Historic Berkshire Courier Building Transitions to Modern Use

The historic Berkshire Courier newspaper building in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, has undergone significant transformations since its construction in **1869**. Originally built under the direction of editor and publisher **Marcus Rogers**, the structure played a pivotal role in the local journalism scene, contributing to the community’s connectivity through village-specific reports.

Rogers, who lived on the upper floors with his family, is credited with popularizing the “country correspondent” format. His innovative approach led to a surge in readership and subscriptions, particularly in rural areas. He introduced charmingly titled columns such as “Glendale Gleanings” and “Housatonic Happenings,” which captivated local audiences and helped foster a sense of community.

In **1878**, Rogers invented a newspaper-folding machine, which proved financially lucrative enough for him to retire in his 40s. Following his retirement, he sold the newspaper and embarked on extensive travels across the United States and beyond. His journey was documented through glass-plate negatives, some of which still exist today. Upon returning to **Mill River**, he engaged in various business ventures and remained an active philanthropist until his death at the age of 90.

From Newspaper to Community Hub

Local historian and author **Bernard Drew** discovered that another adjacent building, operated by African American entrepreneurs **Jason** and **Almira Cooley** as a restaurant, was relocated in **1902**. This structure currently stands on a backyard lot near State Road and Hillside Avenue.

In **1916**, the Berkshire Courier building underwent renovations, adding large pillars when it was repurposed as the **Great Barrington Savings Bank**. The building later housed **Housatonic Cooperative Bank** and **Pittsfield Cooperative Bank**. Although there were plans to convert it into an antique toy museum, this idea never advanced beyond the planning stages.

Today, the historic building serves a new purpose as it is home to **Rubiner’s Cheesemongers** and **Rubi’s Café**, while the upper floors continue to accommodate private residences. This evolution reflects the building’s enduring significance in the community, adapting to modern needs while preserving its historical charm.

Preservation of History

The legacy of the Berkshire Courier and its contributions to local journalism remain an integral part of Great Barrington’s heritage. As the community continues to grow and change, the building stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and the vital role of local journalism in fostering connections among its residents.

Photographs from the **1880s**, taken by **Julius Hall**, showcase the original structure, while illustrations from the late **1940s** depict its transformation into a bank. These images, courtesy of **Gary Leveille**, highlight the enduring architectural features that have withstood the test of time.

As the Berkshire Courier building evolves, it retains its historical significance while serving contemporary needs, illustrating the balance between preservation and progress in a changing landscape.