📍 Location & Geography
Cuttyhunk is a small island town located at the western end of the Elizabeth Islands chain in the state of Massachusetts. It is part of Dukes County and is the last and smallest of the Elizabeth Islands. The island is approximately 580 acres in size, with a coastline that features rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and salt marshes.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Cuttyhunk are approximately 41.4253° N latitude and 70.9287° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Cuttyhunk is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It lies in Buzzards Bay and is part of the town of Gosnold, which includes all of the Elizabeth Islands. The island has a total land area of approximately 0.75 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Cuttyhunk had a population of 52 residents, making it one of the smallest communities in Massachusetts. The population tends to increase during the summer months due to seasonal residents and tourists. The majority of the permanent residents are of Caucasian descent.
🏛️ History
Cuttyhunk has a rich history dating back to the 1600s. It was first visited by Europeans in 1602 when English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold landed there. The island was used primarily for farming and fishing throughout its early history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a popular destination for wealthy vacationers and sportsmen, particularly for its excellent fishing. Today, it remains a popular summer destination.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
The island is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species, including deer, rabbits, and a variety of birds. The waters surrounding Cuttyhunk are rich with marine life, including striped bass, bluefish, and flounder. The island’s natural beauty and tranquility make it a popular destination for bird watching, fishing, and hiking.
🏫 Education
Due to its small population, Cuttyhunk has a single one-room schoolhouse that serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend school on the mainland. The Cuttyhunk Historical Society also operates a small museum and offers educational programs about the island’s history.
🚧 Transportation
The primary means of transportation to Cuttyhunk is by boat, with ferry services operating from New Bedford, Massachusetts. On the island itself, transportation is largely by foot, bicycle, or golf cart due to the island’s small size and lack of paved roads.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every summer, Cuttyhunk hosts a number of community events, including a fishing tournament, art festival, and Fourth of July parade. The island also has a unique tradition of “porch sitting,” where residents and visitors gather on porches to socialize and enjoy the island’s peaceful atmosphere. In 2019, Cuttyhunk made headlines when the island’s only eighth-grade student received a surprise visit from a famous guest speaker at her graduation: entrepreneur and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey.