.png){kind=icon}
Ready for a charming weekend spent exploring old New England? Pittsfield, MA, is a Berkshire County beauty that's full of historic landmarks and time-capsule estates. When you spend a few days here, you'll get swept up in the stories and legends! Use this guide to the best historic sites in Pittsfield, MA, to plan your trip.
1. The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home
Built in 1902, this sweeping estate that was the pride and joy of Edith Wharton is one of the most beautiful properties in Pittsfield. The Mount welcomes nearly 50,000 visitors to its grounds throughout the seasons each year. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1971.
Visitors enjoy exploring exhibits that take them into the private life of Edith Wharton, her family, and the many servants that kept the estate running in its day. Notable collections within the residence showcase Wharton's literary legacy and passion for humanitarian causes. In addition to tours, the home is also a popular setting for lectures, theater performances, dramatic readings, film viewings, and workshops. Holiday and seasonal events offer opportunities for the public to see the home "all dressed up." In addition to a main home and gardens, The Mount also houses a bookstore and café.
2. Hancock Shaker Village
This interesting attraction was an active Shaker commune up until 1960. Declared a National Historic Landmark District in 1968, it is a reminder of New England's agricultural past while embracing the beauty of Pittsfield's modern art and cultural scene. The museum on the property holds a collection of thousands of items, including furniture, tools, equipment, and textiles. Visitors can catch glimpses of baby animals and walk along trails on the farm. Hancock Shaker Village is also home to many festivals, workshops, exhibitions, and celebrations throughout the year.
3. Herman Melville's Arrowhead
Also known as the Herman Melville House, Arrowhead is the charming Pittsfield estate where Melville penned many of his most recognized novels. It was here where he wrote "Moby-Dick." However, the famed author spent as much time farming on the estate's 160 acres as he did writing during his time here. After over a decade at Arrowhead, Melville sold the property to his brother in 1863 to facilitate a move to New York City. It didn't become available for public tours until it was acquired by the Berkshire County Historical Society in 1975. Tours are available from Memorial Day to Columbus Day each year.
4. Norman Rockwell Museum
Offering the ultimate experience in all things Americana, the Norman Rockwell Museum honors the power and legacy of the genre of American illustration. It currently houses the largest collection of Rockwell's work in the world. Visitors can also enjoy a collection of more than 10,000 of Rockwell's personal items, art materials, letters, fan mail, business papers, and personal calendars.
5. North Adams Public Library
Welcome to a quintessential New England library! The North Adams Public Library sits within the Blackinton Mansion, constructed in 1865. Of course, locals and history lovers will know that the home was purchased with money earned through the S. Blackinton and Sons wool mills when the wool trade rapidly expanded in New England. Admire the historic architecture of the building as you browse a collection of nearly 60,000 books.
Plan a Weekend of Bliss in the Berkshires
Historic sites in Pittsfield, MA, and the surrounding towns of Berkshire County offer a level of quaintness you don't find in many places. It's no surprise that so many artists and novelists have secluded themselves away here over the decades to do some of their best work. If you want to explore local history and curiosities, this list of unusual things to do in The Berkshires this weekend is the perfect starting point!
