IN THE BERKSHIRES: THE MANY FACES OF THE BERKSHIRE COURIER BLOCK

One of the more recognizable facades in downtown Great Barrington is that which adorns the Berkshire Courier Block. Built in 1869 for and by the newspaper bearing its name, the original three-story Victorian façade has had many lives, and “faces” since.

In 1910 the Berkshire Courier newspaper moved across the alleyway and into the basement of the adjacent Marble Block. This move marked both a change in the buildings use (it would be repurposed as a bank) and its architectural character, with the addition of the neo-classic pillars and portico that now beckon you into its first-floor retail space.

Don’t believe us? Well, here is picture of the buildings original façade circa the early 1900’s:

Berkshire Courier Block in the early 1900’s (COURTESY BERNARD DREW)

And here it is again, photographed in 2020:

Berkshire Courier Block in 2020

Looking for other helpful ways to identify where and how a building has changed? In the case of the Berkshire Courier Block, look no farther than the brick! 

New Brick vs Old! (Credit Clark and Green)

Compare the brick façade underneath the portico to that above and continuing down the alleyway. Notice the size, grouting and coursing of the brick – all of which indicate an older façade that has been partially concealed by a newer one.  

Until next time, happy brick watching!