East Village Historic District (Amherst, Massachusetts) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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East Village Historic District
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Dickinson Baggs Tavern
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Main, North East, and South East Sts., Amherst, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 61 acres (25 ha) |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival, Georgian, Federal |
| NRHP reference No. | 86001408 |
| Added to NRHP | July 6, 1986 |
The East Village Historic District is a special area in Amherst, Massachusetts, where many old and important buildings are protected. It's like a time capsule showing how the village looked long ago. This district includes homes and other buildings on Main Street, North East Street, and South East Street.
The East Village was once a very important center for business and community life in Amherst. This was true until 1853, when the railroad arrived in downtown Amherst. After that, the East Village became mostly a quiet neighborhood with homes. This historic district was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, which helps protect its unique history.
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Exploring the East Village Historic District
The town of Amherst was first settled in the early 1700s. It became its own town, separate from Hadley, in 1759. The very first community building, called a "meeting house," was built near what is now Amherst Center. However, a second meeting house was built in the East Village in 1783.
How the East Village Grew
The East Village grew a lot in the first half of the 1800s. This was because of the businesses that used the power of the Fort River, which is just east of the village center. Many small "cottage industries" (businesses run from homes) operated in or near the village.
Meanwhile, Amherst College was founded in 1821 in Amherst Center. When the railroad arrived in Amherst Center in 1853, it helped that area grow even more and become the main economic hub. After this, growth in the East Village slowed down. Only a few new homes and a school were built in the later part of the 1800s.
What You'll See in the District
The East Village Historic District is shaped a bit like a cross. It centers around where Main Street and East Street meet. A long, narrow park area, or "green," stretches south from this center point.
The district includes 49 buildings. Some of these are among the oldest buildings still standing in Amherst! You can find four buildings, including three houses and a tavern, that were built in the 1700s. There are also many examples of buildings from the early 1800s. These often show styles like Greek Revival and Federal architecture.
Important Buildings to See
Some of the notable buildings in the district include:
- The Second Congregational Church: This church was built in 1839 and is a great example of Greek Revival style.
- The Conkey-Stevens House: This house is so important that it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places by itself in 1979.
- The Daniel Kellogg House: This house was built way back in 1758, making it one of the oldest in the area.
