Post Event Description
The Development of the Cape Cod Tourism Industry
Jennifer Madden at the Heritage Museum
Twenty-one Club members and guests were treated to a fascinating presentation by the Director of Collections & Exhibitions for the Heritage Museum in Sandwich. This history lesson of our beloved home was enhanced by historical photos and the presenter’s knowledge and passion for the subject. Beginning with the early nineteenth century and with Henry David Thoreau’s assessment of Cape Cod as a “Yankee backwater,” Jennifer Madden guided us through the various historical events which fueled tourism as a major industry: the end of the Civil War and whaling, and the coming of the railroad followed by the automobile. She emphasized that tourism didn’t just happen but was a deliberate decision by local leaders. Also, that it was the healthy air and water, as well as the tranquility, which made tourism particularly attractive.
The dramatic success of tourism, she added, has presented many challenges that have continued to concern residents: housing, affordability, ecological effects, and water quality are but a few.
The attendees were most engaged in this very educational and entertaining presentation and, with the bonus of access to the magnificent grounds and exhibitions, were delighted with this event.
