Guide to Historical Records and Genealogical Resources of Nantucket, Massachusetts

Table of contents

Introduction and Acknowledgements

Nantucket's long history is evidenced by the existence of historical records that span nearly 350 years. The records are located in various repositories: in the historical association, in the public library, in local governmental offices, in civic organizations, and in churches. Many of these repositories do not contain complete inventories of the historical records they hold. In order to improve access to the records and to promote their use, the Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) created this Guide to Historical Records and Genealogical Resources of Nantucket, Massachusetts. The purpose of the guide is to not merely serve as a descriptive inventory of the island's historical records but to educate the public as to the use and value of historical records-the materials that comprise a community's cultural heritage.

The guide will assist those who live on the island, who are descended from Nantucketers, or who wish to explore the heritage of Nantucket in their search for knowledge or identity. This group includes researchers, writers, scholars, students, teachers, and genealogists. Suggestions on how to begin genealogical research as well as a glossary of terms are included to ensure that the guide is accessible to students and first-time researchers. For those who are more familiar with Nantucket's history and records, suggestions, comments, and critiques are welcome: a second printing is hopefully not too far in the future.

Publication of the guide was made possible by a grant from the Massachusetts Foundation for the Humanities. The efforts of the many individuals at Nantucket's libraries, museums, schools, town departments, societies, and churches who worked with project personnel to compile descriptions of the island's historical records are greatly appreciated.

Betsy Lowenstein
former Library Director