Nantucket Historical Association

Founded in 1894, the Nantucket Historical Association is dedicated to preserving and sharing the island’s distinctive cultural heritage through education, collections stewardship, and community engagement. As caretaker of historic properties, museums, and one of the nation’s most significant regional collections, the NHA plays a vital role in safeguarding Nantucket’s material history while ensuring its continued relevance for contemporary audiences.

Through Heritage Craft, the NHA expands its mission beyond preservation into active practice, sustaining living traditions, fostering meaningful community connection, and ensuring that the knowledge embedded in craft evolves alongside the island itself. Positioned as a destination for immersive craft education, the NHA’s Heritage Craft program aligns with global efforts to protect and revitalize endangered making traditions. With expanded year-round offerings, destination-based learning experiences, and new studio facilities, the program supports lifelong learners, local makers, and visiting practitioners while strengthening pathways for future generations of artisans.

Rooted in Nantucket’s longstanding culture of craftsmanship, the NHA’s evolving Decorative Arts program reflects a renewed commitment to hands-on learning and skills preservation. Through classes, workshops, and public programming, participants engage directly with historic techniques – from basketry and woodworking to textiles and needlework – bridging past practices with today’s creative communities.