By Lucas Willard
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-1001894.mp3
Pittsfield, MA – The Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area or Housatonic Heritage awarded the funds to various non-profits along the Housatonic River to restore and develop Heritage trails. The eligible projects chosen demonstrated the ability to convey historical, cultural, and environmental education opportunities for visitors. Up to $5,000 could be awarded to any eligible non-profit or entity.
The projects awarded fall into two main categories. The first is the restoration or development of an actual, physical trail. Dan Bolognani, Executive Director of Housatonic Heritage, discussed the goals for physical trails, made for hiking, walking, or biking.
For example, installing signage and literature.
The second type of project chosen is an interpretative thematic trail - a trail of related physical locations not connected by a pathway or single road. Dan Bolognani explains
One such example is the Herman Melville Trail in the Berkshires. Originally created in 2000, the trail gathers historically significant sites from the life of the author most famous for penning Moby Dick. The Berkshire Historical Society at Herman Melville's Arrowhead is working with the Pittsfield Office of Cultural Development and The Trustees of Reservations at Monument Mountain to "connect" four major sites. Curator of BHS at Arrowhead Will Garrison
Funds will be used to develop a new logo for the interpretive trail, building a new interactive website, and installing four new informative panels detailing Melville's history at each site. Locations include the Berkshire Athenaeum, Pontoosuc Lake, Arrowhead - Melville's home in Pittsfield, and Monument Mountain. Will Garrison again
In total, 14 sites in Berkshire County alone are benefitting from the Housatonic Heritage Grants. Other projects will include initiatives such as smartphone apps, new brochures, walking tours, and construction of information kiosks. All trails will be made accessible to the public.