Improving the Village

Founded in 1739 as a Christian mission, Stockbridge grew over the decades as New Englanders were drawn to the beauty of the Berkshires. In time, the famed novelist Catharine Sedgwick and others equally renowned moved there, establishing the small town as a seat of literary culture. As growth brought change, the Laurel Hill Association was founded to foster projects to enhance and protect the village character, attracting international acclaim as the first such organized effort. It remains a vital force for stewardship and conservation.