Referred to by the area’s Mahican Indians as W-nahk-ta-kook, meaning the great meadow, Stockbridge was incorporated as a city in 1739. Located within The Berkshires, this center is commonly recognized for long-time resident Norman Rockwell. In fact, Main Street is immortalized in Rockwell’s famous painting titled Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas. As part of the city’s Christmas holiday celebrations, Main Street is transformed to re-create the setting that inspired this painting. Exhibiting the unique history and residents of Stockbridge are the Chesterwood Estate and Museum, the Merwin House and The Norman Rockwell Museum at Stockbridge. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy perusing the gardens at the Berkshire Botanical Garden, cross-country skiing at the Notchview Reservation and exploring the walking trails at Bartholomew’s Cobble. Every summer Stockbridge comes alive during the Berkshire Theatre Festival, a three-month celebration of American performing arts.