The Town That Chose Its Own Name
The Only French Name on Cape Cod
Since 1797
When this town separated from Eastham in 1797, it refused an English name. It took the name of a French ally instead — on the suggestion, the town’s own history says, of a man the British had twice thrown in a prison ship. Orleans has been choosing for itself ever since. We’re the Republicans of that town: recruiting, promoting, and electing leaders who will give Orleans voters a real choice.
A town that picked its own name can pick its own leaders. We’re here so that Orleans voters get more than one name on the ballot.
Country & Heritage
A strong sense of pride in our country and our heritage, and America’s enduring role as leader of the free world.
Government Closest to the People
Government “of, by, and for the people” that minimizes its intervention in citizens’ lives — promoting individual responsibility, initiative, and free enterprise.
Family, Character & Integrity
The strengthening and defense of the family, and government grounded in good character and personal integrity.
Read our full Mission, Vision, and the Republican Oath that guides the committee.
We are the Orleans Republican Town Committee. Our members come from every walk of life — varied careers, backgrounds, and ages — united in our commitment to the Constitution and to electing Republican candidates for local, county, state, and national office. All Republicans and Independents are welcome. Our upcoming meetings are listed above and on our Meetings page. Want to know what’s happening in Town government this week? See our Town Meetings page.
“Orleans is the only town on Cape Cod with a French name.”
— The Town of Orleans’ own history (town.orleans.ma.us). The General Court passed the act dividing Eastham on March 1, 1797; Governor Samuel Adams signed it two days later. The town took its name from the Duke of Orléans in gratitude for French help in the Revolution — a choice the town’s history credits to Isaac Snow, a local patriot the British captured twice and confined to a prison ship in England before he escaped to France. Choosing for itself isn’t a slogan in Orleans — it’s how the town got its name.
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