History of Russell, Massachusetts, USA

Russell is a small farming town abounding in wild and romantic scenery, on the Green Mountain range, in the westerly part of Hampden County, and containing 76 farms, 145 dwelling-houses, and 847 inhabitants. It lies about 113 miles southwest of Boston by the Boston and Albany Railroad, and has Montgomery on the northeast, Westfield on the southeast, Granville, on the south, and Blandford on the west. The area is about 16 square miles, over one half of which is forest, principally chestnut.

The leading rocks are calciferous mica-schist and the Quebec group; and specimens of serpentine, schiller-spar, beryl, galena and copper pyrites, occur. The Westfield River runs rapidly and circuitously through the northeast, and Westfield Little River through the southern section, of the town. Shatterack, Black and Green brooks, all tributaries of the former river, afford valuable motive power. Hazzard's Lake, near the geographical centre, is a beautiful sheet of clear and sparkling water,...

Russell, a post-village in Russell township, Hampden co., Mass., on the Westfield River, and on the Boston & Albany Railroad, 18 miles W.N.W. of Springfield, and about 16 miles S.W. of Northampton. It has 2 churches and 2 paper-mills. Pop. of the township, in 1890, 879.

Russell, a post-village and township (town) of Hampden co., Mass., on the Westfield River and on the Boston and Albany R., 18 miles WNW. of Springfield. Pop. of the town in 1900, 793.

High Wind Whips Flames, Blamed on Sparks From Locomotive, a as More Than 750 Men and Boys Battle for Hours to Check Blazes--Farmers Driven From Homes - Montgomery Town Threatened.

By a Staff Reporter
Russell, May 4 - Fanned by a high wind, fires which broke out in a half-dozen places along the Boston & Albany railroad tracks northeast of here this morning spread over the hills and ridges and tonight had burned over more than 2000 acres of young growth timber. The fire was still out of control late tonight despite the efforts of more than 750 men and boys, assisted by firemen and apparatus from Russell, Huntington and Westfield, and was gradually spreading across Mt. Shadrack and over the rugged hill section toward the town of Montgomery.

Residents Driven Out

Residents of a half-dozen farmhouses and summer homes were driven from the vicinity by the dense smoke as the flames moved steadily through the surrounding woods and undergrowth. Although the houses near the boundary...

Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival:

Located in nearby Becket, Jacob's Pillow is a renowned dance festival and school. Check the schedule for performances, workshops, and events. It's a great place to appreciate the art of dance.

Granville State Forest:

Embrace the outdoors at Granville State Forest, which is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and nature walks. The picturesque forest is a peaceful retreat for those who love the tranquility of nature.

Chester-Blandford State Forest:

Another nearby natural gem, this state forest offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and beautiful views. It's an excellent destination for a day of outdoor activities.

Huntington Country Store:

Explore the charm of a classic country store in nearby Huntington. You can find local goods, snacks, and perhaps strike up a conversation with friendly locals.

Blandford Ski Area:

If you're visiting during the winter months, Blandford Ski Area is the place to go for skiing and snowboarding. It's a...