Virtual Cape Cod has town information for Onset

Onset is a neighborhood in Wareham that has evolved into a beautiful Victorian Village. Initially, the development of Onset was in the form of “camp meetings” in the 1870’s. The next wave of people constructed Gingerbread summer cottages which created the mostly densely populated village in Wareham. Onset was and is known for its natural beauty. The beaches, bluffs, and parks are all for public use which can never be privatized due the Degree of 1916. It is one of the few areas where the visitor and resident alike have an unobstructed view of the Onset Bay, Wickets and Onset Island and the east entrance of the Cape Cod Canal.

The unique way in which the streets were laid out by the Onset Grove Association (principal developers) still prevails today. As a result locating historical landmarks is easy. Streets run east and west while avenues run north and south and circumvent the entire village.

Onset offers many of the same features for one to enjoy without having to travel over the Bourne and Sagamore Bridges. Onset is home to numerous Victorian style restaurants, inns and B& B’s. Many former visitors who summered here as children, have returned to make Onset their summer retreat or year round residence. Onset’s captivating beauty and old Victorian charm has encouraged many visitors to become residents. Boating and Cape Cod Canal excursions are also available from the Onset Pier.

The On-i-set Wigwam - 1894 The only building of its kind in the world and one of the oldest National Spiritualist Summer Camps in the country.
RLDS Camp Ground - 1911 The Latter Day Saints conducted their first camp meetings, pitching white tents throughout the treed acreage. These camp sites have since been replaced by 80 residential cottages, a Tabernacle and a chapel.
Old Onset Fire Station - 1880 This firehouse the very first piece of fire fighting equipment for all of Wareham.
The Spinney Memorial Building - 1894 Purchased by the ladies of the Harvest Moon Society for Onset’s library, the Spinney building is an excellent example of Victorian architecture.
Onset Bay Grove Association Administration Building - 1877 The hexagonal sided, peaked roofed structure is an architectural focal point along the waterfront. Once a U.S.O. building during World War II, the building is now home to several businesses including a donut shop!
Shell Point - comprised of South Blvd., West Central Ave., Longwood Ave., and West Blvd. This section of Onset features many fine Victorian Homes, the Onset Bluffs, and wonderful views of Onset Bay and its various estuaries.
Onset Pier - The town pier provides parking, access to the public beach and fishing.
Union and Highland Ave - have excellent example of cottages that at one time belonged to the Spiritualist Church.
Classic 19th Century Hotels - located along Onset Ave these hotels overlook Onset Bluffs and Onset Bay. These buildings are preserved resort hotels which offer modern day amenities.
Wickets Island - Summer home of the Wampanoag Indian tribe in the 1600’s.
Onset Island - Early history recalls the Squaw Sachem Awashonks (1600’s) picnicking her with her people. Onset Island is now home to approximately 50 year round residents.
Prospect Park - situated on a gently sloping bluff, this park was once home to many outdoor spiritualist meetings. One can sit under the numerous shade trees and soak in the spectacular view Onset Harbor and Wickets Island.

Onset Horse and Buggy

Onset Point Inn