Heath
Living in
Heath
Heath is located in the northern westerly part of Franklin County. It abuts the state of Vermont and it is near Route 2 and Shelburne Falls.
Incorporated in 1785. The Heath Historical Society, located in the center of town, has displays representing Heath’s past, including palm-leaf hats. From the 1830s to the Civil War, women and children in Heath braided these palm-leaf hats and sold them for extra income in the winter months. The town had some farming and other small industry in the nineteenth century, but much of it is gone now, leaving the town as a rural area.
The town comprises a total area of 24.9 square miles with a population of 706. It is a “Right To Farm Community” with rolling hills, stone walls, forests and streams.
Town/Cultural Events
The Heath Historical Society (HHS) is one of the oldest historical societies in Western Massachusetts. The purpose of the Society is the to preserve the history of the Town of Heath by maintaining significant buildings and historical sites (i.e., the Old Town House, the Center Schoolhouse, the Solomon Temple Barn, and the Fort Shirley site) and historical articles.
Reinhold Niebuhr made his summer home in Heath, where, in 1943, he first delivered the famous Serenity Prayer.
For the past 100 years, town residents have looked forward to the Heath Fair each August. Held at the Heath Fairgrounds, the fair has everything from live music, to arts and crafts, to horse and oxen draws, plus barbecue and more. This old fashion fair brings visitors from all over the experience the times of yesteryear.
The Outdoors
Heath is a great town for those who wish to escape the city and spend time in a rural setting.
Hike along several areas of conservation land managed by the Franklin Land Trust. Visit Betty Maitland Memorial Forest located on the western side of Route 8A contains a forested trail loop and a vernal pool. For a more rigorous walk check out the Crowningshield Farm Conservation Area off of West Branch Road just east of Route 8A. Offers open fields and fishing along the West Branch of the North River.
The H.O. Cook State Forest in North Heath is a great spot for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snow shoeing. 1842 acres located on State Farm Road off of Route 8A. There are no trail maps or signage.
The Burnt-Hill (BHC) Trailhead is about quarter of a mile after Flagg Hill Road. You will notice a trail sign and community information. There are several places to enjoy scenic beauty of the area.
Local Favorites
Burnt Hill Blueberries is a local blueberry farm that grows amazing blueberries that are enjoyed by so many in the area. They do sell out every year so order in advance online. You can pick up your order at the farm and check out their operation.
Robert Dane local glassblower, has his studio in Heath. His works are inspired by Italian tradition but have an American flavor.
For the past 100 years, town residents have looked forward to the Heath Fair each August. Held at the Heath Fairgrounds, the fair has everything from live music, to arts and crafts, to horse and oxen draws, plus barbecue and more.
Real Estate Listings
If you are looking to buy a single family home, land to build your dream home, farm, or second home in Heath, Mass, click here for the latest list of what is currently on the market. You can also contact Wanda Mooney to learn more about the area and the process of moving.
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