We revisited Nantucket in 2009 to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary.  While there we also had the opportunity to enjoy not only the beauty of the island, but to also explore some of its rich history.

Ruth’s grandmother, Susan Hervey Wales’ (1889-1989) great grandmother, Mary Elizabeth Easton (1779-1838) was the last person in her line born in Nantucket.

Among Mary Easton’s Nantucket roots:

• 3 of the original purchasers of Nantucket: Tristram Coffin, Christopher Hussey and Thomas Macy along with other early settlers, Nathaniel Starbuck and John Gardner.
• Her family lived in the oldest house on Nantucket (the Jethro Coffin House).
• Several of her ancestors had active roles in Nantucket’s Whaling activities.
• Many were part of the active Quaker community, including Mary Coffin Starbuck.