South Lee Historic District

South Lee Historic District is a residential area along Pleasant Street featuring Federal and Greek Revival buildings spanning roughly 93 acres. The district extends to Massachusetts Route 102 and includes early 19th-century homes alongside remnants of former manufacturing facilities.

The area began developing after Colonel Joseph Whiton built the Housatonic River Turnpike in 1806 and established the Merrell Tavern as a rest stop. This roadway and inn sparked the growth of residential buildings and small industries along the route.

The district reflects 19th-century village life through its residential streets and roadside taverns where travelers once stopped. Walking here, you sense the rhythm of a community built around welcoming passersby on their journey.

The district is best explored on foot along Pleasant Street where the main buildings are visible from the road. Route 102 runs through the area and provides good orientation, making it easy to walk and see the historic structures.

Underground remnants of one of the Berkshires' first paper mills from 1806 lie beneath the residential streets. These buried industrial traces reveal that this quiet neighborhood once thrived on manufacturing.