History of Belchertown, Massachusetts, USA

A correspondent of the Worcester (Mass.) Spy gives the following particulars of a fatal accident which occurred on Saturday afternoon, the 26th of May, at the [illegible] manufactory of F. M. Bardwell & Co., in South Belchertown.

Henrietta Fuller, a young woman employed as a weaver in the factory, aged about eighteen years, went to a water cask to obtain water for washing. This cask was very near an upright shaft and coupling box, which was revolving at the rate of over one hundred revolutions per minute, and with which the dress of the unfortunate girl became entangled. With every revolution her head struck upon the strong iron frame work supported the regulator, crushing her forehead, and forcing her eyes from their sockets, while her body and limbs were horribly mangled and broken. The cask and the ceiling were covered with marks of the catastrophe, and the body was so firmly bound to the shaft that her steel skirts were cut with chisels before she could be liberated.

In older days such activities as May fairs, dances and plays were given here. This building collapsed in 1862 when the roof fell in from the weight of ice and snow.

Belchertown lies in the easterly part of Hampshire County, about 75 miles west of Boston. Pelham bounds it on the north, Enfield, Ware and Palmer on the east, the latter and Ludlow on the south, and the last, with Granby and Amherst, on the west. It extends north and south about 12 miles, by 8 miles from east to west; having a taxable area of 31,680 acres, excluding highways and water surfaces. About 8,000 acres are woodland, consisting chiefly of butternut and oak; but the numerous trees along the highways are principally maple and elm.

Swift River (named from the rapidity of its current) washes two thirds of the eastern border of the town; Jabish River flows from the centre southward; Broad Brook occupies the southwestern part; and Bacheler's Brook the western, and Hoop Brook the northwestern sections. The largest of the several ponds are Lower:Pond, containing about 96 acres, and Middle Pond, about 40. The surface in most parts is hilly, having some commanding eminences. The...

Bel'chertown, a post-village of Hampshire co., Mass., 10 miles by rail S.E. of Amherst, and about 18 miles N.E. of Springfield. It has 3 churches, a high school, a hotel, and a carriage-factory. Pop. of township in 1890, 2120

Belchertown, a post-village and township (town) of Hampshire co., Mass., on the Boston and Maine and the Central Vermont Rs., 10 miles SE. of Amherst, its banking point. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2292.

Quabbin Reservoir: This massive man-made reservoir is a jewel of Belchertown and a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go hiking, biking, picnicking, or simply take a leisurely drive along the scenic roads that border the reservoir. Fishing and boating are also allowed in designated areas.

D.A.R. State Forest: Just a short drive from Belchertown, this state forest offers excellent opportunities for camping, hiking, swimming, and fishing. The Quabbin Reservoir Visitor Center is also located here, providing information about the reservoir's history and the local wildlife.

Belchertown State School: While the school itself is no longer operational, the grounds and some of the buildings have been repurposed into a recreational area. You can explore the historic architecture and enjoy a walk around the beautiful grounds.

Swift River Reservation: Part of the Massachusetts Trustees of Reservations, this natural area features hiking trails that wind through woodlands and...