MLS #43586
West Tisbury Real Estate

This historic Sea Captain’s home, built in 1881 by accomplished Vineyard whaling captain David Blake Adams, offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of West Tisbury’s rich heritage. Captain Adams, who commanded “The Belvedere” and traveled as far as Hawaii, built this residence during the height of the Island’s whaling era. Owned by the same family since 1947 and lovingly maintained for four generations, the home exudes warmth, character, and timeless Vineyard charm. Known for its delightful front porch adorned with vibrant hanging flower baskets, the property sits in an ideal in-town location, near beloved local landmarks like Alley’s General Store, 7a Foods, the West Tisbury Library, the Field Gallery, and the Grange Hall. The six-bedroom, two-bath home is filled with distinctive features, including an extraordinary original staircase, a welcoming parlor once used to receive guests, and a spacious living room that connects to a first-floor bedroom. Toward the back of the home, you'll find a cozy dining room, a full bath, and an eat-in kitchen that opens to a back patio. The kitchen retains part of its original zinc countertop—a prized material in the 1880s—and also includes a second entrance from the front porch and a back staircase leading to the second floor. Upstairs are five additional bedrooms and another full bath, all maintaining the authentic details and charm of a true vintage home. Thoughtful touches abound, such as a dining table made from a ship’s hatch discovered by the family on a remote Chilmark beach in the 1950s, and a living room coffee table fashioned from half of an old blacksmith’s bellows. Recent updates include a new six-bedroom septic system, making the property as functional as it is charming. Situated between Lambert’s Cove and Long Point beaches—both accessible to West Tisbury residents—this distinctive property offers the rare combination of historical significance, Village convenience, and Vineyard soul.