Covering 300 years of maritime history, this four-week course traces the history of ferry service to Martha’s Vineyard from Colonial sailing vessels to today’s Steamship Authority. The course explores the gradual shift from sail to steam to diesel, touching on landmark vessels like the Monohansett (1862), Nobska (1925), and Islander (1950) and the often-surprising ways in which they changed the life of the Island. Behind the (seemingly) routine comings-and-goings of the boats that bring us here is a story of wars, hurricanes, fires, strikes, bankruptcies, and shipwrecks . . . come discover it with MVM research librarian Bow Van Riper.

Preregistration is required and space is limited. 

MVM Members: $60; Non-Members: $75. To register, click here.