User:Andrew.oliveira414/sandbox

The Winnetu Oceanside Resort opened on June 29, 2000 replacing The Katama Shores Inn which operated from 1955-1999. Built, owned, and operated by Stanmar, Inc, former owner and operator of Smugglers' Notch Resort, the Winnetu traces its roots to the popular 19th century summer resort, the Mattakeeset Lodge, which was built in 1874 to serve as a terminus of the Martha's Vineyard Railroad. The train Active ran between the Oak Bluffs Wharf and the elaborate stick style lodge located on the shore of Katama Bay. The resort operated until 1905, shortly after the railroad went bankrupt in 1896. The original lodge was popular for its clambakes, dances, and south-facing orientation which allowed the lodge to stay cool during the summer heat.

Military barracks were built near the site of the Mattakeeset Lodge during World War II where the nearby stretch of South Beach was used as training grounds for amphibious landings during the summer of 1943 in preparation for the D-day landings. After the war, these buildings were replaced by the Katama Shores Inn which was redeveloped by Stanmar, Inc as the Winnetu in 1999.