Search

Advanced Search

Quick Links

Quick Searches

Related Pages

See Photos

• LOCAL INFO
• Orleans Real Estate

Orleans Real Estate

• Population: 6341
  
• Settled: 1693
  
• Square Miles: 21.1
  
• 2011 Tax Rate: $5.60
• Best known for: Nauset Beach and Skaket Beach
  

The Town of Orleans,was settled around 1693 but not incorporated until 1797. Orleans is now a resort community on the outer Cape but its early roots were founded in agriculture and fishing. The name "Orleans"  unlike many of the areas town that honor places in England it was chosen to honor  the French Louis Phillipe II the Duke of Orleans due to his support of the colonist during the revolutionary war. The early settlers had purchased rights to the town from Mattaguason, sachem of the Manamoyick Indians.  Early residents recall that in those days the very old and the very young farmed, while all the able-bodied men fished. Fishing in Orleans declined as competition from larger boats and larger ports grew, but the town had established a commercial importance on the Cape as a market center for other communities, that continues into the 20th century. The major modern change in Orleans was spurred by the impact of summer development and tourist dollars.
 

For sand and sun be sure to visit Nauset beach on the Atlantic side and Skaket beach on Cape Cod Bay.  While in town shop, visit art galleries and dine on fresh local seafood. There are also museums to explore and live theater to enjoy. Be sure to head to Rock Harbor at sunset to take in the often applauded nightly show as the sun slips into the bay.