Sandisfield
Massachusetts
Town of Sandisfield
Town History
Sandisfield, a name unique among US municipalities, derived from a tribute to Samuel Sandys, first "Lord of Trade and the Plantations." The largest town in the Berkshires at 53 sq. mi., Sandisfield is also the most sparsely populated. Settlers, mainly from Connecticut Colony, arrived at "Housatonic Plantation No. 3" starting in 1750. Abundant land attracted newcomers for the next century and the population peaked around 1850, twice today's level. In the mid-19th century Sandisfield was one of the most prosperous towns in the area with productive dairy farms and numerous sawmills, tanneries and light manufacturing all along its rivers. But a much anticipated railroad line in the 1870s never materialized. The farming economy suffered and the population declined.
As a result, today Sandisfield's physical character is much different. The land is reforested and contains many streams and sparkling clear ponds and lakes. Sandisfield State Forest and nearby York Lake are hidden treasures for the savvy visitor, summer, or winter. In the north end of town enchanting Spectacle Pond astride the old "Knox Trail," recently incorporated into Otis State Forest, has no equal for kayak and canoe enthusiasts. Although a true center never developed in this sprawling town, quaint villages and hamlets throughout the town remind of another time and way of life.
The settlers of the 18th and early 19th centuries left an important legacy: more than 100 antique homes and public buildings. Most have been lovingly restored by both long-time and seasonal residents, the two segments of the modern community. Three are on the National Register of Historic Places: the 1799 "Philemon Sage House;" the quintessential New England tavern, "The New Boston Inn" which has continuously served guests and diners since at least 1750; and the wonderful Greek Revival style 1842 Baptist Meeting House. In the early 20th century it was converted to a Jewish Synagogue. And then in the 1980's it was again transformed into the vibrant and acclaimed "Sandisfield Arts Center." The pride of the community, the Arts Center is a regional destination offering top-notch musical and cultural performances from April to December.
Recent News
Town of Sandisfield FY24 Budget Calendar
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Read More »Town of Sandisfield : Vote By Mail Applications Now Available
Early mail-in voting applications for our upcoming local election are now available. If you would like to participate in early voting, you may request an application by contacting the Town Clerk's office. The last day to request a mail-in ballot is…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield : Municipal Calendar 2023
Mar. 23, 2023 Last day to obtain nomination papers Apr. 4, 2023 Caucus – Old Town Hall 7 P.M. Apr. 7, 2023 Last day to file caucus certificates Apr. 10, 2023 Last day to file nomination…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield News : Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste
Sandisfield residents can dispose of their household hazardous waste at Lee Wastewater Treatment Plant, 379 Pleasant St, Lee, MA 01233 on Saturday, May 20, 2023 from 9:00am-1:00pm Pre-Registration is required. Visit…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield - Food Safety For Non-Profit Organizations
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Read More »Town of Sandisfield News - Nomination Papers Now Available
Nomination Papers Now Available Nomination papers for the 2023 annual town election are now available at the Town Clerk's office. If you are interested in running for a town office, please stop by during town hall office hours to pick up your…
Read More »Town Of Sandisfield - $75 Gift Cards Available For Those Getting Their Covid Booster Shot
Residents 5 years old or older are eligible to receive a $75 gift card to Stop and Shop, Cumberland Farms, Target or Walmart between February 21st and March 31st for getting their COVID Booster shot at the Southern Berkshire Public Health…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield: Seeking Regional Agreement Amendment Committee Member
The Town of Sandisfield is seeking one additional member to join the Regional Agreement Amendment Committee. Committee consists of eight members, four from each town. Meeting subject to open meeting law. Committee may hire consultant from the…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield - Winter Dance
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Read More »Town of Sandisfield News - Final Streetlight Comment Request
Final Streetlight Comment Request Upon review of the initial responses to the streetlight comment request, the Sandisfield Select Board has created an updated list of streetlights for potential removal in an attempt to eliminate wasteful spending…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield - Holiday And Employee Appreciation Party!
The Town of Sandisfield is hosting a Holiday & Employee Appreciation Party on January 6, 2023 at 5:00PM at Fire Station #1. Refreshments provided! All are welcome! RSVP required by December 31, 2022, please email [email protected]…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield News : Seeking Town Charter Committee Members
The Town of Sandisfield is seeking interested residences to serve on its Charter Committee. A five-member committee consisting of one member of the Select Board, Finance Committee and Planning Board (already appointed), and two at-large residents. A…
Read More »Town Of Sandisfield - COVID Tests Available At Transfer Station
Beginning Saturday, December 17, 2022 free COVID tests will be available at the Transfer Station, limit two per household. First come, first serve! Masks will also be…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield Now Hiring: Assistant Town Clerk (Digital - Remote)
THIS JOB IS 100% DIGITAL – APPLICANTS MUST EXCEL IN ALL THINGS DIGITAL - The Town of Sandisfield is seeking qualified applicants for the part time position of Assistant the Town Clerk. Position is responsible for assisting the Town Clerk with…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield News : Community Choice Power Supply Program Consumer Notification
The Town of Sandisfield is announcing that NextEra Energy Services (“NextEra”) has been selected as the supplier for its Community Choice Power Supply Program (“Program”). NextEra will provide electric power supply for all…
Read More »Town of Sandisfield News - Holiday Tree and Menorah Lighting
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