History of Berkshire County, Massachusetts
Berkshire County, located in the western part of Massachusetts, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back to its settlement in the 17th century. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area became a key part of colonial expansion. Established in 1761, Berkshire County was named after the Royal County of Berkshire in England. The county played a significant role in the American Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and the development of American culture, particularly through its thriving arts community. Today, Berkshire County is known for its natural beauty, historic towns, and cultural landmarks, attracting visitors from across the country.
Origins of Berkshire County
Native American Presence
Before European settlers arrived, Berkshire County was inhabited by several Native American tribes, primarily the Mohican and Pequot. The Mohicans, part of the Algonquin linguistic group, lived along the Housatonic River, which forms the western boundary of Berkshire County. The region’s fertile land, rich forests, and access to water sources made it an ideal location for Native American settlement. The Mohican people relied on fishing, hunting, and farming, cultivating crops like corn, beans, and squash, and hunting game like deer and bear.
The arrival of European settlers in the early 17th century, primarily the Dutch and English, marked the beginning of significant change for the indigenous tribes. The settlers gradually pushed the Native American population out of the region, leading to conflict, disease, and displacement. Despite these challenges, traces of Mohican culture remain in the area, and their influence can still be seen in place names and regional history.
The Colonial Era and Formation of Berkshire County
Berkshire County was established in 1761, carved out of portions of Hampshire and Suffolk counties. The region’s strategic location between the Hudson River and the Connecticut River made it a natural hub for colonial expansion. The county was named after Berkshire, a historic county in England, to honor the British royal family. Early European settlers in Berkshire County came from Connecticut and New York, establishing small farming communities and engaging in logging and trade.
During the French and Indian War (1754–1763), the region saw military activity, with the British fortifying strategic positions to defend the frontier. Following the end of the war, Berkshire County began to grow more rapidly, as settlers moved westward in search of new land and resources.
Key Historical Events in Berkshire County
The American Revolution
Berkshire County played a notable role in the American Revolution. Due to its proximity to New York and the Hudson River, it became a key location for military strategy and supply lines. The county’s residents were generally sympathetic to the colonial cause, and many of them actively participated in revolutionary activities.
One of the most famous events in the county’s history was the Battle of Bennington, fought in 1777 just over the border in Vermont, but it had significant implications for Berkshire County. The battle was a turning point in the American Revolution and bolstered morale in the region. Local militiamen from Berkshire County, including those from towns like Pittsfield and Great Barrington, contributed to the victory. In the aftermath of the battle, British forces were pushed back, and the path was cleared for the eventual Saratoga Campaign, which was crucial to the success of the American Revolution.
The Industrial Revolution
The 19th century brought significant industrial development to Berkshire County, particularly with the expansion of the textile, paper, and iron industries. The Housatonic River served as a vital transportation route for goods and raw materials, making the county a hub for manufacturing. Pittsfield, the county seat, became an industrial powerhouse, attracting factories, mills, and workers from around the region.
In the mid-19th century, the Berks and Housatonic Railroad connected Berkshire County to broader markets in the Northeast, spurring further economic development. The Iron Works in South Williamstown, one of the county’s first major industries, and the Berkshire Cotton Manufacturing Company in Pittsfield were central to the region’s economic boom. These industries helped shape the character of the county and contributed to its prosperity in the post-Revolutionary period.
However, by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many of these industries began to decline, and Berkshire County experienced economic challenges. The rise of new industries in cities like Boston and New York led to a shift away from the traditional manufacturing economy of the region.
The Rise of Arts and Culture
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Berkshire County developed a reputation as a center for arts and culture. Lenox and Stockbridge, in particular, became known as popular summer retreats for wealthy New Yorkers and Bostonians, including many artists, writers, and intellectuals.
One of the most famous residents of the region during this time was Edith Wharton, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author who lived in The Mount in Lenox. Tanglewood, located in Lenox, became the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and a major venue for classical music. This tradition continues today, with the Berkshires hosting numerous cultural festivals, theater productions, and artistic exhibitions year-round.
Historical Sites in Berkshire County
1. The Mount (Edith Wharton’s Estate)
Overview:
The Mount in Lenox was the former home of the renowned author Edith Wharton. Built in 1902, the estate reflects Wharton’s love of architecture and design. The house is now a museum that showcases her life and works, and visitors can explore the gardens, which were designed by Beatrix Farrand, one of the first female landscape architects. The Mount remains a testament to Wharton’s influence on American literature and culture.
Location:
The Mount, 2 Plunkett Street, Lenox, MA 01240
Ticket Price:
- Adults: $20
- Seniors/Students: $18
- Children (under 18): Free
Parking Information:
Free parking is available on-site.
2. Tanglewood
Overview:
Tanglewood, located in Lenox, is one of the premier music venues in the United States, particularly known for its summer concerts featuring the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The sprawling 500-acre campus hosts classical music festivals, jazz performances, and pop concerts. Tanglewood’s picturesque setting in the Berkshire Mountains adds to its charm, making it a popular destination for music lovers and tourists.
Location:
Tanglewood, 297 West Street, Lenox, MA 01240
Ticket Price:
Ticket prices vary based on the event, ranging from $10 for lawn seating to $100+ for premium concerts.
Parking Information:
Free parking is available, but it’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak concert seasons.
3. The Berkshire Museum
Overview:
Located in Pittsfield, the Berkshire Museum is a multi-disciplinary museum offering exhibits on art, science, and history. Founded in 1903, the museum features a diverse collection of fine arts, natural history displays, and interactive science exhibits. It serves as an educational hub for visitors of all ages and provides insight into the cultural and scientific history of the region.
Location:
Berkshire Museum, 39 South Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Ticket Price:
- Adults: $10
- Seniors: $8
- Children (under 12): Free
Parking Information:
Free parking is available on-site.
4. Hancock Shaker Village
Overview:
Hancock Shaker Village, located in Pittsfield, is a living history museum that preserves the legacy of the Shaker community. The village was once home to one of the largest Shaker communities in the United States. Visitors can explore historic buildings, including the meeting house, farm, and workshops, and learn about the Shakers’ unique religious beliefs, craftsmanship, and way of life.
Location:
Hancock Shaker Village, 1843 West Housatonic Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Ticket Price:
- Adults: $20
- Seniors: $18
- Children (under 18): Free
Parking Information:
Ample free parking is available.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Berkshire County is located in the westernmost part of Massachusetts and is characterized by its mountainous terrain and rolling hills. The county is part of the Berkshire Hills, a section of the Appalachian Mountains. The Housatonic River flows through the county, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities. The region is known for its dense forests, quaint villages, and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
Berkshire County has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winters are characterized by snow and temperatures that often dip below freezing, while summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures in the 70s and 80s (°F). The region receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, and its elevated terrain can lead to variable weather conditions.
County Facts:
- Year Founded: 1761
- County Seat: Pittsfield
- Population: 131,000 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: 145 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Pittsfield, North Adams, Great Barrington
- Major Highways: U.S. Route 7, U.S. Route 20, Massachusetts Route 8, Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90)
- Adjacent Counties:
- Franklin County (north)
- Hampshire County (east)
- Litchfield County, CT (south)
- Rensselaer County, NY (west)