Follow us along this historical restoration of The Daniel’s House in Oak Bluffs, MA. The Inkwell, as one of Martha’s Vineyard’s famed beaches is known, stretches about 100 yards between jetties on the north shore of the island. Since the 1800s, Martha’s Vineyard has been a renowned getaway for these Black families. The elite mingle with middle-class families on the island: Maya Angelou once described the town of Oak Bluffs, which includes Inkwell Beach, as “a safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.” Massachusetts was the first state to abolish slavery, and well-off African Americans had already built thriving lives and businesses in the state. “Martha’s Vineyard was part of the underground railroad, so it was known as a safe and welcoming community for African Americans,” says Nancy Gardella of MV Chamber of Commerce. “They didn’t feel entirely welcome in other beach enclaves.” We are hoping by restoring these homes history will be made for years to come.