The end of March means the end of scalloping season on Nantucket, and for decades, scallopers have opened their catch at 4 Old North Wharf. A preservation easement recorded today on the shanty means that this humble but important structure, the last 19th century building that remains an active part of the island’s working waterfront, will be preserved forever.
The Mitchell Andrews Fish House was built c. 1847 and has been in near-continuous maritime use since then. The easement will preserve not only its architectural features, but also that maritime usage, for part of the restriction stipulates it must remain in commercial, not residential, usage It’s preserving the building and an important part of Nantucket’s cultural heritage, and we applaud owner Ginger Andrews for her foresight!
This preservation restriction has been a long time in the making. If you missed coverage of NPT’s preservation easement program in the New York Times in early 2024, including our work with Ginger to preserve 4 Old North Wharf, you can revisit that article now.