The major exhibition at the Nantucket Whaling Museum for 2010 will be "Sometime Think of Me:" Notable Nantucket Women Through the Centuries. The 32 women highlighted in the exhibit span four centuries of Nantucket history and features both well know women (such as Maria Mitchell) and less familiar women. Local artist Susan Boardman's "embroidered narratives" will be accompanied by Betsy Tyler's catalog researching each individual. The title is based on a poem written by Phoebe Folger Coleman.

Susan Boardman moved year round to Nantucket Island in 1993 and has been embroidering since she was five years old. Susan reads journals and letters in the archives of the Nantucket Historical Association and creates an illustration reflecting the life of the woman she has chosen. Other inspiration for her work comes from researching the history of a Nantucket home and then creating a piece based on her findings. These meticulously detailed embroidered narratives can require 200-400 hours of work to complete. Susan has been generous to Nantucket Island's non-profits and donates a piece of her embroidery for benefit auctions.Our island is fortunate to have such a creative and giving individual and this summer's exhibit will be very special at the Nantucket Whaling Museum.

To learn more about Susan, her artwork, and a list of her exhibits, kindly visit her website: www.susanboardman.com. If you Google "Susan Boardman Nantucket" you will find an extensive lists of websites that refer to her work, including a wonderful personal account of the artist from the Nantucket Independent, www.nantucketindependent.com.

 For more information about the "Sometime Think of Me" exhibit at the Nantucket Whaling Museum, visit the Nantucket Historical Association website, www.nha.org/.

Photos: Nantucket Artist Susan Boardman (photo from nantucketfoggysheet.com), a piece dedicated to Susan Emma Brock, founder of the Nantucket Historical Association, and a piece based on the poetic works of Elizabeth Morse Morey (both images from the Nantucket Historical Association website).

The Point Breeze Hotel Project auction was held Tuesday, February 23 at 2 p.m. A good sized crowd gathered and listened as the Auctioneer explained the procedure and went through all the necessary regulations for the auction. A few bids were made by registered parties, the highest being $6 million, but after a brief break, the auction ended with TD Bank repossessing the property for $22 million dollars. The present situation of The Point Breeze being partly completed due to the fact that the developer, Bob Matthews, overextended himself has left Nantucketers disappointed. Once the bank clears all liens and title on the property, we can hope that some buyer will be able to finally complete this historic property. For more on this story, please visit the Inquirer and Mirror website: www.ack.net. The website for The Point Breeze is still intact, (www.pointbreeze.com), however, is not current due to the present ownership situation. 

In addition to the excitement generated over the Point Breeze auction, Nantucketers had other things to be excited about–mainly the weather of the past weekend–blue skies, sun, and temperatures in the 40's! The winter offers beautiful skies and views of the island that are usually concealed by vegetation during the more lush months. Carol Coffin, broker/owner of Coffin Real Estate, took the picture below of the Congregational Church of Nantucket as the top of the tower was reflecting through the bare branches. There have been so truly remarkable winter days and these days remind us all that spring is just around the corner. To learn more about the church and to view more pictures, visit www.nantucketfcc.org and then click on the ABOUT US link to read the time line and history of the church starting in 1725 when the church was overlooking the Harbor at Capaum Pond.

Once a week during the summer the Brant Point Runners, a running club made up of Nantucketers and visitors, meet for a timed and friendly 5K. The course covers Hulbert Avenue, North Beach Street, Cliff Road, and Lincoln Circle. Runners of all levels (adults and children) are invited to participate and the times for all participants are listed in the Inquirer Mirror (www.ack.net) each week.  Walkers are welcome!  Last summer the group met on Tuesday evenings at 5:00 at the corner of Easton and North Beach Street. The Brant Point Runners is a great way to get into shape for the three 5k’s that happen on island each summer.

The Firecracker 5K, sponsored by the Nantucket Health Club, goes from the health club to Monomoy and back. The Race for Open Space, which benefits the Nantucket Conservation Association, www.nantucketconservation.com takes place in mid-July and the route covers Cliff Road, Madaket Road, and Crooked Lane. The final 5K of the summer, the Twilight 5K Road Race and Kid’s Fun Run benefits the Nantucket Food Pantry and takes place in August and the course follows the Brant Point Runners' route.

There are also events for the more serious athlete one of which is the Nantucket Triathlon. Founded in 2009 by Jamie Ranney and Bill Burnett, the 2nd Annual Nantucket Triathlon will take place this year on July 10 at noon. During its first year, the race raised funds for the Nantucket Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program, www.bbbsnantucket.org and had about 600 participants.  Four agents from Coffin and 'Sconset Real Estate were among the racers. Designed after one of the shortest breeds of triathlon, the Sprint-Distance, The Nantucket Triathlon consists of 3.3-mile run, 14-mile cycling leg, and quarter-mile swim. This type of Triathlon is designed to be challenging enough for experienced racers, but appealing for first time racers. Racers can choose to race in a team of three or as an individual. Race registration for 2010 is now open.

Due to the tremendous response to this race, the 2010 race field is expected to close in March. Please visit http://www.acktri.com/ for more information.

around one of these athletic events?

Contact Coffin and 'Sconset Real Estate

for summer rental options.

   

  Nantucketers are very fortunate to have Gene Mahon on island who has a wonderful website MAHONABOUTTOWN.COM. Among some of the context of Mahon's website are updates of current events on island, documentation of social happenings, links to other island related blogs, and restaurant listings. Mahon provides a wonderful overview of the island and his website is a great way for those off islanders to keep up with everything Nantucket!  This website should be added to your list of favorite sites for all seasons!

Valentine's Day is right around the corner and even though it is winter on island and most businesses are closed until April, thankfully there are some wonderful restaurants still open during this time of year that are perfect for celebrating the upcoming holiday. Why not take your loved one, family, or a group of friends to one of John Keane's brilliant and delicious (and open year round) restaurants: Queequeg's, Town, and Kitty Murtagh's.

 Queequeg's-  Queequeg's, with it's intimate dining room and gourmet menu, is a local favorite on island (we are going there Saturday night, February 13th, with clients who have become good friends).  Located in the heart of downtown (6 Oak Street), Queequeg's offers dishes perfect for all palates and hearty enough to warm diners on these cold winter nights. For pictures, sample menu, hours of operation, and contact information visit their website: www.queequegsnantucket.com/

Town- Town is a newly opened restaurant in a beautiful renovated house conveniently located on Chestnut Street in downtown. The cuisine is global and offers international and flavorful dishes (Sushi, Vindaloo, Vietnemese Pork Spring Rolls). Intimate bar with specialty drinks and extensive wine list (and Sake). A wonderful choice for dining and socializing. Call 508-325-8696 or visit their website here. 

Kitty Murtagh's- Located on West Creek Road just on the outskirts of town, Kitty's is the island's only Irish Pub and Restaurant. Modeled after Keane's father's restaurant in Ireland, Kitty's offers authentic Irish fare in an inviting and fun atmosphere.  Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner and all menu items are available for take out.  For more information, sample menus, and pictures please visit: http://www.kittymurtaghs.com/

Why not celebrate Valentine's Day early??? The Nantucket Community Music Center will be hosting a Valentine's Dance and Concert Saturday February 13, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. at The Westmoor Club. Come and dance the night away, or just enjoy some great music by our own Community Jazz Band! Complimentary dance instruction, cash bar, silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Adults:$25, Couples: $20, Students: $10, Children 12 and under: FREE. For more information, please visit:  http://nantucketcommunitymusiccenter.org/

Be it dining or dancing–however you decide to celebrate, we wish you all the best and Happy Valentine's Day! From Bernie and Carol Coffin and everyone at Coffin and 'Sconset Real Estate

     People ask Bernie and Carol Coffin - what do we do on Nantucket Island in the dead of WINTER?  We answer that we work daily in the office- Coffin & 'Sconset Real Estate- which keeps us VERY BUSY.  Today we want to promote some interests that are available on Nantucket Island.

     Nantucket's library is the Nantucket Atheneum and their website is: www.nantucketatheneum.org.  This historic property is open all year and provides Nantucketers and visitors every month with so many opportunities.  The leadership and staff of the Nantucket Atheneum work diligently and we appreciate each of them.  Please visit their website and click on 2010 ONE BOOK ONE ISLAND.
 
     The book being read and discussed is COAL BLACK HORSE by Robert Olmstead.  The author will be visiting Nantucket Island on January 28 to talk at the Nantucket Atheneum.  If you are unable to be on island, perhaps you would like to read this book and have an opportunity when next on island to hold your own book club with some other Nantucketers who have read this book.  Click onto their website and review this book.  This program is sponsored by 12 Nantucket nonprofit organizations.  

     Click on the web to the history of the Nantucket Atheneum to understand the important history this institution has provided to Nantucket Island that dates to 1834.  

 

On Nantucket Island we have snow and ice on the ground but we have sunshine!  Therefore-when inside - one would think that SUMMER is right around corner with the blue skies and sun shining. 

Summer will be upon us faster than any of us can believe right now. The phones are ringing now at Coffin Real Estate on Centre St, and 'Sconset Real Estate - Sconset Village Square. Homeowners are anxious to rent their properties and the Steamship Authority is opening up their booking on Tuesday, January 19th.  So NOW IS THE TIME to look at your calendars and THINK SUMMER on NANTUCKET ISLAND.  The Steamship Authority website is www.steamshipauthority.com     

Our website www.coffinrealestate.com will provide you with user friendly search ability for all over the entire Nantucket Island.  Then you can email or call one of our agents and talk about your desired time to rent, the number of bedrooms you need, and the amount you do not want to exceed for your vacation rental. 

We have big houses to tiny cottages, all prices ranges and all locations on the island. Search our website (www.coffinrealestate.com) and call (508-228-1138 or 508-257-6335) or email with any questions as we are here to assist you with your dream summer vacation.   

It truly is a winter wonderland on Nantucket Island.

This past weekend Nantucket was hit with a winter storm that made its way up the East Coast. Bringing around 7-10 inches of wet snow to the island; the storm was one of the more recent snowstorms that the island has seen in two years that has affected the island. The storm began Saturday evening and continued throughout Sunday. High winds put Nantucket on a blizzard watch, were the cause of power loss to as many as 2,000 homes, and cancelled all transportation to and from the Island. The wind and cold weather continued into Monday morning with transportation still frozen in the early hours, but boats began to run again around 10:00 am.

Nantucket Public Schools and some private schools on the island, were closed Monday 12/21.  Students enjoyed the snow day and many families journeyed to The Quaker Cemetery or Dead Horse Valley for some sledding with family and friends. For more information and pictures of the storm, please visit The Inquirer and Mirror's website: www.ack.net.

It’s that time of year—Christmas carols are playing on the radio, candles are in the windows of homes, and your neighbors are putting out holiday decorations—the holiday spirit is all around and this is especially true on Nantucket Island. This past weekend was the annual Nantucket Christmas Stroll. Always falling on the first weekend of December, the Christmas Stroll brings visitors from many locations to the island for this special weekend. During this weekend, Nantucket Island comes alive with the Holiday Spirit. Visitors swell the cobblestone streets, retail stores are open and festively decorated, restaurants are booked, and there are plenty of special holiday events (craft shows, skating shows, theater, ghost walks) to get everyone into the holiday spirit.

One of the many Nantucket Christmas Stroll traditions is the many Christmas trees, which are downtown. Each year local Nantucket community groups, storekeepers, the Coast Guard and classrooms are responsible for the decorations of each tree. Armed with handmade decorations and trimmings, tree decorators flock to the streets to decorate before the Holiday Stroll weekend. This is especially a fun event for the younger students, who not only take pride in their artistic abilities and remarkable decorations, but also enjoy the brief break from school that decorating the tree allows. The theme of each tree is up to the imagination, but the themes always impress, delight, and surprise onlookers. As you can see from the pictures below many of the designs this year ranged from tropical (Great Job Mr. Girvin's class!) to messages of peace and from the traditional (or inspired by popular Christmas carols) to nature and the environment.  The trees are lit at night adding a bit of warmth to the dark and chilly winter nights on Nantucket Island and stay up until after New Years.

Despite the cold and wet weather on Saturday December 3, holiday strollers enjoyed themselves all weekend.  Those who were not on Straight Wharf waiting for Santa and Mrs. Claus to arrive on the Coast Guard vessel, lined Main Street and waited for Santa’s arrival at the Pacific National Bank. People filled the rooms of the Preservation Trust building for the annual local artist craft show, made natural ornaments at the Maria Mitchell Association, swung into the Nantucket Cookie Company and decorated a cookie or two.  Or the strollers just stopped by one of the nearby coffee shops for a hot chocolate and strolled along the Nantucket streets (a great time for sales!). The offices of Coffin and Sconset Real Estate at 40 Centre Street and Post Office Square, Sconset were decorated and open and happy to see some friendly and familiar faces stopping to say hello. As evening came, the community caroling on Main Street began. The Victorian carolers began in front of the Pacific National Bank and made their way throughout town. Onlookers were encouraged to participate, but many decided to leave the singing up to the professionals!

Visit the Nantucket Chamber of Commerce website: www.Nantucketchamber.org for more Holiday Stroll information. Thinking of strolling December 2010??  Please contact Coffin and Sconset Real Estate for Vacation Rentals and Sales. Our user friendly website: www.coffinrealestate,com or call: 508-228-1138.  

Happy Holidays from everyone at Coffin & ‘Sconset Real Estate

Nantucket Island's Festival of Trees is a large part of the festivities for the annual Holiday Stroll weekend on Nantucket Island.  This happening is 12/4- 12/7 and people come from near and far- by boat and plane!  Hope you have your reservations booked and if you need a place to stay- it's not too late to contact Coffin and 'Sconset Real Estate for a house for your family to enjoy!    508-228-1138.   

At the Nantucket Whaling Museum on Dec. 4th - the public is welcome to view the beautiful trees.  We understand that there should be around 80 trees decorated and they vary in size and decorations.

Here is the schedule-  

Dec. 4th - 11am - 8pm   

Dec. 5th - Dec. 21st   (except for Tuesdays & Wednesdays when the museum is closed)

Dec. 26th - 28th- the exhibit is open 1-4 pm

The festival is a fundraiser for the Nantucket Historical Association and is a highlight of the events for the Holiday Stroll Weekend.

The 2009 Nantucket Cold Turkey Plunge was a success! A grand total of 358 participants (259 decided to swim the morning of) took the plunge at Children’s Beach, Nantucket and raced into the cold Atlantic Ocean all in the spirit of giving back to the community. All pledges received by swimmers benefit the Nantucket Atheneum’s Weezie Children’s Library and all its wonderful programs. This year’s amount is expected to total around $54,000—the largest amount collected to date!

The overall atmosphere on Children’s Beach last Thursday was upbeat and fun. Some participants were dressed in the Thanksgiving spirit (turkeys, feathers, pilgrim hats) while others donned swimsuits and other costumes that were suitable to the environment and joyous atmosphere (even the Statue of Liberty made an appearance). Coffin and Sconset Real Estate Agents Jack Bulger and Barbara Keane Clarke (who is also the co-founder of the Nantucket Turkey Plunge) were two of the many swimmers that participated at this year’s plunge.

Holidays on Island are special and truly unique. If you would like to visit Nantucket please contact one of the agents at Coffin and Sconset Real Estate.  508-228-1138.