Outside of Massachusetts, they have stores in Newport, RI; Portland, ME; Portsmouth, NH; Mystic, CT; Annapolis, MD; Savannah, GA; Charleston, SC; and Sarasota, FL. History The story of how The Black Dog got its name: Robert Douglas was an Air Force pilot who spent summers on Martha’s Vineyard. He made himself three promises after watching the ferries take people to and from the Island: He would build his boat He would get a dog that would sail with him, no matter the weather The Vineyard would be his home The Black Dog was named in 1967 when a black lab-boxer mix boarded Douglas's ship. She was named The Black Dog after a character in Treasure Island. In January 1971, the captain opened an inn for sailors, and The Black Dog was a constant fixture. From there on out, the legacy of The Black Dog continued. Awards In 2005 The Black Dog was awarded the Retailer of the Year Award by the Retailers Association of Massachusetts. References External links Martha's Vineyard Vacation Tips Official website 1971 establishments in Massachusetts Restaurants established in 1971 Restaurants in Massachusetts Tourist attractions in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts