Raven Rock in Adams is a remote and challenging destination to reach.
CHESHIRE, Mass. — Local authors Jan and Christy Butler penned "Berkshire Destinations," an explorers guide to waterfalls, boulders, vistas and points of interest of the Berkshire Hills and Western Massachusetts.
"Berkshire Destinations" is the Butlers' fourth book and the "unconventional explorer's guide" includes 159 chapters that will guide readers to known and obscure waterfalls, glacial erratics, vistas, gardens, cultural institutions, and historical landmarks found in the Western Massachusetts foothills.
"Having a hiking guide to vistas, boulders and waterfalls is all well and good, so long as the weather is cooperating," Christy said. "So diversifying does provide a change of pace for rainy days or after completion some alternatives for those who want a change of pace."
Christy said he first planned to write a book only about New England statues but after receiving some feedback from friends and readers, he decided to keep his focus in Berkshire County and Western Massachusetts.
"I agreed and so as not to repeat my previous endeavors, I needed to diversify the content somewhat," he said. "Although I have selected some boulders and erratics for 'Berkshire Destinations,' some are locations that are crowd-pleasers, with some that were not included in 'Rockachusetts'."
Christy, who also penned "Rockachusetts" and "Erratic Wandering," said, like his other books, "Berkshire Destinations" includes illustrations, photographs, maps, and Global Positioning Coordinates (GPS) for parking and destinations for each location in each chapter.
Some new more obscure sites in "Berkshire Destinations" include one of the original Hoosac Tunnel Alignment Towers in North Adams and the Thunderbolt Rock in the Greylock Glen.
What separates "Berkshire Destinations" from his other books is the inclusion of statues, studios, historic homes, educational institutions and other cultural institutions
"I did follow through with some chapters of the iconic statues easily seen or found. Obviously, Berkshire County is the home to iconic sculptors and their studios," he said. "... In addition, Berkshire County has world-class art museums."
Included in the book are chapters featuring The Mount, Naumkeag, the Bridge of Flowers, Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, Williams College, and the Clark Art Institute among others.
Like his other books, Christy said some of his favorite chapters have to do with little known subjects that are often hidden in plain sight.
"Most of my favorite chapters deal with the obscure and hidden locations even if they have been hidden right in front of your eyes," he said. "Turtle Rock on the outlet of Mill Pond crossing Route 41 in Egremont was a great surprise to find, finally after looking for several years after being told about it at the Cummington Fair. Navin Falls and No-Name falls a couple of waterfalls in October State Forest, while not as dynamic as Bash Bish Falls, are quite satisfying to visit after bushwhacking some to reach them."
Christy said with COVID-19 limiting what people can do, "Berkshire Destinations," along with his other books provide safer opportunities for folks looking to adventure.
"Our newest and fourth book 'Berkshire Destinations' as well as 'Rockachusetts' or 'Erratic Wandering' are for individuals, families or anyone seeking new and different destinations," he said. "... I would just about guarantee that many of these locations that you would or may be completely isolated from mobs, hence social distancing will be achieved."
The book can be purchased in black and white or in color on Amazon.
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Cheshire Tag Sale and Bazaar
CHESHIRE, Mass. — The Cheshire Community Association (CCA) announced the return of the Cheshire Community Tag Sale and Bazaar for its second year.
Scheduled for Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 9 AM to 1 PM, the event offers a day of treasure hunting, local craftsmanship, and treats at the Cheshire Community House located at 191 Church St, Cheshire.
Attendees can explore a variety of offerings, including handmade crafts, antiques, collectibles, and food options. The hot food truck, operated by the Berkshire Lodge of Masons AF & AM, will be stationed in the courtyard, serving up treats throughout the event.
One of the highlights of this year's event is the fundraising raffle, with all proceeds set to benefit the Cheshire Food Pantry. Participants can purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes, supporting a worthy cause that serves the local community.
Registration for vendors interested in participating in the bazaar is currently open, with fees ranging from $10 to $30. Cheshire residents looking to showcase their items from home can have their locations advertised on the event map for a fee of $10. The deadline for registration is set for Friday, April 26, 2024.
Registration forms can be obtained from various locations across Cheshire, including A to Z Printing, Cheshire Community House, Cheshire Library, Cheshire Glassworks, Cheshire Senior Center, the Cheshire Community Association Facebook page, and the Cheshire Town website.
For more information about the event, including vendor registration and sponsorship opportunities, interested parties are encouraged to contact Jenny Gadbois at (413) 841-0844 or via email at jlgadbois@icloud.com.
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