The Wooly History of Martha’s Vineyard: Sheep-Shaped Landscapes & Water-Powered Relief
The Wooly History of Martha’s Vineyard: Sheep-Shaped Landscapes & Water-Powered Relief
For nearly 200 years, sheep helped transform Martha’s Vineyard from forested land into open pasture. In this session, Bow Van Riper examines how grazing reshaped the Island’s physical landscape—and how the rise of textile mills and new technologies began to challenge sheep’s dominance.
The talk traces the moment when wool production shifted from household labor to industrial processing, altering both agriculture and the Vineyard’s economic balance.
NEW: Join us at 4pm at First Light Cafe in our Linnemann Pavilion to purchase drinks, light bites, and mix with Museum staff and fellow attendees before the program!
MVM Members: $15; Non-Members: $25
Full Series rates available for $55 (Members); $95 (Non-Members)
DETAILS
| Date | March 18, 2026 |
|---|---|
| From | 5:00 pm |
| To | 6:30 pm |
| Type | Talk |
| Venue | Martha’s Vineyard Museum |