Arrowhead Berkshire County Historical Society Herman Melville's Arrowhead

780 Holmes Rd, Pittsfield, MA

About Herman Melville's Arrowhead

Arrowhead is the former house of the historic writer Herman Melville. Located on a few acres off Holmes Road in Pittsfield, the home and its peaceful surroundings attracted Melville and inspired his migration to Berkshire County in 1850. During his 13 years living here, Melville experienced some of his most productive years, churning out Pierre, The Confidence-Man, Israel Potter, and most notably, Moby Dick. In fact, Arrowhead's view of Mount Greylock supposedly reminded Melville of a whale's hump, inspiring the creation of Moby Dick. 

In addition to visiting and learning about the home of Herman Melville, the property offers outdoor opportunities underneath the Berkshire mountains Melville found so influential. Next to the parking lot, a walking trail can be accessed and loops visitors around a large field. Walkers can also choose to follow the path into the woods, with the surrounding composition transitioning from tall grass to tall trees, before looping back onto the field's grassy path.

The walking trails are just over a mile long; the distance and difficulty complement the peaceful landscape and ensure a serene outdoor experience typical of Western Massachusetts. The trails are also ideal for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing during the winter.

The website linked below can be consulted for information regarding events, shopping, open hours, and additional information regarding Herman Melville's Arrowhead.