New Beginnings for the Thaddeus Clapp House

Front angle view of the Thaddeus Clapp House

The Thaddeus Clapp House

Built in 1871, the Thaddeus Clapp House represents an important chapter in Pittsfield’s history. From the home of a prominent local businessman to a boarding house and then a B&B, the Clapp House holds many stories. Now a new story is beginning. Berkshire Theatre Group’s $1 million restoration of the Thaddeus Clapp House is nearing completion. As we prepare to open the doors and begin this new chapter, we know it is important to honor the history of the people who came before us and infused the Thaddeus Clapp House with vitality and history.

The Clapp Family in Massachusetts

Sketch of Thaddeus Clapp from the mid- to late-1800s. He is wearing a formal coat and bowtie with expansive sideburns extending from his face.

Thaddeus Clapp. In History of Berkshire County. New York, NY: J. B. Beers and, 1885.

Thaddeus Clapp was a descendant of Captain Roger Clapp, who sailed to Massachusetts from England in the mid-1600s. Captain Clapp was instrumental in the founding of Dorchester, and the Clapp family has been immortalized in Dorchester through the Dorchester Historical Society, whose headquarters is the historic William Clapp House (listed on the National Register of Historic Places).

The Clapp family grew to encompass many branches throughout New England, and each branch found a unique way to distinguish themselves. In western Massachusetts, the Clapps ranged from clergy to farmers and even to tavern owners. Thaddeus Clapp I owned a tavern in Easthampton, which he inherited from his father. In addition to being a business owner, Thaddeus Clapp I served as treasurer and justice of the peace for his town. Clapp went on to become a delegate to the Constitutional Convention for the State.

He and his wife, Achsah Parsons, had seven children, including Thaddeus II, who would become Colonel Thaddeus Clapp. Col. Clapp moved to Pittsfield in 1816, and became the superintendent of the Pittsfield Woolen and Cotton Factory. He held this position until the Pontoosuc Woolen Manufacturing Company was formed in 1825; he held the position of superintendent there until 1860.

It was shortly after Col. Clapp’s tenure at the Pontoosuc Woolen Manufacturing Company that the Thaddeus Clapp House on Wendell Avenue was built and purchased. Though Col. Thaddeus Clapp passed away in 1865, his son, Thaddeus Clapp III, continued his legacy.

Pittsfield and Industry

Clapps from various branches of the Clapp family proved industrious and contributed to the booming economy of Pittsfield in the late 1800s and early 1900s. A clear Clapp trait, industriousness, goes back to their common ancestor, Captain Roger Clapp, who was described as, “a remarkably industrious man…idleness he detested,” in Joseph Edward Adams’ History of Berkshire County (1885).

Wendell Ave., where the Thaddeus Clapp House sits, was home to numerous businessmen in the 1800s and early 1900s. An appropriate home for Pittsfield’s prominent citizens as it was named after Colonel Jacob Wendell and the Wendell family that helped to acquire the land and and form Pittsfield in the 1700s. Many streets in Pittsfield were named after families that helped to shape the community including Francis Ave., Pomeroy St., Briggs Ave., Churchill St., Crane Ave., McKay st., and even, at one time, Clapp Ave, among many others. Though no longer in existence, Clapp Avenue once sat between McKay St. and Center St. and ran through to Depot St.

Mills and factories started to become the primary form of industry in Pittsfield in the 1800s as it moved away from being a more agricultural community. In the late 1800s many new mills were formed. To meet the growing industry demand, most of the lakes within the City of Pittsfield were enlarged. The Pontoosuc Woolen Manufacturing Company was one of the earlier mills, having been established in 1825. After the company acquired the desired land on Shoonkeekmoonkeek Lake and built their mill, the lake came to be known as Pontoosuc Lake.

Sketch of the mills of the Pontoosuc Woolen Manufacturing Company showing a front view of the complex with smoke pouring from the stack.

Pontoosuc Woolen Manufacturing Company. In History of Berkshire County. New York, NY: J. B. Beers and, 1885.

Thaddeus Clapp III built upon the Pontoosuc Woolen Manufacturing Company that his father helped to start. Though he did not go to college, Clapp learned about the wool trade from his youngest days, and was taught everything he knew by his father. Clapp was a determined businessman, and ensured that the goods produced always kept with the ever-changing styles and trends of the day.

To ensure that quality was never sacrificed, he exclusively used California wool. Throughout his tenure, Clapp made dozens of trips to California to select the wool himself. Clapp eventually became the president of the Pontoosuc Woolen Manufacturing Company and held that position from 1882 to 1891.

Thaddeus Clapps’ son did not take over at the company, rather the mantel was passed to William R. Plunkett, then to David Campbell, and then again to Henry A. Francis, whose father, J. Dwight Francis had been superintendent for many years before he passed. A. King Francis (descendant of J. Dwight Francis) stated, “The company provided a lot of jobs and opportunities to the people of Pittsfield. Many prominent people worked for the company, and it was a good business to be in at that time.” The Pontoosuc Woolen Manufacturing Company was sold to an outside organization in the 1920s, and continued to be a working, productive mill until the 1960s.

Thaddeus Clapp House Moving Forward

Like the mill, the Thaddeus Clapp house passed out of the Clapp family in the early 1900s. The home on Wendell Avenue was sold in 1906 to William Whittlesey, Manager of the Pittsfield Electric Company that supplied electricity to the City of Pittsfield. The Thaddeus Clapp House remained a private residence into the 1930s. Eventually, the home became a boarding house and apartment complex, though it continued to house prominent Pittsfield members, including members of the Francis and Briggs families.

William Briggs, who lived in the Thaddeus Clapp house when it was an apartment complex in the 1970s, stated, “It was a wonderful apartment with high ceilings, a working fireplace, and French doors out to the front porch. Much of the old detail had been retained by the owner and the building felt historic. It was very much from the day of gracious living long ago.” When asked how he viewed BTG’s vision for the house Briggs stated, “I am very happy the house is being preserved and given a new use. It is part of Pittsfield’s history, and part of the Wendell Ave. streetscape. It would have been criminal to tear it down.”

Berkshire Theatre Group’s restoration of the Thaddeus Clapp House preserves the exterior Italianate style, as well as the interior Arts and Crafts style. As many original details as possible have been preserved in order to truly honor the history of this magnificent property. Artists will be housed in the newly renovated suites, thus continuing to infuse this historic house with vitality and new life.

Postcard showcasing the front of The Colonial Theatre with people walking past in period garb.

Postcard of The Colonial Theatre from the early 1900s.

Communal spaces will also be available. The beautiful front porch (funded in part by the City of Pittsfield’s Community Preservation Act Program), has been exquisitely restored and once again adds to the aesthetic value of Wendell Ave. There will be a parlor and library on the first floor of the Clapp House, which will be used as spaces for meetings and gatherings.

This space will allow for Berkshire Theatre Group to expand its Pittsfield Campus, and become stewards of this historic gem, just as they have been stewards for The Colonial Theatre. Berkshire Theatre Group is honored to help usher the Thaddeus Clapp House into this new era.

Plan Your Visit

Read our suggestions on where to dine, and where to hang your hat.

Get Started
Did You Know?
Just like NPR, Berkshire Theatre Group depends on the generous giving of its members!
Join Today!
We believe the performing arts can transform a community.
Learn More
Of the 16,000 Berkshire County school children, we serve 13,000 through our BTG PLAYS! Year-Round Educational Programs.
Learn More
Theatre is the place where we go to understand what lies in the human heart.
About Us
BTG's buildings, on two campuses in Stockbridge and Pittsfield, are historic treasures.
Theatre Info
Berkshire Theatre Group believes that the creative arts encourage freedom of speech and debate.
Get Involved
"Out of need will come the way. Once the pandemic ebbs, whenever that is, there will be an incredible need to gather again." - Artistic Director, Kate Maguire
Join Today!
The theatre has existed from the time of the Greeks. We will go on.
Learn More
Join Our Mailing List

Receive the latest BTG News, Updates, Special Offers, and more right to your inbox.

Subscribe

News & Articles

From the Archive: Eva LeGallienne

By: Katie Birenboim (She/Her/Hers)   Devoted fans of BTG may gasp to discover that until doing a first round of research in the amazing BTG archives, I had never heard … Read On

On this day, we remember and thank all those who have served, those who have sacrificed their lives, and those currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces for all you have done for our country and our lives. Your sacrifices will never be forgotten. Thank you ❤️
Missed our 2017 production of Million Dollar Quartet? That's all right, because you get another chance to dance along to the music of Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and Carl Perkins at the Colonial from June 27 - July 16. 🎹🎸Groove along now and get your tickets at berkshiretheatre.org! 

(Photo by Emma K. Rothenberg-Ware)
Can you believe it? 🌟 We are adding ONE LAST SHOW, June 4 at 2pm, to our production of What the Constitution Means to Me at the Unicorn Theatre, so get your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org if you haven't yet!
See how one photograph altered our understanding of life itself. 🧬 Launch back into the 1950s with us and join the race between scientists to unlock the mysteries of DNA after Rosalind Franklin took Photograph 51. 🔬 Get your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org!
We are thrilled to see former BTG intern Adam W Johnson win the Hayes award for Outstanding Sound Design in Washington DC! 🌟🎉
Two new performance dates means TWO MORE CHANCES to see What the Constitution Means to Me at the Unicorn Theatre! ✨Join us and @wamtheatre on May 28 at 7pm or May 30 at 7pm and witness the breath-taking play that speaks volumes about how the Constitution has affected countless Americans' past, present, and future. Get your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org!
Tom Rush is on his way to the Colonial Theatre TOMORROW for an afternoon of sweet, passionate ballads and terrific story-telling! 🎼 Come join him by getting your tickets at berkshiretheatre.org!
The five-time Grammy nominated ensemble, Ambrosia, is joining our summer line-up with their performance on August 4th at the Colonial!

Founded in 1970, Ambrosia today is comprised of three of the original members, Joseph Puerta, Christopher North, and Burleigh Drummond, with the addition of guitarist Doug Jackson, contributing keyboardist Mary Harris, and powerful lead vocals of Kipp Lennon (from the band Venice).

Launch back into the 70s and get your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org! 🎼🎸
TONIGHT is the night! ✨ Previews of What the Constitution Means to Me begin at the Unicorn at 7pm tonight, so grab your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org!

(Photo by Emma K. Rothenburg-Ware Photography @ekrwcreative )
Two authors, two back-to-back shows! Tomorrow, The House in the Pines author Ana Reyes (@anareyeswriter)  and one of America’s preeminent humor writers, David Sedaris (@davidsedarisbooks), take on the Colonial stage. Seats are still available, so grab your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org!
Tomorrow at the Colonial, see why @reesewitherspoon, who announced The House of the Pines as the Reese's Book Club Pick for January 2023, and millions of others deem @anareyeswriter as a stand-out debut author. Grab tickets to see Ana Reyes talk about her thriller novel and her process of writing suspenseful fiction at berkshiretheatre.org! Special thanks to @lovepittsfield for making this event happen!
Did you know that On Cedar Street will feature a dog actor? 🐾 Rescue dog to show stealer, 6-year-old pup Addison will be transitioning from touring the country in her role as Sandy in "Annie" to the Unicorn in our production of On Cedar Street at the end of the summer. Get tickets now at berkshiretheatre.org!
Looking for a musical that will make you tap your feet and sing along? Check out "Million Dollar Quartet"! This musical tells the story of the historic recording session that brought together four legendary icons of rock 'n' roll - Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins - for the first and only time. With hit songs like "Blue Suede Shoes," "Hound Dog," and "Great Balls of Fire," you'll be transported back to the golden age of rock 'n' roll. Don't miss your chance to see this high-energy show - get your tickets now! https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/million-dollar-quartet/
Max Creek is coming to The Colonial Theatre on Friday April 7 at 7:30pm ! 🎸🎶 Their unique blend of rock, country, reggae, soul, jazz and calypso has been captivating audiences for over four decades. With powerful vocals and exceptional musicianship, Max Creek knows how to put on a show that you won't forget. 🤘 Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of Max Creek live! 
Get your tickets today!! https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/max-creek/

#MaxCreek #RockMusic #FolkMusic #BluesMusic #LiveMusic #Concert #Band #MusicLovers #MusicIsLife
🎶 "See the line where the sky meets the sea? It calls me..." 🎶 
Get ready to set sail on a thrilling adventure with “Disney's Moana, JR”! Join us as we journey with Moana, Maui and all their friends across the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti. 🌊⁣⁣ Featuring unforgettable songs and characters, this show is not to be missed! 
Our talented cast of young performers are ready to bring the story to life and inspire audiences of all ages.⁣⁣ 🌺🌴🐚⁣⁣
Check out behind-the-scenes rehearsal images and catch the performance from April 21-23 at The Colonial Theatre. Tickets are selling fast, so book your seats now and let's journey together with Moana! https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/disneys-moana-jr/
#MoanaJunior #ColonialTheatre #LivePerformance #DisneyMagic"
🎶👯‍♀️ Get ready to celebrate the amazing women of the Berkshires! 🌟 Join us at The Colonial Theatre TONIGHT for "Song & Dance: A Celebration of Women in the Berkshires." 🎉 Featuring a talented cast of female performers, this show will showcase the strength, resilience and creativity of women in our community. 💪🏼 From powerful ballads to stunning dance routines, this event will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. Don't miss out on this unforgettable night! Get your tickets now at https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/song-and-dance-a-celebration-of-women-of-the-berkshires/ #SongAndDance #WomenInBerkshires #BerkshireTheatreGroup #CelebrationOfWomen #Empowerment #Inspiration #PerformingArts #LiveEvent #GetYourTicketsNow
Have you heard of Hyprov? It's a hilarious and mind-bending show that combines hypnosis and improv comedy. The result is a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you laughing and scratching your head in amazement.

The show is led by two talented performers: hypnotist Asad Mecci and improv comedian Colin Mochrie. Together, they take volunteers from the audience and guide them through a series of comedic scenarios, all while under hypnosis.

What makes Hyprov so special is how the performers seamlessly blend the two art forms together. You'll see improvisational comedy taken to new heights as the volunteers' subconscious minds drive the scene, leading to unexpected and hilarious moments.

If you're looking for a night of entertainment that will leave you feeling amazed and delighted, then you definitely need to check out Hyprov on Saturday, March 25 at The Colonial Theatre. Trust us, you won't regret it! #Hyprov #hypnosis #improvcomedy #hilarious #mindbending #comedyshow #entertainment #laughoutloud #unforgettable #mustsee 

Get your tickets now! https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/colin-mochrie-presents-hyprov-with-master-hypnotist-asad-mecci/
Our very own Allison Rachelle Bayles will be one of the awesome women honored at Song and Dance! A Celebration of Women of the Berkshires! Allison is the Director of Education here at BTG and we can’t wait to honor her during this celebration! 

https://buff.ly/3ldCPGe
The Secret Garden: Spring Version, is a new adaptation of the acclaimed Broadway musical abridged for younger audiences in an enhanced concert-style production that is as beautiful and spirited as the original.
This enchanting classic of children’s literature of hope and perseverance is reimagined in brilliant musical style by composer Lucy Simon and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Marsha Norman. Orphaned in India, 11-year-old Mary Lennox returns to Yorkshire to live with her embittered, reclusive uncle Archibald and his disabled son Colin. The estate’s many wonders include a magic garden which beckons the children with haunting melodies and the “Dreamers,” spirits from Mary’s past who guide her through her new life, dramatizing The Secret Garden‘s compelling tale of forgiveness and renewal. Join us July 29 and 30 for this beautiful story.
Two-time Tony Award nominated actor, Kate Baldwin, joins the cast of “What the Constitution Means to Me!” This boundary-breaking play breathes new life into the Constitution and imagines how it will shape the next generation of Americans.
Kristen van Ginhoven, who will direct this co-production with WAM Theatre, connected to the play as an activist and as a former speech and debate coach for the International High School in Brussels, Belgium. “As an artist, activist, and human, I find myself yearning for more collaboration, accountability, and engagement.” van Ginhoven explained, “This play answers that call with humor, intelligence and poignancy. I look forward to using my past experience as a
speech and debate coach while having the privilege and joy of directing this co-production.”
Follow Us