Special Events

Fall Exhibits at the Old Stone Store:

ART SHOW

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY

The summer’s final exhibition is a collaborative project, funded by a $5,000 grant award from the Massachusetts Foundation for the Humanities. The Sheffield Historical Society, in collaboration with a number of other local agencies, will present a multi-level exploration of the African American Heritage in the Southern Berkshires. This exploration takes the form of an exhibit, a symposium, and a celebration of this area's most famous 18th-century African American (all events are open to the general public).

The exhibition: If They Close the Door on You, Go in the Window

Location: Old Stone Store remains on view through Sunday, October 29, 2006.

This exhibit will explore Elizabeth Freeman's story: her daily life under the Ashley roof, her flight from slavery, and her final victory through the court system of Massachusetts.

Materials uncovered during the research for the book If They Close the Door on You,Go in the Window: A number of personal stories will be recounted, such as the life of Jupiter Rogers, a black who was able to purchase land in Sheffield prior to 1800. Economic transactions and how they assisted or restricted life for slaves and free blacks will be explored. One such story is that of Zack Mullen, who even after obtaining freedom from Ashley continued to engage in economic transactions with the family?

The African American Heritage Trail: Exhibit panels will allow local citizens and visitors to explore the rich and varied history of the African American community. Among the lives to be explored will be those of well-known figures such as W.E.B. Du Bois and less well-known figures such as James Mars, a community leader and activist (1790-1880). In addition to these individual stories, there are many collective topics, such as education for black children and the "Jim Crow" school issue in Sheffield at the turn of 1900. Other segments will include the issue of blacks in the military, which in this region goes back to the Revolutionary War.

The history of slavery in southern Berkshire County will be documented by 18th-century household artifacts on loan from the Colonel Ashley House, and the African American legacy in Berkshire County will be illustrated by photographs of many of the African American families, homes, and businesses of the area.

ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR

Saturday, October 7, 10:00 a.m. This is a part of the Housatonic Heritage Walks Weekend.

The Sheffield Historical Society is offering its highly popular tour of the center of Sheffield, focusing on its 18th- and 19th-century homes and businesses. Hear the stories of the men, women, and children who resided in these structures. Learn about the special features that make each building a key to understanding the past.

While there is no fee for this event, please call (413)-229-2694 to reserve a place. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The walk begins at the Society's Dan Raymond House headquarters, 159 Main Street (Route 7), Sheffield. Approximately 1 hour, 3/4 mile.

ANNUAL CEMETERY STROLL

Saturday, October 21, 4 to 6 p.m., Sackett Cemetery, Ashley Falls

Every year new faces and stories are uncovered, which capture our imagination and enrich our awareness of local history. Sackett cemetery was opened in the mid-1800s, a time in which many of this year’s stories have their beginnings and some have their endings.

The cemetery can be reached by turning down School Street from Route 7A, or using Clayton Road off of Route 7. Seasonal refreshments will be served. The program is free to Sheffield Historical Society members; there is a $4 fee for non-members. Call the office at (413)-229-2694 if you are interested in volunteering to help with this program. Goodly spirits are always needed. Each year we dig up new tales to tell and this year is no exception! So join us for this family gathering.

The 8th Annual Festival of Trees

In the Stone Store on the Green in Sheffield beginning Saturday, November 11

Once again, the Store will turn into a holiday showcase featuring miniature trees decorated by members and friends of SHS. These evergreens make wonderful gifts for shut-ins!

Making their first appearance at the Festival will be originally created centerpieces. Artificial wreaths will be available in November, and fresh wreaths will be made to order.

This year’s limited-edition holiday ornament features the Sheffield Elm. These glass balls are hand-painted in Austria.

Other popular components of the Festival include one-of-a-kind raffle items and tasty food gifts. There will be lots of perfect stocking stuffers in the Shop as well.

Join us for some holiday cheer!

The 1774 Dan Raymond House opens Saturday, May 27. Hours: Thursday- Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mark Dewey Research Center is open on Monday and Friday afternoon, 1:30 to 4 p.m. and by appointment.

Old Stone Store hours are Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For further information on Society programs, contact the Sheffield Historical Society, 159-161 Main Street, P.O. Box 747, Sheffield, MA 01257, (413) 229-2694 or email us at shs@sheffieldhistory.org

See the calendar of events

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