History of Peru, Massachusetts, USA

1767 - Peru is settled

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

1771 - Peru is incorporated

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

1839 - Peru
Peru, Massachusetts
Berkshire county. This is a rough and mountainous town, wherein branches of Housatonick and Westfield rivers rise. It was formerly called Partridgefield and incorporated by that name in 1771. The soil is cold but adapted for grazing. The inhabitants are chiefly farmers. Population, 1837, 656. In that year 6,127 sheep were sheared in this town; the value of the wool, which weighed 18,381 lbs., was $11,948. Peru lies 111 miles W. from Boston, 18 N.E. from Lenox, and 47 E. Albany, N.Y. It is the highest land between the Connecticut and Hudson rivers.
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 - PERU. [Pop. 576. Inc. 1771.]
Peru included the greater part of Hinsdale, and was called Partridgefield, after one of its two owners, until 1806.

The surface is mountainous, and gives rise to several sources of the Housatonic and Westfield River, which run in opposite directions.

The soil is cold and often sterile, but not unfit for grazing. Excellent lime is found in the town.

Distance From Lenox, 18 miles ; from Boston, 111.
An Elementary Geography for Massachusetts Children by William Bentley Fowle and Asa Fitz, 1845

1854 - Peru
Peru, a post-township in Berkshire co., Mass., 112 miles W. from Boston. Pop., 519.
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.

Peru Massachusetts, 1890
Peru is a mountainous and sparsely settled farming town near the middle of the eastern side of Berkshire County, 140 miles west of Boston, and about 5 miles east of the Boston and Albany Railroad station in Hinsdale — bounding this town on the west. On the north the boundary is Windsor; on the east, Cummington and Worthington; and on the south, Middlefield and Washington. The area is about 27 square miles, of which 16,019 acres are assessed. Of these, 3,328 acres are forests of beech, maple and spruce. The land is elevated, rough and rocky. French's Mountain rises near the centre of the township to a height of 2,239 feet: The church on Peru Hill, near the western border, is so situated that water falling from one side of the roof finds its way into the Westfield River, and from the other side into the Housatonic. The largest watercourse is Fuller's Stream, draining the central portion of the town.. Some excellent limestone has been quarried here. There is much rock of a flinty, and... Read MORE...

1895 - Peru
Peru, a post-hamlet of Berkshire co, Mass., in Peru township, 12. miles E. of Pittsfield. It has a church and 2 saw-mills. Pop. of the township, 443.
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
Peru, a post-village of Berkhsire co., Mass., in Peru township (town), 12 miles E. of Pittsfield. Pop. of the town in 1900, 253.
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

2023 - Peru has something for everyone. Let's explore some places to go and things to do in this picturesque town.
Peru State Forest: This 1,200-acre state forest is the heart of outdoor activities in Peru. You can explore hiking trails, go bird watching, have a picnic, or simply immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The forest is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind.

Hiking and Trail Exploration: Peru offers a range of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels. One popular option is the "Ledges Trail," which leads to a scenic overlook with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Don't forget your hiking boots and a camera!

Berkshire Natural Resources Council Properties: The Berkshire Natural Resources Council manages several properties in the region, including the Hollow Fields Reserve and the Clam River Reserve. These areas are perfect for hiking, nature observation, and wildlife photography.

Snowmobiling and Cross-Country Skiing: In the winter months, Peru becomes a winter wonderland. The town is a hub for snowmobiling and... Read MORE...