Lee F. Mindel tours Martha’s Vineyard’s Carpenter Gothic cottages

By Patrick Wilson

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One of America’s first planned residential communities, Oak Bluffs is crisscrossed with pedestrian-friendly lanes and winding paths.

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Carpenter Gothic houses face the water across a crescent lawn.

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Oak Bluffs is one of the main points of entry for tourists visiting Martha’s Vineyard, many of whom arrive at the ferry depot, pictured here.

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More Oak Bluffs homes.

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A stately residence along the crescent.

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Another elegant home on the crescent.

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The Victorian-style Wesley Hotel.

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Generously sized houses along the crescent are situated close to one another.

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The 19th-century tabernacle remains a central meeting place in the town.

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The interior of the open-air tabernacle.

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An Oak Bluffs government office.

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Elaborately ornamented blue house.

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A house with a cheerful color palette.

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A typical Carpenter Gothic house.

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Along with abundant scrollwork, Oak Bluffs’ residences feature welcoming porches.

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A pink house with crisp white trim.

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Homes along John Wesley Avenue.