The Massachusetts Historical Commission has partnered up with the National Park Service to highlight the Maritime History of Massachusetts. Covering more than 750 miles of coastline, historic travel destinations include 89 stops listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These sites mark the first arrival of the Pilgrims in 1620, historic landmarks of the American Revolution and various industrial sites of the state's maritime heritage.
   One of eleven historic sites of Plymouth County is the town of Scituate (SIT-choo-it), first incorporated in 1636. Located between Plymouth and Boston, inevitable expansion followed coastal waterways and the safety of excellent harbors. Scituate was settled by a group from Plymouth in 1627, joined by a group of immigrants from Kent, England. An active fishing village, Scituate is located among four rivers and a naturally sheltered harbor.
   Fishing had always been a significant part of Scituate's economy. Aiding these mariners, Old Scituate Lighthouse was built in 1810, marking the northern edge of Scituate Harbor. About a mile off shore, Minot's Ledge Light warns of the hazards of Scituate Neck. While most of the coast is sandy and a scattering of salt marshes, Minot's Ledge is an exposed outcropping of granite, spelling trouble for unsuspecting boaters. The name Scituate is a Native Wampanoag word for cold brook. Although the Situate (SIT-choo-it) Harbor still provides a haven for local fisherman, most of the town's residents use it for pleasure craft. Local tourism offers deep sea fishing charters and whale watching tours, providing a steady flow of boating activity during the summer season.

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