Historical museum exhibitions in Sheffield, Massachusetts

Welcome to the Sheffield Historical Society, your gateway to exploring the rich heritage of Sheffield, Massachusetts. Located at 159 Main Street, our society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the fascinating history of our charming town and its surrounding areas. Since our founding, we have been committed to collecting, preserving, and interpreting historical artifacts, documents, and stories that reflect the unique cultural tapestry of Sheffield. Our historic headquarters serves as both a museum and a community hub, offering a wide range of exhibits, educational programs, and special events throughout the year. Visitors of all ages can engage with our carefully curated displays that showcase everything from the town's early settlement days to its development through the centuries.

Welcome to Ashley House, a captivating museum and tourist attraction located at 117 Cooper Hill Road, Sheffield, Massachusetts. Nestled in the picturesque Berkshires, this historic site offers a profound journey through time, exploring the narratives of two influential figures who fought for freedom and liberty, forever altering the course of our region’s history. The Colonel John Ashley House, a cornerstone of the Upper Housatonic Valley African American Heritage Trail, stands as one of the earliest European-style dwellings in the Berkshires. Built in 1735, this remarkable Colonial-era house was once the epicenter of white political and social life in colonial Sheffield. Colonel John Ashley, a prominent and wealthy figure, owned vast lands and businesses, prospering significantly from the institution of slavery.