Editorial — The New Year — The Perception of History

The New Year The Perception of History

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THE NANTUCKET HISTORICAL Association was created as much to guide a perception of Nantucket's future as to preserve the visible aspects of our Island's past. Whether the present generation appreciates the fact that this community in the sea represents a phase in the history of our nation which should be carefully preserved is a vital question. The gist of the present situation is how it can be done - how can an awareness of Nantucket's position become a symbol for preservation as a factor for the future.

One may study the history of the Island and Town and find in the exciting narrative very definite guides for the future. It provides a rare perspective. But this vista of our historical past may be easily clouded by the ever-present elements of greed and avarice. The prospect of developers attempting to crowd the outlying lands with structures better suited to the suburbs of a mainland community brings a danger to the Island scene which can not be ignored. Here is land first used by the original settlers, the homestead sites, the grazing pastures, the early farms. If land is available here it should be for the young Islanders who wish to build their homes and not for developers.

Now that Nantucket has become more than a summer resort, that it has attracted visitors at all seasons of the year, its importance is at least recognized. The fundamental question lies in what brings tourists to Nantucket? The answer is the oldness of the Town and the open land, the heath, and the beaches. While the latter may be reserved for only the summer use it has another attribute. It serves, with the other portions of the outlying land, as a factor of great appeal in all seasons.

Protection of the architectural heritage represented by the Town has been accomplished through the Historic Districts Act. A few years ago, at Town Meeting, the voters favored an "Historic District" for the entire Island. What happened to this important decision? Did it fall into the limbo of the legislative and legal labyrinths?

The historical background of Nantucket is as much an attraction as the location and climate of this Island. To recognize this fact and to do all that is necessary to preserve it is a form of insurance for our present and our future.

Edouard A. Stackpole