Inkwell is a small beach located in Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard. The name is pejorative; a name given white beachgoers in Martha's Vineyard in reference to this strip of beach that was visited by Black residents and tourists. During the era of segregation Oak Bluffs became the location of the first Inn where African Americans could lodge in Martha's Vineyar. Charles Shearer, the son of a slave and her white owner, turned a beach cottage into Shearer Cottage. Oak Bluffs attracted Black Americans looking for a great place to enjoy the beach and holiday during the era of segregation. It has been a place of empowerment for over 100 years, and numerous Black artists, political and social leaders, writers, and musicians.

Reach more about this rich history in Angela Dennis' Six Historically Black Beaches to Visit This Summer: https://medium.com/@AngelaDennisWrites/six-historically-black-beaches-to-visit-this-summer-46045aa3e348

It is centrally located and easy to get to, which means it can get quite crowded.

Photo: The Inkwell, Oak Bluffs circa 1973, DONALD C. PRESTON/GLOBE STAFF/BOSTON GLOBE

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Inkwell Beach and 8,000 other beaches.