Chesterfield

Chesterfield’s landscape is characterized by magnificent rolling hills with two main valleys through which branches of the Westfield River flow, designated as a National Scenic and Wild River. Established in 1762, Chesterfield’s farming activity has declined since colonial days, though some dairy farms and orchards remain. The economy in town is influenced by small wood product and lumber businesses, though the majority of residents commute to work in Connecticut. Chesterfield Gorge, a 60 acre preserve which offers picnicking and fishing contains a magnificent 30-foot abyss near the headwaters of the pristine Westfield River.

Blacksmith Sam Eddy, whose participation in the Battle of Sayler’s Creek in Virginia during the Civil War made him Hampshire County’s only Congressional Medal of Honor winner, was from Chesterfield. Chesterfield’s New England heritage is maintained with Grange suppers, Town Meetings held at the Town Hall, and special Town Meetings and elections held in the Town offices, formerly the Davenport School..

Chesterfield is a community looking to preserve its past, present and future by adopting bylaws that support sustainability. The Town of Chesterfield is a farming community and through its Right to Farm bylaw, encourages the pursuit of agriculture, promotes agriculture-based economic opportunities, and protects farmlands. In addition, Chesterfield is actively supporting alternative energy sources by its adoption of the Wind Energy System bylaw.

Chesterfield Official Website