Cape Cod is steeped in history, its shores whispering tales of exploration, industry, and intrigue.  For the avid historian, this peninsula offers a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered.  From the early settlements of the Wampanoag Tribe to the arrival of European explorers.  Cape Cod’s past is preserved in its historic sites, museums, and centuries-old homes.

Discovered and inhabited by the Wampanoag Tribe long before the Pilgrims arrived in 1620, Cape Cod became the hub of maritime trade, whaling, and glassmaking.  Each town along the Cape tells a unique story of survival, innovation, and cultural evolution.  When you stay at our historic Captain Farris House, you’ll find yourself centrally located to explore these fascinating sites and immerse yourself in the rich past of this remarkable region.

Whaling captains, pirates, authors, and even a former president have all left their mark on Cape Cod. Our favorite historic sites range from the home of a quirky children’s book author to the exact spot where the Pilgrims first landed in the New World. These destinations provide a deeper understanding of what shaped this beautiful place we call home.

But let’s start with a little orientation.

Sandwich, the Oldest Town on Cape Cod

When you cross the Sagamore Bridge, you’ll enter the town of Sandwich, the oldest settlement on the Cape, founded in 1637.  This town was a vital center for early American industry, particularly glassmaking, which brought worldwide recognition in the 19th century.  Stroll through Sandwich and you’ll find well-preserved colonial homes, some of which date back to the town’s founding, and landmarks that tell the story of America’s early days,

Sandwich Glass Museum
Sandwich became synonymous with fine glass production in the early 19th century, thanks to the Boston & Sandwich Glass Company.  Housed in a charming brick building, the Sandwich Glass Museum’s collection includes rare pieces from the 1800’s, a lighting gallery showcasing the evolution of glass lanterns, and live glass- blowing demonstrations.  Open daily from April through December, and Wednesday through Sunday, February through March. Closed in January.

Heritage Museum and Gardens
A visit to the Heritage Museum and Gardens offers more than just beauty — it’s a journey through time.  The grounds boast a world-class collection of antique automobiles in the Shaker Round Barn, and an authentic carousel from 1908. Walk among vibrant hydrangeas ad rhododendrons in season, or explore rotating exhibits that highlight Cape Cod’s artistic and industrial heritage.  Check their calendar for special events and upcoming exhibits.

Hoxie House, Sandwich
One of the oldest surviving homes on Cape Cod, the Hoxie House dates back to the late 1600s.  A visit to this saltbox-style home offers a glimpse into early colonial life.  Look closely at the gunstock posts, pumpkin pine beams, and period furnishings to understand how early settlers adapted to the harsh New England winters.  Open daily, Mid-June to Mid-October.

Pirates and the Sea

Cape Cod’s coastline was once notorious for shipwrecks, earning it the nickname “Graveyard of the Atlantic.”  Before the Cape Cod Canal was built, more than 100 years ago, over 1,000 ships met their demise in the treacherous waters between Chatham and  Provincetown. The allure of lost treasure attracted pirates and fortune seekers alike, and today, the Whydah Museum and the Cape Cod Maritime Museum offer thrilling insights into this maritime past.

Whydah Pirate Museum, West Yarmouth
The Whydah Gally was originally a cargo and slave ship before being captured by the infamous pirate Captain Samuel “Black Sam” Bellamy.  Known as the “Robin Hood of the Sea,” Bellamy amassed a fortune before the Whydah sank in a 1717 nor’easter.  Centuries later, the wreck was discovered, yielding one of the world’s only authenticated pirate treasures.  The museum displays artifacts from the ship, including gold and silver coins, cannons, pistols, and navigational instruments. Learn about the exciting and dangerous life of pirates. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Cape Cod Maritime Museum
For those fascinated by the region’s seafaring history, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum is a “must-see” for mariners and history buffs. Perched at the head of Hyannis Harbor, it features exhibits on shipbuilding, whaling, and the daily lives of sailors who navigated the Atlantic.  The museum’s collection includes intricate ship models, maps, and logbooks from historic vessels.  Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The Kennedy Legacy

The Kennedy family’s connection to Cape Cod is legendary.  Their compound in Hyannisport served as a summer retreat where they held family gatherings, played tag football games on the lawn, engaged in sailing races, and made key political decisions.  President John F. Kennedy loved the Cape so much that he established the Cape Cod National Seashore in 1961 to preserve miles of coastline and nature trails through the marsh and dunes of the outer Cape for future generations.

John F. Kennedy Museum, Hyannis
Located on Main Street in Hyannis, MA, the John F. Kennedy Museum offers an intimate look at JFK’s personal and professional life, featuring rare photographs, artifacts, and multimedia exhibits.  Gain insight into the Kennedy family’s love for Cape Cod and its lasting impact on American History. Open Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Historic Homes

Cape Cod has long attracted influential figures, from authors and artists to whaling captains and industrialists.  Many of their historic homes are now museums that provide a glimpse into their extraordinary lives. A few of these historically significant homes are open to the public to enjoy. Each reflects the vision of the owners and pays tribute to the period in which they lived and worked.

Edward Gorey House, Yarmouth Port
The Edward Gorey House, celebrates the life and work of this eccentric author and illustrator, best known for his macabre, yet whimsical storytelling.  His 200-year-old sea captain’s home is filled with original artwork, first editions, and quirky memorabilia that will delight any literary historian.  Open April through December.

Crosby Mansion, Brewster
Built in 1888 by Albert Crosby, the Crosby Mansion, is an extravagant mansion  inspired by the grand estates of Chicago’s elite.  It features a 60-foot viewing tower, hand-carved mahogany walls, and marble bathrooms, a stark contrast to the humble Cape Cod cottages nearby.  Tours are available beginning in May.

Highfield Hall, Falmouth
Once a summer estate for the Beebe family, Highfield Hall is now a cultural hub featuring art exhibits, music performances, and historical tours.  Surrounded by lush gardens and 400 acres of conservation land, this grand home offers a perfect blend of history and nature.  Seasonal tours are available June through October, with year-round special events.

Plan Your Historic Cape Cod Getaway

These are just a few of the historic gems waiting to be explored on Cape Cod.  Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of the Pilgrims, uncovering the secrets of sunken pirate ships, or wandering through the opulent mansions, history comes alive at every turn.  Stay with us at the beautifully restored bed and breakfast, in historic Bass River Village, where your journey through Cape Cod’s past begins.