Celebrating Barnstable County Day: Honoring 339 Years of History
On June 2, Barnstable County will commemorate its 339th anniversary, marking this day as Barnstable County Day. Last year, the Commissioners voted to recognize June 2nd as a day to celebrate the rich history and heritage of Barnstable County. This historic day dates back to June 2, 1685, when Plymouth Colony was divided into three counties: Plymouth, Bristol, and Barnstable. This division aimed to alleviate the difficulties faced by residents of distant towns who had to travel to the colony’s seat for business.
When Barnstable County was first established, it encompassed the towns of Sandwich, Barnstable, and Yarmouth, along with smaller settlements in Eastham and other areas. After some debate, Barnstable was chosen as the shire town due to its central location. This decision was likely influenced by Governor Thomas Hinckley, who resided in Barnstable.
Learn More About Barnstable County
For those interested in delving deeper into the history of Barnstable County, a video presentation by Gene Guill of Tales of Cape Cod is available. This presentation, given to the Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners on May 24, 2023, provides a fascinating insight into the county’s past. You can access this video on the About the County page of the Barnstable County website.
Join the Celebration
As we celebrate Barnstable County Day, we invite all residents and visitors to take a moment to appreciate the rich history and heritage of our county. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, attending local events, or simply reflecting on the past, June 2nd is a day to honor the legacy of Barnstable County.
Engage the Kids!
We invite residents and visitors to download our County coloring book for kids. This fun and educational resource is a great way for children to learn about Barnstable County’s history and heritage while expressing their creativity. The coloring book can be found at Barnstable County Coloring Pages – Barnstable County (capecod.gov), providing an engaging activity for families as they celebrate Barnstable County Day.
