The 2025 Fair will take place from Thursday, August 21st to Sunday, August 24th.
12-13 Island Farm map
Where to find local produce and protein.
14-15 “JAWS” at 50
Museum exhibit will focus on the roles Islanders played in ‘Jaws.’ By Abby Remer
16 This Was Then
Selim Mattar’s Dreamland. By Chris Baer
18-19 Art in Oak Bluffs
Stroll O.B.’s galleries and studios. By Abby Remer
20-21 “Jaws” map
Make a day trip around Amity Island and see locations firsthand.
29-31 The Summer of ‘74
Fifty years ago Martha’s Vineyard got its Hollywood closeup. 33 “Jaws” swag
Where you can you get yourself a tchotchke to remember the 50th. 34-35 Living in Amity
Sharks are worthy of reverence.
By Ella Munnelly
New waffle shop in Vineyard Haven. By Sara
Creato
40-41 Quitsa Kitchen
Homemade biscuits, Fire and Honey chicken, and so much more. By Allison Roberts 42-44 Dine index
Where to eat, buy groceries, and find ice cream.
A letter from the publisher
Welcome to the Island. Whether you are a longtime summer resident of Martha’s Vineyard or a first-time day-tripper, we hope you enjoy that feeling of being on the ferry and pushing toward our harbor, getting ready for the adventures that lie ahead for all visitors.
The pressure of having summer upon us on a small island is well captured in the classic film, “Jaws,” which is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its premiere with a host of events this summer. As you might know, the movie was filmed on Martha’s Vineyard and is set in the fictional town of Amity Island as it braces for the Fourth of July.
Against a backdrop of a local, year-round population of Islanders serving eager tourists, the stage is set for the tensions, on an Island where a 25-foot great white shark is lurking just off the beaches. An ominous soundtrack instills a sense of dread and fear as the shark approaches. Those two repeated, accelerating notes – dun, dun – are still, decades later, the iconic sound cue for impending, frenzied danger.
In this issue of the Vineyard Visitor, which is published by the Martha’s Vineyard Times, we bring you a generous dose of “Jaws”-themed stories, which will help you explore every angle of how the blockbuster film was made. You’ll see it through the eyes of those who were here back in the summer of 1974, when the film was shot by the then-upstart Steven Spielberg. When it premiered the following summer of 1975, it was an immediate hit, serving packed theaters, grossing $260 million in the US and nearly $500 million worldwide in 1975 – a record at the time.
Of course, even during this “Jaws”-obsessed season, there is far more to a Martha’s Vineyard summer. And so in this issue, we also
invite you to explore the onshore richness of the Island, particularly our heritage as a farming community. If you’re here in August, the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair is held from August 21 through 24 at the Agricultural Society in West Tisbury. Every Saturday and Wednesday, you should do your best to get to the farmer’s market at the MV Agricultural Hall, or take a day trip to any one of our great local farms. Enjoy our network of hiking trails, which are all located on a handy map to show you the way.
You can also explore our beautiful beaches, our lively live-arts scene, and art galleries. Check out our great restaurants, from lobster rolls served on fishing crates off the docks in Menemsha, to high-end gourmet dining with white tablecloths and nationally known chefs in Edgartown, and great middle-ground restaurants where fish and chips can be an affordable form of artwork all its own.
We hope that our Island’s many offerings help you get through all the stresses and challenges of the times we live in, and we hope this free magazine might serve as a guide to a great visit here on Martha’s Vineyard.
If you end up in Vineyard Haven on Beach Road, where our newsroom is located, please stop in from 10 am to 2 pm, Monday–Thursday, and pick up a copy of the weekly print edition of the Martha’s Vineyard Times. Or get one in the many locations around the Island. Or, if you’re settling in for the summer, please find us online at www. mvtimes.com to stay up to date. And please consider subscribing for delivery of our weekly print edition, and becoming a member of the MVTimes community, which has always been guided by its founding slogan: Real News for Real Islanders.
Enjoy the summer,
Charlie Charles M. Sennott Publisher
Don’ t Miss Oak Bluffs fireworks
Author Events
August 1–3: Martha’s Vineyard
Author Series, Chilmark Community Center
This annual festival features authors from around the country who come to the Island to participate in discussions about adult fiction and non-fiction in a variety of genres. For more information and to view the lineup of authors this year, visit mvbookfestival.com.
August 9: Martha’s Vineyard Black Book Festival, Island Inn, Oak Bluffs
Celebrate well-established and aspiring Black authors and their literary works at this second annual event. It includes panel discussions, author showcases, fireside chats, book signings, refreshments, and more. It will be held from 1 pm to 7 pm. For details and tickets, visit mvbbf. com.
August 17–18: Islanders Write, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs
This MV Times writers’ festival kicks off on Sunday, August 17, at 7:30 pm with a panel discussion on politics and the press. Then on Monday, August 18, join award-winning writers and top publishing professionals
with ties to Martha’s Vineyard for a day filled with panel discussions and workshops focused on the art, craft, and business of writing. There will also be an Edgartown Books pop-up to meet and greet Vineyard authors. To learn more about this free event, visit islanderswrite. com.
Community Festivals
August 1, Sept. 5: First Friday Vineyard Haven, Owen Park
Have fun at an all-day community event held outdoors near the harbor. This monthly celebration features live music, food vendors, carriage rides, local artists, and a silent disco sponsored by PathwaysARTS. To learn more, visit firstfridayvh.com.
July 27–August 2: HBCU Legacy Week on the Vineyard, Oak Bluffs
Connect with fellow Historically Black Colleges and Universities alumni and their families and participate in fun and impactful events. Enjoy activities, meet new people, and help sustain the legacies of the schools. Tickets at legacyweekonthevineyard.com.
August 5: Jewish Culture Festival, West Tisbury
Join everyone for a third annual event that includes comedy from Elon Gold, live music, a high-end culinary experience from a broad selection of gourmet food, an art exhibit exploring Jewish identity, spirituality, and inspiration, and more. The festivities take place from 4 pm to 8 pm. Tickets are through Chabad on the Vineyard at jewishculturefest.com.
August 7–9, August 16–18: Built on Stilts Festival, Union Chapel, Oak Bluffs
Enjoy an inspirational dance and performance festival that features members of the Vineyard community and beyond. The shows can include live music, storytelling, theater, poetry readings, dance, comedy, circus acts, fitness demonstrations, and more. Donations are welcomed. For details, visit builtonstilts.org.
August 20: Grand Illumination, Oak Bluffs
Take part in an annual tradition for Island residents and visitors since 1869. In the Tabernacle, enjoy music by the Vineyard Haven Band and a community sing-along, then take a stroll
Agricultural Fair
among the colorful cottages in the Campground, which are creatively decorated with illuminated lanterns. The festivities begin at 7 pm. For details, visit mvcma.org/ grand-illumination.
August 21–24: Agricultural Fair, West Tisbury Experience quintessential summer fun at the 163rd annual fair from the M.V. Agricultural Society. Enjoy fun games, thrilling rides, tasty food, livestock shows, photo contests, live music, pet shows, and much more. For the schedule, visit marthasvineyardagriculturalsociety.org.
August 22: Oak Bluffs Summer Fireworks Show, Ocean Park
Celebrate summer on Martha’s Vineyard with the annual fireworks show near Beach Road. It will begin after 9 pm when it becomes dark. Paid parking is available at Waban/Alley Park and Washington Park. The rain date is August 23. Find more information at oakbluffsma. gov/485/oak-bluffs-fireworks.
Sept. 7: Potters Bowl, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs Beautiful handmade bowls created during the past year are donated for this special fundraising event. Select a handcrafted bowl of your choice and be served
and discover whimsical sculptures on the way to an Island Folk Pottery shop. Created by artists Bill O’Callaghan and Heather Goff, the path is open daily from 9 am to dusk. Their pottery studio is open on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm, and on Sundays, 2 pm to 5 pm. To learn more, visit islandfolkpottery.com or call 508-955-9944.
Polly Hill Arboretum, West Tisbury
locally made soup from Island restaurants and caterers. It begins at 4 pm, with a rain date of Sept. 14. To learn more, visit featherstoneart.org or call 508693-1850.
Exhibits & Gardens
Martha’s Vineyard Garden Club, West Tisbury
Enjoy programs and activities that cover a wide range of gardening topics and offer hands-on experience. The M.V. Garden Club provides an opportunity to meet other people with similar interests, to learn and share together, and to have fun. For the latest events and workshops, visit marthasvineyardgardenclub.org.
Island Folk Pottery & Sculpture Trail, Chilmark
Walk along a quarter-mile enchanting trail through the woods
Discover unique trees, cones, berries, and blooms by taking a stroll through the beautiful historic grounds at Polly Hill Arboretum. Guided tours, scavenger hunts, and other activities are often available, and pamphlets can be picked up near the visitor center, which is on a bus route off State Road. For details, visit pollyhillarboretum.org or call 508-693-9426.
Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs
Spark your creativity at the beautiful Featherstone campus, which offers a variety of classes and workshops in ceramics, drawing, fiber arts, jewelry making, literary arts, mixed media, painting, and printmaking. There are also inspirational art exhibits, including “Currents in Contemporary Ceramic Art,” which runs until July 20, “Interiority,” July 27 - August 17, and “The Phil & Eileen Brown New Yorker Cartoon Collection and Beyond,” August 24-Sept. 14. For details, visit featherstoneart. org or call 508-693-1850.
Martha’s Vineyard Museum, Vineyard Haven
Explore the history, art, and culture of the Island at the expansive MV Museum, which includes a welcome center, gift shop, café, and community events. Exhibits include “Vanity: The Last Working Catboat,” “’Jaws’ at 50: A Deeper Dive,” and “Mermaid Farm: Beauty & Struggle,” plus there are lots of ongoing exhibits, including an interactive one for children. To learn more, visit mvmuseum.org or call 508627-4441.
Take a mindful stroll along winding footpaths that are nestled among a uniquely designed, secluded garden with a tranquil pond. It includes pine and birch trees, flowering bushes, a bridge, benches, and a rustic shelter for quiet contemplation. This magical sanctuary is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. To plan your visit, check thetrustees.org/place/mytoi.
Farm Activities
Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society, West Tisbury
Discover all kinds of workshops, classes, and events related to gardening, farming, and homesteading that are offered throughout the summer season. Most of them are held at the Agricultural Hall, but also at other sites around the Vineyard. For the schedule, visit marthasvineyardagriculturalsociety.org.
Island Alpaca, Oak Bluffs
Spend some time with adorable and gentle alpacas and learn more about these curious creatures, including where they come from, their interesting behaviors, and why they are important. To find out what this unique farm has to offer, such as fun classes, events, and a gift shop, visit islandalpaca. com or call 508-693-5554.
MV TIMES
ROBIN GOTTESMAN
Trustees’ FARM Institute, Edgartown
Find activities for the whole family at the Trustees’ 162-acre working farm in Katama, which has cows, goats, chickens, sheep, and other animals, plus a vegetable garden, pastures, a farm store, and a commercial kitchen. Programs include fun and educational cooking classes. For the schedule, visit thetrustees.org/tfi or call 508-627-7007.
Films & Theater
Circuit Arts, West Tisbury and Oak Bluffs
Experience a vibrant mix of arts programming at the Grange Hall in West Tisbury and venues across the Island. Circuit Arts presents pay-what-you-can film screenings, live theater, dance, comedy, and more. Tickets and event details are available at circuitarts.org. They also program and operate the Vineyard’s Drive-In at the YMCA in Oak Bluffs, which is in partnership with the Martha’s Vineyard YMCA. Learn more at driveinmv.com.
Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, Vineyard Haven
Enjoy stage plays, live music, poetry, art exhibits, musicals, and much more at the Island’s only professional year-round theater. M.V. Playhouse is located on Church Street, just around the corner from Main Street. There are also outdoor productions at the Tisbury Amphitheater in a
beautiful wooded setting near Lake Tashmoo. For details, visit mvplayhouse.org or call 508696-6300.
TBD Improv, Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and West Tisbury
Experience a highly interactive, hilarious show in which the audience gives suggestions to Island-based performers who create scenes right on the spot. The TBD Improv group will be at venues around the Island throughout the summer season. Check the schedule at tbdimprov.com.
Martha’s Vineyard Film Center, Vineyard Haven
Immerse yourself in critically acclaimed movies and other events from the M.V. Film Society. The lineup includes feature films, documentaries, comedy shows, live music, Exhibition on Screen, Met Opera Live, National Theatre Live, and more. Plus there’s the M.V. Documentary Week
from July 28 – August 1 and the M.V. International Film Festival from Sept. 2–7. For the schedule and tickets, visit mvfilmsociety. com or call 508-696-9369.
August 1–9: M.V. African American Film Festival, Performing Arts Center, Oak Bluffs This 23rd annual event by Run&Shoot Filmworks is an Academy Awards Qualifying Festival in the category of short film. It also includes guest speakers and panel discussions. Passes are available for one day or multiple days. Learn more and purchase tickets at mvaaff.com.
Local Markets
Sundays: Oak Bluffs Open Market, Washington Park Shop for Island-grown produce, original artwork, handmade jewelry, fine crafts, summer flowers, specialty foods, and vintage finds in an open market near Oak Bluffs Harbor. It is like a farmers market, antique show, artisan fair, and a body/mind/spirit expo all in one, plus live music. July and August, 9 am to 1 pm. Sept., 10 am to 2 pm. For updates, visit facebook.com/oakbluffsopenmarket.
Sundays and Thursdays: Vineyard Artisans Festival, Grange Hall, West Tisbury
Meet local artisans, buy directly from them, and see demonstrations of fine art and crafts. The handmade items to discover include furniture, pottery, stained
glass, paintings, sculpture, jewelry, quilts, handmade books, and much more. The market is open from 10 am to 2 pm. For details, visit vineyardartisans.com.
Tuesdays: Edgartown Village Market, Daniel Fisher House
Find Island-grown produce, flowers, provisions, and one-of-a-kind goods in an open-air setting. This Main Street market is accessible to bikers and pedestrians, and it gives shoppers a chance to meet with local growers and makers. It is open from 10 am to 2 pm. To learn more, visit edgartownvillagemarket.com.
Wednesdays and Saturdays: West Tisbury Farmers Market, Agricultural Hall
The Island’s oldest and largest farmers market features locally grown, seasonal produce, as well as homemade bread, savory condiments, fresh honey, homemade jams, beautiful flowers, artisan chocolates, sweet desserts, and unique gifts. It is open from 9 am to 12 pm. View the list of vendors at wtfmarket.org.
Wednesdays and Saturdays: Chilmark Flea Market
Visit the oldest outdoor flea market on the Island, offering antiques, imports, vintage finds, and high-quality handmade items from Vineyard artists and craftsmen. Discover jewelry, clothing, art, food, and much more, all in a beautiful setting at 142 North Road. It is open from 9 am to 2 pm, with free entry and parking. For updates, check facebook. com/chilmarkflea.
July 19: Annual Native Artisan Market and Festival, Aquinnah Shop directly from Native artisans, listen to live music, watch artist demonstrations, and make a craft of your own. The market will run from 11 am to 4 pm at the Aquinnah Cultural Center, located in the Aquinnah Circle. The rain date is Sunday, July 20. For more information, visit aquinnah.org.
Island Alpaca
Edgartown Village Market
DENA PORTER
MV TIMES
August 2: 42nd Annual Crafts and Artisans Fair, Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs
Discover unique handmade items at a community market held at the M.V. Camp Meeting Association’s historic landmark. The local items may include wind chimes, shell wreaths and art, knitted and crocheted pieces, jewelry, woodwork, photography, notecards, screen prints, floral arrangements, home decor, jams, breads, and more. The fair will be open from 9 am to 2 pm. For details, visit mvcma.org.
Music Concerts
Sundays in the Park Concerts, Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs
Enjoy a seaside celebration of live music and the summer season. A concert will take place in the bandstand at Ocean Park every Sunday in the early evening. Some of the performances showcase the Vineyard Haven Band. These community events are made possible by the Oak Bluffs Parks & Recreation Department. Check the schedule at oakbluffsma. gov/181/Parks-Commission.
Mondays and Fridays: Outdoor Concerts, Featherstone, Oak Bluffs
Enjoy musical performances on the beautiful lawn surrounding the Art Barn’s deck. All tickets for the performances will be sold online starting at 12 pm the week prior to a concert. The lineup includes Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, Jon Zeeman, Grateful Dread, and many more. For the schedule, visit featherstoneart.org/music.html.
At a resort that’s just steps away from South Beach, gather for live music performances every Tuesday in July and August at 6 pm. The lineup includes Laura Calista, Allie Chip, Sweet Petunia, Rebecca Correia & Keb Hutchings-McMahon, Richard James, Kimaya Diggs, Tyler Harmon, and Lyle Brewer. Learn more at mvyradio.org/events.
Wednesdays in July and August: Community Sing at the Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs
Have fun singing songs in the largest covered outdoor performance space on the Island. There is a new theme every week, such as the Beatles, Broadway show tunes, songbook favorites, and more. Sing along every Wednesday from 7:30 to 8:30 pm. Visit mvcma.org/calendar.
Thursdays: Music in the Square, Eisenhauer Gallery, Edgartown Shimmy over to the courtyard at Eisenhauer Gallery as beloved bands are welcomed back for the season. The concerts take place every Thursday from 6 pm to 8 pm. The performers include the Mike Benjamin Band, Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, Awen Family Band, Blueswitch Blues Band, and more. For details, visit eisenhauergallery.com.
Fridays in July and August: Sunset Concert Series, Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs
Bring a picnic, lawn chairs, and blankets to enjoy a fun evening with live music. Each concert begins at 6 pm, so arrive early to get settled. Check the schedule of local bands and musicians on the calendar at mvcma.org/mvcmaevents.
August 14: Live in Concert: Livingston Taylor, M.V. Film Center, Vineyard Haven
Enjoy a special performance by the legendary singer-songwriter Livingston Taylor, who comes from a very musical family that includes Alex, James, Kate, and Hugh. The concert begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets at mvfilmsociety.com or call 508-696-9369.
August 11: Martha’s Vineyard Gospel Festival, Old Whaling Church, Edgartown
Join everyone for an inaugural concert to benefit food-insecure and homeless neighbors. Featuring music by Grammy Award-winning artist Tamela Mann, along with other nationally and locally renowned
gospel artists. The show is from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Tickets at eventbrite.com.
August 16-17: M.V. Soulfest Concert, MVRHS Performing Arts Center, Oak Bluffs
Experience two nights of soul, jazz, and R&B music at the annual Soulfest. The featured artists are Kevin Ross, Noel Gourdin, and Mike Rollins & Friends on August 16, and Andre Ward, Dreion, Phaedra, DJ Alcide, and D-Sticks on August 17. Each concert is from 5:3 0pm to 8:30 pm. For tickets, visit marthasvineyardsoulfest.com.
August 17: Jazz on the Vineyard, Oak Bluffs
This 14th annual concert fundraiser benefits SATO, an organization working to close the achievement gap for minority students. It will be held from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Tickets at jazzonthevineyard.org.
August 29–Sept. 1: M.V. Jazz and Blues Summerfest, Oak Bluffs and Edgartown
This year’s opening night concert at Union Chapel features Alyson Williams, SAGE, and Sammulous. On Saturday, there is a Porch Performance at Edgartown Commons, and Jazz in the Garden & Gallery at Knowhere Art Gallery in Oak Bluffs. On Sunday, a Symphony & Soul Concert will take place at Union Chapel. For the schedule and tickets, visit mvjazzbluessummerfest.com.
Ocean Park concerts
Recreation
August 31: Annual Oar & Paddle Regatta, Island Spirit Kayak, Oak Bluffs
Paddlers and swimmers of all ages are welcome to come together to race 2.4 miles across Sengekontacket Pond to raise funds for the Friends of Sengekontacket, who work to keep the pond protected. There are a variety of racing categories in this family event, and even dogs can join the fun. For details and to register, visit islandspiritkayak.com.
Island trails, ponds, and beaches, sunrise to sunset Hike on woodland trails, bike on paved paths, kayak across ponds, walk on the beach, and enjoy other recreational activities on the protected properties maintained by the M.V. Land Bank, Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation, The Trustees of Reservations, Mass Audubon, the Nature Conservancy, and the state of Massachusetts. Many places have scenic overlooks, tranquil shores, footbridges, and tumbling streams. To view an Island-wide map, visit bit.ly/ mvtrails.
For more events and activities on Martha’s Vineyard, check the Vineyard Visitor website at vineyardvisitor.com and the event calendar at mvtimes.com/things-to-do-4-2.
NICOLE JACKSON
Come to the FAIR!
Looking for that quintessential Vineyard summer experience?
Take yourself to the corner of State Road and the Panhandle in West Tisbury any day or evening from August 21 to 24. Close your eyes. Can you smell the popcorn? Can you hear the
hooting, hollering, and laughter from kids in the carnival section?
How about the amazing music coming from the music tent?
Tell the truth, you’re salivating right now thinking about fried dough, aren’t you? Well, you’re not alone. This year, as nearly every year since 1858, folks will
flock to the Ag Fair in West Tisbury (the official name is the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society Livestock Show and Fair, but you’ll get funny looks if you use all those words).
This is a country fair in the best sense: sure, there are games and rides shipped over from the
mainland (thank you, Cushing Amusements!) but the MV Agricultural Society especially honors the things you’d have found 163 years ago when the Fair first opened. Every year, the event gets better, so it’s a good thing it’s on for four days. You’ll have plenty of time to peruse
peruse prize-winning crafts and veggies in the Ag Hall, sample delectable food, listen to all kinds of fabulous music, play carnival games, visit farm animals (from the adorable to the kooky to the regal), and watch the woodsmen competition, as folks compete in a variety of
Come to the fair!
contest like ax throwing and chainsaw sculpture. Not to mention the famous Women’s Skillet-Throwing Contest.
There’s almost nonstop entertainment by a wide range of musicians, from a Youth Music Showcase to the legendary Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, giving
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you plenty of opportunities to cut loose and dance.
Inside the cavernous Ag Hall – the beating heart of the Fair, to many – you can browse blue-ribbon winners and runners-up, in hundreds of categories in gardening, baking, and artistic competitions. Amaz-
ing quilts bedeck the beams. Elaborate floral arrangements, towering sunflowers, colorful preserves, humongous zucchini, dolls and woodwork and crochets and above all: there is photography and artwork lining rows and rows of dividers and cubicles. This year’s theme is “Something to crow about,” and it will be interesting to see how participants interpret that. Step out of the hall into the fairground, and you’ll find dozens of vendors, most of them Islanders. As well as artisanal crafts, clothing, and other intriguing offerings, there are – of course – the food vendors. Hot dogs and hamburgers, corndogs, pulled pork sandwiches, French fries, tempura, a growing variety of ethnic options… And then, as well as that crispy fried dough we made you think about a few paragraphs back, be on the lookout for strawberry shortcake, kettle corn, ice cream, slushies, lemonade … If you just ate, you might want to give yourself a moment before riding the iconic Ferris wheel that greets visitors at the front entrance. While Cushing Amusements offers all sorts of rides for kiddies and adrenaline junkies alike, their Ferris wheel is perennially the most popular. Alongside the rides, of course, are rows of carnival games –some are tests of skill and others, of luck.
But the Ag Fair’s real charm lies in its home-grown elements. The Fiber Tent, for instance, has offered a popular “Sheepto-Shawl” event where kids can card wool and weave various items on looms. It’s a great opportunity to learn where wool comes from and how it turns into clothing.
Don’t miss the kiddie tractor pull, the draft horse pulling contest, the corn husk contest, the chopstick knitting competition, the dog show, and so much more! Find everything you need online at https://marthasvineyardagriculturalsociety.org/the-fair.
1. Summer fun.
Competitive vegetables.
These little piggies.
wings.
Mira Warren has high hopes, 2024.
Katherine Long spinning wool at the fair, 2024.
Owen Laurenzo shows of a pair of oxen.
Zooming past.
PHOTOS: ROBIN GOTTESMAN
VINEYARD HAVEN
OAK BLUFFS
“JAWS” at 50
A DEEPER DIVE
Museum exhibit will focus on the roles Islanders played in creating the iconic film. BY
ABBY REMER
Spanning the entire summer is a signature “Jaws” exhibition at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. Its large-scale show “‘Jaws’ at 50: A Deeper Dive” illuminates the special role the Island and its people had in creating a film that took the world by storm — and still does.
“We really want this exhibit to be seen through the lens of the Island,” says the curator of exhibitions, Anna Barber. “We started from the place of not wanting it just to be about the movie, but about how Martha’s Vineyard became Amity, and the people who helped to make that happen.”
Barber and the associate curator of exhibitions, Kate Logue, bring the behind-the-scenes story to life through oral histories, fan
art, film clips, and still images, including those taken by Vineyard journalist Edie Blake and Island artist Jackie Baer, who was an extra in the film. Barber says,
“Edie also took a number of behind-the-scenes photographs. She said, ‘Walking down the beach … was like watching a town pageant. It was fascinating to see so many everyday people from the community made up before the camera and lights.’”
Barber continues, “Edie and Jackie were capturing these moments. I think it’s important to bring people to the forefront besides Spielberg and actors who were part of it.”
In addition to photos of locals, we get to see Bruce, the mechanical shark, reminding us of its ominous lurking presence, sig-
naled by the famed soundtrack. You can get up close and personal at this exhibit, staring straight into the creature’s mouth in a 1:1 scale model that runs from the tip of its pointy snout to its gills, made by the Arcana Workshop. The replica, sponsored by museum supporters Jennifer and Jonathan Blum, measures 72 by 45 by 45 inches. It is based on
extensive research, behind-thescenes photos, documentation, and another replica currently on display at the Atlantic White Shark Center in Chatham. “It’s a way for people to come face-toface with Bruce,” says Barber. Other artifacts include a barrel that was used onscreen, and the harpoon gun that production designer Joe Alves borrowed from
“There’s a special kind of magic in this exhibition — where movie history meets Island memory. It’s a chance to see ‘Jaws’ not just as a film, but as a moment shaped by this place and its people.”
–Anna Barber, M.V. Museum curator of exhibitions
Oak Bluffs Harbormaster Arthur Ben David during the filming. Climb aboard a scale replica of the interior of the Orca, which will be on exhibit from June 19 to 23, during the Museum’s Amity Homecoming Weekend festivities. Standing before the evocative black-and-white and color photographs, designs, and storyboard drawings, we are transported back to 1974, and shown how various locations on the Island were transformed into the fictional Amity.
The simply designed newsprint poster for a “Jaws” showing at
the Island Theater to benefit the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital reveals how the Vineyard capitalized on the film’s wild success to help its community.
Jaws had a $700,000 marketing budget (more than $4.2 million in today’s dollars), and a plastic souvenir cup, with its menacing “Jaws” shark surfacing to devour Chrissie Watkins, is but one memento in the show from the blockbuster movie.
The show also investigates shark science through interactive displays and conservation insights,
in partnership with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy. Barber says, “It’s about the awareness that we’re sharing the waters with great white sharks, both as life imitating art and in appreciating how incredible sharks are.”
While the Academy Museum of
Motion Pictures in Los Angeles is doing a huge exhibition revisiting the film scene by scene, Barber reflects on the unique perspective the Island museum is taking.
“This is where it happened. This is Ground Zero, and I hope that all the people who come leave with a better understanding of how the magic of that movie could not have occurred without the Island and its people. Without this place, there would be no ‘Jaws.’
“There’s a special kind of magic in this exhibition — where movie history meets Island memory. It’s a chance to see ‘Jaws’ not just as a film, but as a moment shaped by this place and its people.”
“‘Jaws’ at 50: A Deeper Dive” is on view at the MV Museum through Sept. 7.
1. The book that started it all, at the M.V. Museum.
2. “Jaws” posters from around the world.
3. First Light Cafe’s Vince Patricola stuck his head into the replica of Bruce, the shark from “Jaws.”
4. A barrel prop from the making of “Jaws.”
PHOTOS: DENA PORTER
BBrothers Selim and Meek Mattar immigrated to the U.S. as teenagers, about 1890. They were natives of city of Beirut, then part of the Empire, and today the capital of LebMattar brothers always referred to as “Syria” — a term once used Mediterranean lands stretching from Similarly, the records state that tongue was Syrian, presumably a diWhy the Mattars chose to settle Ark., is a mystery, but they soon successful dealers in “oriental goods” — textiles. Selim became a naturalin 1902.
rothers Selim and Meek Mattar immigrated to the U.S. as teenagers, about 1890. They were natives of the city of Beirut, then part of the Ottoman Empire, and today the capital of Lebanon, but the Mattar brothers always referred to their birthplace as “Syria” — a term once used for all the Mediterranean lands stretching from Turkey to Egypt. Similarly, the records state that their native tongue was Syrian, presumably a dialect of Arabic. Why the Mattars chose to settle in Hot Springs, Ark., is a mystery, but they soon became successful dealers in “oriental goods” — rugs and other textiles. Selim became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1902.
rothers Selim and Meek Mattar immigrated to the U.S. as teenagers, about 1890. They were natives of the city of Beirut, then part of the Ottoman Empire, and today the capital of Lebanon, but the Mattar brothers always referred to their birthplace as “Syria” — a term once used for all the Mediterranean lands stretching from Turkey to Egypt. Similarly, the records state that their native tongue was Syrian, presumably a dialect of Arabic. Why the Mattars chose to settle in Hot Springs, Ark., is a mystery, but they soon became successful dealers in “oriental goods” — rugs and other textiles. Selim became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1902.
began to spend time on Marequally curious. The brothers Island records about 1904, when buying property in Cottage City. This year millionaire Charles Whitney red-roofed villa known as Hedge Lee in VineyardHaven,andonSelim’s1905passport from the Vineyard, Whitney statement attesting that he had known years. So perhaps it was through that these two enterprising Syrito Oak Bluffs.
build the largest concrete structure in town, a two-story building they named Dreamland. It was a movie theater (first floor) and dance hall (second floor), and was a popular nightspot into the 1920s. It predated all three of the other wellknown Island theaters (the Island, Strand, and Capawock). It attracted magicians, dance professors, and auctioneers, and was remembered for the brilliant electric light displays on its exterior and roof.
build the largest concrete structure in town, a two-story building they named Dreamland. It was a movie theater (first floor) and dance hall (second floor), and was a popular nightspot into the 1920s. It predated all three of the other wellknown Island theaters (the Island, Strand, and Capawock). It attracted magicians, dance professors, and auctioneers, and was remembered for the brilliant electric light displays on its exterior and roof.
build the largest concrete structure in town, a two-story building they named Dreamland. It was a movie theater (first floor) and dance hall (second floor), and was a popular nightspot into the 1920s. It predated all three of the other wellknown Island theaters (the Island, Strand, and Capawock). It attracted magicians, dance professors, and auctioneers, and was remembered for the brilliant electric light displays on its exterior and roof.
Selim and Meek split their time between Oak Bluffs and Hot Springs, running businesses and managing properties in both. Soon, they had branch stores in New York City and Louisville, Ky., as well.
Why they soon began to spend time on Martha’s Vineyard is equally curious. The brothers first show up in Island records about 1904, when they began buying property in Cottage City. This was the same year millionaire Charles Whitney built his red-roofed villa known as Hedge Lee in Vineyard Haven, and on Selim’s 1905 passport application, filed from the Vineyard, Whitney signed a statement attesting that he had known Selim for 12 years. So perhaps it was through this connection that these two enterprising Syrian brothers came to Oak Bluffs.
Why they soon began to spend time on Martha’s Vineyard is equally curious. The brothers first show up in Island records about 1904, when they began buying property in Cottage City. This was the same year millionaire Charles Whitney built his red-roofed villa known as Hedge Lee in VineyardHaven,andonSelim’s1905passport application, filed from the Vineyard, Whitney signed a statement attesting that he had known Selim for 12 years. So perhaps it was through this connection that these two enterprising Syrian brothers came to Oak Bluffs.
1905, U.S. passport in hand, SeIsland for Beirut to visit his mother. arriving at the border, he discovered recent attempt on the life of a Turkforeigners had been banned from Turkish dominion, which included city. So Selim exercised his only surrendered his new passport and Turkish subject. Unfortunately, this return to the U.S. appealed to the U.S. consul genbut was met with little sympathy. Department ruled that he had American citizenship and was no the rights of a U.S. citizen. His marked “Renounced American Al“Passport Destroyed.”
Selim and Meek split their time between Oak Bluffs and Hot Springs, running businesses and managing properties in both. Soon, they had branch stores in New York City and Louisville, Ky., as well.
Selim and Meek split their time between Oak Bluffs and Hot Springs, running businesses and managing properties in both. Soon, they had branch stores in New York City and Louisville, Ky., as well.
In March 1913, a leaking natural gas pipe in the basement of their Hot Springs rug shop caught a spark. The resulting explosion killed two men, injured many more, and Selim himself was blown through the storefront. He grabbed a burning timber to keep himself from falling into the basement, but his hands were burned “to the bone.” He soon recovered, but bore visible scars on both hands for the rest of his life.
1. Dreamland, Oak Bluffs Avenue.A sign advertises “Paul Velmar the Magician,” the stage name for Leander Babcock of East Greenwich, Conn. 2. Dreamland, Oak Bluffs Ave.The Civil War memorial pictured was moved to its present location in 1930. 3. Postcard of Dreamland, the Odd Fellows Hall, two bowling alleys, and the trolley on Oak Bluffs Ave. (The crowds and other vehicles were probably pasted in by the postcard publisher.) 4. Postcard of Dreamland, probably taken from the top of the Tivoli.“Marie Huber” is the featured attraction in the banner out front. Note the rooftop lettering, perhaps added for the benefit of early air travelers. 5. Selim Mattar (1873–1947), as depicted on his 1924 passport. Mattar was about 51 years old when this photo was taken, and had recently sold Dreamland. 6. Dreamland Garage. Proprietor Cooper Gilkes (1879-1965) was a native of Barbados.
In March 1913, a leaking natural gas pipe in the basement of their Hot Springs rug shop caught a spark. The resulting explosion killed two men, injured many more, and Selim himself was blown through the storefront. He grabbed a burning timber to keep himself from falling into the basement, but his hands were burned “to the bone.” He soon recovered, but bore visible scars on both hands for the rest of his life.
In March 1913, a leaking natural gas pipe in the basement of their Hot Springs rug shop caught a spark. The resulting explosion killed two men, injured many more, and Selim himself was blown through the storefront. He grabbed a burning timber to keep himself from falling into the basement, but his hands were burned “to the bone.” He soon recovered, but bore visible scars on both hands for the rest of his life.
Meek had become chronically ill — probably tuberculosis — and spent years unsuccessfully trying to regain his health. He died in 1914, and is buried in Oak Bluffs’ Oak Grove Cemetery.
In November 1905, U.S. passport in hand, Selim left the Island for Beirut to visit his mother. But upon arriving at the border, he discovered that due to a recent attempt on the life of a Turkish sultan, all foreigners had been banned from entering the Turkish dominion, which included Selim’s native city. So Selim exercised his only option: He surrendered his new passport and entered as a Turkish subject. Unfortunately, this also barred his return to the U.S.
In November 1905, U.S. passport in hand, Selim left the Island for Beirut to visit his mother. But upon arriving at the border, he discovered that due to a recent attempt on the life of a Turkish sultan, all foreigners had been banned from entering the Turkish dominion, which included Selim’s native city. So Selim exercised his only option: He surrendered his new passport and entered as a Turkish subject. Unfortunately, this also barred his return to the U.S.
Undeterred, Selim began expanding his holdings in Oak Bluffs. In 1917, he built a building on the corner of Pasque and Sea View Avenue — today occupied by the Lookout Tavern — as a meeting hall for the Odd Fellows, a popular Vineyard fraternal organization. After the lodge eventually closed, Mattar continued to sell “oriental goods” and artwork from this building for many years.
Stuck, Selim appealed to the U.S. consul general at Beirut, but was met with little sympathy. The U.S. State Department ruled that he had abandoned his American citizenship and was no longer entitled to the rights of a U.S. citizen. His records were marked “Renounced American Allegiance” and “Passport Destroyed.”
Stuck, Selim appealed to the U.S. consul general at Beirut, but was met with little sympathy. The U.S. State Department ruled that he had abandoned his American citizenship and was no longer entitled to the rights of a U.S. citizen. His records were marked “Renounced American Allegiance” and “Passport Destroyed.”
it back to the Vineyard after mystery. (When he successfully reapU.S. passport almost 20 years claimed he “lost” his first one.)
1. Dreamland, Oak Bluffs Avenue. A sign advertises “Paul Velmar the Magician,” the stage name for Leander Babcock of East Greenwich, Conn. 2. Dreamland, Oak Bluffs Ave. The Civil War memorial pictured was moved to its present location in 1930. 3. Postcard of Dreamland, the Odd Fellows Hall, two bowling alleys, and the trolley on Oak Bluffs Ave. (The crowds and other vehicles were probably pasted in by the postcard publisher.) 4. Postcard of Dreamland, probably taken from the top of the Tivoli. “Marie Huber” is the featured attraction in the banner out front. Note the rooftop lettering, perhaps added for the benefit of early air travelers. 5. Selim Mattar (1873–1947), as depicted on his 1924 passport. Mattar was about 51 years old when this photo was taken, and had recently sold Dreamland. 6. Dreamland Garage. Proprietor Cooper Gilkes (1879-1965) was a native of Barbados.
1. Dreamland, Oak Bluffs Avenue.A sign advertises “Paul Velmar the Magician,” the stage name for Leander Babcock of East Greenwich, Conn. 2. Dreamland, Oak Bluffs Ave.The Civil War memorial pictured was moved to its present location in 1930. 3. Postcard of Dreamland, the Odd Fellows Hall, two bowling alleys, and the trolley on Oak Bluffs Ave. (The crowds and other vehicles were probably pasted in by the postcard publisher.) 4. Postcard of Dreamland, probably taken from the top of the Tivoli.“Marie Huber” is the featured attraction in the banner out front. Note the rooftop lettering, perhaps added for the benefit of early air travelers. 5. Selim Mattar (1873–1947), as depicted on his 1924 passport. Mattar was about 51 years old when this photo was taken, and had recently sold Dreamland. 6. Dreamland Garage. Proprietor Cooper Gilkes (1879-1965) was a native of Barbados.
and Capawock theaters.) But by 1924, the downstairs was converted into the Dreamland Garage, offeringwinterautomobile storagefor up to 50 cars, and also providing used cars, rental cars, gasoline, and repair service. The garage was run by Barbados native Cooper Gilkes, and later by Island Transport.
Meek had become chronically ill — probably tuberculosis — and spent years unsuccessfully trying to regain his health. He died in 1914, and is buried in Oak Bluffs’ Oak Grove Cemetery.
Undeterred, Selim began expanding his holdings in Oak Bluffs. In 1917, he built a building on the corner of Pasque and Sea View Avenue — today occupied by the Lookout Tavern — as a meeting hall for the Odd Fellows, a popular Vineyard fraternal organization. After the lodge eventually closed, Mattar continued to sell “oriental goods” and artwork from this building for many years.
Meek had become chronically ill — probably tuberculosis — and spent years unsuccessfully trying to regain his health. He died in 1914, and is buried in Oak Bluffs’ Oak Grove Cemetery. Undeterred, Selim began expanding his holdings in Oak Bluffs. In 1917, he built a building on the corner of Pasque and Sea View Avenue — today occupied by the Lookout Tavern — as a meeting hall for the Odd Fellows, a popular Vineyard fraternal organization. After the lodge eventually closed, Mattar continued to sell “oriental goods” and artwork from this building for many years.
Selim also owned and ran the Original Oriental Palace of Art on Circuit Avenue, where Linda Jean’s is today, modeled after his Hot Springs store. Here he sold imported carpets and “fancy goods,” and maintained an auction house in the evenings.
How he made it back to the Vineyard after that is a mystery. (When he successfully reapplied for a new U.S. passport almost 20 years later, he simply claimed he “lost” his first one.)
How he made it back to the Vineyard after that is a mystery. (When he successfully reapplied for a new U.S. passport almost 20 years later, he simply claimed he “lost” his first one.)
Mattar brothers purchased Bluffs Avenue and proceeded to
and Capawock theaters.) But by 1924, the downstairs was converted into the Dreamland Garage, offering winter automobile storage for up to 50 cars, and also providing used cars, rental cars, gasoline, and repair service. The garage was run by Barbados native Cooper Gilkes, and later by Island Transport.
and Capawock theaters.) But by 1924, the downstairs was converted into the Dreamland Garage, offeringwinterautomobile storagefor up to 50 cars, and also providing used cars, rental cars, gasoline, and repair service. The garage was run by Barbados native Cooper Gilkes, and later by Island Transport.
Throughout the 1920s, Dreamland’s second floor was still used for events. By 1925, Oak Bluffs HighSchool’s basketballteamusedtheupstairs — renamed Noepe Hall — for basketball games. In 1928, “more than a thousand spectators” reportedly showed up for a boxing match run by the Antler’s Club at what was now called Dreamland Rink. Edgartown native George Salvadore’s knockout win over Johnny Mello at Dreamland Rink one night launched a boxing career that would eventually lead to his title as the world’s third-ranking welterweight boxer.
Selim also owned and ran the Original Oriental Palace of Art on Circuit Avenue, where Linda Jean’s is today, modeled after his Hot Springs store. Here he sold imported carpets and “fancy goods,” and maintained an auction house in the evenings.
Selim also owned and ran the Original Oriental Palace of Art on Circuit Avenue, where Linda Jean’s is today, modeled after his Hot Springs store. Here he sold imported carpets and “fancy goods,” and maintained an auction house in the evenings.
In 1920, Mattar sold the Dreamland building to Michael Keegan (who ran the Pastime, Strand,
In 1920, Mattar sold the Dreamland building to Michael Keegan (who ran the Pastime, Strand,
In 1920, Mattar sold the Dreamland building to Michael Keegan (who ran the Pastime, Strand,
WASTHEN
In 1907, the Mattar brothers purchased a lot on Oak Bluffs Avenue and proceeded to
In 1907, the Mattar brothers purchased a lot on Oak Bluffs Avenue and proceeded to
Throughout the 1920s, Dreamland’s second floor was still used for events. By 1925, Oak Bluffs High School’s basketball team used the upstairs — renamed Noepe Hall — for basketball games. In 1928, “more than a thousand spectators” reportedly showed up for a boxing match run by the Antler’s Club at what was now called Dreamland Rink. Edgartown native George Salvadore’s knockout win over Johnny Mello at Dreamland Rink one night launched a boxing career that would eventually lead to his title as the world’s third-ranking welterweight boxer.
Throughout the 1920s, Dreamland’s second floor was still used for events. By 1925, Oak Bluffs HighSchool’s basketballteamusedtheupstairs — renamed Noepe Hall — for basketball games. In 1928, “more than a thousand spectators” reportedly showed up for a boxing match run by the Antler’s Club at what was now called Dreamland Rink. Edgartown native George Salvadore’s knockout win over Johnny Mello at Dreamland Rink one night launched a boxing career that would eventually lead to his title as the world’s third-ranking welterweight boxer.
Selim and his wife maintained a summer home on Seaview Avenue until their deaths. Their children became art dealers and auctioneers in Arkansas and North Carolina. His building on Oak Bluffs Avenue is still known by its original name: Dreamland.
Selim and his wife maintained a summer home on Seaview Avenue until their deaths. Their children became art dealers and auctioneers in Arkansas and North Carolina. His building on Oak Bluffs Avenue is still known by its original name: Dreamland.
Selim and his wife maintained a summer home on Seaview Avenue until their deaths. Their children became art dealers and auctioneers in Arkansas and North Carolina. His building on Oak Bluffs Avenue is still known by its original name: Dreamland.
THISWASTHEN
THISWASTHEN
Chris Baer teaches photography and graphics at Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. Hisbook, “Martha’s Vineyard Tales,” containing many “This Was Then” columns, was released in 2018.
BY CHRIS BAER
Chris Baer teaches photography and graphics at Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. Hisbook, “Martha’s Vineyard Tales,” containing many “This Was Then” columns, was released in 2018.
Chris Baer teaches photography and graphics at Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. His book, “Martha’s Vineyard Tales,” containing many “This Was Then” columns, was released in 2018.
SelimMattar’s DREAMLAND
SelimMattar’s DREAMLAND
Selim Mattar’s DREAMLAND
PHOTOS OF LONG–AGO MARTHA’S VINEYARD
PHOTOS OF LONG–AGO MARTHA’S VINEYARD
PHOTOS OF LONG–AGO MARTHA’S VINEYARD
Brothers Selim and Meek Mattar immigrated to the U.S. as teenagers, about 1890. They were natives of the city of Beirut, then part of the Ottoman Empire, and today the capital of Lebanon, but the Mattar brothers always referred to their birthplace as “Syria” — a term once used for all the Mediterranean lands stretching from Turkey to Egypt. Similarly, the records state that their native tongue was Syrian, presumably a dialect of Arabic. Why the Mattars chose to settle in Hot Springs, Ark., is a mystery, but they soon became successful dealers in “oriental goods” — rugs and other textiles. Selim became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1902.
Why they soon began to spend time on Martha’s Vineyard is equally curious. The brothers first show up in Island records about 1904, when they began buying property in Cottage City. This was the same year millionaire Charles Whitney built his red-roofed villa known as Hedge Lee in VineyardHaven,andonSelim’s1905passport application, filed from the Vineyard, Whitney signed a statement attesting that he had known Selim for 12 years. So perhaps it was through this connection that these two enterprising Syrian brothers came to Oak Bluffs.
build the largest two-story building was a movie theater (second floor), the 1920s. It predated known Island Capawock). It fessors, and auctioneers, for the brilliant terior and roof.
Selim and Meek Bluffs and Hot managing properties branch stores in Ky., as well.
In November 1905, U.S. passport in hand, Selim left the Island for Beirut to visit his mother. But upon arriving at the border, he discovered that due to a recent attempt on the life of a Turkish sultan, all foreigners had been banned from entering the Turkish dominion, which included Selim’s native city. So Selim exercised his only option: He surrendered his new passport and entered as a Turkish subject. Unfortunately, this also barred his return to the U.S.
Stuck, Selim appealed to the U.S. consul general at Beirut, but was met with little sympathy. The U.S. State Department ruled that he had abandoned his American citizenship and was no longer entitled to the rights of a U.S. citizen. His records were marked “Renounced American Allegiance” and “Passport Destroyed.”
How he made it back to the Vineyard after that is a mystery. (When he successfully reapplied for a new U.S. passport almost 20 years later, he simply claimed he “lost” his first one.)
In 1907, the Mattar brothers purchased a lot on Oak Bluffs Avenue and proceeded to
In March 1913, in the basement caught a spark. two men, injured was blown through burning timber the basement, bone.” He soon on both hands Meek had become tuberculosis — trying to regain is buried in Oak Undeterred, ings in Oak Bluffs. on the corner — today occupied a meeting hall Vineyard fraternal eventually closed, ental goods” and many years.
Selim also owned ental Palace of Linda Jean’s is Springs store. and “fancy goods,” house in the evenings.
In 1920, Mattar to Michael Keegan
Oak Bluffs bursts with creativity, especially in the summer. Strolling among the galleries, within easy walking distance of each other, is a glorious way to spend a few hours.
“It’s more than a gallery” is Zita Cousens’ motto for her Cousen Rose Gallery (71 Upper Circuit Ave). Founded in 1980, Cousens showcases many artists associated with the Vineyard. Meg Black paints with abaca, a fiber from the inner bark of the banana tree. “Abaca creates the textural surface in my work, which mimics the feel and wonder of the natural world.” Photographer Deb Loeb Bohren employs her camera as a paintbrush to create luscious abstractions. “Intentional camera movement and multiple exposures, layering up to nine exposures into a single image in-camera, are the primary tools of my alchemy.”
Robert Fitzgerald combines beeswax, pigment, and tree sap to create encaustic images of the Island. Bricque Garber fashions abstract assemblages by incorporating bits of paper and textured objects along with paint. Magi Leland states, “I am a scavenger on the hunt for inspiring subjects to paint,” referring to her Vineyard oil paintings. Steve London animates his catch of the day using the ancient Japanese print technique Gyotaku, traditionally employed by Japanese fishermen to
Art lovers are in for a treat
The Oak Bluffs Arts Stroll
BY ABBY REMER
make prints of their catches. Robin Gottesman’s drone photographs of the Vineyard capture the solitude of nature from various heights. Mountains, sky, buttes, adobe architecture, gardens, and fields inspire Pat Littlefield’s collages. RAYHART’s vibrant acrylics balance abstraction and realism. Cousens will be open on Saturdays in June and will commence her renowned weekly artist and author receptions with live music from 6 pm to 8 pm in July and August.
Alison Shaw’s evocatively alluring photographs of the sea and land celebrate the Island’s unique beauty. Sue Dawson, co-owner of
Oak Bluffs galleries from top left: Alison Shaw, Cousen Rose, Knowhere Art Gallery, Michael Blanchard.
Alison Shaw Photography (88 Dukes County Ave), remarks, “We just realized that this is the 20th summer at the Gallery. It’s also the 50th anniversary of Alison’s shooting on Martha’s Vineyard.”
As such, visitors will find many of Shaw’s legacy works and some of her latest photographs, reflecting her ever-evolving vision from black-and-white editorial shots for the Vineyard Gazette to her current focus on color and abstract compositions. Shaw never tires of the Vineyard as a subject.
“Living and working on such a small Island forces me to go deeper . . . [H]ere, surrounded by water, my territory is defined. This translates to almost a physical need to keep evolving, to grow as an artist, and to see ever deeper and wider. If I didn’t evolve as an artist, I’d get bored, and the creative spark would disappear. On the Island, it’s not about finding a new environment, as fun and adventurous as that can be. It’s about finding something within myself.”
Michael Blanchard opened The Crossroads Gallery in 2017. (93 Dukes County Ave) Photography and the Vineyard are intimately intertwined with the artist’s well-being. “Photography, for me, is therapeutic. I focus on Martha’s Vineyard, which I consider my home in addition to a place of residence. The first day I set foot on the Island, I felt a spiritual connection and didn’t understand why — but later would learn. After a catastrophic collapse in 2010, my family, the
Island, and photography have been the keys to my recovery and sobriety of over eight years.”
Blanchard practices a meditative form of contemplative photography known as Miksang, which means “good eye” in Tibetan. “When I make it to a Vineyard location at four in the morning to catch the sunrise, I use the camera and the moment to clear all problems of daily life and experience each sense to the fullest.
Capturing the images of those moments becomes an expression of the happiness and serenity I feel in the absence of alcohol.”
The sense of joy and wonder at nature’s bounty permeates Blanchard’s glorious images of the land, sea, and wildlife.
Valerie Francis, founding director, and Ralph Groce, co-founder and CEO, have two exciting exhibitions. At the Knowhere Art Gallery (91 Dukes County Avenue) is “Women Rising... Where Women Gather, Power IS!” The show highlights the transformative strength of women when they unite in support and solidarity. Their art explores the profound power that emerges when women share space, stories, and creative energy. It also celebrates the diversity of these experiences, showcasing both the personal and political aspects of the journey toward gender equity and liberation. “Living Off the Wall” at the Center of Knowhere (73 Circuit Avenue) celebrates murals’ transformative power, featuring outstanding muralists who translate their large-scale public art into gallery settings with compelling narratives and artistic expressions.
A season highlight is the cherished annual Oak Bluffs Art Stroll. On July 12 from 4 pm - 7 pm, Island artists, vendors, and musicians bring together multiple facets of the arts. But any time during the summer is truly perfect for soaking in the plethora of artistic visual abundance.
For more information, visit galaxygallerymv.org/art-strolls.
VINEYARD’S FAVORITE ICE CREAM SINCE 1971
7 N Water Street 11:00a - Midnight
OAK BLUFFS 12 Circuit Avenue 11:00a - Midnight
VINEYARD HAVEN 24 Union Street 11:00a - 11:00p
EDGARTOWN
MARTHA’S
Menemsha
Captain Quint (Robert Shaw) and his shark-chumming boat, the Orca, fished out of Menemsha. In this scene, the boat is being pulled backward by “Bruce,” the stage name for the “Jaws” shark.
Aquinnah
East Chop Drive in Oak Bluffs. Not much has changed. 3 Then Now
East Chop Drive
This scene was filmed near the Aquinnah lighthouse, even though it was depicted as South Beach. Mayor Vaughn (Murray Hamilton) resists closing beaches despite the pleas of Police Chief Martin Brody (Roy Scheider) and oceanographer Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss). 1 2 1 2
AQUINNAH
CHILMARK
MENEMSHA
“Jaws Bridge”
Some call it “Jaws Bridge,” but if you live around here, you know it’s Big Bridge. Did you know it was reconstructed about 35 years ago? Today’s Big Bridge sits about 17 inches higher than it did in the film.
In a scene from the movie under the “Jaws Bridge,” actor Chris Rebello, who played Michael Brody, was terrified from the sight of Jaws.
Edgartown Harbor
Captain Quint (Robert Shaw) and his boat, the Orca, passing through Edgartown Harbor. That’s the Edgartown Lighthouse in the back. The one pictured is Orca 1, but another one was made out of fiberglass, and is used in all the scenes where the ship is sinking or getting wrecked by Bruce, the 24-foot mechanical shark.
Islander Susan Backlinie responded to a casting call for a “strong woman swimmer willing to swim nude.” In the opening scene she goes for a moonlight swim and is devoured by the shark. Her hand and arm, complete with seaweed and climbing crabs, are found in a dune on South Beach in Katama.
Backlinie died May 11, 2024, at age 77.
Chappaquiddick Ferry
Ah, the Chappy Ferry. Still kickin’. These shots are from the Chappy side, looking toward Memorial Wharf in Edgartown.
Passenger only, service between Hyannis and Oak Bluffs and Nantucket through October.
Island Queen 508-548-4800; islandqueen.com
Passenger only, departs from Falmouth and Oak Bluffs.
Menemsha Bike Ferry North Rd., 508-645-5154. Passengers and bikes. Seasonal service between Menemsha and West Basin, Aquinnah.
MV Tours and Transport
508-939-1359; mvtransportandtours.com Patriot 508-548-2626; Year-round, passenger service between Falmouth and Oak Bluffs.
Seastreak
1 Seaview Ave., 1-800-262-8743; seastreak.com. Seasonal, passenger only, service between Boston, New Bedford, and Martha’s Vineyard. Steamship Authority
Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven, 508-693-9130; steamshipauthority.com. Year-round, vehicles and passengers, service between Woods Hole and Martha’s Vineyard. Vineyard Fast Ferry 401-295-4040; vineyardfastferry.com
Passenger only, service between Quonset Point, Rhode Island and Oak Bluffs from May to October.
African American Heritage Trail sites 1 Rebecca Amos
Menemsha
Nancy Michael
William A. and Sarah Martin Homestead 5 William Martin Gravesite 6 John Saunders and Pulpit Rock
7 Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School
8 Bradley Square Memorial Church 9 Eastville Cemetery 10 Shearer Cottage 11 Gospel Tabernacle
12 Powell Cottage
13 Athletic Teams of the early 1970’s 14 Edward Jannifer
15 Wampanoag Tribe
16 Landladies of Oak Bluffs
17 Overton House 18 Edward Brooke 19 Cottagers’ Corner
20 NAACP Martha’s Vineyard 21 Pioneer Educators 22 Dorothy West Home
Barber Hammond
George and Carrie Tankard House
Coleman Corners
Emma Maitland
Anne P. Jennings 28 Grace Church, Vineyard Haven 29 Federated Church, Edgartown
30 Edgartown Courthouse
31 E. Jacqueline Hunt
32 Nameless Trail
33 Esther’s Escape
34 Dunmere by the Sea
35 Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association
36 Eunice Rocker Home
37 Graves Machine and Tool Co.
38 Robert C. Hayden
OAK BLUFFS
A5 East Chop Lighthouse
D6 Flying Horses Carousel
D6 Memorial Statue
E6 Ocean Park F4 The Campgrounds F5 Union Chapel
F4 Captain Pease House
E7 Chappy Ferry
D3 Daniel Fisher House
C7 Edgartown Lighthouse
E4 Federated Church
C1 Memorial Park
D6 Memorial Wharf
D6 Old Sculpin Gallery
D3 Old Whaling Church
D5 The Carnegie
D3 Vincent House
VINEYARD HAVEN
E5 Captain Richard C. Luce House
E4 Katharine Cornell Memorial Theatre
G6 Martha’s Vineyard Museum
E5 Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse
(ALSO KNOWN AS TISBURY)
D5 Owen Park
E5 Stone Church
G3 War Memorial Veterans Park
A7 West Chop Lighthouse
UP-ISLAND
D6 Agricultural Hall
G2 Beetlebung Corner
A6 Christiantown Chapel
B1 Gay Head Cliffs
A4 Gay Head Lighthouse
D6 Grange Hall
F1 Menemsha Village
D6 Old Mill Pond
C6 Polly Hill Arboretum
D7 The Youth Hostel
D6 West Tisbury Town Center
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A monthly newsletter celebrating and amplifying Islanders of color who help shape the vibrant, diverse fabric of Martha’s Vineyard.
A monthly newsletter celebrating and amplifying Islanders of color who help shape the vibrant, diverse fabric of Martha’s Vineyard.
A monthly newsletter celebrating and amplifying Islanders of color who help shape the vibrant, diverse fabric of Martha’s Vineyard.
Know what’s happening on-Island. Delivered every week day by 4 pm.
Know what’s happening on-Island. Delivered every week day by 4 pm.
Know what’s happening on-Island. Delivered every week day by 4 pm.
A monthly newsletter for people interested in writing and the writing life on Martha’s Vineyard.
A monthly newsletter for people interested in writing and the writing life on Martha’s Vineyard.
A monthly newsletter for people interested in writing and the writing life on Martha’s Vineyard.
The ‘Amity Island’ Summer of ‘74
How the real Martha’s Vineyard made it to Hollywood.
It’s been 50 years since Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws” took over Martha’s Vineyard and transformed it into Amity Island. The filming of “Jaws” took place from May through October of 1974. Back then, the real Vineyard was a much simpler place. The yearround population, of only about 4,800, swelled with tourists and
seasonal residents as it does now, but on a much smaller scale. The makers of “Jaws” got that tension between the summer tourist season and the year-round locals who need to sustain themselves long after the summer crowds have packed up and gone: a great white shark could indeed kill a summer.
But 50 years ago in late April, Universal Studios, with a mech-
anized shark named Bruce, was actually pouring money into local coffers to make the movie. The making of “Jaws” could even be considered the Vineyard’s Hollywood “close-up,” putting the Island on the map across America and around the world.
Locals lucky enough to become extras were getting up to $150 a day as cast members. When the
word went out that they needed “a powerful swimmer willing to swim nude” as Chrissie Watkins in the opening shark attack scene, Susan Backlinie stepped up. In that scene, ominous music builds, and to this day it haunts the minds of just about anyone who has seen “Jaws.” Universal spent big that summer of ’74 — $700,000 (1974 dollars) for
Kids fleeing the water in response to a prank played by two boys with a floating shark fin.
EDIE BLAKE
the marketing budget alone for the nationwide release. “Jaws” opened in over 400 theaters, and its global receipts were over $2.8 billion in today’s dollars. Martha’s Vineyard, a real place with real people, was on the map, and Amity Island, a fictitious place named for a town on Long Island, was born. Turning the lens on local people and their impact, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum started the season off with their own “‘Jaws’ at 50,” which opened on May 24 and runs through September 7. The exhibit features rare photographs, oral histories, original art, and movie props, and celebrates many of the onscreen and behind-the-scenes Islanders. “We really want this exhibit to be seen through the lens of the Island,” said M.V. Museum Curator of Exhibitions Anna Barber. “This is where it happened. This is Ground Zero, and I hope that all
the people who come leave with a better understanding of how the magic of that movie could not have occurred without the Island and its people.”
The film’s casting crew set up shop in the Kelley House in March 1974 and offered Ozzie Fischer, a Chilmark farmer, a role he turned down, saying, “I was running the Keith farm” in Chilmark. Local photojournalist Jini Poole, wife of Menemsha fish retailer Everett Poole, was hired to assist Shari Rhodes, the “Jaws” casting director.
Jini cast much of the movie, with Islander Peggy Scott as Polly, Chief Brody’s office manager. The real-life Dr. Robert Nevin, cast as the medical examiner; Hershel West, longtime fisherman and hand at Larsen’s in Menemsha, played Quint’s deckhand. Robert Carroll was the Amity town selectman.
Poole also cast her father-in-law, Captain Donald L. Poole, and John Alley, of Alley’s General Store fame, as well as her own children, Katharine and Donald, for the movie, according to the
Vineyard Gazette at the time. The first week of May 1974, “Jaws” was set for filming. It was cold, and Spielberg and his team were shooting scenes slated to look like hot summer days.
PHOTOS EDITH BLAKE
Onlookers in 1974 catching glimpses of “Jaws” filming in Edgartown.
Onlookers in 1974 catching glimpses of “Jaws” filming in Edgartown.
Spielberg, on set, directing “Jaws.”
“Jaws” opened in over 400 theaters, and its global receipts were over $2.8 billion in today’s dollars. Martha’s Vineyard, a real place with real people, was on the map, and Amity Island, a fictitious place named for a town on Long Island, was born.
For one scene, Chrissie Watkins’ arm and hand stuck up out of the sand, with seaweed and crabs crawling over it. And, out of sight, the owner of the arm lay on the sand, cold, in a sleeping bag.
Gerald Kelly wrote, “The prop man … poured warm coffee on the crabs … They wriggled … People joked … Can a severed arm have goose bumps?”
Those Technicolor summer scenes had locals shivering off set, and a bit steamed about the process. John Alley, playing an extra who walked ahead of Chief
Brody on a dock, one day had had enough of the cold and quit.
The opening shark attack scene starts with a classic Vineyard tradition of a nighttime fire on the beach, with longhaired teens playing guitar and drinking beer. Then it cuts into glances, flirtation, and Chrissie running easily across a dune, with Tom Cassidy (played by seasonal resident Jonathan Filley) stumbling behind. Then to surprising nudity, Chrissie diving in and swimming, the water glistening in moonlight. And
then it begins: the menacing music that would live forever in the minds of all of us who have seen “Jaws.” Then screams, Chrissie being dragged back and forth across the screen — and silent disappearance.
Then there’s poor Alex Kintner. He only asked his mom if he could go in the water one last time. He’s the second human to die in “Jaws,” just after the black Lab Pippin disappears. In real life, Kitner was played by Jeffery Voorhees. Voorhees is the long-serving and recently retired manager of the Wharf in Edgartown.
On June 20 through 22, the Wharf presented “‘Jaws’ 50th Anniversary Celebration.” As part of the three-day event, a full-scale model of the Orca was docked at Nancy’s in Oak Bluffs, with its lifesize model
of a great white shark mounted outside. In Katama on June 21, the “Jaws”’ musical score, by John Williams, played live under the stars by the Cape Symphony, accompanying an outdoor “Jaws” screening. It was the kind of immersive cultural experience that rekindles memories of youthful beach fires of decades past.
The big celebration of a significant and in some ways transformative moment in Vineyard history wouldn’t have happened without locals, without beaches, without the ocean around us, and without sharks. It would all have been a passing summer, on a tranquil and beautiful Island off the coast of Massachusetts. But it did happen, because this Island was this Island, seven miles from the mainland dock in Woods Hole.
Steven
Filming “Jaws” in 1974.
‘Jaws’ swag
Ma rtha’s Vineyard is buzzing with excitement during the 50th anniversary of “Jaws” on the Island, where the blockbuster was mostly filmed.
A whole range of events is planned, including interviews with cast members and local extras, documentaries, and plenty of “Jaws” art installations.
But what about that swag? Where can you get yourself a tchotchke to remember the 50th? Turns out, everywhere.
Several Island stores are stocking up on all manner of “Jaws”- and shark-related items, from oversized plushies to Bruce-themed piñatas.
PHOTOS: DENA PORTER
1. Bunch of Grapes bookstore in Vineyard Haven has stocked books and other items about sharks and the film “Jaws.” 2. Big Al’s in Oak Bluffs has some humorous T shirts for sale. 3. Bunch of Grapes bookstore in Vineyard Haven has stocked books and other items about sharks and the film “Jaws.” 4. The Lazy Frog store in Oak Bluffs has many “Jaws”-related toys and games there. 5. Get your man-eating sharks at Alley’s General Store. 6. Bring a penny to Mardell’s in Vineyard Haven and turn it into a shark coin! 7. Big Al’s has plenty of “Jaws” stickers.
Living in ‘Amity’ WITH SHARKS
Greg Skomal teaches us how to coexist with the Atlantic great white.
BY ELLA MUNNELLY
Amity means “friendship,” and Dr. Greg Skomal believes we can coexist peacefully with the ocean’s great apex predator, the shark. After the 1975 global hit movie “Jaws”, and its “kill or be killed” message, this big fish has gained a lot of media attention over the years, and with it came a very bad rep.
Skomal lived on the Island for 23 years, and is one of the leading shark experts in the country. He is an accomplished marine biologist and underwater explorer working to reveal the true nature of the ocean’s most charismatic and controversial predator, the Atlantic great white shark.
In recent years gray seals have returned to the Island’s surrounding waters, and along with them their natural predators. For the first time in centuries, these sharks can be found in large numbers along the beaches during the summer and fall months.
“If we have sustainable populations of sharks you're going to have the potential for negative interactions between sharks and people, because of that there's a tendency for people to want to get rid of sharks but that would be bad for the ocean. We need to learn to live together,” said Skomal.
In August 2012, the first confirmed white shark attack in almost 80 years occurred in the region, and since then there have been five more confirmed attacks. In response to this, some have called for shark culls, nets, drone surveillance, and other extreme solutions. On a statistical scale, these attacks are still very rare, but the sudden increase is something worth recognizing.
Skomal believes, from a conservation standpoint, we need to know where, when, and how these sharks hunt their prey so that we can learn how to coexist with them. Skomal’s team uses three main technologies to track the behavior of the great white.
Satellite tags reveal that great white sharks are not just a coastal species but they migrate offshore into deep ocean waters of the Atlantic. “We're talking about a species that's far more broadly distributed than we realized,” said Skomal.
of a couple of days to get a sense of how they live. We're studying really fine scale behavior and getting high resolution data so we can see how the average shark spends its average day,” said Skomal.
Skomal suggests that people look for the signs of sharks and seals in an area before swimming. “Keep in mind that the probability of a shark bite is really, really small,” said Skomal, “don’t swim alone, don't go out too deep, and don't swim in areas where there's seals.”
When it comes to shark mitigation methods, Skomal said, “the bottom line is that there is really no 100 percent effective, fool-proof way that is going to guarantee your security in the ocean from a shark bite.”
In 2021, the Martha’s Vineyard Atlas of Life was launched, which is a community-driven project of BiodiversityWorks and the Betsy and Jesse Fink Family Foundation. The program is working to document the unique biodiversity of Martha’s Vineyard, and seeks to inspire and support nature enthusiasts, with the goal of a community that understands and protects the biodiversity of the Island.
Skomal believes, from a conservation standpoint, we need to know where, when, and how these sharks hunt their prey so that we can learn how to coexist with them.
He also uses acoustic technology, which he said is “high frequency pings that are picked up through an array of receivers that we've put out throughout Massachusetts. We have a strong sense of when white sharks arrive, where they spend their time, and when they leave.” This technology has revealed that peak months are generally August, September, and October. They have also found that when it comes to Martha's Vineyard, the great whites nearby tend to be moving through, because the Island currently doesn't have a high density of seals.
They also employ new camera tag technology to study behavior. “We put camera tags on white sharks and follow them around over the course
Luanne Johnson is the founder and director of BiodiversityWorks, an organization focused specifically on wildlife monitoring and research across the Island. “We launched this atlas of life as an effort to bring all that information together and make the biodiversity of Martha's Vineyard available to the public in one place,” said Johnson.
“Our work here is ensuring that the next seven generations of Islanders can witness and be in awe of the abundance of biodiversity that we have here on the Island. It's a shame how much we've lost already compared to when the first people were here, and we'd like to at least preserve what's here now,” said Johnson.
Johnson shared that Skomal is a regular reader of the program's monthly newsletter, and after speaking with him about the increase in fish sightings, they invited him to give a presentation for the Island about sharks. Skomal shared his research on the evening of June 17 at the Performing Arts Center at the Regional High School.
In response to some extreme shark mitigation methods, Johnson said, “When you start taking out an apex predator you disrupt everything in a system. Nature does not produce any junk, it all has a purpose, it all has a niche in the environment, everybody’s got their space in the ecosystem, predators and prey all fit into the beautiful web of life and it's all important.”
We have come far from the era when the only good shark was a dead shark. As Matt Hooper would say, “That shark isn’t evil. It’s not a murderer. It’s just obeying its own instincts.”
Great white named Turbo.
Tagging a great white.
things to do
ARCADE GAMES
Flying Horses Carousel
15 Oak Bluffs Ave., Oak Bluffs, 508-693-9481, vineyardtrust.org/property/flying-horses-carousel
The Game Room
19 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs, 508-687-9179, ryanfamily.com
AVIATION
Classic Aviators
Biplane rides at Katama Airfield, Edgartown, 508-627-7677, biplanemv.com
14 Aero Ave., Edgartown, 508-627-7007, f arminstitute.org
Whippoorwill Farm
Old County Rd., West Tisbury, 774-563-8197, whippoorwillfarm.com
FIGURE SKATING & HOCKEY
Martha’s Vineyard Ice Arena at YMCA of M.V. 91 Edgartown–Vineyard Haven Rd., Oak Bluffs, 508-693-5329, ymcamv.org/mv-ice-arena
HIKING & BIKING
Manuel F. Correllus State Forest
Trails and paved paths in a 5,300-acre forest in the middle of the Island. 508-693-2540
bit.ly/mvforest
Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank
Over 70 properties with hiking or biking trails, ponds for kayaking, and beaches. 508-627-7141, mvlandbank.com
Mass Audubon’s Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary
100 Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown, 508-627-4850, massaudubon.org/felixneck
The Nature Conservancy
Hoft Farm Preserve in West Tisbury and David H. Smith Preserve in Edgartown, nature.org
Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation
Over 20 properties for hiking or biking, plus beaches or water views. 508-693-5207, sheriffsmeadow.org
The Trustees of Reservations
Menemsha Hills, Long Point Wildlife Refuge, FARM Institute, Norton Point Beach, Wasque, Mytoi Garden, and Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge. 508-693-7662, thetrustees.org
HORSEBACK RIDING
Arrowhead Farm
174 Indian Hill Rd., West Tisbury, 508-693-8831, arrowheadfarm.net
Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center
55 Misty Meadows Ln., West Tisbury, 508-338-7198, mistymeadowsmv.org
Pond View Farm
New Lane, West Tisbury, 508-693-2949, facebook.com/pondviewfarmmv
White Stone Equestrian
85 Red Pony Farm Rd., West Tisbury. 774-563-0220, whitestonemv.com
New waffle shop in Vineyard Haven has a variety of mouthwatering toppings.
BY SARA CREATO
Simone’s Belgian Waffles, a new gourmet waffle shop located in Vineyard Haven, opened its doors on Memorial Day weekend. Tucked inside of the Ice Box ice-cream shop in the Tisbury Marketplace, Simone’s serves Liège Belgian waffles with ice cream and a variety of toppings, as well as coffee and tea.
The shop’s sky-blue walls, white accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows create a warm atmosphere reminiscent of a clear summer day. Customers can watch business owner Simone Geary as she pours the batter into the waffle iron and cooks each
waffle to a golden brown.
An Island native, Geary says her love for Belgian waffles began after she had her first bite of one at Sunday River, a ski resort in Newry, Maine.
Her goal for Simone’s is to bring a unique and affordable addition to the Island community.
“When I thought about what I could bring to the Vineyard that isn’t already here, the waffles were a natural choice,” she says. “It’s a nice, sweet treat, and sort of a luxury item, for less than $15 in most cases.”
Among the choices on the menu: waffles
topped with banana, Nutella, whipped cream, melted chocolate, strawberries, caramel sauce, Speculoos, Vermont maple syrup, and pistachio cream. Waffles can come à la mode with a variety of ice-cream flavors from the Ice Box, ranging from chocolate to toasted coconut.
On my first visit, I ordered my waffles with drizzled Nutella and strawberries. Although opting for a more simplistic option, I certainly wasn’t disappointed. With a crisp exterior and an airily soft interior, the waffles achieved a textural harmony.
Additionally, the fresh sweetness of the
PHOTOS: NICHOLAS VUKOTA
“When I thought about what I could bring to the Vineyard that isn’t already here, the waffles were a natural choice” - Simone Geary
strawberries combined with the richness of the Nutella made for a delicious bite.
Although Geary felt a little rushed while preparing for opening, she’s enjoyed interacting with new customers since.
“It’s been so lovely meeting new Islanders I haven’t met before, and seeing old faces come in to support. It’s been really great connecting with other people from the Island, and tourists visiting and looking for advice and trying something new,” she says.
While looking for a location for Simone’s, Geary was drawn to the Tisbury Marketplace because of its proximity to downtown Vineyard Haven and businesses like the Net Result, and the Ice Box, where Geary sources her ice cream.
“I was looking for complementary
businesses to minimize costs and have a smoother start. The Ice Box seemed like the perfect fit with its proximity to town. [With] Net Result right next to it, you have tons of people here for lunch, or to pick up some fresh seafood, and they can grab a waffle or ice cream,” she says.
Geary hopes to stay open throughout the summer, and hopefully for the holiday season in November and December. As Simone’s is in its early stages as a business, Geary is open to customer feedback.
“I’m happy to expand both the drink menu and the toppings menu,” she says. “Just looking to serve the community in whatever ways I can.”
Simone’s is open 9 am to 4 pm.
PHOTOS: NICHOLAS VUKOTA
Choose a signature waffle off the menu or build you own.
Simone Geary at her shop.
Gourmet Liège waffles.
The Quitsa Kitchen community
Homemade biscuits, fire and honey chicken, and so much more. BY ALLISON
ROBERTS
Quitsa Kitchen in Vineyard Haven is a not-to-miss Island eatery. The vibe is upbeat, warm, and welcoming, and the food? Chef’s kiss. Whether you are craving a sweet treat, a comforting meal, or catering services, Quitsa’s got you covered.
“I opened for business in mid-January,” owner Theresa Manning says. “We’ve been met with a very warm welcome from the community.”
Manning views Quitsa employees as family. “Family first. I don’t care if it’s August and we’re in the middle of a catering event. If someone has a family issue, that comes first.” Manning’s longtime friend
Scott Mullin, an interior designer, helped design the eatery when Manning took over the space — formerly Humphreys — from Donna Diaz and Pete Smyth. “Amy Miller, who worked with me at Back Alley’s (currently 7a), was the baker, and I was the cook. I engaged her to come up with a bakery menu and formulate recipes. Camila Hathaway, who worked with me during my early hustling days, now works here as well.” When Manning bought the business, Kelly Silva, who worked for Pete and Donna, stayed on along with her daughter Heloisa de Freitas. “I was very lucky to come in with a family — people I knew would make this work,” Manning continues.
PHOTOS: DENA PORTER
Above, Guests are welcomed to hang out at Quitsa Kitchen with friends or bring a book and enjoy the space. Top right, Theresa Manning welcomes you. Bottom right, The fire and honey chicken sandwich with a side salad.
Quitsa’s
Her focus on building and nurturing relationships isn’t just for Quitsa employees, however. Manning considers year-rounders and summer visitors family, too. “I try to be very present and communicative with my customers. I had a lot of ideas about what I thought the community could use.” Quitsa is located right next to Rise dance studio, and Manning noticed moms bringing their kids in and out and was struck by an idea. “I’d see moms sitting there till 6:30 pm waiting for their kids. I’m a mom, and I know how helpful it is to have something ready to bring home to cook.” Manning and team came up with grab-and-go meals that serve three to four people. “I can’t keep them in the house. They’ve become very popular.”
“The thing that makes me the happiest at this place, is that all day long people come in and want to tell me how much they love the way the place looks, and how they love the food. People are very engaged in the community aspect of this place, and it makes me so happy.”
–Theresa Manning
One of the other ways Manning considers the community’s needs is by offering meals for folks with food sensitivities, alpha-gal, and allergies. “We have alpha-gal and gluten-free options, and we’re working on adding more,” Manning said. “A new vegan butter just came in from France, and we’re going to be exploring recipes with it.”
Manning shared what some of the most popular menu items are “Well, everyone likes everything,” she laughed, “but in the bakery people love the scones, and we also have something we call ‘savory buns’ that are very popular. They’re cinnamon rolls with caramelized onions and cheese.”
Other popular breakfast items include the Breakfast Burrito, and the Morning Stack,
made with homemade biscuits, eggs, and options to add bacon, sausage, spinach, and onion. For lunch, Fire and Honey Chicken Sandwich, Falafel, and French Onion Grilled Cheese fly off the shelf.
“The thing that makes me the happiest, is that all day long people come in and want to tell me how much they love the way the place looks, and how they love the food. People are very engaged in the community aspect of this place and it makes me so happy,” Manning shared. Get over to Quitsa and dig in!
Quitsa Kitchen is open for breakfast and lunch from 7 am to 2 pm. The cafe is open for baked goods and Grab-n-Go, Tuesday through Saturday, 6:30 am to 5 pm, and Sunday 7 am to 3 pm. quitsacuisine.com. 455 State Road, Unit 9. 508-338-7787.
PHOTOS: DENA PORTER
baked goods are some of the popular take to-go items on the menu.
The morning stack breakfast sandwich is loaded with veggies and served on a house made biscuit.
dining
From an on-the-go meal to a topnotch fine dining experience, we’ve got you covered. The Island must-haves — a lobster roll, bowl of chowder, local oysters, or a fresh fish sandwich are all available not only seasonally but year-round as well. And
Y = Year-round
S = Seasonal
AQUINNAH
S Aquila Coffee House 17 Aquinnah Circle.
S Cliffhangers Aquinnah Circle, 508-955-9163.
S The Gay Head Store 33 Aquinnah Circle, 508-955-9142.
Y Orange Peel Bakery & Pizza 22 State Rd., 508-645-2025; orangepeelbakery.net.
S The Outermost Inn 81 Lighthouse Rd., 508-645-3511; outermostinn.com.
S Chilmark General Store 7 State Rd., 508-645-3739; chilmarkgeneralstore.com.
S Chilmark Tavern 1435 State Rd., 508-645-9400; chilmarktavern.com.
S Homeport 512 North Rd., 508-645-2679; homeportmv.com.
S Larsen’s Fish Market 56 Basin Rd., 508-645-2680; larsensfishmarket.com.
S Menemsha Fish Market 54 Basin Rd., 508-645-2282; menemshafishmarket.net.
S Menemsha Galley 515 North Rd., 508-645-9819; menemshagalley.com.
if you’re in the mood for a good bucket of fried chicken, we have that too. Visit listed websites for menus, hours, reservations, and takeout options. Let us know if we don’t have your favorite restaurant here, and we will do our best to add it to the next issue of Vineyard Visitor.
EDGARTOWN
S 19 Prime Cast Iron Steakhouse
19 Church St., 774-224-0550; 19primesteak.com.
S 19 Raw Oyster Bar 19 Church St., 774-224-0550; 19rawoysterbar.com.
Y Alchemy
71 Main St., 508-627-9999; alchemyedgartown.com.
Y Al’s Package Store
258 Upper Main St., 508-627-4347.
S Among the Flowers Café 17 Mayhew Ln., 508-627-3233.
S Atlantic Fish and Chop House 2 Main St., 508-627-7001; atlanticmv.com.
S Atria
137 Main St., 508-627-5850; atriamv.com.
S Bad Martha’s Brewery
270 Upper Main St., 508-939-4415; badmarthabeer.com
S Behind the Bookstore 46 Main St., 774-549-9123; btbmv.com.
S Bettini Restaurant
131 North Water St., Harbor View Hotel, 508-627-3761; harbor-view.com.
S Blackbird Café 19 North Water St., 978-263-7722; myblackbirdcafe.com.
S The Model Deli 342 State Rd., 508-338-7830. modeldelimv.com.
Y MV Tap
13 Beach St., instagram.com/mvtapbar
S Tisberry Frozen Yogurt 29 Main St., 508-687-9314; tisberrymv.com.
Y Vineyard Caribbean Cuisine 13 Beach St., 508-338-4094.
Y Vineyard Grocer 294 State Rd., 508-693-2000; vineyardgrocer.com.
Y Waterside Market 82 Main St., 508-693-8899; watersidemarket.com.
Y Wolf’s Den Pizza 45 Beach Rd., 508-687-9112; wolfsdenmv.com.
Y Woodland Variety & Grill 455 State Rd., Woodland Marketplace, 508693-6795; woodlandvarietyandgrill.com.
WEST TISBURY
S 7a Foods 1045 State Rd., 508-693-4636; 7afoods.com.
Y Alley’s General Store 1045 State Rd., 508-693-0088.
Y Cronig’s Market 469 Upper State Rd., 508-693-2234; cronigsmarket.com.
Y Plane View Restaurant 71 Airport Rd., 508-693-1886; mvyairport.com.
Y State Road Restaurant 688 State Rd., 508-693-8582; stateroadrestaurant.com.
Y Vineyard Take Out 479 State Rd, 508-500-8634; vineyardtakeoutmenu.com.
S Woods at Lambert’s Cove Inn 92 Manaquayak Rd., 508-422-8051; lambertscoveinn.com.
Let us know if we don't have your favorite Vineyard restaurant listed here, and we'll do our best to add it to the next Vineyard Visitor. Send us a
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