The Eclectic Cottages of Oak Bluffs

Last week I was in Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard, soaking in all of the amazing details and bright colors of the Carpenter Gothic Victorian cottages of The Martha's Vineyard Campmeeting Association. Originally a Methodist revival camp with open air meetings in the late 19th century, attendees eventually replaced their tents with cottages. In fact, in 1880 the town was named "Cottage City"!

The gingerbread details of each cottage are remarkable and unique. Intricate carvings, bright color palettes, a plethora of rocking chairs, cheerful gardens and most important, front porches mark this tightly clustered homes. So many people were outside gardening, chatting, visiting and playing with their pets on their porches when I was there. It showed how conducive architecture can be to fostering a feeling of community.

I apologize for the low quality of some of these shots, I only had a camera phone on me. Luckily, one of my friends snapped some of the more clear shots on her camera.