The image of this economically depressed little Pittsfield is not improved by its unfortunate-sounding name (a nod to English prime minister William Pitt, who was a sympathizer with the American colonists). In the early 20th century, the city was home to the Stanley Electric Manufacturing Company, a predecessor to electronics giant General Electric, which has long since left for greener pastures.
Despite its gritty appearance, the area is now notable for several fine museums in and around the city, including two dedicated to Herman Melville, who made his unlikely home in the landlocked community from 1850 to 1863. Recently, the city has been coming back to life with the renovation of its gorgeous 1903 Colonial Theatre and the opening of several new restaurants downtown.