Hampshire County

Hampshire County is an administrative county in Western Massachusetts that spreads across rolling terrain and fertile valleys with rivers flowing through its landscape. The region contains several towns and communities of varying sizes, connected by natural areas and rural countryside.

This county was established in 1662 as part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, with early settlements including Springfield, Northampton, and Hadley. The founding period shaped the region's later development in Western Massachusetts.

The Five Colleges consortium, including University of Massachusetts and Smith College, shapes the local culture through lectures, exhibitions, and public events that draw both residents and visitors. This educational presence brings together people from around the world and influences how the communities in the region develop and think.

The region offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking and mountain biking in natural areas and river landscapes. Visitors should expect different conditions depending on the season and explore local trails and protected natural areas.

This is the only county in Massachusetts that is completely surrounded by other counties without touching any state border or coastline. This geographic feature makes it entirely enclosed by neighboring administrative areas.

Location: Massachusetts

Inception: 1662

Capital city: Northampton

Shares border with: Franklin County, Worcester County, Hampden County, Berkshire County

Website: http://hampshirecog.org

GPS coordinates: 42.32225,-72.62073

Latest update: December 17, 2025 09:03