One of the oldest homes in Berkshire County, it was built by Colonel John Ashley, a colonial militia officer who led Massachusetts troops into the French and Indian War. In 1773, Ashley and local leaders drafted the Sheffield Declaration, a petition against British tyranny and a manifesto for individual rights. However, it should be acknowledged that the Ashley family profited from slavery and had household slaves who were only freed when the 1781 Massachusetts Constitution came into effect.
It is currently owned by the Trustees of Reservations and they provide guided tours to the public.
