Berkshire County Historical Society To Collect Oral Histories

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire County Historical Society concludes its year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of the publication of Herman Melville's "Billy Budd, Sailor" with two events that honor the journey that led to the novel's discovery. 
 
"Billy Budd, Sailor" was discovered and published by Herman Melville's granddaughter, Eleanor, who shared a special relationship with her grandfather. On Nov. 16 and Dec. 7 BCHS will record and archive stories of grandparents and grandchildren. 
 
Together with partners from the Housatonic Heritage Oral History Center at Berkshire Community College and the Berkshire Athenaeum, they will create a story scavenger hunt for children and their families, which will include treats and art projects. 
 
All participants will receive a recording of their story. The Nov. 16 event takes place at Herman Melville's historic home, Arrowhead, from noon - 4 pm. 
 
The Berkshire Athenaeum hosts the Dec. 7 event from 10 am - 2 pm. Both events are free. 
 
This program is funded in part by Mass Humanities, which receives support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council and is an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Car Fire Briefly Shuts Down Section of North Street

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff

The street was briefly shut down. 
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Firefighters responded to a car fire on Eagle Street at about 4 p.m. Monday.
 
The 1986 Chevrolet Camaro was parked next to Persip Park when it "blew up," according to a passerby. Firefighters swiftly put out the engine fire but the northbound lane of North Street was briefly shut down and traffic redirected.
 
The blaze that started in the engine compartment was small but smokey, with smoke visible looking north from Fenn Street. 
 
Fire Capt. Mitchell Keller said there were some flames, describing it as a "well involved car fire." He estimated it took about 10 minutes to put out. 
 
"The initial response was Engine 6, right here, because Engine 3, the closest engine was was on another call because of the close proximity to headquarters," he said, referring to the Columbus Avenue station. "Our deputy car two and truck company responded to make sure that the car was unoccupied and that there was no people requiring aid. And then they waited for the engine to get here to for fire extinguishment.
 
He said the cause was undetermined but not suspicious. No one was injured in the fire and authorities were trying to track down the owner.  
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