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Step into Herman Melville’s study at Arrowhead this winter for an intimate afternoon of award-winning authors, storytelling, and decadent tea. Discover why this literary fundraiser offers a unique cultural experience in the heart of the Berkshires.
Step into Herman Melville’s study at Arrowhead this winter for an intimate afternoon of award-winning authors, storytelling, and decadent tea. Discover why this literary fundraiser offers a unique cultural experience in the heart of the Berkshires.
Book with Berkshire County Historical Society at Arrowhead
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Berkshire County Historical Society at Arrowhead · Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Located in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Arrowhead offers a rare blend of literary history and seasonal warmth with its Winter Tea Fundraiser, held on select Sundays in November and December. Set within Herman Melville’s historic study, this unique event invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich past of the Berkshires while enjoying an afternoon of thought-provoking talks and delicious tea-time treats. Arrowhead, the farmhouse where Melville penned portions of "Moby-Dick," stands as a vital cultural landmark rooted deeply in the region’s literary heritage and is a special touchstone for outdoor adventurers and culture seekers alike visiting the area.
Each afternoon invites guests to settle in for heartfelt storytelling and presentations by renowned authors whose works span history, biography, and narrative nonfiction. The 2024 series features Simon Winchester, known for his compelling explorations of science and history; Debby Applegate, a Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer; Michelle Young, lauded for her World War II resistance narratives; and Kevin O’Hara, a local writer whose diverse experiences resonate with Berkshire County’s community spirit. These talks unfold in Melville’s original study, enhancing the atmosphere with an intimate connection to literary tradition.
Following the presentations, visitors gather downstairs in the cozy parlor to share decadent treats paired with hot tea, cider, or toddies, an ideal way to savor the region’s crisp fall and early winter air. The cozy setting fosters connection and reflection, making this more than just an event but a memorable experience linking history, literature, and festive outreach.
Pittsfield serves as the gateway for this cultural gem, offering visitors easy access to the Berkshire Mountains’ hiking trails, waterfalls, and fall foliage scenery. This blend of outdoor adventure with sophisticated cultural offerings makes the Winter Tea Fundraiser a standout destination for visitors eager to deepen their experience of the Berkshires during the colder months.
Whether you’re a history buff, literature enthusiast, or simply looking for a warming escape during the chilly season, this event showcases the compelling power of storytelling combined with the serene ambiance of one of Massachusetts’s most significant historical homes. Its limited seating ensures an intimate and engaging experience, perfect for savoring both the local mountain charm and the region's rich literary history.
easy.
2 hours.
No physical fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities.
Yes, guests can attend any combination of dates either in person or virtually via Zoom.
Accessibility information is limited; please contact Arrowhead directly at 413-442-1793 for specific accommodations.
You may cancel with 24 hours’ notice by calling and leaving a message at 413-442-1793 Ext 10.
Due to limited seating, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, the intimate tea service with seasonal treats is included during the event.
Parking is available at Arrowhead; visitors are advised to arrive early for convenient spots.
Arrowhead was Herman Melville’s farmhouse where he wrote parts of "Moby-Dick," making it a cornerstone of American literary heritage.
Arrowhead emphasizes preservation by limiting visitor numbers and supporting local historical societies to maintain the property sustainably.
Berkshire County Historical Society at Arrowhead preserves and operates Arrowhead, the historic Pittsfield home where Herman Melville lived and wrote, and presents a calendar of public tours, talks, screenings, and special events that explore local history and literary heritage. The organization offers guided Arrowhead tours that showcase mid‑18th‑century architecture, Melville’s study, period family furnishings, and interpretive stories about his life and work, including seasonal and off‑season tour schedules for 2025–2026. Programming includes a Downtown Mural Tour led by BCHS Executive Director Lesley Herzberg, which guides visitors past more than two dozen public murals and explains the community project that inspired the city’s mural movement. Literary and cultural programs feature presentations such as Strange Fancies with Robert Oakes, a series of talks on Pittsfield ghost lore and the spectral writings of Herman Melville and Nathaniel Hawthorne; film events like the 1926 silent screening The Sea Beast with an introduction by Professor Richard Matturro; and author panels including Author to Author conversations and Winter Tea Fundraiser talks with noted authors. The historical society presents exhibitions and curator‑led talks such as Grandmother’s Wedding Dress, a textile‑focused lecture by historian Lorraine German. Events emphasize interpretation of artifacts, historic architecture, and literary connections tied to Melville and regional history. Visitors can attend public programs at Arrowhead in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, to experience guided interpretation, author discussions, film screenings, and seasonal tours offered by the society. Winter Tea Fundraiser has included talks by Simon Winchester, Debby Applegate, Michelle Young, and Kevin O'Hara in Herman Melville's study there.
Book with Berkshire County Historical Society at Arrowhead