just loved coming down to the dock, getting their scallops, seeing the captain and talking to everyone,” says Davis, who was joined in the effort by volunteers, including Ginny Nickerson, another native Chatham resident. “Folks shared recipes, brought bouquets of flowers or fresh tomatoes from their gardens. It is a really nice community experience.”
With plans to continue direct sales in 2021, Davis says one of the additional benefits is consumers gaining a better understanding about the seafood they love. “People were really enthusiastic to learn about the fisheries,” says Davis. “Our direct sales customers are supporting a working waterfront. They value quality food and local availability and they end up knowing so much more about what goes into harvesting fresh seafood.”
“People just loved coming down to the dock, getting their scallops, seeing the captain and talking to everyone,” says fishing industry expert Shareen Davis, who was joined in the direct sales efforts by volunteers, including native Chatham resident Ginny Nickerson.
Chatham Shellfish Company
When restaurants across New England closed in early spring of 2020 because of Covid-19 restrictions, Stephen Wright, owner of Chatham Shellfish Company, knew he would have to adapt quickly. “We had to pivot away from our wholesale accounts to another sales channel,” he says. “We saw that people were still coming down to the Cape in droves from their city dwellings, and we had the opportunity to offer them fresh local shellfish directly.”
Selling product from a retail location on Barn Hill Road adjacent to the town landing on Oyster River meant that not only could Chatham Shellfish harvest off their own farm, but they could enable sales for other local fishermen. “We work with a select group and we were able to accommodate them as they started to get back to work—fishing for oysters, mussels, steamers and littlenecks.”
“It felt good to contribute to a local supply chain, by buying directly off boats and providing a very fresh product to consumers,” says Wright, who notes that shellfish needs to be purchased through a licensed seller, such as Chatham Shellfish.
“People that came down to purchase knew they were getting the freshest shellfish they could get in town,” he adds, “and they also knew they were helping local people whose businesses were severely impacted by
the pandemic.” Wright found that everyone was very supportive of the program, and open to trying new shellfish recipes and preparation methods. “We sold three different grades of our own oysters, and it was a good outlet to move our larger oysters.”
Chatham Shellfish Company chathamoysters.com
While their retail shop closed up after the holiday season, Wright is planning on returning to direct sales in the spring of 2021. “It is very popular, and hopefully we can also bring the oyster farm tours back,“ he says. “We are really grateful to the community and I hope the trend continues for all involved.”
At the Barn Hill Landing shanties, you can purchase fresh oysters, mussels, steamers and littlenecks. Mackenzie Cole, a student at Tabor Academy and daughter of Anthony Cole (executive chef at Chatham Bars Inn), assisted with shellfish sales at Chatham Shellfish Company last year. Mackenzie plans to return to the shanties this summer. The wooden platter and shucking block, made by Hold Fast Woodworking in Chatham, creates a unique presentation.
Chatham Lobsters
Visual and sculptural artist Faye Anderson was ready to expand the lobster business that she and her fiancé, commercial fisherman Brock Bobisink, had been running for four years by offering direct-from-thedock sales. “I eventually wanted that part to be what I focused on for the business instead of being a mate all the time on the boat,” says Anderson. “We decided to get the permit, but hadn’t quite started yet when Covid happened.”
Anderson and Bobisink quickly realized that sales avenues for their lobsters were shutting down, so as soon as they began catching lobster in the late
spring of 2020, they launched a social media push for customers. Working from the dock at Ryder’s Cove, Anderson quickly learned the ropes of direct sales, including building a better website, taking pre-orders, and hand picking lobsters for buyers. “On the boat, I knew what my orders were for the day, so I’d gauge the sizes—I got pretty good at that, in fact—put them aside in a cooler on board and then met the people at the end of the day at the dock.”
Eventually, she and Bobisink got an additional permit that allowed them to keep the lobsters in a refrigerated truck, making it easy to keep the lobsters fresh and
Mercy Reed, Brock Bobisink, Faye Anderson and her dad, Mike Anderson, sell fresh lobsters directly from their boat at Ryder’s Cove.
available for clients. “The whole process was really appealing to the customers,” says Anderson, whose father Mike Anderson is a longtime commercial fisherman. “I enjoy teaching people little things about lobsters. Kids were excited to learn how to tell a female from a male, and things like that. Being an artist, I’ve had to sell myself and my work, so I like being around people, and the lobster customers were all happy and appreciative.”
She notes that the life of a fisherman and the life of an artist are not dissimilar in that they generally work by themselves. Anderson also found that the direct lobster sales helped keep her busy during a tough time in the art world. “Last year, all the art shows were canceled, so I was happy to turn my sights to the lobster business, especially the website and communication end of things. I was able to use my own photography on our website and combine my two passions.”
She and Bobisink—who focuses on the other end of the hard work, i.e., running the boat—are looking forward to keeping the direct sales going indefinitely. “I really enjoy it and so do the people who get incredibly fresh, off-the-boat lobsters from us.”
Ethan Swenson, age 12, shares the lobster love by occasionally helping out his mom, Faye, and the rest of the crew on the boat.
Chatham Lobsters chathamlobsters.com
PHOTOS BY FAYE ANDERSON
YOUR GATEWAY TO
Greatest Tasting Oysters On Earth
OYSTER CSA
COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AQUACULTURE
The CSA mini-season includes 42 specially selected rotating local Cape Cod oysters! Scan the QR Code with your smart phone’s camera to learn more!
PLACE YOUR ORDER SHELLFISHBROKER.COM
95 Commerce Park # 5 South Chatham, MA 02659 Cape Cod, U.S.A
Ocean
EDITED
BY
LISA LEIGH CONNORS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA CUMES
Portuguese Steamed Littlenecks from Del Mar Bar & Bistro
to
Table
Five chefs at Chatham restaurants share delicious recipes inspired by locally caught seafood.
After buying your favorite seafood directly from the dock, how should you prepare it? We approached chefs at Del Mar Bar & Bistro, Chatham Bars Inn, Wild Goose Tavern, Pisces and Pate’s to serve up some innovative ideas. From roasted scallops and Mediterranean fisherman’s stew to mussels Dijon and lobster ravioli, there’s something for every home chef! Bon appétit!
Mussels Dijon & Portuguese Steamed Littlenecks
Recipes from Chef Maria Pollio | Del Mar Bar & Bistro
Mussels Dijon
Ingredients
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 to 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 2 medium shallots, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• Half a lemon
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons whole grain mustard
• 2/3 cup white wine
• 2 pounds of local mussels, scrubbed and debearded
• ½ cup heavy cream
• A good pinch of chopped mixed fresh herbs (I use parsley, thyme and oregano)
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh scallions to garnish
Directions
1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a pot with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Add garlic and shallots and sauté until soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in the butter, lemon half, both mustards and white wine.
3. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Add mussels and cover. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mussels have opened.
4. Add the heavy cream, fresh herbs, and salt and pepper; simmer until slightly reduced. Discard any mussels that do not open. Discard lemon half.
5. Divide evenly among two bowls and garnish with curly scallions. To curl scallions, julienne and put in ice water. Enjoy with good crusty bread.
Serves 2 (as an appetizer)
Portuguese Steamed Littlenecks
(pictured on opening pages)
Ingredients
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 ounces linguica sausage, sliced on the bias
• 3 medium shallots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flake, if desired for more heat
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 medium to large vine ripe tomato, diced
• 2 dozen local littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
• 1 cup white wine
• Half a lemon
• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (parsley, oregano and thyme)
• Linguine pasta, or similar, cooked al dente
Directions
1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a pot with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Add the linguica and cook until lightly browned.
3. Toss in the shallots, garlic, pepper flakes (if desired) and butter. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes, clams, white wine and lemon. Increase heat to high and cover. Cook until clams open, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove open clams and place into a separate bowl so they don’t overcook. Discard any clams that do not open and discard lemon half.
5. Stir in the fresh herbs and cooked pasta to rewarm and soak up some of the sauce.
6. Add the open clams back to the pot to rewarm.
7. Divide pasta, clams and linguica evenly among two bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon. Enjoy with good crusty bread.
Serves 2 as a main course
Del Mar Bar & Bistro, 907 Main St., 508-945-9988, delmarbistro.com
Fricassee of Chatham Oysters
Recipe from Chef Chris Jenkins | Chatham Bars Inn
Ingredients
• 20 Chatham oysters (scrubbed and rinsed)
Burgundy Cream Sauce
• 2 teaspoons butter and 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
• 2 teaspoons shallots, minced
• ¼ teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 cup white burgundy wine
• ¼ teaspoon white wine vinegar
• 1½ cup heavy cream
• 2 pinches saffron
• ¼ cup leek (whites only), cut in ½-inch rounds and blanched
• 2 ounces fresh chanterelle mushrooms, cleaned
• 1 cup Tuscan kale, cut in 1-inch pieces and blanched
• Fresh lemon juice, to taste
• Salt and ground white pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoon chives, finely sliced
Garnish
• 1 ounce trout roe*
• 12 each pickled chanterelle mushrooms**
• 20 sheep sorrel leaves
Directions
1. Carefully shuck the oysters into a small bowl and reserve oyster “liquor.”
2. To make the sauce, start by sweating the shallots and garlic in 2 teaspoons of butter until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the wine and vinegar and reduce over high heat until 1 tablespoon of liquid remains. Add the heavy cream and saffron, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat once sauce has boiled. Keep warm.
3. In a small pan, sauté the mushrooms in 2 tablespoons of butter for 1 to 2 minutes, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper, then add to sauce. Next, add the kale and leeks to the sauce and bring to a boil again. Add oysters and turn heat down to very low. Warm the oysters in the sauce for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become slightly firm, but not cooked through.
4. Season to taste with lemon juice and add more salt and pepper, if needed. Add chives to the sauce.
To Serve
In four warm bowls, use a spoon to place five oysters in each dish. Spoon some of the cream sauce evenly among the bowls. Garnish with a scattering of trout roe, three pickled chanterelle mushrooms and five pieces of sheep sorrel. Serve warm with toasted baguettes.
*Trout roe is available at Browne Trading Company (brownetrading.com)
**Chanterelles are available seasonally at D’Artagnan (dartagnan.com)
Serves 4 as an appetizer
Chatham Bars Inn offers several dining options, including Stars, The Sacred Cod, Beach House Grill and The Veranda, 297 Shore Road, 508-945-0096, chathambarsinn.com
Lobster “OD’’
A fan favorite at the Wild Goose Tavern, located at the Chatham Wayside Inn
Prepared by Chef Versel
Johnson
Ingredients
• 20 medium-sized lobster and ricotta raviolis*
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped shallots (about 2 large)
• 2 tablespoons chopped garlic (2 to 3 cloves)
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into ½-inch pieces
• 12 grape tomatoes cut in half (baby heirlooms recommended)
• ¼ cup white wine
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 pound lobster meat
• 2 ears of cooked corn, shaved
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
1. Cook the raviolis per instructions on package.
2. Heat olive oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Add asparagus and tomatoes and sauté another few minutes until tomatoes start to blister.
4. Add wine and reduce by half.
5. Add cream, lobster and corn. Bring pan to a low simmer. Add cheese and stir until sauce thickens to desired consistency.
6. Toss in raviolis to heat and divide into bowls.
Serves: 4 to 5
* Fresh lobster ravioli is available at Mac’s Chatham Fish & Lobster. You can also purchase fresh shrimp and lobster ravioli by RANA, sold in the dairy section at Chatham Village Market.
The Wild Goose Tavern, located at the Chatham Wayside Inn 512 Main St., Chatham, 508-945-5590, wildgoosetavern.com
Mediterranean Fisherman’s Stew
Recipe by Sue Connors | Chef/co-owner of Pisces Restaurant & Bar
This recipe should be done in stages. The first step is to purchase fresh local lobsters, cook and pick them, and then set aside the shells for stock. The second stage is to make the broth. Once you complete these first two stages, you are ready to prepare the seafood, fresh aromatics and stew! The fisherman’s stew is a versatile dish that can be adjusted to your taste. It is gluten-free, alcohol-free and has very little fat (only cooking oil).
Broth
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon blended oil
• 1 quart lobster stock*
• ½ cup fresh tomatoes, large dice
• ½ cup Spanish onions, medium dice
• ½ jalapeño seeded, small dice (more or less depending on how hot the peppers are)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup canned tomatoes in juice (San Marzano recommended)
Directions
1. In a medium-size pot or straightsided sauté pan (3 to 4 quarts), heat oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook onions and jalapeños, add tomato paste; cook out tomato paste for about a minute.
3. Add canned tomato in juice, fresh tomatoes and lobster stock.
4. Simmer for 30 to 45 minutes.
5. Cool. Set aside.
* Lobster stock recipe available on our website, chathamlivingmag.com
Prepare your seafood
• 8 sea scallops (foot/muscle removed)
• Lobster meat from one 1½ pound cooked fresh lobster or approximately 8 ounces of fresh lobster meat cut into 1- to 2-ounce pieces.
• 12 ounces hake or other white fish, such as cod or haddock, cut into 4 even pieces (ask for a loin cut or “Captain’s” cut.)
• 20 mussels, scrubbed and rinsed (local mussels or PEI mussels)
• 8 littleneck clams (you can steam these open ahead of time and add them at the end to heat through)
Prepare your fresh aromatics
• ¼ cup diced fresh tomatoes
• 8 round slices of jalapeño pepper (more or less depending on heat)
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped cilantro
• 4 white corn tortillas (warm or grill until crisp)
• 4 wedges of lime (garnish)
• Sprigs of cilantro washed and dry on paper towels (garnish)
Additional items needed:
• 1½ tablespoons blended oil
• Kosher salt
• Fresh ground black pepper
Prepare your stew
1. Heat 4-quart straight-sided sauté pan over medium/high heat. Once pan is hot, add the blended oil.
2. Start by adding the scallops and hake. Sear on both sides turning only once. Remove scallops from pan. Keep warm.
3. Add littleneck clams, mussels, diced tomato, sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Sauté for about a minute, then add prepared broth.
4. Cover and simmer until clams and mussels open.
5. Add cooked lobster meat and seared scallops. Cover and cook for another minute to heat through.
6. Remove cover and finish with fresh chopped cilantro.
7. Divide stew among four shallow bowls. Place clams and mussels first, then hake and shellfish. Ladle broth over seafood. Add tortilla and garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro sprigs. Serves 4
Pisces Restaurant and Bar, 2653 Main St., South Chatham, 508-432-4600, piscesofchatham.com
Shells are available in two sizes at The Cook's Nook Chatham
Roasted Scallops with creamed corn, crispy potatoes, chili oil and basil
Recipe by Chef Anthony Silvestri
Pate’s Restaurant
Ingredients
Creamed corn:
• 2 pounds fresh corn, grated off the cob
• ½ cup onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup grated Romano cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup olive oil
• 4 pounds large scallops, cleaned of the side muscle
• Chili oil, as needed
• ½ cup chopped basil
• Fried or baked julienned potato strings
Directions
1. Place all ingredients for the creamed corn, except the cheese, into a saucepan and cook for about 15 minutes over medium heat. If it gets too dry, add a little water as needed. When finished, stir in the cheese and keep warm.
2. Heat olive oil in medium saucepan and cook the scallops for a minute on each side. Do this in two to three batches so the scallops achieve a nice, golden color. Place the scallops on top of the creamed corn, and finish the dish with fried or baked julienned potato strings, chili oil and fresh basil.
Serves 6-8
Pate’s, 1260 Main St., 508-945-9777, patesrestaurant.com
A
REIMAGINED
BY LISA CAVANAUGH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN CUTRONA AND GREG PREMRU
“I had never seen any place so beautiful,”
says Ellen Blasio, of the first time she experienced Chatham more than 30 years ago, when her thenfiancé, Rob Blasio, first introduced her to the town. “I was coming to Massachusetts to meet Rob’s family, and he took me to the Captain’s House Inn, which was so lovely.” Despite Ellen’s Midwestern roots, and careers that took the couple to Texas, they became determined to make Chatham part of their lives.
“We rented here off and on for decades, and the boys grew up looking forward to visiting in the summer,” says Ellen. “When we finally decided to invest in a second home, we knew it would be in Chatham.”
The Blasios found an available property in early 2017, a uniquely designed structure that offered one of the things Ellen had on her wish list—a view of the water.
RETREAT
A couple’s small remodeling project morphs into a major renovation of their uniquely designed Chatham home.
“I needed to see water from at least one room, even just a sliver,” she says, “and this house had a view of Stage Harbor from the roof deck.”
For Rob, the home presented some very interesting possibilities. “It wasn’t a traditional Cape,” he says. “There wasn’t a single square room in the house. It almost seemed like a chalet in Vermont. It was very cool and different.”
But after a year or two of living seasonally in the home, the Blasios decided they wanted to make a few changes. “The kitchen was raised up by a step, and we wanted to make it level. That is how the whole renovation started—with the plan to lower our kitchen counter,” says Rob.
They reached out to the team at SV Design, a fully integrated architecture, interior design and landscape
CHATHAM LIVING BY THE SEA
Homeowners Ellen and Rob Blasio, with their sons Andrew and Mitchell, and dog Riley, enjoy some family time together on their newly renovated front deck.
DAN CUTRONA
design company with locations in Chatham and Beverly, to complete what they thought would be a simple project.
“When I first met the Blasios, the plan was to address the island in the kitchen,” says SV Design associate principal Leslie Schneeberger, AIA, who runs the Cape Cod office and spearheaded the design of the Blasios’ house, along with architectural project manager Katelyn Manfredo. “But once we looked at the home as a whole, we discovered many other areas they wanted to improve upon.”
Schneeberger felt that the home, which was done in a quasi-prairie style not often found on the Cape, had great potential. “It was a really creative house, and we loved the essence of the style, but we found some spots in the interior that had been unrealized.”
The project then morphed into a major renovation, with plans for opening up some aspects of the inside while defining other spaces within the home. “The original home was very open-concept and the Blasios found that sound transferred from floor to floor,” says Schneeberger. “So while we didn’t want to close it down completely, we implemented partitions and new ceilings to modify certain rooms and created a new, more peaceful aesthetic.”
A variety of textures and elements, from stone and glass to metal and wood, are layered throughout the house. Custom stained-glass roundels, designed by Daniel Maher of Cambridge, allow light to pass through this pocket door from the entry space to the mudroom. The colors and textures were inspired by the ocean.
The design team tackled not only the creation of a private office on the third floor, but also a redo of the master suite, adding a walk-in closet and larger bath by closing in part of a second-floor hallway. “We found that we were successful in filling back in some of the negative space,” says Schneeberger.
The project also included a complete renovation of the kitchen, designed by Hyannis-based Classic Kitchens & Interiors. The entire space was reworked, including lowering the kitchen down a step to align with the main level. The redesign improved the flow with the adjacent living area and offered more flexibility to the layout. “The overall style changed to a more modern and bright feel,” says Ishelle Collins, designer for Classic Kitchens & Interiors. “We also took advantage of the high ceilings and stacked additional wall cabinets for more storage,” says Collins. The Blasios, who love to cook, requested smart storage, ample counter space, paneled appliances to blend with the cabinetry and seating at the island.
“We are so glad we ultimately went with the largescale renovation,” says Ellen. “The flow is so much more cohesive for us. We also lightened up the interior with white paint, which made it feel more ‘Cape Coddy’ as well.”
“The redesign really created more peace and quiet throughout the house,” adds Rob. “What I find amazing about the space is that depending on the season, the light changes from month to month. There are so many windows now, and the result is incredible.”
An entirely new interior entryway, created out of what had previously been a front porch, offers a welcoming atmosphere. Now the residents have a dedicated foyer, and no longer walk directly into the living space. With the addition of some local art, including pieces from The Nines Art Gallery, Focus Gallery, All Points Beautiful and Addison Art Gallery, the Blasios have turned their unique home into their perfect Chatham retreat.
Classic Kitchens & Interiors reworked the entire kitchen space, including lowering the kitchen down a step to align with the main level. The redesign improved the flow with the adjacent living area and offered more flexibility to the layout. At left, the design team created a light-filled dining room.
“We are close to town, but also feel nicely isolated,” says Rob. “We love to be here not only in the summer, but also for the holidays whenever we can. It is always so relaxing.”
Ellen, who first learned to love Chatham as a visitor, now feels completely at home in her adopted town. “The house gives us such a feeling of calm and peacefulness,” she says. “We just love being here and enjoying the beauty of the Cape, and now we feel we can enjoy it so much more in our reimagined home.”
“The redesign really created more peace and quiet throughout the house,” says homeowner Rob Blasio. “What I find amazing about the space, is that depending on the season, the light changes from month to month. There are so many windows now, and the result is incredible.”
Addison Art Gallery 43 South Orleans Road, Orleans 508-255-6200
addisonart.com
All Points Beautiful 595 Main St., Chatham 508-280-6228 allpointsbeautiful.com
The Chatham Home 443 Main St., Chatham 508-945-5562 thechathamhome.com
Daniel Maher Stained Glass 147 Sherman St., Cambridge 617-864-0989
Focus Gallery
595 Main St., Chatham 781-588-2523
thefocusgalleries.com
The Grey House 515 Route 28, Harwich Port 774-237-0052
thegreyhouse.design
Mark August 490 Main St., Chatham 508-945-4545
markaugust.com
The Nines Art Gallery 562 Main St., Harwich Port, 215-429-6993
theninesartgallery.com
Stringe Gallery Art & Antiques
2896 Main St., Brewster 508-896-5946
stringegallery.com
DAN CUTRONA
The roof deck offers views of Stage Harbor.
The Chatham Chamber of Commerce & Merchants Association promote, advocate, and support local businesses and the Chatham community. We are proud to continue the tradition of annual & seasonal events. Please visit www.chathaminfo.com often for scheduled events, updated dates and times, and much more Chatham info.
When you apply 23-carat gold leaf on a sign, “you have a sign that glistens,” says Bob Lacy of Chatham Sign Shop.
Custom-made quarterboards from Chatham Sign Shop add a personal touch to properties locally—and around the world.
Who hasn’t had a chuckle when spying a witty quarterboard around town? In his 31 years at the helm of Chatham Sign Shop, Bob Lacy has filled countless orders for unique and clever quarterboards that grace homes, boats, garages and carriage houses in Chatham—and around the world.
“Chatham is unique in that when ships went aground in the shoals, some locals would take the ships’ quarterboards,” explains Lacy. “They would often hang them on their barns as a souvenir from the wreck of the so-and-so ship.” While originally crafted to adorn sea vessels, custom-made quarterboards have become
increasingly popular on terra firma with homeowners looking to add a uniquely personal touch to their properties. “The focus has shifted to the home like never before,” says Lacy. “We’re going gangbusters.”
Until recent times, quarterboards were hand-carved. However, these days Lacy and his staff utilize a computerized router, enhancing productivity while relieving the potential for repetitive injury such as carpel tunnel syndrome. Innovations in computer software also make the design process more expansive, enabling intricate customization. But while technology plays a role, Lacy credits his skilled employees with
BY MARJORIE PITTS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA CUMES
Chatham Sign Shop’s high-quality craftsmanship. Much of the rendering, painting and finishing is still done by hand by his wife, Debbie, while her son, Harley Gardner, preps the signs and programs the router for carving.
“The people we have are all terrific, each with their own expertise,” says Lacy of his staff. “We’re really lucky.”
With a wide variety of available embellishments, including customized designs, the most popular quarterboard motifs are the scallop shell and the pineapple, with the scallop shell reflecting Chatham’s
symbiotic relationship with the sea, and the image of a pineapple traditionally signaling a seaman’s welcome to visitors when home from sea.
Images and carvings of whales and mermaids are also top sellers. When it comes to color, black remains the favored quarterboard hue just ahead of blue, and gold leaf reigns supreme for lettering and borders. “It’s 23-carat gold, which is almost pure,” explains Lacy. “We lay it down carefully in a process called gilding, and when you put it on a sign, you have a sign that glistens.”
Debbie and Bob Lacy have fulfilled custom-made orders on every continent except Antarctica. Their dog, Sailor, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, often works by Debbie’s side inside Chatham Sign Shop while she puts the finishing touches on the quarterboards.
A custom quarterboard from Chatham Sign Shop adds charm and character to a home. The most popular signs feature wordplay with coastalinspired phrases and a variation of family names.
Black remains the favorite quarterboard hue, just ahead of blue, and gold leaf reigns supreme for lettering and borders.
Some of the most popular signs feature wordplay with coastal terms, such as Fantasea, Sandy Bottoms, Seas the Day and Sea’renity Now. Quarterboards with family names—or a variation thereof—are also frequently commissioned, including Beach Howes and Happy Ours. Homeowners also enjoy quarterboards featuring clever puns or inside jokes. Examples include A Cardiac Rest, Naps on the Beach, The Buck Stops Here, and He Gave Inn—Again! “I remember an older couple who were remarrying later in life. They had both recently gone through divorces and wanted a sign,” Lacy recalls
with a chuckle. “I made them one that says ‘Eat, Drink, and Remarry’—they loved it!”
Another humorous example Lacy recalls is when a family with four boys and one girl came in and ordered a quarterboard featuring the family name and carvings of four nautical buoys. Lacy remembers the mother’s distress at symbolically leaving their daughter out of the design. However, he had a surprise for the family when they came back for their finished sign. Recounts Lacy, “Lo and behold: There was a gull flying over the four buoys!”
Beyond the borders of Chatham—and well beyond the Cape Cod Canal—quarterboards and other signs crafted at Lacy’s shop have made their way to homes and businesses throughout the U.S. and the world. From a wildlife preserve on Padre Island, Texas, to a steak house in São Paulo, to a hotel in Oslo, and countless other businesses and private residences in between, “We’ve got signs on every continent except Antarctica,” says Lacy. He credits the broad scope of his client base to Chatham’s ability to attract visitors—and therefore customers—from around the country and the world.
Chatham Sign Shop
40 Kent Place
508-945-1909
chathamsignshop.com
“It’s testament to the destination that Chatham has become for travelers,” says Lacy. “And once they’re here, people want to take home a remembrance.” With a combination of historic, regional and individual flair, a custom quarterboard from Chatham Sign Shop is the ultimate way to take home a piece of Chatham. Now that’s a good sign!
Harley Gardner, Debbie Lacy’s son, preps the signs and programs the router for carving.
HAND-HOOKED & WASHABLE RUGS • HOME DECOR
BRING HOME THE BEAUTY OF CLAIRE’S CLASSIC DESIGNS HOOKED & WASHABLE RUGS • QUILTS • TABLEWARE • TOTES • PILLOWS
VISIT OUR NEWEST LOCATION... CHATHAM!
The Claire Murray “Seashell Medallion” Hooked Rug Collection
ChathamPaintingHistory,
ONE HOUSE AT A TIME
BY
CAROL K. DUMAS PORTRAIT BY JULIA CUMES
Above, her
Artist Maryalice Eizenberg, who lives in a 19th-century home on Main Street, is drawn to painting historic houses in Chatham and says there are endless possibilities.
painting “Porch Time” captures an iconic home (circa 1850) near Chatham Light.
Maryalice Eizenberg is on a mission to paint Chatham’s historic homes. With more than 300 properties located in the Old Village National Register Historic District (established in 2001), her work speaks to her affection for older houses. This is no surprise since she lives in a 19th-century structure herself.
A Chatham resident since 1972, Eizenberg grew up an only child in Western Massachusetts in a family focused on music. Her extended family included a number of professional and amateur musicians. Young Maryalice, however, was drawn to the visual arts. “There was something magical about creating reality on a flat surface,” she recalls.
Her parents recognized her talent and enrolled her in private study. She studied at the Worcester Art Museum as part of a consortium system with Clark University, where she was a full-time student. After moving to Cape Cod, Eizenberg participated in countless workshops, studying with a number of contemporary masters.
In a recent interview, she discussed her historic home project, the inspiration behind her work and her painting style and process.
How did this Chatham project begin?
We bought Chatham’s historic Hawes House (c. 1815–1892) in 1978. My husband and I operated an antique shop and bookstore for many years. We both have a deep appreciation of the past. We were fascinated by the history of our house and the houses around us in the Old Village. The series has been quite popular with collectors.
I love finding out about the history of each house. For example, Trellis is a classic Chatham home built in the mid-1800s for Capt. Alpheus Mayo, his wife and their five children. Mayo was a master fisherman who spent time on the Grand Banks and waters off Nantucket until he became the first keeper of the Chatham Life-Saving Station. Eventually, Capt. Joseph Bloomer, married to Adelaide Bloomer from Nova Scotia, bought the house. Bloomer was the top surfman at Monomoy Point Life
The Porches, oil, 20x20 The structure now known as “The Porches,” was built in 1858 and once served as a dry goods store maintained by Mary Gusta Young, the subject of Joseph Lincoln’s Mary Gusta. Renovations eventually transformed the building into an admirable summer cottage. “The way the morning sun lights up the house and the Mill Pond winks through the porch, have delighted me for years,” says Eizenberg. “This is one of the many lovely buildings whose history can give everyone a glimpse into the fascinating past of Chatham.”
What inspires you as an artist?
I am inspired by the way light falls across and shines on objects and the landscape. The emotional impact created often suggests a narrative that I strive to share with the viewer. Patterns and color create mood, and mood can begin a story that each viewer finishes and makes their own. A bend in the road or a tidal creek can take you to a place of safety and peace, a place where you can nestle in and take a breath.
Maryalice Eizenberg is represented by Addison Art Gallery, 43 South Orleans Road, Orleans, 508-255-6200, addisonart.com
Saving Station in 1902. After he died, Adelaide married Daniel McKinley, a carpenter from Ireland. After McKinley passed, Adelaide sold the house in 1939 to the Billings family who made major renovations.
Like most of the Old Village, this house was part of the change from a maritime community to a neighborhood of summer residents and retirees happy amid their stunning gardens.
How would you describe your painting style?
I am an impressionist. I strive to quickly capture the impression that light makes as it falls across a subject. While I love color, my work hangs intrinsically on the patterns of light and dark that fit together like a puzzle. In my painting of “The Porches,” the way the morning sun lights up the house, and the Mill Pond winks through the porch, has delighted me for years. This is one of the many lovely buildings whose history can give everyone a glimpse into the fascinating past of Chatham.
Trellis’s appealing, minute footprint faces the rising sun streaming through the leaves producing an intriguing, dappled pattern. The softness is a gentle welcome home.
was a master fisherman who spent time on the Grand Banks and waters off Nantucket until he became the keeper of the Chatham Life Saving Station. Like most of the Old Village, this house was part of the change from a maritime community to a neighborhood of summer residents and retirees.
Sunny Geometry, oil, 20x20 The morning sun lights up this historic home (circa 1838) on Main Street in Chatham Village. “While I love color, my work hangs intrinsically on the patterns of light and dark that fit together like a puzzle,” says artist Maryalice Eizenberg.
Trellis, oil, 24x24 This classic Chatham home was built in the mid-1800s for Capt. Alpheus Mayo, his wife and their five children. Mayo
The prolific and best-selling author of historical novels discusses his latest work, his love for this beautiful seaside town, exploring the open water on his 35-foot sailboat and his passion for the theater.
BY DAVE KINDY
he back deck is bathed in sunlight, offering a soothing warmth on this early summer day. A gentle breeze rustles the leaves of the tall oaks that surround the property. Just off the deck, the sound of water splashing into a large koi pond with bright orange fish slowly swimming by sends out the sweet sound of serenity.
Sitting here, it’s easy to see why Bernard Cornwell adores his home in Chatham. The best-selling author of several historical novel series about England and America is completely at ease and relaxed in this tranquil setting.
“What’s not to love?” asks the bewhiskered and bespectacled Englishman as he gently smiles and lights up a cheroot. “It’s a beautiful town and we have a boat. It’s a great place to sail and a wonderful place to live.”
Cornwell and his wife, Judy, have lived in Chatham at least half of the year for the past 35 years. They bought a small Cape not far from the harbor, renovated and added on to it, then purchased the house next door and connected the two. Their expansive home is comfortably modern, tastefully decorated and features an indoor lap pool.
“Judy swims, I don’t,” Cornwell says wryly. “I take the dog for walks.”
The peaceful surroundings of their home stand in sharp contrast to the death and destruction Cornwell conjures up in his novels. He writes mostly about men at war, serving God and King to protect the empire, fighting in some of the bloodiest combat imaginable. Two of his popular fictional history series—“The Last Kingdom” and “Richard Sharpe”—have been made into highly acclaimed television shows, the former currently running on Netflix and the latter premiered on PBS and BBC about 25 years ago.
Cornwell began writing historical novels about England after he and Judy wed nearly 40 years ago. It was the second time around for both of them. His American wife wanted to remain close to her children from a previous marriage in the United States. Since Cornwell was unable to get a work visa, the former journalist started writing tales of brave heroes locked in deadly combat throughout history.
Sitting with the author on his back deck is a treat. With a devil-may-care glint in his eye, Cornwell glibly tells tales about his past and history in general, quoting Shakespeare and other famous literary masters at will, injecting invectives where necessary and feigning Scottish and New “Joisey” accents to liven the narrative. He is a gifted storyteller who easily transports readers and listeners to another world of intrigue and challenge.
Cornwell, with his dog, Whiskey, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, enjoys life on the water at his Chatham home. The author recently completed “War Lord,” his final installment for “The Last Kingdom” series.
“I love history,” he says. “And I love telling stories. It’s not a bad fate. I’ve made a living at it.”
To say the least. In the past four decades, the prolific author has published more than 50 novels, several short stories and one nonfiction book about the Battle of Waterloo. He is best known for “The Saxon Stories”—redubbed “The Last Kingdom” after the popular Netflix adaptation—about England’s founding by Alfred the Great, as well as for the “Sharpe” series about an English soldier in the Napoleonic Wars. In
addition, he wrote “The Warlord Chronicles,” a threebook series about Arthurian Britain.
Cornwell has also written novels about American history, including the “Starbuck Chronicles,” which follows the exploits of a Northern man who fights for the South in the Civil War; “The Fort,” a novel about the Penobscot Expedition during the American Revolution; and “Redcoat,” which tells the story of Valley Forge from the British point of view.
Bernard
The author recently completed “War Lord,” his final installment for “The Last Kingdom” series, published by Harper Collins in the fall of 2020. For his next novel, Cornwell turns his attention to familiar territory: Richard Sharpe. He plans to write another book in the saga following the hero as he marches victoriously into Paris after the French defeat in Belgium in 1815.
When not conjuring storylines about the Battle of Waterloo or Medieval England, Cornwell and his wife
are captivated by the charm of Chatham. Early in their marriage, they traveled frequently between Great Britain and America. A chance visit to this Cape Cod community served as a siren’s beckoning to settle on these shores.
“I think Chatham selected us,” he recalls. “We were living in England at the time. One of Judy’s sons was getting married and we had a friend who lived here and he said, come on up after the wedding before you go back to England. It’s a nice town. We decided to look
PHOTOS BY MICHAEL & SUZ KARCHMER
around and see if we could afford anything. We found this place and said, ‘What the hell?’”
The Cornwells’ second home is in Charleston, S.C. They reside in this beautiful Southern city lined with palmetto trees from late fall through early spring before returning to Cape Cod.
There are two other passions that keep the author coming to Chatham each year: sailing and theater. Cornwell is an avid sailor; when not writing or telling stories, you can find him on his beloved Seraph, a 35-foot Beneteau. The sailboat is named after another vessel he sailed across the Atlantic: Seraphim.
“It was at least a year before I realized it was an anagram of Sharpe,” he says with a grin.
To say sailing is one of Cornwell’s loves is an understatement. He talks about Seraph as if she were an old lover, waiting patiently for him to return to her arms. Being on the open water under sail is as much a part of Cornwell’s nature as writing or telling stories. He even wrote a series of four suspense thrillers involving sailing.
Cornwell also loves tripping the footlights. For the past 10 years, he has explored another side of his
Bernard Cornwell has performed in several productions at Monomoy Theatre (left to right), including Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” and “As You Like It” and Neil Simon’s “The Good Doctor.” He hopes the theater will open again soon. “My God, I hope it does,” he says. “We just need it back.”
talent by acting and occasionally writing scripts for the Monomoy Theatre. He has performed in several productions, including Neil Simon’s “The Good Doctor” and Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.”
Right now, he is concerned Monomoy Theatre may not survive. The Chatham playhouse closed in 2019 while a new owner works on development plans for the site, which may include a new performance venue. Cornwell and other performers planned to put on an abbreviated schedule of productions at another location, but that effort was sidelined by the pandemic. Now the author and sometimes thespian is hopeful the theater will just open again soon.
“My God, I hope it does,” he exclaims. “We need it back.”
If not, well—all the world’s a stage. Cornwell will continue to write his novels of high drama and heroes in search of epic causes while enjoying the charming community of Chatham.
“We love Del Mar Bar & Bistro,” he says. “Chatham Wine Bar is always worth a visit. It’s probably the best. We’ll take a walk along the waterfront or go for a sail. It’s wonderful here.”
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
MAY 7 ATWOOD MUSEUM OPENING DAY The museum will be open 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through the month of May. Summer hours will be 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Tuesday–Saturday, from June 1 to Oct. 9. Four time slots will be available each day; reservations are required. Atwood Museum, 347 Stage Harbor Rd., 508-945-2493, chathamhistoricalsociety.org
MAY 24 MUSEUM MONDAY AT THE ATWOOD
The Atwood Museum is excited to collaborate with the Cape Cod Museum Trail for Museum Mondays, a new program offering free admission to participating museums on Mondays during the month of May. The Atwood Museum will be participating 10 a.m.–4 p.m. May 24. For reservations and additional information, visit chathamhistoricalsociety.org. For a complete list of participating museums, visit capecodmuseumtrail.com
JUNE 13 OPENING DAY AT VETERANS FIELD Play ball! The Chatham Anglers will host the Orleans Firebirds at 7 p.m. The Cape Cod Baseball League has been working hard in the off-season to implement safety protocols. For a complete schedule, visit capecodbaseball.org
JUNE 25–AUG. 20 ART IN THE PARK Colorful whales designed by local artists will be on display on the front lawn of Kate Gould Park. Visitors can also “hunt” for oars customized by local artists in the shops and businesses from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Each person turning in a completed booklet will receive a prize. Scavenger hunt booklets are available at the Chatham Chamber booth on Main Street. The whales and oars will be auctioned to benefit the Chatham Chamber of Commerce and Merchants Association, whose mission is to promote the town of Chatham and the interests of its retail members. echatham.com/chathamartinthepark.net/
TUESDAY TALKS AT THE ATWOOD (monthly throughout the year) Join the Atwood for its virtual lectures series featuring an array of interesting speakers. All talks begin at 5 p.m. and reservations are required. The cost is $10 for non-members, free for members. Visit chathamhistoricalsociety.org for a complete list of speakers and dates.
Please check each organization’s website and social media pages for updated information.
MICHAEL & SUZ KARCHMER
ART IN THE PARK - JUNE 25-AUG. 20
JULY 9–18 CAPE COD
HYDRANGEA FESTIVAL
This 10-day festival’s main attractions are the daily tours of private gardens, each designed and maintained by the individual homeowner. Tours of these unique private spaces are $5 per person per garden. Enjoy workshops and lectures presented by leading international horticulturalists, discover promotions at participating nurseries and home centers, take a class to learn proper hydrangea pruning techniques, or watch painting demonstrations by renowned local artists. Finalized schedule will be available in early June. capecodhydrangeasociety.org/events/
LATE JUNE–MID-SEPT.
CLAMBAKES AT THE BEACH HOUSE GRILL Throughout the summer, guests, visitors and locals gather at Chatham Bars Inn to feast on lobster, corn, potatoes and, of course, clams. All seafood is locally caught around Chatham, and all produce is sourced from Chatham Bars Inn Farm. For additional information, specific dates and reservations, contact the concierge at 508-945-6871.
JUNE 29 ANNUAL PIG & OYSTER ROAST Kick off the summer season with Chatham Bars Inn at the Beach House Grill for the inn’s Annual Pig & Oyster Roast. The event features a roasted whole pig, local roasted, baked and raw oysters and cash bar. 5–8 p.m. $70 per person. For tickets, visit Eventbrite.com. Chatham Bars Inn, 297 Shore Road, chathambarsinn.com
JULY & AUGUST MONDAYS ON MAIN The Chatham Chamber of Commerce and Merchants Association brings you a night of live music and entertainment on Main Street every Monday night in July and August. Visit chathaminfo.com for updated information.
FARM TO TABLE DINNERS AT CHATHAM BARS INN FARM
JULY 15–SEPT. 2
JULY 4 INDEPENDENCE DAY
PARADE Chatham’s parade, which started in 1908, is one of the oldest in the United States! This year’s theme is “Chatham: From ‘Shell-tering’ by the Sea to Celebrating a New Beginning.” The parade committee will make the live vs. virtual decision on June 1. chathamparade.com
JULY 11–18 CELEBRATING
ART, PLEASE STAY HOME GALA
The Creative Arts Center’s annual fundraiser will feature an online auction showcasing original works of art, including painting, pottery, jewelry and unique items from the arts center’s faculty. capecodcreativearts.org
JULY 15–SEPT. 2 FARM TO TABLE DINNERS AT CHATHAM BARS INN FARM Distinctive menus creatively prepared by Chef Anthony Cole and his culinary team using produce from CBI’s eight-acre farm. Enjoy a welcome reception in a
CAPE COD HYDRANGEA FESTIVAL
JULY 9–18
stunning setting at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner from 6–8 p.m. Dinner guests will be seated at long tables outdoors surrounded by the farm’s fruits, vegetables and flowers, with twinkling lights suspended above the dining area. For tickets and specific dates, visit Eventbrite.com
JULY 31 PIRATES DAY Arrrrrgh! Are you looking for an afternoon of fun for the entire family? The Atwood Museum is thrilled to bring back Pirates Day this summer. Join the museum’s band of pirates, scallywags and misfits 11 a.m.–3 p.m. for all the festivities. For more information, walk the plank to the museum’s website, chathamhistoricalsociety.org
AUG. 7 HOOKERS BALL XX The Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance annual fundraiser celebrates its 20th anniversary this year! The event, to be held virtually, helps raise money to fund its work to keep local seafood on
dinner plates, healthy fish populations in the ocean and a sustainable and profitable small-boat fishing industry on Cape Cod. Hookers Ball XX will be celebrated during the week of Aug. 2, leading up to a livestreamed event on Aug. 7. Watch parties are encouraged. capecodfishermen.org
AUG. 20–22 50TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Cape Cod’s premier fine arts and crafts festival showcases beautiful work from 120 artisans. Exhibitors from around the country showcase one-of-a-kind pieces, including clothing, jewelry, fine woodworking, art, ceramics and glass. Food trucks and an ice cream van will offer their delicious wares at the center of the green. A children’s tent features fun activities and face painting. Free admission. Five-minute walk from Main Street. Shuttle bus from Creative Arts Center and Main Street Community Center. Chase Park, Cross Street, capecodcreativearts.org/festivals
AUG. 28 AN EVENING TO REMEMBER The Chatham Historical Society’s annual fundraiser will be
FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS - AUG. 20–22
held at the breathtaking “Sea La Vie” estate in Chathamport. This estate, located on the grounds of the former Naval Air Station, is complete with stunning views of Fox Hill and Strong Island. Golfers will be able to test their skills hitting (biodegradable fish food) golfballs to the floating golf island. This will be limited to the first 60 players who sign up. Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auctions (available in-person and virtually online) and beautiful waterfront views. Purchase tickets before Aug. 14, for an advance price of $100 per person. Starting Aug. 14, tickets will cost $125 per person. The event will be following
all state mandates for a safe evening. chathamhistoricalsociety.org
OCT. 2 WITCHES WALK ON THE WATER FUNDRAISING COSTUME PADDLE Witches on the Water, Inc., is holding its first annual fundraising costume paddle around Oyster Pond to benefit this year’s recipient, the Family Pantry of Cape Cod. Whether you register and join us on the water on a stand-up paddle board—decked in your best witch attire—or enjoy the spectacle from the shore, fun will be had by all as we “make waves” with our fellow community members. Registration opens this summer
Enjoy the Show!
When the CHATHAM ORPHEUM THEATER reopens this summer (TBA), the beloved theater will celebrate with several events:
I AM OF CHATHAM BOOK SIGNING with John Whelan and Kim Roderiques. They will discuss their latest book and screen a short film highlighting some of the fascinating individuals included in the sequel to I Am of Cape Cod.
“THE HUNGRY TRAVELER SERIES,” with Carol Yindra, will be expanded to a monthly series with local partners, featuring a film paired with a presentation from the Chatham Candy Manor.
THE LOCAL ARTIST SERIES will be expanded to a monthly basis, as requested by popular demand. The theater will screen documentaries and interviews with local artists as well as discuss their works and creative processes with them in person.
The Chatham Orpheum Theater, located at 637 Main St., is also available for private theater rentals. For more information, visit chathamorpheum.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
and is required for all paddlers. $50 registration fee plus $250 minimum fundraising. 2–4 p.m. Oyster Pond Beach, 80 Stage Harbor Road, witchesonthewater.org
OCT. 16–31 PUMPKIN
PEOPLE IN THE PARK Local businesses and regular folk create unique and fascinating displays in Kate Gould Park with pumpkins. Travel + Leisure magazine named Chatham fourth in its “Best Towns in America for Halloween,” citing the Chatham Chamber of Commerce and Merchants Association’s Oktoberfest and Pumpkin People in the Park as must-go-to events. chathammerchants.com
OCT. 23 OKTOBERFEST
Pumpkin People in the Park, great beer, bratwurst, music, kids’ games.
All these events are just a small part of Chatham’s Oktoberfest in Kate Gould Park, Main Street, Chatham. chathammerchants.com/oktoberfest
NOV. 25 CHATHAM TURKEY
TROT Fun run or walk over 3.1 miles of winding and rolling paved roads and beautiful scenery. Founded by the Unitarian Universalist Meeting House and the Chatham Walkers, the trot benefits Lower Cape Outreach Council. chathamturkeytrot.com
DEC. 10 & 11 CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA HOLIDAY STROLL
2021 Twelve days of Christmas shopping and more. For updates and information, visit chathaminfo.com
DEC. 31 FIRST NIGHT CHATHAM
2021–2022 Celebrating its 30th year! A town-wide festival of visual and performing arts on Cape Cod. Family-friendly and alcohol-free. Stay tuned for more details later in the year. firstnightchatham.com
The Goose offers the largest outdoor dining options in downtown Chatham. Front row seating on our Main Street deck and patio areas, as well as our park side, beautifully landscaped bluestone patio and state of the art tent. Our menu features creative, locally sourced sustainable offerings, gluten free options, curated cocktails, and lighter fare. Join us, meet our warm, friendly staff, enjoy our cozy, lively atmosphere.
508-945-5590 • 512 Main Street • Chatham Instagram @wildgoosechatham Facebook @wildgoosechatham wildgoosetavern.com
Restaurants, cafés, sweet shops and markets in Chatham keep pivoting and changing with the times. Many restaurants continue to offer takeout, curbside pickup and outside dining. Please check each establishment’s website and Facebook pages for updated information on operating hours, takeout options, curbside pickup and indoor/outdoor dining details.
ASIAN PARADISE Authentic Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine cooked in an open kitchen. Takeout. 1587 Main St., Shop Ahoy Plaza, 508-945-7788 asianparadisechatham.com ASIAN
BACKSIDE BAKES Specializes in Cape Cod clambakes and Cape Cod catering. 508-360-8399, backsidebakes.com CATERING SEASONAL
THE BAGEL SHOP NEW breakfast and lunch spot! Delicious bagels and creative sandwiches. Cold brew and nitro coffee available. Outside seating available. 400 Main St., 508-348-1236, thebagelshop.co BREAKFAST & LUNCH
BAYVIEW TERRACE See expanded listing on page 246. Chatham Bars Inn, 297 Shore Road, 508-945-6871, chathambarsinn.com SEASONAL
BEACH HOUSE GRILL See expanded listing on page 246. Chatham Bars Inn, 297 Shore Road, 508-945-6871, chathambarsinn.com SEASONAL
BISTRO ON MAIN With the seasons in mind, Bistro on Main is a lowkey spot offering an eclectic menu and great people-watching on its outside patio. 593 Main St., 508-9455033, bistroonmainchatham.com AMERICAN SEASONAL
Chatham Bars Inn
BLUE CORAL An open-air restaurant in a garden setting offering casual lunches and craft cocktails. 483 Main St., 508-348-0485, thebluecoral.com
SEAFOOD SEASONAL
BLUEFINS SUSHI & SAKE BAR See expanded listing at right. 513 Main St., 508-348-1573, bluefinschatham.com
SUSHI & SEAFOOD
BRANCHES GRILL AND CAFÉ A mix of Caribbean and American fare, including jerk chicken, pulled pork, fried plantains, fish sandwiches, hamburgers and chicken wings. 155 Crowell Road, 508-348-1716, branchesgrillandcafe.com CARIBBEANAMERICAN
BUFFY’S ICE CREAM SHOP A Chatham landmark with friendly service and large portions. The most difficult thing is deciding on a flavor. 456 Main St., 508-945-5990, find us on Facebook
ICE CREAM SEASONAL
CAPE ABILITIES FARM MARKET See expanded listing, page 248. 193 Main St., 508-945-3037, capeabilitiesfarm.org
CAPTAIN’S TABLE Family owned and operated, a favorite destination for more than 50 years. Serving Sunday brunch, breakfast, lunch and dinner. 576 Main St., 508-945-1961, captainstablechatham.com
AMERICAN SEASONAL
CARMINE’S PIZZA Specialty pizzas and more in a retro-inspired setting. 595 Main St., 508-945-5300, carminescapecod.com PIZZA
CHATHAM BARS INN Multiple restaurants. See expanded listings at right and on page 236. 297 Shore Road, 508-945-6871, chathambarsinn.com
CHATHAM CANDY MANOR Founded in 1955, the beloved candy shop on Main Street offers handmade fudge, delicious chocolates and special holiday assortments. A must-stop when you’re in town! 484 Main St., 508-945-0825, candymanor.com CANDY
BAYVIEW TERRACE The best seats on Cape Cod. Fresh summer cocktails, ocean breezes and lite fare. The perfect place for summer afternoon and evening rendezvous. SEASONAL
BEACH HOUSE GRILL “Coastally inspired” dining with fresh, local “just caught” seafood, classic seaside clambake favorites, seasonally inspired cocktails and local beer served in an unforgettable oceanfront setting. Featuring fantastic views and attentive, upbeat service. AMERICAN SEASONAL
BLUEFINS SUSHI & SAKE BAR
Asian-infused dinners with sushi and martini bar. Set in an upscale atmosphere, Bluefins creates dishes with locally sourced seafood and farm fresh produce. NEW on the menu this year: Coriander-crusted tuna, prime skirt steak and pankocrusted haddock. There’s something for everyone, even for non-sushi lovers: Bluefins also crafts fully cooked sushi rolls. Both indoor dining and takeout available. 513 Main St., 508-348-1573, bluefinschatham.com
SUSHI & SEAFOOD
CHATHAM BARS INN
THE SACRED COD Cape Cod charm and sophistication meet in this classic upscale tavern. The innovative menu encourages diners to explore the region’s finest fisheries, farms and foragers, including produce from the Chatham Bars Inn Farm. AMERICAN
STARS Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Chatham Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. Seasonal cuisine is inspired by our heritage, natural surroundings and the bounty of The Chatham Bars Inn Farm creating Cape Cod’s premier dining experience. Advanced reservations recommended for dinner. AMERICAN SEASONAL
THE VERANDA Diners have enjoyed spectacular sunrises and pictureperfect ocean views from the Veranda since 1914. Today, guests can enjoy cocktails and delicious meals while marveling at the sweeping views of Chatham Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. AMERICAN SEASONAL
MARKET Housed in a historic building on the way to Chatham Lighthouse, the market features fresh produce from the Cape Abilities Farm in Dennis and locally made products. Due to construction of the building in 2021, Cape Abilities will offer a farm market box pickup with a small pop-up selection of items for walkup purchases.
193 Main St., 508-945-3037, capeabilitiesfarm.org FARM STAND SEASONAL
CHATHAM CHEESE COMPANY A gourmet food shop featuring artisanal cheeses from around the world. The shop also carries a selection of wines, cured meats and pâtés, and specialty items such as crackers, pasta, vinegars and jams. 902 Main St., 508-945-1605, chathamcheese.com GOURMET
FOOD SEASONAL
CHATHAM COOKWARE See expanded listing below. 524 Main St., 508-945-1250, chathamcookware.com
BREAKFAST & LUNCH SEASONAL
CHATHAM FILLING STATION
Baked goods, breakfast and lunch in a retro diner environment. Located next to Chatham Fish & Chips. Inside and outside dining, plus takeout available. 75 Old Harbor Road, 508945-4380, chathamfillingstation.com BREAKFAST & LUNCH
THE CHATHAM JAM & JELLY
CHATHAM PIER FISH MARKET Come for the food. Stay for the view. Our classic New England menu is as authentic as it gets. Watch fishermen unload the daily catch while you eat at one of our picnic tables, or order online for takeout! 45 Barcliff Ave. Ext. (at Shore Road), 508-945-3474, chathampierfishmkt.com SEAFOOD SEASONAL
SHOP Family-owned business that offers more than 100 varieties of jams and jellies, including their best-seller, beach plum jelly. Chutneys, relishes and marmalades are also available. 16 Seaquanset Road, 508-945-3052, chathamjamandjelly.com
GOURMET FOOD
CHATHAM LIGHT LIQUORS
Offering full bartending service for any occasion. Ask about our new Bloody Mary bar setup. 314 Orleans Road, 508-945-2826, find us on Facebook CATERING
CHATHAM PENNY CANDY An old-fashioned penny candy store with a great selection of ice cream, fudge and saltwater taffy. 6 Seaview St., 508-945-3518, chathampennycandy. com CANDY SEASONAL
CHATHAM PERK See expanded listing on page 250. 307 Orleans Road, 508-945-5005, chathamperk. com BREAKFAST & LUNCH
CHATHAM PIER FISH MARKET
See expanded listing above. 45 Barcliff Ave. Ext., 508-945-3474, chathampierfishmkt.com
SEAFOOD SEASONAL
CHATHAM RAW BAR Offering local shellfish and seafood in its purest form. 593 Main St., 508-945-5033, chathamrawbar.com SEAFOOD SEASONAL
CHATHAM SHELLFISH COMPANY
Retail oysters harvested daily from their farm on Oyster Pond. Scenic and interactive farm tours, tastings and shanty raw bar for small groups. 393 Barn Hill Road, 508-2417503, sales@chathamshellfish.com, chathamoysters.com CATERING SEASONAL
CHATHAM COOKWARE Home to the famous French breakfast muffins, “the Cookware” serves up breakfast and lunch daily. In addition to bakery items, the Cookware offers hot breakfast sandwiches, homemade soups and delicious sandwich board selections such as the Salty Llama (tarragon chicken salad, grapes, apples, swiss, honey mustard and lettuce on a wheat wrap). Benches are available in front and picnic tables in the back. 524 Main St., 508-945-1250, chathamcookware.com BREAKFAST & LUNCH SEASONAL
FOOD & DRINK
CHATHAM SQUIRE See expanded listing below. 487 Main St., 508-9450945, thesquire.com AMERICAN
CHATHAM VILLAGE CAFÉ & BAKERY Local hometown bakery featuring hand-cut donuts and gourmet sandwiches. Outside seating available. 69 Crowell Road, 508-945-3229 or 508-945-2525, chathambakery.com
BREAKFAST & LUNCH
CHATHAM VILLAGE MARKET
See expanded listing above. 20 Queen Anne Road, 508-9459783, chathamvillagemarket.com
GROCERY STORE
CHILLER’S HAWAIIAN ICE
Authentic Hawaiian shaved ice, plus ice cream and frozen yogurt. 22 Barn Hill Road, 508-524-9166, find us on Facebook FROZEN TREATS SEASONAL
CORNER STORE A fun place to stop for an unforgettable burrito, panini or whoopie pie. Order online
for contactless pickup. 1403 Old Queen Anne Road, 508-432-1077, freshfastfun.com BURRITOS & PANINIS
CUVÉE AT CHATHAM INN
An intimate fine dining experience featuring three-, four- and five-course menu options. Offering more than 100 wines by the bottle, craft beers, specialty cocktails and artful entrées. Inside and outside dining (with a fire pit). 359 Main St., 508-945-1468, cuveechatham.com AMERICAN
CHATHAM PERK A local coffee bar and café featuring specialty sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. Customer favorites include breakfast sandwiches served on a Portuguese muffin or bagel and the Strong Island sandwich—Vermont cheddar, sliced apple, bacon and beach plum jelly on ciabatta bread. Yum! The Perk also offers smoothies, a juice bar and sandwich platters. Catering for any size event. Indoor and outside seating available. 307 Orleans Road, 508-9455005, chathamperk.com BREAKFAST & LUNCH
CHATHAM VILLAGE MARKET
A grocery store featuring full-service butcher shop, seafood and sushi. Fresh produce and bakery sections, prepared foods available year-round and full selection of beer and wine. Known for outstanding customer service. Curbside pickup available. 20 Queen Anne Road, 508-9459783, chathamvillagemarket.com GROCERY STORE
DEL MAR BAR & BISTRO One of Chatham’s coolest nightspots for eating, enjoying a cocktail and socializing on its open-air patio. Del Mar’s seasoned and loyal staff add to the positive dining experience, and Chef Maria Pollio delights the palate with her creativity in the kitchen. Native seafood and wood-fired thin crust pizzas are their specialties. Fullservice bar. Visit Del Mar’s website for daily menu updates and to order takeout online. Insider tip: Place your takeout order early. Outside dining available. 907 Main St., 508-9459988, delmarbistro.com AMERICAN
CHATHAM SQUIRE Chatham’s family restaurant offers a tavern atmosphere with a diverse menu. In addition to customer favorites, new dishes include pan-seared scallops with summer succotash of house-roasted jalapenos, roasted corn and edamame; the “Angry Lobster,” a lobster Fra Diavolo with blistered tomatoes, garlic and red pepper over fettuccini; and a Cubano sandwich on ciabatta. Patio and indoor dining. Takeout available. Be sure to visit the Chatham Squire Shop across the street! 487 Main St., 508-945-0945, thesquire.com AMERICAN
SHELLFISH BROKER
Established in 2020, Shellfish Broker was founded by locals Jamie Bassett and Matthew Belson, who work directly with local growers and harvesters to bring the freshest and best-tasting products at competitive prices. Ships nationwide. 95 Commerce Park, Unit 5, South Chatham, 508-948-3408, shellfishbroker.com
400 EAST RESTAURANT & BAR
Your Chatham neighbor in Harwich since 1989. Referred to by locals and tourists as “Cheers,” the 400 East serves the food you crave by the staff you love. Enjoy creative daily specials along with customer favorites such as fresh-ground angus burgers, grilled pizzas, pasta and seafood inside the restaurant, under its seasonal tent or at home via takeout. Serving lunch and dinner year-round. Call-ahead seating and function rooms are available. 1421 Orleans Road, East Harwich, 508-432-1800, the400east.com AMERICAN
DOGFISH TACO CO. & CANTINA
Fresh, healthy tacos and bowls— available to-go or in our newly renovated Cantina. Full liquor license with an extensive tequila selection and specialty house cocktails. Enjoy your food and drink at the bar, in the cantina or outside. Located in the Shop Ahoy Plaza next to Chillers. 22 Barn Hill Road, Dogfishtacoco022@ gmail.com TACOS SEASONAL
ELWOOD’S RAW BARS Authentic Cape Cod raw bar experience brought to you. Serves gatherings of all sizes—even as few as six people. 508-241-1533, elwoodsrawbars.com
CATERING SEASONAL
EMACK & BOLIO’S Home to the original Oreo ice cream. Emack & Bolio’s offers creative flavors like Cosmic Crunch and specialty items like ice cream pizza. 37 Kent Place, 508945-5506, emackandbolioscapecod. com ICE CREAM SEASONAL
400 EAST RESTAURANT & BAR
See expanded listing, at left. 1421 Orleans Road, East Harwich, 508-432-1800, the400east.com
GUSTARE OILS & VINEGARS
See expanded listing on page 253. 461 Main St., 508-945-4505, gustareoliveoil.com GOURMET FOOD
HANGAR B EATERY Offering classic and creative breakfasts and lunches, including gluten-free options, and locally roasted B-Side Coffee. Their mobile coffee shop—a 1964 Shasta camper trailer—can be found at farmers markets, town events and weddings. Chatham Municipal Airport, 240 George Ryder Road, 508-593-3655, hangarbchatham.com
BREAKFAST & LUNCH
IMPUDENT OYSTER Upscale eatery in a former church featuring a fresh take on seafood plus a bustling bar
Casual restaurant offers fresh-made Italian food, steaks and seafood options, as well as gluten-free and vegan choices. Homemade Greek family recipes, including souvlaki, moussaka and spanakopita, are also on the menu. 1077 Main St., 508945-1700, knotslandingchatham.com ITALIAN, STEAK AND SEAFOOD
KREAM N’ KONE This family-owned landmark has served award-winning fried seafood and soft ice cream for more than 30 years. 1653 Main St., 508-945-3308, kreamnkonechatham. com SEAFOOD SEASONAL
LARRY’S PX Serving breakfast and lunch since 1955, this unassuming eatery offers classic American fare. 1591 Main St., 508-945-3964, find us on Facebook BREAKFAST
LIBAYTION See expanded listing on page 255. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, 2173 Route 28, 508-4303000, wequassett.com/dining BAR AND GRILL SEASONAL
LILY’S DINER Located in the former Sandi’s Diner location. Fresh baked goods and breakfast served daily. Takeout available. 643 Main St., 508-945-0631, lilysdiner.wordpress. com BREAKFAST
MAC’S CHATHAM FISH & LOBSTER Renovated interior features a new kitchen and a full raw bar, indoor seating for 50 and an outdoor patio. A classic yet creative menu with delicious food to satisfy every palate. Daily specials, gluten-free fried food and a great selection of beer and wine. Offering the highest quality seafood caught daily from Cape Cod waters. 1291 Main St., 508-9451173, chathamfish.com SEAFOOD
MARION’S PIE SHOP Established in 1947, this specialty bakeshop offers sweet and savory pies, homemade comfort food (lasagna and meatballs), soups, quiche and sweet treats (walnut brownies and chocolate chip cookies). Offerings vary throughout the year. 2022 Main St., 508-432-9439, marionspieshopofchatham.com PIES
MOM & POPS BURGERS
A vibrant restaurant that emphasizes fresh, delicious and high-quality food. Standout items include pressed and steamed burgers and Mom’s homemade Lumpia—hand-rolled Filipino pork eggrolls served with sweet chili sauce. The restaurant butchers, grinds and patties its own special blend of meat in-house daily. Visit website for contactless pickup procedures. 1603 Main St., 774-8404144, momandpopschatham.com BURGERS
PATE’S RESTAURANT The new team has introduced a slate of innovative menu items, such as a kale Caesar salad, tuna cones, duck tacos, beet carpaccio and two-pound lobsters with five different dipping sauces. In addition to classics like filets and sirloins, longtime Pate’s diners will be happy to learn that they have kept the Snowball, a popular dessert made from vanilla ice cream rolled in coconut and served with hot fudge. Takeout available. 1260 Main St., 508-945-9777, patesrestaurant.com AMERICAN
GUSTARE OILS & VINEGARS This Main Street specialty shop offers the highest quality artisanal extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars and regional gourmet food products. In Italian, Gustare means “to taste, to enjoy, to savor,” so stop into their tasting room and discover your favorite selections! 461 Main St., 508-945-4505, gustareoliveoil.com GOURMET FOOD
MONOMOY COFFEE CO. Fresh muffins and bagels daily, homemade flavored cream cheeses and graband-go sandwiches. 447 Main St., 508-945-5662, Find us on Facebook COFFEE SEASONAL
NEW ENGLAND PIZZA AT KNOTS LANDING BAR & GRILL Classic
pizza, subs and salads with a Greek flair. 1077 Main St., 508-945-9070, find us on Facebook PIZZA
ORPHEUM CAFÉ See expanded listing at right. 637 Main St. at Chatham Orpheum Theater, 508-945-0874, chathamorpheum.org LUNCH OR DINNER
OUTER BAR & GRILLE See expanded listing on page 255. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, 2173 Route 28, 508-430-3000, wequassett.com/dining SEASONAL
ORPHEUM CAFÉ Re-opening fall 2021. Enjoy truffle parmesan fries, a Cubano sandwich or three-cheese grilled cheese sandwich, either with a glass of wine or specialty cocktail in the café—or inside the movie theater. 637 Main St. at Chatham Orpheum Theater, 508-945-0874, chathamorpheum.org LUNCH OR DINNER
PATE’S RESTAURANT See expanded listing on page 253. 1260 Main St., 508-945-9777, patesrestaurant.com AMERICAN
PISCES See expanded listing below. 2653 Main St., South Chatham, 508-432-4600, piscesofchatham.com AMERICAN/SEAFOOD SEASONAL
PUBLIC CAFÉ Locally roasted organic coffees, breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring ethnic cuisine and gluten-free options. Located next to the new Lily’s Diner (formerly Sandi’s Diner). 641 Main St., 508-444-8833, publiccafecapecod.com
BREAKFAST & LUNCH
QUEEN ANNE INN Trendy New England cuisine with a fresh Rocky Mountain breeze. Homemade breads
PISCES Coastal cooking with styles and flavors from around the world. The new outdoor patio offers a full dinner menu, nightly menu additions featuring native seafood, craft cocktails, wine list with more than 20 wines by the glass and a world-class beer list. Housemade desserts, after-dinner drinks and more! Tip: This restaurant is small and very popular, so be sure to make a reservation well in advance.
2653 Main St., South Chatham, 508-432-4600, piscesofchatham. com AMERICAN/SEAFOOD SEASONAL
SNOWY OWL COFFEE ESPRESSO BAR
Located in a quiet courtyard off Main Street, Snowy Owl offers high-quality espresso and brewed beverages. Their Chatham location also offers freshly baked pastries and locally made food items with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. 483 Main St., socoffee.co/espresso-bar-in-chatham COFFEE SEASONAL
and cakes. Breakfast served from 8-10 a.m. Dinner served nightly 5-10 p.m. 70 Queen Anne Road, 508-945-0394, queenanneinn.com AMERICAN SEASONAL
RED NUN BAR & GRILL Chatham’s sports pub tavern, consistently rated best burgers on the Cape. 746 Main St., 508-348-0469, rednun.com AMERICAN
RIDGEVALE BEACH SNACK
BAR The perfect spot for a casual beachside lunch. Enjoy your meal from the outdoor patio, which overlooks the picturesque creek and Nantucket Sound. 434 Ridgevale Road, 508-432-4339, chathamsail.com/ snack-bar AMERICAN SEASONAL
THE SACRED COD See expanded listing on page 246. Chatham Bars Inn, 297 Shore Road, 508-945-6871, chathambarsinn.com AMERICAN
SHELLFISH BROKER See expanded listing on page 252. 95 Commerce Park, Unit 5, South Chatham, 508-948-3408, shellfishbroker.com
SHORT ‘N’ SWEET With a large selection of flavors and a friendly staff, located in the Old Schoolhouse building, Short ‘N’ Sweet is a Chatham icon. 2334 Main St., 508-432-7464, follow on Facebook ICE CREAM SEASONAL
SNOWY OWL COFFEE ESPRESSO
BAR See expanded listing above. 483 Main St., socoffee.co/espressobar-in-chatham COFFEE SEASONAL
STARS See expanded listing on page 246. 297 Shore Road, 508-945-0096, 800-527-4884, chathambarsinn.com AMERICAN
SWEET DREAMS ICE CREAM
Coming soon! New ice cream shop offering baked goods, ice cream, endless toppings, assorted teas and more! Located in the Shop Ahoy plaza. Follow on Instagram @sweetdreamsofchatham 1579 Main St., West Chatham ICE CREAM SEASONAL
SWEET TOMATOES PIZZA
Neapolitan-style thin crust pizza using whole wheat flour and signature chunky tomato sauce. 790 Main St., 508-348-0200, sweettomatoescapecod.com PIZZA SEASONAL
THE TALKATIVE PIG Chef Jeff Mitchell serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their signature hand-pulled pizzas. 2642 Main St., 508-430-5211, thetalkativepig.com
MEDITERRANEAN
THOREAU’S See expanded listing below. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, 2173 Route 28, 508-430-3000, wequassett.com/dining AMERICAN SEASONAL
TWENTY-EIGHT ATLANTIC See expanded listing below. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, 2173 Route 28, 508-430-3000, wequassett.com/ dining AMERICAN SEASONAL
THE VERANDA See expanded listing on page 246. Chatham Bars Inn, 97 Shore Road, 508-945-6871, chathambarsinn.com AMERICAN SEASONAL
WEQUASSETT RESORT AND GOLF CLUB Multiple restaurants. See expanded listings below.
WILD GOOSE TAVERN
Destination dining in the heart of downtown Chatham, “the Goose” offers locally sourced sustainable offerings, glutenfree and vegan options, curated cocktails and lighter fare. Enjoy lunch or dinner in their indoor dining room or outside on their Main Street deck, or parkside on their beautifully landscaped bluestone patio under a state-ofthe-art tent. Chatham Wayside Inn, 512 Main St., 508-945-5590, wildgoosetavern.com
WEST CHATHAM GRILL Offering fresh and delicious grilled sandwiches, including steak & cheese, chicken teriyaki and cheeseburger subs. Menu also includes a variety of salads, soups and kids’ meals. 1615 Main St.,
508-945-1422, Find us on Facebook SANDWICHES
WILD GOOSE TAVERN
See expanded listing above. Chatham Wayside Inn, 512 Main St., 508-945-5590, wildgoosetavern.com AMERICAN
LIBAYTION Beachfront bar offers the best water views on Cape Cod. Guests will enjoy the diverse menu featured at the Outer Bar & Grille. Open during summer months for lunch and dinner—weather permitting. BAR AND GRILL SEASONAL
OUTER BAR & GRILLE The place to see and be seen.
Waterfront dining in an open-air setting with a spacious deck overlooking Pleasant Bay and Round Cove. SEASONAL
THOREAU’S A club-like bar adjacent to Twenty-Eight Atlantic, Thoreau’s offers a unique menu, an extensive wine list and a wide selection of martinis and specialty cocktails. AMERICAN SEASONAL
TWENTY-EIGHT ATLANTIC Chef James Hackney’s menu at the resort’s signature restaurant celebrates native and seasonal ingredients with creative, awardwinning flair. Waterfront location. The Verandahs at Twenty-Eight Atlantic offer a spectacular alfresco setting for breakfast and dinner. AMERICAN SEASONAL
Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, 2173 Route 28, 508-430-3000, wequassett.com/dining
WEQUASSETT RESORT AND GOLF CLUB
Summer A Taste of A Taste of
Tip
The lobster salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
The secret to an unforgettable lobster roll? Sweet, fresh lobster meat served in a warm, buttery bun toasted in the oven—instead of a skillet on the stove. Keep it simple: Serve with French fries (or potato chips) and a glass of lemonade. This is how we roll!
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
• 1 pound cooked lobster meat*
• 1-2 tablespoons mayonnaise (add more to taste)
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 4 split-top New England hot dog buns
• Minced fresh dill (optional)
Directions
1. Place cookie sheet in oven and preheat to 425 degrees.
2. Cut lobster meat into bite-sized pieces and place in a medium bowl. Squeeze lemon over the lobster; toss gently with mayonnaise to coat.
3. Carefully slice apart hot dog buns with a knife (Tip: Don’t pull them apart by hand because they might not pull apart cleanly.)
4. Melt butter. Lightly brush both sides of the hot dog buns with melted butter and place buns on hot cookie sheet on middle rack.
5. Cook for 3 minutes until golden brown and then turn and toast opposite side for 2-3 minutes.
6. Take cookie sheet out of oven and place buns on a plate. Open slightly to cool.
7. Divide the lobster meat among the buns and serve immediately. Top each roll with fresh dill, if desired.
* Cooked, shelled lobster meat is available at your local fish market.
Don’t feel like making your own lobster roll? Pick up a fresh one at Chatham Pier Fish Market!
Do you have a favorite lobster roll recipe? Share recipes, tips and photos on Instagram and tag us @chathamlivingmag! We will reshare our favorites.
