The Town of Northfield was an early attraction for colonial settlers due to
its rich and fertile plains along the Connecticut River, and Europeans had
begun farming there in 1673. However, its history was bumpy and the town
was twice abandoned before a permanent settlement was achieved in 1714.
Northfield’s early fame was based on land, but its later international
reputation was built on missionaries. The town was known for producing
large numbers of Protestant missionaries. In 1879, Northfield Seminary was
established. The girls’ school later grew into the Mount Hermon School and
became co-educational. With 450 employees, Northfield-Mount Hermon School
is the third largest employer in Franklin County.
Northeast Utilities sited their pumped-storage hydroelectric facility in
Northfield and use the location for a wildlife exhibit and visitor center.
The utility company also provides boat tours on the Connecticut River and
has year-round recreational and education programs, including cross-country
skiing. Northfield is also one of the cultural centers of Franklin County
as the site of the Bolger Arts Center, theater group and community chorus.
its rich and fertile plains along the Connecticut River, and Europeans had
begun farming there in 1673. However, its history was bumpy and the town
was twice abandoned before a permanent settlement was achieved in 1714.
Northfield’s early fame was based on land, but its later international
reputation was built on missionaries. The town was known for producing
large numbers of Protestant missionaries. In 1879, Northfield Seminary was
established. The girls’ school later grew into the Mount Hermon School and
became co-educational. With 450 employees, Northfield-Mount Hermon School
is the third largest employer in Franklin County.
Northeast Utilities sited their pumped-storage hydroelectric facility in
Northfield and use the location for a wildlife exhibit and visitor center.
The utility company also provides boat tours on the Connecticut River and
has year-round recreational and education programs, including cross-country
skiing. Northfield is also one of the cultural centers of Franklin County
as the site of the Bolger Arts Center, theater group and community chorus.
