A Long Row in Fertile Ground by WGBY. The story of agriculture in Western New England. Meet retired WGBY General Manager Rus Peotter for a discussion after the film.  Snow date: 1/21.

“Western New England’s agricultural legacy has persisted for more than three centuries. In many ways it is the birthplace of American agriculture that exists to this day. The Connecticut River Valley is home to New England’s longest river, a remnant of the last Ice Age. But the receding glaciers also left behind another gift—some of the richest soil on Earth.” –From WGBY

In this Food, Farms, and Factories documentary series you’ll hear directly from historians and those who are a part of local food systems, agriculture, or manufacturing in our region. Sponsored by Mass Humanities, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Light refreshments. Meet in the Great Hall.

Ongoing in 2024

Throughout 2024 the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center present programs and exhibits about Food, Farms, and Factories. Building on the success of Crossroads: Change in Rural America in 2023, the conversation continues about rural life in Turners Falls and Franklin County. Supported by several local partners, including the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center, RiverCulture, Montague Public Libraries, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, and the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association. Funded by Mass Humanities through the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) and National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). Visit:  greatfallsdiscoverycenter.org/foodfarmsandfactories to learn more.