The work of dredging now going on at Tashmoo Creek focuses attention upon one of the historical landmarks of the Island and one of which very little is remembered or preserved. Indians called this locality Chappaquansett, and old records refer to the creek as Chappaquansett Creek, rather than Tashmoo. It is evident that the Indians frequented this place in the olden days, as sizable middens have been located nearby and others are presumably buried beneath the shifting sands or have been washed out to sea.
One of the most alluring names of Martha’s Vineyard is that of Lake Tashmoo. Islanders and visitors alike enjoy the feeling of Tashmoo on their tongues - it has euphony and dignity and is like no other usual word. The lake itself, which might be called a great pond like other bodies of fresh water on the Vineyard but for its beauty and the beauty of its setting, is situated in the township of Tisbury near Vineyard Sound.
The Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank bank added 400 feet of white sand beachfront to its holdings in Vineyard Haven Friday with the purchase of a five-acre parcel near the mouth of Lake Tashmoo.
Permitting issues and financial constraints have posed obstacles to long-planned improvements at Lake Tashmoo, but work is now set to be completed by spring.
