Introduction

Introduction

Welcome to the Head of Westport. This walking tour features audio segments and a selection of historical images of different locations in this wonderful village. As you walk around the village, take time to check out the photos that are included with each stop along the tour. Although some things have changed in the village, much has been preserved or subtly adapted to 21st century lifestyles.

As whaling declined after the Civil War, the Head became less industrial, but still an active commercial center. Beautiful homes of sea captains, maritime agents, and store owners were built in the nineteenth century, and the Head became more residential. The coming of the automobile in the early twentieth century led to the demise of the stores – why shop locally when there were fashionable department stores in nearby Fall River and New Bedford?

The Head is a quieter place now, but retains much of its nineteenth century charm. We hope you enjoy your tour of this historically significant part of Westport.