In the 1800s, many Nantucket men were away on whaling voyages for years at a time. To overcome this labor shortage, many women left their traditional roles at home and became involved in commerce and the business of running the Island. The stores on Centre Street between Main and Broad Streets were run predominantly by women merchants and became widely known as “Petticoat Row”.
This tradition is acknowledged today by a group of women entrepreneurs who gather together under the name “Petticoat Row” in support of women in business on Nantucket and to share their successes and knowledge with each other. We at the bakery support their efforts and are proud to be part of Nantucket’s future.
Historic photos courtesy of
Nantucket Historical Association