About The Pond
Nashawannuck.
There are 2 interpretations of this: it seems the second source may be more accurate. 1. Source: Internet : Nashawannuck. The name is apparently Algonquian for “Valley of the Little River.” The “Little River” was probably the Manhan — another local Native American appellation. Ironically, the Manhan doesn’t feed Nashawannuck Pond, that large body of water that dominates the Cottage Street district of Easthampton. by Rick Teller '70, Williston Northampton Archivist 2. Source: Indian Place Names by John C. Huden published 1962, page 137, you will see “Nashawannuck Hampden County, Mass. Nipmuck, ’the meadow between.” page 150 "Nonotuck, Hampshire County, Mass. Natick, ‘in the middle the river,’ or ’narrow river,” Regarding Nipmuc and Algonquin, the Nipmuc people speak an Algonquian language, according to Britannica. |
Nashawannuck Pond was originally created in 1847 by the Williston - Knight Button Company to answer the need for an abundant, steady water source by area industrial mills. By damming three tributaries in Easthampton, Massachusetts - the Broad Brook, White Brook and Wilton Brook, the mills thrived. The pond was named after Samuel Williston's company, The Nashawannuck Manufacturing Company, makers of the popular "elastic suspenders". Samuel Williston also founded the Williston-Northampton School, a private school located near the town center.
In the late 19th and early 20th century, workers living in the New City area of Easthampton walked from their homes to the factory buildings by crossing a foot bridge over the Lower Mill Pond. Many of the piers are still visible today. The pond was the hub of activity for many families who grew up enjoying the pond for fishing, ice skating, boating and swimming. The pond was eventually purchased from J.P. Stevens June 13, 1985 by the town of Easthampton and Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee formed to oversee its future. |
