History & Overview
West Tisbury is the most rural and agricultural of Martha's Vineyard's six towns — a place of stone walls, horse pastures, dirt roads, and working farms. While the Down-Island towns bustle with tourists in summer, West Tisbury moves to a quieter rhythm shaped by its landscape and its commitment to protecting it.
Settled in the 17th century as a farming community, West Tisbury incorporated as a separate town from Tisbury in 1892. Today it covers more land area than any other Vineyard town and has the highest proportion of land under conservation protection. The town is home to Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY) in West Tisbury, even though it serves the whole island.
The West Tisbury Farmers' Market, held twice weekly at the Grange Hall in season, is one of the best on the Cape and Islands — a genuine local institution drawing farmers, artists, bakers, and neighbors. Alley's General Store across the street has anchored the town center since 1858.
Key Places & Landmarks
West Tisbury Farmers' Market
One of the finest farmers' markets on the Cape and Islands. Held Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Grange Hall in season. Local vegetables, flowers, breads, cheeses, fish, and crafts. A genuine community gathering — not a tourist market.
Alley's General Store
In continuous operation since 1858, this genuine old-fashioned general store is the social hub of West Tisbury. Groceries, hardware, conversation, and Vineyard memorabilia all under one roof. The porch is a local institution in itself.
Polly Hill Arboretum
A remarkable 60-acre arboretum created by self-taught horticulturist Polly Hill starting in the 1950s. Known internationally for its tree magnolia breeding program. Walking trails through mature specimen trees. Admission charged; children free.
Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY)
The island's airport is located in West Tisbury. Cape Air provides year-round service from Hyannis (15 min), Boston, and other cities. JetBlue and United offer seasonal service. The airport is a lifeline for year-round residents when ferry travel is difficult.
Long Point Wildlife Refuge
A stunning Trustees of Reservations property with freshwater ponds, saltmarsh, and a barrier beach on the south shore. Swimming, birding, and hiking. One of the best undeveloped beaches on the island — accessible only by foot or seasonal shuttle.
Christiantown & Mayhew Chapel
A quiet historic site in the West Tisbury woods — the site of a 17th century "Praying Indian" community established by Thomas Mayhew Jr. A small chapel, ancient cemetery, and woodland trails. Free and open year-round.
Active Issues
Agricultural Land Preservation
Development pressure threatens remaining farmland. The town works with the MV Land Bank and Agricultural Society to protect working farms through conservation restrictions and preferential tax treatment.
Airport Noise & Expansion
As the host community for MVY, West Tisbury debates airport expansion proposals against neighborhood and environmental concerns. Noise from increased flight operations is a persistent resident issue.
Essential Services
🏥 Nearest Medical Care
Martha's Vineyard Hospital
1 Hospital Road, Oak Bluffs — Full-service community hospital, 24/7 Emergency Department. (508) 693-0410.
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Your Elected Officials
U.S. Senate since 2013. Ranking Member, Senate Banking Committee. Key issues: housing, PFAS cleanup, ocean protection.
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U.S. Senate since 2013; Congress since 1976. Ranking Member, Environment & Public Works. Key issues: offshore wind, PFAS, ocean protection.
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9th District (Cape Cod + Islands). In Congress since 2011. Armed Services & Foreign Affairs committees. Key issues: bridges, fisheries, tribal rights.
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Cape and Islands District. State Senate since 2016. Assistant Majority Whip. Key issues: housing, public health, coastal resilience.
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Plymouth & Barnstable District. Senate Majority Whip. Previously represented Cape & Islands in the House. Key issues: offshore wind, fisheries, housing.
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