War in the 18th century was not in foreign lands, but on the settlers’ doorsteps. It brought death, and Stockbridge had little with which to fight affliction except prayer.
While we like to think the Berkshires is populated with good people and only good people, we are not always right. The combination of bad actors and naiveté has resulted in more than one Berkshire swindle.
For decades a Stockbridge police officer stood that corner assuring the safety. Now, drivers navigate without assistance. Some say it is too dangerous for a policeman to stand that post.
Why do we fall for it? All good con men offer what you most want. The promises to Berkshire are always the same – they will create jobs, they will rejuvenate the economy, they will save historic buildings, and their taxes will lower taxes for the rest of us.
