Groups with a taste for yesteryear will find much in store in pioneering Springfield, popularly known as the “City of Firsts” for innovations including basketball and the nation’s first armory, and throughout mountainous Berkshire County, incorporated in 1761.
“Springfield and its surrounding region are rich in historical significance and offer plenty of history-based options for groups,” says Mary Kay Wydra, president of the Greater Springfield CVB, naming volleyball, Campfire Girls and Merriam-Webster Dictionaries among the city’s other claims to fame. “Especially gratifying is that a number of these milestones are commemorated at our many dynamic tourist attractions, including the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and several museums and galleries.”
One of the nation’s most scenic escapes, the geologically ancient Berkshires are also steeped in history, from preeminent Williams College (1793) to charming Lenox and its environs, once known as “the Inland Newport” for its Gilded Age “Berkshire Cottages” that rivaled the mansions of Newport, Rhode Island. “If you are seeking history and heritage, then the Berkshires should be your go-to meeting location,” says Lindsey Schmid, director of marketing services for the Berkshire Visitors Bureau, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.
For groups looking to access the deep-rooted history of this expansive region of Western Massachusetts, turn the key and enter into the following eight memorable discoveries.
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, SPRINGFIELD
Founded as an arsenal under the authority of General George Washington early in the Revolutionary War, this National Historic Landmark was America’s first national armory. From 1794, when it started producing muskets, until its closure in 1968, the armory, reopened in 1978, was a pioneer in manufacturing and industrialization techniques. Credited with innovations including the famed Springfield rifle, the armory supplied weaponry to America’s armed forces for every major conflict during this span of centuries. The original 1840s arsenal houses the world’s largest collection of historic American military firearms. Groups can also take advantage of year-round public tours, programs, exhibits and special events at this forge of invention.PageBreak
HISTORIC DEERFIELD, DEERFIELD
With its collection of 18th and 19th century houses lining a mile-long street laid out in 1671, this marvelous National Historic Landmark living history museum, surrounded by working farms and rolling fields, is a “transporting” experience defined.
“For planners seeking a destination with charm and history, Historic Deerfield is the place,” says Laurie Nivison, director of marketing at the attraction. “As a unique, 330-year-old authentic village offering so much to see and do in one location, it is ideal for groups.”
With private event and dining space available at the 24-room Deerfield Inn, activities include tours of the historic homes, the Flynt Center of Early New England Life and Historic Deerfield’s collection of more than 25,000 objects.
STORROWTON VILLAGE MUSEUM, WEST SPRINGFIELD
Part of the sprawling, multivenue Eastern States Exposition campus, this authentically recreated heritage site features a number of 18th and 19th century buildings relocated here from former sites around New England and reassembled around a traditional village green. Created in 1926, the site’s oldest structure is the Phillips House, built in 1767. For group gatherings, the Carriage House can accommodate up to 400 guests for banquets, while the Storrowton Tavern serves New England and Continental cuisine for groups of between two and 125 in an elegant and historic setting. In warmer weather, groups can enjoy the tavern’s landscaped grounds and terraced patios.
WISTARIAHURST MUSEUM, HOLYOKE
As the former home of the Skinner family, silk and satin manufacturers in the 19th century, this stately 26-room mansion and its surrounding gardens provide an enchanting portrait of New England life over a century ago. Now open for tours, Wistariahurst flexibly accommodates up to 100 guests for functions, providing three rooms in the Main House and one in the Carriage House.
“Wistariahurst is a unique landmark offering inspiring spaces and a touch of elegance,” says Melissa Boisselle, the museum’s director. “Groups step back in time in this magnificent mansion and have the opportunity to understand and appreciate the rich history and culture of the community.”
HANCOCK SHAKER VILLAGE, PITTSFIELD
Yet more time travel awaits groups at this National Historic Landmark site, which served as a Shaker community from 1790 to 1960. Known as the “City of Peace,” the Village was the third of 19 founded by Shaker communities from Maine to Kentucky and includes 18 historic structures on 750 acres of land. Established as a museum in 1960, it is considered the most authentic and comprehensive Shaker site in the nation. Offering a range of self-guided and specialized tours, the village is also an evocative setting for gatherings ranging from Quaker-style suppers to intimate receptions at facilities including Leander Community Hall and an outdoor platform for tented events.PageBreak
KEMBLE INN, LENOX
Built in 1886, this former Gilded Age mansion is an intimate choice for small groups in the heart of the Berkshires.
“Following extensive renovations completed earlier this year, the Kemble Inn is now particularly well-positioned to host corporate board meetings and retreats,” says Scott Laugenour, administrator for the 13-room boutique property. “Our meeting room features state-of-the-art A/V, projector and custom large screen. While our Table Six Restaurant, led by former White House chef Ron Reda, offers full-service corporate catering.”
Within walking distance of downtown Lenox, the Kemble can flexibly accommodate up to 75 guests for a sit-down dinner and up to 175 for a cocktail party, with stunning Berkshire Mountain views enhancing outdoor patio and lawn events.
BERKSHIRE THEATRE GROUP, PITTSFIELD AND STOCKBRIDGE
Created in 2010 by the union of two vintage Berkshire County cultural organizations, The Colonial Theatre, built in 1903 in Pittsfield, and the Berkshire Theatre Festival (BTF), founded in 1928 in Stockbridge, Berkshire Theatre Group comprises five stages offering theater, music and the performing arts.
“Berkshire Theatre Group offers a unique opportunity to see the finest in theater while experiencing fabulous architectural design and celebrating the history of American Theatre,” says Kate Maguire, the group’s artistic director and CEO. “As BTF celebrates 85 years and the Colonial turns 110 this year, groups both large and small can rent all of our stages for a wide range of customizable gatherings.”
BASCOM LODGE, ADAMS
Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s to provide accommodations for hikers, vacationers and nature enthusiasts, this rustic Arts & Crafts-style stone and timber-frame treasure celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Perched at summit of Mt. Greylock—at 3,491 feet, the highest peak in Massachusetts—the lodge is a remarkable time capsule where visitors can dine, take in panoramic multistate views and stay overnight. Featuring hand-cut oak beams and wraparound windows, it is also a unique seasonal (late May through mid-October) venue for weddings, parties, corporate events and other gatherings. Check the website frequently for 2014 booking information—reservations go fast.
Long-time Meetings Focus contributor Jeff Heilman climbed Mt. Greylock many times during his college years in the Berkshires.
