National Register Listing

Old Town Hall

a.k.a. Town Hall 1832-1891;City Hall 1891-1968

32 East St., corner of Allen St., Pittsfield, MA
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The first American lighthouse was built in Boston Harbor in 1716. The lighthouse was destroyed during the American Revolution and rebuilt in 1783.
Massachusetts random facts
Berkshire County, located in western Massachusetts, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by the Mohican Native American tribe, who were skilled hunters and farmers. They established numerous villages and had a thriving culture in the area.

European settlers arrived in the 18th century and established several towns, including Stockbridge (1734) and Great Barrington (1761). The area became known for its fertile land and timber resources, leading to the development of farming and logging industries.

In the 19th century, Berkshire County experienced industrial growth with the rise of industries like iron production, textiles, and paper manufacturing. The county's location along major rivers proved advantageous for these industries, leading to economic prosperity and population growth.

Throughout its history, Berkshire County also played a significant role in the arts and culture scene. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region became a popular retreat for artists and writers, including Edith Wharton and Herman Melville. This artistic tradition continues today, with various museums, galleries, and theaters attracting visitors from all over.

In recent years, Berkshire County has undergone economic changes, transitioning from its industrial roots to a more diversified economy. It now boasts a mix of industries, including healthcare, education, tourism, and technology. With its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Berkshire County remains an attractive destination for both residents and tourists alike.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Berkshire County, Massachusetts.

  • 1761: Berkshire County is established as a county in the Province of Massachusetts Bay.
  • 1762: The first town, Sheffield, is incorporated in Berkshire County.
  • 1787: The Shays' Rebellion, an armed uprising of farmers against perceived economic injustices, takes place in Berkshire County.
  • 1824: The Berkshire Agricultural Society is established, promoting advancements in agriculture in the region.
  • 1862: The Lenox Library is founded in Lenox, offering public access to books and educational resources.
  • 1893: The Berkshire Museum opens in Pittsfield, showcasing art, history, and natural science collections.
  • 1934: The Tanglewood Music Festival is established in Lenox, becoming one of the world's premier summer music festivals.
  • 1970: The Norman Rockwell Museum opens in Stockbridge, housing the largest collection of Rockwell's works.
  • 2000: The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) opens in North Adams, showcasing contemporary art in a former industrial complex.
  • 2011: The Berkshire County Courthouse in Pittsfield is added to the National Register of Historic Places.