📍 Location & Geography
Becket is a picturesque town located in the Berkshire County of Massachusetts, United States. It is nestled in the western part of the state, approximately 116 miles west of Boston and 14 miles east of Pittsfield. The town covers an area of 47.9 square miles, of which 46.3 square miles is land and 1.6 square miles is water. Becket is characterized by its hilly terrain, with the highest point being Walling Mountain at 2,155 feet above sea level.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Becket, Massachusetts, are approximately 42°20′35″N latitude and 73°04′37″W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Becket is part of the Pittsfield, Massachusetts Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is situated in the scenic Berkshire Hills region, known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. The town is surrounded by several other Berkshire towns including Washington to the north, Middlefield to the east, Otis to the south, and Lee and Lenox to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Becket had a population of 1,779 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 50 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, accounting for over 95% of the population, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Becket was first settled in 1740 and was officially incorporated in 1765. The town was named after Becket, England. In the 19th century, it was primarily an agricultural community, but it also had a thriving lumber industry due to its vast forests. In the 20th century, Becket became a popular destination for summer homes and camps, thanks to its beautiful natural surroundings.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Becket is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is home to several lakes, including Center Pond and Yokum Pond, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The Appalachian Trail, a famous long-distance hiking trail, passes through Becket, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all over. The town is also home to the October Mountain State Forest, the largest state forest in Massachusetts, offering numerous recreational activities.
🏫 Education
Education in Becket is managed by the Central Berkshire Regional School District. The town has one elementary school, Becket Washington School, serving students from kindergarten through fifth grade. For middle and high school, students attend Nessacus Regional Middle School and Wahconah Regional High School, located in the nearby town of Dalton.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Becket is primarily by road, with Massachusetts Route 8 being the main highway passing through the town. The nearest airport is Pittsfield Municipal Airport, located about 20 miles west of Becket. For rail services, residents can access the Amtrak station in Pittsfield.
📜 Trivia & Events
Becket is home to Jacob’s Pillow Dance, a treasured cultural institution that hosts a world-renowned summer dance festival. The town also hosts the annual Becket Arts Center Festival, showcasing local artists and craftspeople. Interestingly, Becket was the first town in Berkshire County to be wired for electricity in 1916.