TOWNS Wampum is derived from quahog clam shells and is crafted into jewelry and other art objects by Native American artists in Aquinnah. ★ Aquinnah is the Wampum jewelry by Giles Welch. Photos by Charlie Utz western-most town on Martha’s Vineyard Nicole Friedler Aquinnah continued MVCC AQUINNAH CIRCLE CULTURAL DISTRICT The ancient home of the Wampanoag Tribe of Aquinnah as well as a seafaring destination, the Circle encompasses stunning natural beauty, a historic redbrick lighthouse, the Aquinnah Cultural Center, the Aquinnah Overlook above the clay cliffs, shops, eateries and a stunning beach. Chilmark C Peter Simon 30 Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce hilmark is a town of rolling farmland dotted by grazing sheep on a background of bright blue skies, ancient stonewalls and the authentic fishing village of Menemsha. Originally founded by farmers who passed on a genetic hearing disorder that resulted in nearly a quarter of the population being deaf, the town was known for centuries as one where everyone spoke by hand and is acknowledged as the birthCultural Center where you can learn all about the whaling and tribal history of the town. The Aquinnah Circle Cultural District encompasses the natural and man-made structures that tell the timeless history of these sacred lands, and the people who have cared for them for centuries. Visit the Shops at Aquinnah Cliffs for handcrafts, tasty treats and a tour of the area. ■
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