To the Editor:
As a native-born Islander, born on Main Street, Vineyard Haven, I was very much interested in the Land Bank purchase of 41 acres on Chappy.
I entered Tisbury School in 1929 and went to work for two summers (1934–35) on Chappy, on the land which was known as Mrs. Sarah Jeffers’ farm.
I worked with Mrs. Jeffers and her two daughters, Tilly and Gladys, and two older farmers. We farmed the land from the family home to Chappy road (which is still standing) down Jeffers land to the marsh grasses of Cape Poge Bay. We also furnished the Island visitors with the first restaurant (the large building still standing overlooking Cape Poge Bay).
We furnished fresh vegetables, ice, milk, and laundry pick-up and delivery to the Island summer residents. Mrs. Jeffers and the girls ran the restaurant, and I helped everyone and made the deliveries with Tilly.
It was a very interesting part of my life. I was happy to hear that the Land Bank has purchased this parcel of land, which will be preserved in perpetuity.
Thank you for your interesting article. I was happy to respond.
Herbert E. Issacs
Tisbury School, Class of 1941
Jackson, Michigan
