The Nantucket Gam

For generations, Nantucketers have braved the chilly offseason waters of the island's harbors to harvest one of the most prized delicacies - the Nantucket Bay Scallop! Join the Gam this month to explore the history of Nantucket's scalloping industry, from its early beginnings, to the height of island tradition, and into the modern era. How did Nantucket's scallops become such a prized catch? What is the history and culture of the Nantucket scalloping industry, and what challenges does it face now? Plus, an interview with 13th generation Nantucketer Christian Ray, who's spent nearly every winter of his life working in the scalloping industry!

This month, the Nantucket Gam explores Nantucket's role in a key moment in American history - the California Gold Rush. At a time of economic downturn and hardship, the Gold Rush proved an opportunity for Nantucketers to provide for their families. Join us to learn how the end of the whaling era kickstarted a dramatic exodus to California. Plus, we interview author Ron Filion, who's book details some of the ships that carried Nantucketers from coast to coast. Don't miss this month's episode - it's podcast gold!

Join the Gam and learn all about Nantucket's own Anna Gardner - an educator, writer, and reformer who went above and beyond to live her principles during Antebellum and Reconstruction era America. We follow Anna's life from her early years through her travels into the civil war south, to her work in freedman's schools in Virginia. Plus, an interview with Author, Historian, Educator and NHA Research Fellow Barbara White!

Tired of those loud, noisy trucks that trundle through the tight streets of Nantucket? Done with being stuck in 45 minutes of traffic on Old South Road? Tire screeching of fast and flashy cars ruining your beach day? You're not alone! Over a century ago, many islanders would have agreed with you. Join the Gam this month to learn all about the history of Nantucket's stand against the automobile - the Nantucket Car Ban. Plus, for our interview, we are joined by Brian Quigley, who discusses the historic legality of the ban.

Join us for part two of our series on Nantucket and the American Revolution! In part two, we are joined once again by Nathaniel Philbrick, the award-winning author, Nantucket historian and NHA Research Fellow who has published extensively on different stories of the American Revolution and Nantucket. Philbrick joins our Gam to explore more stories of Nantucket during the conflict and the broader context of the American Revolution. Plus, learn when to look for his new book on the California Gold Rush!