Chester, during the late 30's to the 60's, was a small prospering rural community with several flourishing industries: a granite quarry, a stone shed for working the granite, an emery mill now the General Abrasive Treibacker Inc., and the Cortland Grinding Wheels Company. 

With the exception of the emery mill, which employs about a dozen workers, these industries no longer exist.  However the Bannish Lumber Company, established 25 years ago, provides employment and revenue for the town. Chester has changed and has begun to grow in other areas, utilizing its location in the foothills of the Berkshires and its natural features. Similar to other hilltowns, Chester has a market for homes, both year around and seasonal. 

Enterprises such as blueberry farms, maple sugaring, growing produce for local markets, and bed and breakfast accommodations have developed. The restoration of the Boston and Albany Railroad station by interested local people has added to the attraction of the town.  An annual Railroad Day has been established, bringing many visitors. The Miniature Theatre of Chester, established under the direction of Vincent Dowling, formerly of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, is a summer attraction not only for Chester but also western Massachusetts.

Chester gains stimulation and growth from its natural resources, location and inhabitants.  Like other communities, small and large, the Town of Chester will grow and change with changes in the state's and region's economy and shifts in population. Chester, known as "The Gem of the Valley", is felt by its residents to be a beautiful rural community with hopes for continued growth and improvement.