Jefferson Village is a small community within the town of Holden, Massachusetts that was established in 1805 as a small mill community. For over 140 years, the village served as a self-sufficient manufacturing hub, complete with its own school, worker housing, post office, and small commercial district. After the mill closed in 1940, the village evolved into a residential community.

Many of the original mill structures remain and the village retains important historical features from the time it was a booming manufacturing center. It is also home to beautiful water features and open spaces.

Our group (including myself and two other graduate students) provided an assessment of the village and recommendations for its future. We found many opportunities to rehabilitate the landscape to make it more compatible with its rich historic past and a more pleasing place for residents and visitors.

The ensuing report was submitted to the town as a supplement to its own master plan which was in development at the time.