Add YOUR Family To This Page
History of Peru, Massachusetts, USA
Journey back in time to Peru, Massachusetts, USA
Explore Peru, Massachusetts, USA! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.Do You Have Peru Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!
Peru, Berkshire, MA
Originally known as Northern Berkshire Township Number 2 and including all of Hinsdale and part of Middlefield, the town was first settled in 1767 and was officially incorporated as Partridgefield in 1771. Originally named for Oliver Partridge, one of the three purchasers of the town (along with Governor Francis Bernard), the name was officially changed to Peru in 1806, on the suggestion of the Rev. John Leland, "because it is like the Peru of South America, a mountain town, and if no gold or silver mines are under her rocks, she favors hard money and begins with a P."
kids.kiddle.co
Explore even more about Peru, Massachusetts, USA. Keep reading!
Peru Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Peru, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
Church at Peru, Mass.
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to PERU
MASSACHUSETTS Gift t shirt Made in MASS, Got Wicked Class Unisex Softstyle T-Shirt
Are you looking for a t-shirt that's as comfortable as it is stylish? Look no further! Our Unisex Softstyle T-Shirt is the perfect blend of comfort, quality, and Massachusetts pride. Whether you're a lifelong Massachusetts resident or just passing through, you'll appreciate the "wicked class" that this shirt exudes.
MASSACHUSETTS Gifts - Cranberries, Baked Beans and Fluffernutter - I Love Massachusetts! - Ceramic Mug MA
Our Ceramic Mug, Cranberries, Baked Beans, and Fluffernutter - I Love Massachusetts! is more than just a beverage holder; it's a piece of art that celebrates the flavors and traditions of the Bay State. So whether you're sipping your morning coffee, evening tea, or a comforting cup of hot cocoa, you can do it with style and a dash of Massachusetts charm. Plus, it's a fantastic conversation starter. Imagine sharing stories about your favorite Massachusetts memories while enjoying a drink from this delightful mug.
MASSACHUSETTS Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug - Celebrate Your Bay State Heritage!
Show off your deep-rooted connection to the Bay State with our Massachusetts Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug! Perfect for sipping your favorite brew while tracing family history, this ceramic mug is a tribute to the rich heritage of Massachusetts.
MASSACHUSETTS Pride Coffee Cup - Made in Mass “Got Wicked Class” Mug
Show off your Massachusetts pride with a sip of sass! The Made in Mass “Got Wicked Class” Mug delivers local humor and hometown swagger in every cup. Perfect for coffee, tea, or hot cocoa, this high-quality ceramic mug comes in 11 oz or 15 oz and is dishwasher & microwave safe. Ideal for early commutes, porch mornings, or late-night study sessions, it’s a bold, fun reminder of where you’re from—and the attitude that goes with it. A must-have gift for anyone who loves Massachusetts, humor, and a wicked good cup of coffee!
Discover Peru: History, News, Travel, and Stories
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
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
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, 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...
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
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
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
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...
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...
Discover YOUR Roots: Peru Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Peru, Massachusetts, USA
We currently have information about 140 ancestors who were born or died in Peru.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Not the place you are looking for? Try again!
Search for YOUR Family by Place
Our Genealogy Gift Ideas
Ancestry Family Tree Search
Search for YOUR Family by Name
NOTE: If you don't know your ancestor's whole name or are unsure of the spelling, specify part of the name.Updated: 10/6/2023 4:44:14 PM