IN THE BERKSHIRES: The Berkshire Block and " The Human Fly"

Of the 28 blocks that line Main Street in Great Barrington, The Berkshire Block is one of the most recognizable.

The Berkshire Block

Marble Steps

Designed by George R. Ives in 1839 and rebuilt after fires in 1895 and 1901, the corner block’s neo-classical facade with original granite first floor welcomes you when approaching Main Street Great Barrington from the south. The cascading marble steps and sidewalk immediately outside of its main street entry offer an excellent place to sit and watch the traffic pass by.

It should be no surprise then, when a crowd congregated there on July 26th, 1925 to witness a piece of early 20th century Great Barrington history!

Is it a Man? A Plane? …. No, its a…. Human Fly?

(courtesy of Bernard Drew)

Henry D.D. Roland, aka “The Human Fly” scaled the granite and brick facade with only his bare hands, and once atop its intricate cornice, further dazzled the onlookers with a death defying chair balancing act!

Even though only a brief moment in Great Barrington’s rich architectural history, the Berkshire Blocks grand facade provided a perfect backdrop for the The Human Fly’s “buzz” worthy performance!