With the industrial revolution came major changes in the essentially rural village as three paper mills were built on the Westfield River in Russell. Most of the residents worked at one of the mills. Today all three mills are still operating but no longer are all employees residents of Russell. The beauty of Russell is easily appreciated by driving along Jacob's Ladder Trail, which is Route 20. The river twists and turns with the road following it.
Mountains soar on either side of the river bank.
Because of the rugged terrain, much of Russell has been left in a natural state. The spring run-off brings out the white water enthusiasts. The Westfield River Canoe races have been held here for 40 years and this year for the first time, the Towns of Russell and Huntington hosted the National White Water Races. It includes both subsidized affordable units and market rate units in certain eligible subsidized developments. The Massachusetts Turnpike connects the region to Boston and to Albany, New York.