Deerfield is an historic agricultural town with roots going back to 1673, when it was first incorporated. It was the earliest community settled in Franklin County. Deerfield is known for its impressive collection of well-preserved Colonial and Federal period homes. It is home to three private preparatory schools, the Deerfield Academy, the Eaglebrook School and the Bement School.
The Indian House Memorial is home to hands-on exhibits for children. During the summer months, children can experience history through planned activities while learning about Native Americans, textiles, toys and games, herbs and gardens, and "Women's Work."
Hours:
11:30am-4:30pm; Closed: Mon, Tue
Tips: Open for school groups only during the school year.
Guides: Interpretive sessions sometimes available.
Founded in 1870, the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association operates the Memorial Hall Museum and the Indian House Memorial in Old Deerfield. The original collection of artifacts on display was first assembled in 1880 by antiquarian George Sheldon. Highlights of Memorial Hall Museum include furnishings, paintings, textiles and Indian artifacts.
Founded in 1880 in the former premises of the Deerfield Academy, the Memorial Hall Museum is devoted to the memory of the Pocumtuck Indians and the early settlers of Deerfield. It contains antiquarian George Sheldon's collection of furnishings, paintings, textiles and Colonial, American Indian and military artifacts.
Address: Memorial Hall Museum, 8 Memorial Street, Deerfield, MA 01342-9736, United States
Phone: 1 (413) 774-3768, Fax: 1 (413) 774-7070
Hours:
May 1 to October 31: 11:30am-4:30pm
Always closed on: Thanksgiving - USA (4th Thursday, November ), Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24), Christmas - Christian (December 25)
Guides: Interpretive sessions sometimes available.
Old Deerfield is the site of several craft fairs during April, June, September and November. Exhibitors are selected to showcase their wares based on the quality of their work. Items of note at the Old Deerfield Craft Fair include wood carvings, dried flower arrangements, decoys, tinware, quilts, baskets, jewelry, pottery, dolls and teddy bears. The Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association organizes the fairs and proceeds from the fair go to educational and non-profit organizations.