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MUSEUMS AND LANDMARKS OF THE BERKSHIRES
There is much to see in the Berkshires. Our basic tours as described in our Day Tour Packages and sightseeing itineraries are non-stop or limited stop programs. No doubt, your group may have a special interest in mind, or a desire to incorporate a visit to one, or more museums and/or landmarks. Please feel free to combine any of our tours with an admission to any listed below.
ARROWHEAD
Pittsfield, MA
(Open May to October)
This was the home of Herman Melville from 1850 until 1863. Seated from his second floor study, he could see the profile of Mount Greylock, (the tallest peak in Massachusetts - 3400 feet above sea level). From his vantage point, it seemed to him to be the profile of a whale. Thus, in 1851, he was inspired to write his most famous work, "Moby Dick". He loved his home, but unfortunately because of financial difficulties, he was forced to sell the house in 1863. The house has been restored to the way it was during the author's time, including his famous study. Guided house tours are available. Arrowhead is also the home of the Berkshire Historical Society. During the summer months, re-enactments of Civil War days take place on the grounds. For a view of Arrowhead, please click 2 Hr. Explorer Tour.
THE BERKSHIRE
MUSEUM
Pittsfield, MA
(Open all year)
Founded in 1902 by Zenas Crane, the Berkshire Museum has been a principal arts, science and culture landmark of the city. In addition to its many exhibits, it houses a permanent collection of Hudson River School paintings, including those of Frederick Church. Decembers make the Berkshire Museum a targeted landmark for thousands of visitors to view its annual "Festival Of The Trees" exhibit, where dozens of Christmas trees are decorated in various colorful motifs. For views of the 2002 exhibit please click on to CHRISTMAS IN THE BERKSHIRES, where we had the pleasure of sharing the exhibit with one of our groups.
CHESTERWOOD
Stockbridge, MA
(Open May to October)
This was the summer home and studio of sculptor Daniel Chester French, who designed the famous seated statue of Abraham Lincoln placed within the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. He also designed the Minute Man statue that stands at Concord, MA. There are daily guided tours of the studio and his home. For those who enjoy walking, one can enjoy the lovely gardens, which the sculptor took great pride in surrounding his house and studio.
THE CLARK
INSTITUTE OF ART
Williamstown, MA
(Open all year)
This beautiful museum houses some of the greatest treasures art to be found anywhere. The collection includes a large number of paintings from the French Impressionist period and the earlier Renaissance. The gift shop sells a great many books and illustrations that make a wonderfully fitting souvenir from a visit.
HANCOCK SHAKER
VILLAGE
Pittsfield, MA
(Open all year)
Once a prosperous Shaker community that spanned 150 years, the 20 buildings where they worked and lived has been restored to truly understand their accomplishments, philosophies and beliefs. One should allow three or more hours to see and visit their various workplaces and domiciles. Your ANIMACTIONS UNLIMITED tour guide can join your group to conduct this interior tour visit.
M. O. C. A.
(MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART)
North Adams, MA
(Open all year)
Newly opened in 1995, M. O. C. A. is exclusively devoted to modern art. For those interested in abstract art, they will find fascinating permanent exhibits, accompanied by special temporary exhibits that are announced. Guided tours within the museum are available on a daily basis. This was once the site of the Sprague Electric Company that has been restored and renovated to fit the museum's requirements.
THE MOUNT
Lenox, MA
(open May to October)
Famed writer, Edith Wharton designed and planned her "cottage" and gardens as her dream house. It was built in 1902, where Wharton and her husband spent ten years of creative living until she was forced to sell it in 1912. While in residence at The Mount, she wrote some of her famous novels, including "The House of Mirth"(1905) and "Ethan Frome" (1910). The property was purchased and restored by the Edith Wharton Foundation. House tours are available, and visitors will definitely need time to explore the beautiful gardens.
NAUMKEAG
Stockbridge, MA
(open May to October)
Naumkeag was built in 1886 for Joseph Choate, a self-made millionaire attorney. It was designed by Stanford White. This "cottage" was Choate's summer home and is a perfect preservation of a classic Berkshire Gilded Age estate. It's 26 rooms contain the original furniture, along with a complete collection of Chinese artifacts. 45 minute guided house tours are available. Thanks to Mabel Choate, his youngest daughter, and her collaboration with famous landscapist, Fletcher Steele, the gardens that surround the house are magnificent and can be explored independently.
THE NORMAN
ROCKWELL MUSEUM
Stockbridge, MA
(open all year)
Once the grounds of the former Linwood Estate, the present day Norman Rockwell Museum houses one of the most complete collections of the famous artist's original Saturday Evening Post cover paintings. The museum also hosts special exhibits that are associated with the life and times of the artist. Hourly lectures are given, providing the background and life history of Rockwell. The gift shop sells a wide array of Rockwell reproductions and memorabilia. Of equal interest is the artist's original studio, which was moved from his former residence to a location adjacent to the museum.
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accommodations, dining arrangements, guided sightseeing tours,
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