Historic Storms of Martha's Vineyard - Paperback

by Thomas Dresser (Author)

How Powerful Storms Shaped Martha's Vineyard and Its Resilient Spirit

Martha's Vineyard is no stranger to storms. Its location puts it in the direct path of any weather system moving up the Atlantic coast. In 1635, the Great Colonial Hurricane devastated the island, and the 1898 Portland Gale is well remembered to this day for its fury and death toll. In 1944, Gay Head was isolated when the access bridge was washed away. Other storms included the famous 1938 Hurricane, Carol and Edna in 1954, and the Perfect Storm in October 1991. Each storm was unique in its creation, impact, and resulting changes in the landscape of the island. Tom Dresser reveals how each of these devastating events affected life on the island, as well as the future dangers posed by an ever-warming climate.

Author Biography

Growing up in Central Massachusetts, I was always intrigued by storms, specifically snowstorms. I recall as a youngster stepping outside in a blizzard with a ruler in hand to measure the depth of the snow. Living on the Vineyard for the past thirty years has enhanced my curiosity and intrigue on the height of waves, the strength of the wind, and the power of weather. My wife, Joyce, is very engaged in the daily weather, whether she's heading to the beach, taking the ferry off Island, or washing the laundry and hanging it outside to dry. We live by the weather. And we love it, but with respect.