Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area 

The upper Housatonic Valley is noted for its scenic landscape and traditional New England towns. Writers, artists, and vacationers have visited the region for over 150 years, making it one of the country's leading cultural resorts.

Encompassing 29 communities in the hilly terrain of western Massachusetts and northwestern Connecticut, the upper Housatonic Valley is considered by many to be the quintessence of a civilized, independent, and thoughtful retreat. Many visitors and residents alike, however, are unaware of the underlying history and culture that have shaped and been shaped by the region's landscape.

The Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area has been proposed as a means of heightening appreciation of the region, preserving its natural and historic resources, improving the local economy and quality of life, controlling undesirable growth, and promoting the cleanup of the Housatonic River.

Under the federal Upper Housatonic National Heritage Area Study Act of 2000, the National Park Service has conducted a study of the suitability and feasibility of establishing the Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

The report, addressing eight federal criteria for creating a national heritage area, found that the upper Housatonic Valley is a singular geographical and cultural region. The valley has made significant national contributions through its iron, paper, and electrical equipment industries, its scenic beautification and environmental conservation efforts, and literary, artistic, musical, and architectural achievements.

Though the National Park Service provides technical expertise, the work and success of national heritage areas lies squarely with the citizens of the area. Heritage areas may be developed around a common theme or industry that influenced the culture and history of the region.