Introduction to Chicopee, Massachusetts
Chicopee, Massachusetts, in Hampden county, is 80 miles W of Boston, Massachusetts. It's situated along the Connecticut River in the Pioneer Valley and is included in the Springfield Massachusetts metropolitan area. The Chicopee River runs through the southern portion of the town. It includes a collection of distinct neighborhoods. The city is home to Westover Air Reserve Base.
Chicopee Provision Company is a primary producer of Polish kielbasa for the Blue Seal brand. In the early years, the city was primarily filled with Polish and French Canadian residents. In the past, Chicopee was a prominent mill town. It's one of the larger cities in Western Massachusetts. Manufacturing, trade and services are important parts of the local economy.
Chicopee History
The Nipmuck Indians were residing in the region before the English arrived. The word "Chicopee" is from the Nipmuck language. The town was settled in 1640 and was included in Springfield until 1848. During the 19th century the cotton mills, brass foundries, wool mills and iron foundries were thriving. The Ames Manufacturing Company produced a large number of machines, swords and bronze cannons. The Ames swords were used during the Civil War.
Chicopee Attractions
- Chicopee Falls Dam was built with masonry stones.
- The Chicopee City Hall was constructed with similarities to the Palazzo Vecchio located in Florence, Italy.
- The historic center of Chicopee.
- Edward Bellamy Homestead is a National Historic Landmark.
Chicopee Activities
The Chicopee Memorial State Park is a vast acreage and is a popular recreational area. The extensive riverbanks provide the residents with recreational opportunities and excellent views. The nearby Robinson State Park, Goat Peak Lookout Trail and Mount Tom State Reservation are popular areas for hiking enthusiasts. Skiers enjoy the close by Blandford Ski Area. There are numerous golf courses in the region including the Orchards Golf Course.
Chicopee Higher Education
Elms College is located in Chicopee. The nearby University of Massachusetts and American International College provide opportunities for higher education.
Chicopee Transportation
Air travel services are available from the close by Bradley International Airport. Pioneer Valley Transit Authority offers bus service. Amtrak provides rail transportation from nearby Springfield.