Bravely facing the Atlantic Ocean, the town of Chatham has endured throughout history as a principal point for trade and commerce. With a modern-day population of 6,625, Chatham has long been a crossroads for different groups of people with different motives for the surrounding land and sea.

Chatham features an interesting history. Manamoyik was a Nauset Native American village located near the present-day town of Chatham, and was home to the Manomoy people who populated the area prior to the colonization by Europeans. Samuel de Champlain, who landed at the site in 1606, noted the area to be fertile, but it wasn't until 1665 that Chatham was first settled by Europeans, who gave the town the same name as another small town in England. There's no doubt that the green forests and the alluring smell of the sea reminded the new settlers of their old home.

Because of its prime location on the Atlantic Ocean, Chatham quickly emerged as a key shipping port and whaling and fishing center. With close ties to the sea, Chatham residents lived a nautical lifestyle, both cursing the sea when it became violent or failed to provide, and blessing the sea when it gave up its bounty. Subject to severe weather in the form of hurricanes and blizzards, Chatham residents soon learned the survival skills necessary to make the area their home.

Many of the original 18th century buildings have remained standing in Chatham over the years, and during the 20th century, this Chatham charm lent itself to popularity as a summer resort. With old-fashioned buildings offering a quaint charm, Chatham remains a popular tourist destination on Cape Cod.

Getting to know Chatham involves getting familiar with its unique history, and several museums and historical sites allow visitors to learn as much as they can about the town. From the Atwood House (1752) to the Old Grist Mill (1797), one can almost hear the whispers of the past echo in the halls of the lovingly restored buildings and grounds. The Chatham Railroad Museum highlights the impact of the railroad, while the Caleb Nickerson House (1772) and the Josiah Mayo House (1820) lend a feeling of old grandeur to the town.

The 18th-century buildings that symbolize the town of Chatham are assembled along a meandering Main Street. Lined with family-owned stores, restaurants and shops, Chatham's Main Street is the center of entertainment for the whole area. The town center is extremely pedestrian-friendly, and during the summer months, music can be heard from one of many concerts held in the nearby gazebo. Chatham Main Street welcomes residents and visitors alike, and one visit is never enough, as people always seem to leave with more than they came for, whether it's an extra bag of pastries or a treasured find from an antique shop.

Many of the towns on Cape Cod offer an array of outdoor activities, and Chatham is no different. Travel just a few minutes in any direction and you're sure to discover something fun and interesting to do. With activities like camping, fishing, hiking, boating, whale watching, golfing and swimming, visitors to Chatham have the opportunity to create memories that can last a lifetime.

With steady appreciation, quality and value, choosing Chatham real estate as an investment property or second homes is a sound investment. From condos to townhouses and waterfront homes to luxury mansions, Chatham real estate offers a wide variety of architectural styles and prices.

For more information about Chatham real estate, contact expert Realtor Wendy Ustach at 617-835-7374, or by email at wendy@wendyustach.com, to schedule an appointment today.

<< back to Communities