Franklin County, Massachusetts

Alexander, Simeon, Jr. House Alvah Stone Mill Ashfield Plain Historic District Bardwell's Ferry Bridge Bernardston Congregational Unitarian Church Bissell Bridge Burkeville Covered Bridge Charlemont Village Historic District Colrain Center Historic District Conway Center Historic District Deerfield Valley Agricultural Society Fairgrounds East Charlemont District School East Hawley Center Historic District East Leverett Historic District East Main-High Street Historic District Franklin County Fairgrounds Garden Theater Block Gill Center Historic District Griswold, Maj. Joseph, House Heath Center Historic District Hill Cemetery and Parson Hubbard House Historic District Leavitt-Hovey House Leverett Center Historic District Long Plain Cemetery Main Street Historic District Montague Center Historic District Moore's Corner Historic District New Salem Common Historic District Newton Street School North Cemetery North Leverett Historic District Northfield Center Cemetery Northfield Main Street Historic District Odd Fellow's Hall Old Deerfield Village Historic District Orange Armory Orange Center Historic District Pine Street School Powers Institute Historic District Riverside Village Historic District Shelburne Falls Historic District Shelburne Falls Historic District (Boundary Increase 2010) Shelburne Free Public Library Smith, Arthur A., Covered Bridge South School Sunderland Center Historic District Tavern Farm, Old Turner Falls Historic District US Post Office-Greenfield Main Weldon Hotel Wendell Town Common Historic District Whately Center Historic District Whitaker-Clary House Wilder, Homestead, The Woodward, Robert Strong, House and Studio

Franklin County, located in western Massachusetts, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The land was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Pocomtuc and Mohawk. European settlers arrived in the early 1700s, establishing towns and villages throughout the region.

In the 1800s, Franklin County experienced significant industrial growth. The construction of canals and the expansion of the railroad network allowed for the transportation of goods and materials, leading to the establishment of mills and factories. Towns such as Greenfield, Shelburne Falls, and Turners Falls became centers of industry, manufacturing textiles, paper, and machinery.

During the mid-1800s, Franklin County played a prominent role in the abolitionist movement. Many residents actively participated in the Underground Railroad, assisting escaped slaves on their journey to freedom. Greenfield became a hub for anti-slavery organizations and hosted meetings and conventions advocating for the abolition of slavery.

In the 20th century, Franklin County underwent significant changes. With the decline of traditional industries, the area transitioned towards a more service-based economy. Today, the county is known for its vibrant cultural scene, natural beauty, and agricultural heritage, attracting tourists and residents alike.

Overall, Franklin County's history is characterized by its rich Native American heritage, industrial boom, abolitionist legacy, and transition towards a diverse and thriving community.
Brief timeline of the history of Franklin County, Massachusetts:

  • 1600s: Native American tribes, including the Pocomtuc and Mahican, inhabit the area now known as Franklin County.
  • 1673: English colonists establish the town of Deerfield, one of the first European settlements in the region.
  • 1675-1676: King Philip's War erupts, resulting in attacks on English settlements, including the infamous Deerfield Massacre in 1675.
  • 1736: The town of Greenfield is officially incorporated.
  • 1774: Residents of Northfield form the Northfield Association, which becomes a model for colonial self-government and local democracy.
  • 1783: The Treaty of Paris formally ends the American Revolutionary War, leading to the creation of the United States.
  • 1800s: The development of the Industrial Revolution brings manufacturing and industrialization to towns in Franklin County.
  • 1831: The Deerfield Academy is founded, becoming one of the earliest college-preparatory schools in the United States.
  • 1851: The town of Shelburne Falls is incorporated, known for its picturesque Bridge of Flowers.
  • 1893: The first trolley line is established in Greenfield, connecting the town to neighboring communities.
  • 1901: The Franklin County Courthouse in Greenfield is completed, serving as the county seat.
  • 1956: The Interstate Highway System reaches Franklin County, with the completion of Interstate 91 through the region.
  • 2004: The Great Falls Discovery Center opens in Turners Falls, showcasing the natural and cultural history of the Connecticut River.
  • 2011: Franklin County celebrates its 200th anniversary since being officially established as a county in 1811.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Franklin County, Massachusetts.