Nantucket's antique homes represent one of America's most significant concentrations of pre-Civil War architecture. These properties, built during the island's whaling prosperity, offer a rare opportunity to own a piece of American maritime history.
When the whaling industry declined after 1850, Nantucket experienced economic dormancy that paradoxically preserved its historic buildings. What other towns demolished for progress, Nantucket kept through neglect, leaving us with an unparalleled collection of 18th and 19th century architecture.
UNDERSTANDING ANTIQUE PROPERTIES
On Nantucket, "antique" generally refers to homes built before 1900, though many of the island's most significant properties date to the whaling era of 1800-1850. These homes were constructed when Nantucket was the wealthiest town in Massachusetts and the whaling capital of the world.
The island boasts over 800 pre-Civil War buildings, more than any other place in the United States. This extraordinary concentration led to Nantucket's designation as a National Historic Landmark District, the largest conventional historic district in the contiguous United States.
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
Federal-style homes emerged during Nantucket's early prosperity, featuring elegant proportions and refined details. These homes are characterized by elliptical fanlights over doorways, sidelights flanking entries, and delicate decorative moldings.
"The Federal style on Nantucket reflects the refined taste of merchants who traded with ports around the world, bringing cosmopolitan influences to this island community."
Greek Revival became the dominant style during Nantucket's whaling peak. After the Great Fire of 1846 destroyed much of downtown, rebuilding occurred in this popular style. The most elaborate examples include the famous "Two Greeks" at 94 and 96 Main Street.
"The Two Greeks on Main Street, designed by Frederick Brown Coleman, are considered the finest Greek Revival homes on the island, featuring colossal Corinthian columns."
The Quaker faith dominated early Nantucket society, and its principles of simplicity and modesty are reflected in the island's vernacular architecture. These homes feature clean lines, modest facades, and practical layouts without ornate decoration.
"Quaker simplicity ensured that Nantucket homes harmonize with the natural landscape, creating the unified aesthetic that defines the island today."
BUYER'S PERSPECTIVE
Original details, craftsmanship, and proportions that cannot be replicated in new construction.
Antique homes occupy Nantucket's most desirable downtown and village locations.
Walking distance to shops, restaurants, ferries, and beaches.
Own a piece of American history in a protected landmark district.
Limited inventory and high demand support long-term value.
Exterior changes require review and approval, adding time to renovation projects.
Older electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems may need modernization.
Original windows and limited insulation may increase heating costs.
Historic features may require craftsmen familiar with traditional techniques.
Downtown locations often have minimal or no off-street parking.
REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS
All properties on Nantucket fall under the jurisdiction of the Historic District Commission (HDC), established in 1955 as one of the earliest historic districts in America.
The HDC reviews and approves all exterior changes, including:
A Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) is required before exterior work can begin. We recommend working with architects experienced with Nantucket HDC requirements.
The HDC maintains a list of approved exterior colors that complement Nantucket's historic character:
WHERE TO FIND ANTIQUE HOMES
One of Nantucket's most prestigious streets, lined with grand homes built by whaling captains and merchants during the 1830s-1850s.
Part of DowntownThe lanes between Main Street and the harbor, featuring smaller historic cottages and homes with quieter residential character.
Part of DowntownNorth of downtown with larger properties and views of Nantucket Sound. Slightly removed from tourist activity while remaining walkable.
North of DowntownA quieter parallel to Main Street with excellent examples of Federal and Greek Revival homes in a more residential setting.
Part of DowntownFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
On Nantucket, antique homes are generally defined as properties built before 1900, with many dating to the whaling era of 1800-1850. These homes typically feature Federal, Greek Revival, or Quaker vernacular architecture. The island has over 800 pre-Civil War buildings, making it one of the most concentrated collections of antique architecture in America.
The Historic District Commission (HDC) oversees all exterior changes to properties on Nantucket. For antique homes, this includes window and door replacements, paint colors, roofing materials, additions, and even landscaping changes. All modifications must maintain the historic character of the building. A Certificate of Appropriateness is required before any exterior work can begin.
Yes, interior renovations are generally not regulated by the HDC as long as they don't affect the exterior appearance. Many owners modernize kitchens, bathrooms, and mechanical systems while preserving the historic exterior. However, significant structural changes should be reviewed with the building department and may have implications for exterior elements.
Common considerations include older electrical and plumbing systems that may need updating, foundation issues from settling over centuries, energy efficiency challenges from original windows and insulation, and the HDC approval process for any exterior repairs. Many buyers appreciate these homes for their character while planning for necessary updates.
The highest concentration of antique homes is found in Downtown Nantucket, particularly along Main Street, Orange Street, Centre Street, and the Old Historic District between Main Street and the harbor. The Cliff area north of downtown also features significant historic properties. Siasconset has its own collection of historic rose-covered cottages.
Antique homes on Nantucket range widely based on location, size, and condition. Small historic cottages may start around $1.5 million, while mid-size antique homes typically range from $3-7 million. Grand historic mansions, particularly those on Main Street or with water views, can command $10-25 million or more.
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