To highlight the importance of the West Tisbury Mill Pond through the centuries, the Friends of the Mill Pond and the West Tisbury historic district commission are planning the installation of a marker on a boulder beside the pond.

This marker will complement the historic mill building across the Edgartown Road, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and now home to the Vineyard Garden Club.

The plaque will recount how, in early days, the Wampanoags ground corn at a gristmill powered by the Mill Brook’s waters, formerly known as the Mill River. It will relate how, in the 19th century, a dam was built that created today’s pond and provided stronger power for a mill that would produce woolen yarn from Vineyard sheep. In 1845, a new mill was built. Among the textiles produced there, was satinet, a fabric used in Civil War uniforms.

Today’s Mill Pond is and has always been important for children learning to fish, for turtles and wild ducks, for playful otters and regal swans and for those humans who seek tranquility in nature.

In order to facilitate underwriting for the historic plaque, we ask that you please visit our IndieGoGo campaign: generosity.com/community-fundraising/west-tisbury-mill-pond-historic-plaque.

Alternatively, a tax-deductible donation can be sent to Tony McClellan, treasurer, Friends of Mill Pond, 1204 Malvern Avenue, Towson, MD 21204.

Please make a notation on your check that designates the Mill Pond plaque as the donation. The Friends of the Mill Pond appreciate your support and thank you in advance.

Margot McClellan
West Tisbury