A New England Tradition
Handcrafted on Nantucket Island, by a Nantucket Native
Kelly Emery — The Creative Artist
Our Story
I was born at Nantucket Cottage Hospital and grew up in Madaket, surrounded by the traditions that make this island unlike anywhere else. My mother founded the Nantucket Sewing Center and ran it for over 30 years on Main Street. My father founded the Indian Summer Surf Shop, which is now Broad Street Surf Shop. Currently he runs an interior shutter business. — My work is an extension of my family's commitment to quality that has been part of the Nantucket landscape for years.
After years of exploring different creative paths, I found my calling in an art form rooted in the very history of the island: the quarterboard. What started as a deep appreciation for Nantucket's maritime heritage became a full-time pursuit — handcrafting signs and quarterboards for homeowners, businesses, and collectors across New England and beyond.
The Craft
Every quarterboard that leaves my Madaket workshop is handcrafted with care and intention. From selecting the right materials to applying 24k gold leaf by hand, each sign goes through multiple layers of craftsmanship before it's ready to be mounted.
I work with homeowners to choose the right colors, lettering styles, and finishes. Whether it's a classic white board with navy lettering, a bold gold-leafed house name, or a custom business sign, every piece is built to last and made to honor the island's traditions.
Available finishes and options include:
- —Custom color configurations from a curated paint palette
- —24k gold leaf lettering and accents
- —Hardwood construction rated for indoor and outdoor use
- —HDC-compliant sizing and design
A Tradition Rooted in History
Quarterboards trace their origins to the whaling era, when maritime law required every ship to display its name on the quarter panel of the bow. As whaling declined, boards from shipwrecks washed ashore on Nantucket and were mounted on island homes — beginning a tradition that endures to this day.
Now, no Nantucket home feels complete without a quarterboard above the front door. It's the finishing touch — a declaration of identity, a piece of art, and a connection to centuries of island life.
Notable Work & Recognition
USS Nantucket (LCS 27)
30 custom quarterboards were commissioned for the United States Navy, each featuring a white background with Nantucket Blue trim, named after beloved island locations. A career milestone and a profound honor.
Nantucket Chamber of Commerce
Recognized member and trusted island artisan.
Nantucket Preservation Trust & Congdon & Coleman Real Estate
Referenced as a resource on the island's quarterboard tradition.
Brand Collaborations
Also worked with many brands including Nantucket Crisps, Jimmy Choo, Stubbys, Chadtucket, and more.
How It Works
- 1
Reach out.
Start with the contact form or email nantucketsigns@gmail.com. Tell me about your project — house name, business sign, or something custom.
- 2
Design consultation.
We'll discuss sizing, colors, lettering, gold leaf options, and any HDC requirements if you are a business on Nantucket.
- 3
Handcrafted on Island.
Your sign is built in my Nantucket workshop and delivered to your door. Signs ship across New England and nationwide. Local Nantucket installation guidance available.
Get in Touch
- Email: nantucketsigns@gmail.com
- Location: Madaket, Nantucket Island, MA 02554
- Instagram: @nantucketquarterboard
- Website: quarterboards.com