The Mark Dewey Research Center

The collection of the Mark Dewey Research Center relates primarily to Sheffield and the surrounding towns in Berkshire County, Massachusetts with considerable additional sources on New England, especially Connecticut, plus New York state. Although many standard printed histories and genealogies constitute part of the reference material, the major significance of the Center’s collection is the wealth of primary sources that are not available anywhere else.

The office is open Mondays & Fridays from 1:30-4:00pm and by appointment.
We ask that you wear a mask even if you are vaccinated. Our mask policy and public hours are in effect through
2022 and is subject to change due to COVID directives from the town and state.
 We can also assist you by phone and email, 413-229-3682, mdrc@sheffieldhistory.org. 

Except for a nominal charge for copies and postage, the Center is free and open to the public but donations are accepted to help us continue with our work. We also ask researchers for a copy of their family history, when completed, for the benefit of future patrons.

Trained volunteers will assist beginner or advanced researchers who are able to come to the Center. Inquires may also be directed by mail, email or telephone.

The following items are some brief highlights of the unique collections:

• Over 700 family files on Sheffield and South Berkshire County
•Subject files on important landmarks, buildings, organizations, events, and topics of local significance
• Town documents dating from 1733 including tax records from 1763 to 1983
•House histories• Extensive collection of photographs including over 1,000 glass plate negatives
• Historic maps
• 19 volume collection of area obituaries and death notices
• Regional cemetery records
• Town vital records starting 1730
• Limited edition, privately printed family histories
• Veterans lists from the French and Indian War, American Revolution, War of 1812, and the Civil War along with Civil War memorabilia