Living in the city of Pittsfield, located in Western Massachusetts, has folded me into the hardy and cultured young adult that I am now. People who always question where Pittsfield is don't realise that this place is first of all, a city and not a town, and as a bonus, is the largest city in Berkshire County. Since Pittsfield has been my home city since I was five months old, I thought I'd share these 11 things that people should know about Pittsfield and its citizens.

1. Pittsfield is nowhere close to Boston

This is the number one fact that people should know about Pittsfield. I can't begin to explain how many people automatically assume Pittsfield is near Boston. In fact, Pittsfield is located on the total opposite end of the state, compared to Boston, which is located in the Eastern part of Massachusetts.

2. The weather strengthens and toughens you

My tolerance level to the cold and brutal winter storms has increased throughout my time being in Pittsfield. From three feet of snow to the thick black ice, blustery winds, and frigid temperatures, I’ve learned to endure most of the weather’s harshest conditions.

3. Citizens of Pittsfield have been to Bousquet Ski Area at least once

Since snow covers the grounds of the Berkshires every year, there’s guaranteed some kind of ski resort located in Pittsfield. Not only is it open in the winter, however, Bousquet offers water slide and rope climbing fun during the summer for people of all ages.

4. We cheer on the Pittsfield Suns at Wahconah Park

Pittsfield is the home to the Pittsfield Suns, our very own collegiate baseball team. Every summer Pittsfield’s citizens come together to enjoy a night out, while cheering on their home team. And I can’t forget to mention the Fireworks Spectacular show that occurs after the game on Independence Day.

5. Pittsfield's high school students support each others schools

Students who have attended high school in Pittsfield know that their schools always support each other. Whether it is through the theatre departments, sports teams, Business Professionals of America, the science fairs, or other clubs and organisations that the schools hold, the whole high school student body supports one another.

6. The Berkshire Museum creates childhood memories

Many of my childhood memories were created through spending time at The Berkshire Museum. Through school field trips, theatre programs, and just spending time with my mom, I remember staring in awe at the beautiful aquarium, reptiles, fossils, and art galleries. Of course I couldn’t forget the museum’s gift shop.

7. Hancock Shaker Village is a historical and cultural place

Hancock Shaker Village was once a real village and farm owned by the Shakers in the 1700s. Now it is a historical and cultural museum, where people can learn about the Shakers and experience a typical day during that time. I can't forget to mention the cute animals that reside on the property.

8. You will handle many stage theatre venue subscriptions

The heart of Downtown Pittsfield and other parts of the city are the homes to various stage theatre venues, including Barrington Stage Company and The Colonial. And since the arts are very important parts of the community, especially in the schools, we are proud to support other Massachusetts and New York theatres, as well.

9. Third Thursdays are the summers’ highlights

Other than the numerous amounts of plays and musicals that take place during the summer, Third Thursdays are full of cultural events, where families and friends can enjoy different performances, local food vendors, and fun activities for the young ones.

10. Pittsfield is a coloured gem in Autumn

For those who have traveled to the Berkshires or just have passed through, they know how beautiful the Autumn foliage can be. The city of Pittsfield could not have been located in a more beautiful part of the state. Really, Pittsfield is an incredible painted picture.

11. Pittsfield is my home

I will always call Pittsfield home, even if I end up living miles and miles away. The life and opportunity the city has provided me has been more than I could ever ask for. Everything that I have learned and all the relationships I formed with others, while living in this city will never be forgotten because I know how special it is to have grown up in Pittsfield.