Pelham is a small, pleasant town perched on the ridge that divides the Connecticut River's Pioneer Valley from Quabbin Reservoir and central Massachusetts. The eastern one-third of the town is state owned land, part of the Reservoir watershed. Almost one-third of Pelham's original land area is now part of the Quabbin Reservoir, which was constructed in the 1930's. Daniel Shays Highway, now part of Route 202, was built as part of the reservoir project.
About 1280 people now live in Pelham. The Pelham School System is the Town's largest employer. Industry is comprised of a small manufacturing facility and a poultry farm. Most employed persons work out of town at businesses, nearby colleges and the University of Massachusetts. Pelham is home to many retired people who enjoy the environment and cultural opportunities of the region.
