Squantums
But what is a squantum? You will search the dictionaries in vain far its definition; but it is the kingliest of entertainment that ever befell you. A pic-nic, yet not a pic-nic; a family party; a fishing excursion, yet not a fishing excursion; a clambake, yet more than a clambake: all these and more are feeble approximations to the glories of a Nantucket squantum. To enjoy a squantum, you must throw all care to the winds, and give yourself to unrestrained pleasure. It is me freest, jolliest, most do-as-you-please land of a gathering to be found in Yankeeland. Word is given in advance, and those who are to participate rendezvous at an early hour at some spot agreed upon.They are armed with fishing, clam-digging, pot-boiling, dinner-eating implements—green com for roasting, potatoes for baking. The remaining and major part of the day's fare will be provided by sea and shore. The procession forms and takes its line of march through the rutted grooves of "the commons" to the Spot designated for the day's halt. A boat's crew is made up to go fishing; another party digs clams on the shore; others prepare the uncouth fireplace—just a hole in the ground, lined with Stones; the lathes engage themselves in various household duties preparatory to the grand feast of the day. We arc guests, so there will be no objection if we lounge away by ourselves.... Help yourself; it is one of our squantum prerogatives that you can eat as much as you please, as well as how you please. Dip a clamshell into your dish of chowder: Nature furnishes us with Spoons. Delmonico can put in the fancy touches, and serve up a dinner for a President; but there is but one Nantucket, and squantum is its royal entertainment Now, if you are full, lie back behind the fumes of your Chingarora, and confess that Nantucket is not dead, nor yet dozing, so long as her people can plan and perfect such dolce-far-nientes as these squantums.
From "Nantucket" in Lippincott's Magazine, September 1868
A digital exhibition by the Nantucket Historical Association