Part of the 21st Annual Housatonic Heritage Walks series. Housatonic Heritage Walks are FREE, guided interpretive walks to the most interesting historic, cultural, industrial, natural and scenic sites in Berkshire County, MA, & Litchfield County, CT.

This walk with Kathryn Boughton, from the Canaan History Center, will offer a look at how North Canaan village expanded following the coming of the Housatonic Rail Road in December 1841, and follow its history through to its heyday in the first half of the 20th century, and subsequent decline after World War II. We’ll hear of efforts being made today to revitalize it. Along the way, visitors will see how the streetscape changed with each generation and learn of the kinds of businesses that reflected the needs of those generations. The History Center will be open to visitors before and after the walks. 1 hour–0.25 mile

To register, email — kathrynwboughton@gmail.com

Meet at the Canaan History Center, 115 Main St. in the former Roraback Law Offices.

PLEASE NOTE–FOR ALL HIKES/OUTDOOR WALKS, PLEASE WEAR HIKING BOOTS/STURDY FOOTWEAR, SUGGEST BRINGING DRINK & SNACK, BUG REPELLENT AND BE PREPARED FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER

Explore with knowledgeable & local historians, naturalists, and environmentalists at sites within the Housatonic River Valley: tours of historic buildings and town centers, hikes on the Appalachian Trail and other trails, walks through industrial heritage sites, a canoe paddling trip on the Housatonic River, bike rides on old country roads that have a history, behind-the-scenes tours at performing arts venues, and strolls through formal gardens and estates. All ages & all people are invited to join us!

The HOUSATONIC HERITAGE WALKS are a partnership between the Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area, the numerous heritage organizations in the Upper Housatonic River Valley, the Berkshire Visitors Bureau, and the National Park Service.