Like beautiful, historic buildings? Then the Grange Hall in West Tisbury is a must-see. This historic post-and-beam building, constructed in 1859 by the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society, housed the Agricultural Fair until 1994. In 1997, the Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust purchased the property and restored it to its present (beautiful!) condition.
These days, the Grange Hall hosts a variety of events, and is even a popular spot for wedding receptions. It recently hosted an antique show, an all-Martha’s Vineyard artisan fair, and the West Tisbury farmers’ market. In summer, the farmers’ market is open every Wednesday and Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The winter market operates on Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. You can view a complete schedule here, along with a listing of the dozens of vendors providing their delicious goods. Be sure to stop by and sample freshly-made chocolates, tea, and perhaps even stock up on some locally made jam.
After the Grange Hall in West Tisbury…
After you’ve explored the Grange Hall, why not explore some other historic West Tisbury sites? Stop by the Old Sculpin Gallery and view artwork crafted by some of the Vineyard’s finest artists. If you time it just right, the gallery hosts an All-Vineyard Art Show, featuring prizes for oils, pastels, watercolors, collages, and photography. They also offer workshops for parents and children in drawing, etching, and various forms of painting. You can learn more about the Old Sculpin Gallery by visiting their website.
How magical is Martha’s Vineyard? It has Flying Horses! Flying Horses is an authentic 19th century carousel located in Oak Bluffs. It is, in fact, America’s oldest platform carousel, and is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Rides cost a mere $2.50, but all jockeys have the chance to win a free ride if they can catch the brass ring. Stop by and enjoy a whirl on this beautiful (and unique) piece of American history!
We urge all visitors to check out the Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust website. The Preservation Trust currently owns and maintains twenty properties on Martha’s Vineyard, ranging from art galleries, to old general stores, to farms, libraries, churches, and more. One of their properties, the Village Green in Edgartown, has served as a common green space for 350 years. Today, it is a small park, and connects four commercial streets. Give the Preservation Trust website a look and plan a few daytrips around this beautiful island.
In short, the Grange Hall in West Tisbury is just one of many beautiful buildings to see. If you’re coming, be sure to reserve your accommodations through Sandpiper Rentals. Our Martha’s Vineyard vacation rentals are ideal for relaxing and unwinding in between all of the great activities you can participate in during your time on the island. Our rental properties are located all over Martha’s Vineyard, so you can choose to stay on your favorite part of the island. Whether you want to be right in town or more isolated, we have the perfect rental for you. Our homes are all unique, yet they all offer comfortable accommodations and luxurious amenities. Visit our website to check availability and learn about all of our services!
