130_ND19

Village LIFE: The Pearls of Nantucket

Cape Cod Life  /  November/December 2019 / ,

Writer: Brenna Collins / Photographer: Teagan Anne 

Village LIFE: The Pearls of Nantucket

130_ND19

Cape Cod Life  /  November/December 2019 / ,

Writer: Brenna Collins / Photographer: Teagan Anne 

To discover more on the side streets, head down Federal Street and check out Eye of the Needle, home to eclectic, quality women’s clothing in a modern space. This trendy boutique will surely enhance your wardrobe with its distinctive pieces, like painted jean jackets, recycled designer bags, and funky jewelry. Pop inside this creative world and get to know owner Karen Gollov, her friendly staff, and signature pieces.

A stone pathway on this road opens up to the world of the Peter Beaton Hat Studio. Stacks of sun hats peak through the doorway, luring visitors into this earnest space. Owner Darcy Creech’s journey began when she made a hat to wear to a party in 1989. “I made a hat, people loved it, and I thought, maybe I can do this for a living,” Creech reflects. Her notoriety skyrocketed when Hillary Clinton commissioned a hat for the presidential inauguration in 1993. She leveraged the newfound notoriety and sold her company, moved to the island with her seven-year-old son, Peter Beaton Creech, and opened the shop in 1996. Pop by the store to experience this eclectic space—it will not disappoint.

For artful jewelry from across the globe and exquisite paintings by local talent, visit The Vanderbilt Gallery farther down Federal Street. Stop in and say hello to owner Barbara Vanderbilt, who can point out distinctive pieces like necklaces crafted from piano wire. Vanderbilt came to the island in 1972 and never left, continuing to curate her highly unique business. 

Right up the road on Broad Street, the Whaling Museum is a must-see for an immersive understanding of the whaling industry, a crucial piece of the island’s famed history. Open daily through December 31, the museum showcases a sperm whale skeleton, the Hadwen and Barney candle exhibition, and an impressive scrimshaw collection. Carve out time in your island stay for a first-hand glance at this magnificent collection of the whaling industry.

Next, heading down South Water Street will lead to up-and-coming ventures like PPX Events, an event planning and catering company that is showcasing its hospitality talent. Owners Courtney Mackey and Lindsay Daley curate custom events in this nautical, earthy space, with chef Kyle Daley preparing meals on-site. The team also caters off-site venues, transporting their flair to your chosen location.