History of Savoy, Massachusetts, USA

1777 - Savoy was first settled in 1777 by a group led by Colonel Lemuel Hathaway.

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

Read more about Lemuel HATHAWAY

1797 (Savoy) - The town was officially incorporated in 1797, and was supposedly named for the land's resemblance to the Duchy of Savoy in France.

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

1839 - Savoy
Savoy, Massachusetts
Berkshire county. Savoy is an elevated township, and gives rise to branches of Deerfield and Hoosack rivers. The land is generally good, and pastures a considerable number of sheep. It lies 125 miles W.N.W. from Boston and 20 N.N.E. from Lenox. Incorporated, 1797. Population, 1837, 917.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839

1845 - SAVOY. [Pop. 915. Inc. 1797.]
This township was originally granted to the heirs of soldiers who were in the Canada expedition of 1690, and it was probably named Savoy, because, like Savoy in Sardinia, it is a mountainous region.

Branches of Deerfield and Westfield Rivers rise in this town.

The inhabitants are mostly farmers, who raise cattle and keep large dairies.

Distance from Lenox, 25 miles; from Boston, 125.
An Elementary Geography for Massachusetts Children by William Bentley Fowle and Asa Fitz, 1845
Get it HERE!

1854 - Savoy
Savoy, a post-township in Berkshire co., Massachusetts, 125 miles W. N. W. from Boston. Population, 955.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

Savoy Massachusetts, 1890
Savoy is situated on the southern slope and valley of Hoosac Mountain, in the northeastern part of Berkshire County, 133 miles from Boston. Florida, from which it is in part separated by Cold River, bounds it on the north; Hawley with corners of Charlemont and Plainfield on the east; Windsor on the south; and Cheshire and Adams on the west. The territory is about six miles square. The assessed area is 21,311 acres. There are some 12,000 acres of forest. Its highlands constitute the watershed between the Deerfield, Westfield and Hoosac rivers; and the streams, though of small volume, afford in their rapid descent numerous small powers. The land is, for the most part, too rocky, rough and mountainous for tillage, but suitable for grazing. The soil is a heavy loam.

The aggregate product of the 159 farms in 1885 was valued at $88, 941. The neat cattle numbered 968; the sheep 384; and the horses 182. The manufactures are lumber, boxes, carriages and food preparations; the total value of ... Read MORE...

1895 - Savoy
Savoy, a post-village and township of Berkshire co, Mass., about 16 miles N.E. of Pittsfield. It contains 2 churches. The surface is hilly. Pop. 730.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1906
Savoy, a post-village and township (town) of Berkshire co., Mass., about 16 miles NE. of Pittsfield. The surface is hilly. Pop. of the town in 1900, 506.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Savoy:
Savoy Mountain State Forest: This state forest is the heart of outdoor recreation in Savoy. You can enjoy hiking, camping, picnicking, and even fishing at South Pond. The views from Tannery Falls are particularly stunning, especially in the fall when the foliage is in full bloom.

Tannery Falls: This hidden gem is a short hike from the parking area in Savoy Mountain State Forest. The reward is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.

North Pond: If you're into fishing, North Pond is a great place to cast your line. It's stocked with trout, and the serene surroundings make for a peaceful fishing experience.

Savoy Historical Society Museum: Learn about the history of this small town at the local historical society museum. It's a small but charming collection of artifacts and documents that give you a glimpse into Savoy's past.

Berkshire East Mountain Resort: While not directly in Savoy,... Read MORE...