The Berkshires town of Sheffield, the oldest community in Berkshire county, contains the Schenob Brook wetland complex (identified as one of the most unique unspoiled ecosystems in the world). Noted for its deep agricultural soils, much of Sheffield remains open and in agricultural production. Originally called Outhotonnook, meaning “over the mountain,” the land was purchased on April 25, 1724 from Chief Konkapot and 20 other Stockbridge Mahican Indians. Its price was 460 pounds, 3 barrels of cider and 30 quarts of rum. (Photo credit:Wikipedia User:Daderot)
Sheffield, MA facts:
- Town Hall: PO Box 325
- Phone: (413) 229-2335
- Population: 3,335
- Settled/Inc’d: 1733
- Named for: Edmund Sheffield, Duke of Buckingham
- Elevation: 710′