Robert Douglas, Black Dog Tavern Founder, Dies at 93

Robert Douglas, the founder of Martha’s Vineyard’s iconic Black Dog Tavern and designer of the tall ship Shenandoah, has died at the age of 93. Originally from Chicago, Douglas was drawn to the island by its maritime culture and established the Black Dog Tavern in 1971, naming it after his beloved lab-boxer mix. The tavern evolved into a nationally recognized retail brand, with its black dog logo becoming a familiar symbol from Maine to Florida. Douglas was also celebrated for his contributions to sailing; he built and captained the Shenandoah, using it as a floating classroom to teach local youth about seamanship and maritime history. Known for blending business acumen with a passion for traditional sailing, Douglas left a lasting legacy on both the Vineyard’s waterfront and its community life. His influence is remembered for fostering island traditions and making the Black Dog brand a national emblem.