Founded by Colonists in 1659, Nantucket is a small town of 3000 people located on the island of the same name. The island is around 15 miles (24 km) long and 3-6 miles (5-10 km) wide. It is 30 miles (48 km) south of the coast of Cape Cod. Reputedly, the settlers bought the island from the Wampanoag Indians inhabitants for 30 English pounds and
two beaver hats. Quaker missionaries established a base here in the 18th century and many of the former sea-faring residents practiced that religion. From 1740 to 1830, Nantucket was the center of the world's whaling industry. Just before the American Revolution, its port was home to more than 125 whaling ships. However, the business moved to New Bedford when the larger ships of the 19th century couldn't enter past the sand bar at the harbor's mouth. Today, it is a popular destination with tourists who come to see the sea captain's mansions, lie on its sandy beaches or cycle on one of the many bike paths.
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