Middlefield Center Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Middlefield Center Historic District
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Skyline Trail, Bell and Town Hill Rds., Middlefield, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 292 acres (118 ha) |
| NRHP reference No. | 12000827 |
| Added to NRHP | October 3, 2012 |
The Middlefield Center Historic District is a special area in Middlefield, Massachusetts. It includes the old village center. This historic district is found where Skyline Trail meets Bell Road and Town Hill Road. It was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. This means it's an important place to protect because of its history.
Exploring Middlefield's History
Middlefield was first settled around 1770. The village center was one of the first areas cleared for homes and farms. In 1783, Middlefield became an official town. People built a meetinghouse in this area. This made it the heart of the new town's community life.
How the Village Grew
During the 1800s, Middlefield Center stayed a farming village. It even got fairgrounds and an agricultural hall in the 1850s. These places helped farmers show off their crops and animals. Most of the old buildings are along Skyline Trail. Other historic buildings are on Bell Road, leading to the old fairground. The fairground is also part of this historic district.
Old Buildings and Their Styles
The oldest buildings in the district are in the Federal style. The Daniel Chapman House, built in 1780, is the oldest. You can find it at 140 Skyline Trail. Most buildings here are homes. The Oliver Church House, built in 1869, is a great example of Italianate style.
There are also three Craftsman-style buildings. These homes often use natural stone from the area. One old tavern from about 1820 still stands. There are also two historic commercial buildings. The town's old town hall was built in 1901. It has a Queen Anne Victorian look. The Congregational Church has a mix of styles. This is because it was changed and added to after a fire in 1901.
