Chatham Through Time

Chatham's coast, climate, and seafood have attracted settlers, tourists, and dreamers for centuries.

Chatham's location, spectacular coastline, bountiful resources of seafood, and a temperate climate attract people. First it was the Monomoyick tribe, then in the 17th century, English settlers who gave it the name Chatham. Ever since, people of all walks of life--fishermen, merchants, clergy, artisans, sportsmen, royalty, vacationers, and more recently, retirees--have found Chatham the ideal destination to realize their hopes and dreams. At the beginning of the 20th century, Chatham was a fishing village with a population of about 1,750 people. In the 2010 census, the population was 6,125, although in the summer it can explode to about 20,000, not counting vacationers in the town's hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts. While fishing is the primary occupation, tourism thrives for the same reasons the original residents were drawn to this charming seaside town. A picture-perfect Main Street, beautiful beaches, fine restaurants and hotels, and a full assortment of sports, arts, and entertainment make Chatham a perfect destination!