Towns-Becket

Profile

Incorporated as a town in 1765, Becket’s claim to fame is having being the first town in the United States that supported its church on voluntary contributions from its members. In doing that in 1798 the town became a forerunner of a system that is widely used today. The historic First Congregationalist Church houses a church bell crafted by Paul Revere in 1758. The West branch of the Westfield River forms the northern boundary of Becket.

During the Industrial Revolution Becket processed coal and granite. One of its more enduring industries was basketry. Today this quiet town is a favorite vacation spot. Anglers, especially, can look forward to having a great time.

Dancers from all over the world come to Becket in the summer for the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, America’s first dance festival, established by Ted Shawn, modern dance pioneer, in 1932.

Population: 1,481

Area: 46.27 sq. miles

Density: 32 persons/sq. mile

Closest Airport: Great Barrington