Our History

Rooted In History Since 1923:

In 1923, Ferry Brook Range first opened its gates to 167 local members, creating a gathering place built on marksmanship, conservation, and shared responsibility. What began as a small community range quickly became a fixture in Cheshire County: a place where neighbors met, skills were passed down, and safety was taught with care and discipline.

In 1936, the organization formally incorporated as the Cheshire County Fish & Game Club, strengthening its role in education, conservation, and community engagement. For generations, members maintained the grounds, built the facilities by hand, and mentored youth in responsible firearm use and outdoor ethics.

A timeline showing the history of a community range, starting in 1923 with the ferry brook range opening, becoming a formal incorporation in 1936, expansion from 1940s to 1990s, transitioning to the Cheshire County Shooting Sports Education Foundation in 2010, and the present focus on youth programs, competitions, education, and training.
A person at a shooting range adjusting their hearing protection, with another person standing nearby holding a blue remote or device. The person facing away is wearing a jacket with various patches and designs related to shooting competitions, including references to New Hampshire, Triple Crown, and Stevens.

A New chapter: education at the center

In 2010, the organization transitioned into the Cheshire County Shooting Sports Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated specifically to structured education and youth development.

The mission evolved with intention:

  • Formalized safety instruction

  • Youth team development and competition

  • Professional range management

  • Expanded community access

While the structure changed, the foundation remained the same: responsibility, discipline, and respect.

A lush green landscape with tall trees on a cloudy day, a winding path, and a baseball field with a backstop and dugouts in the distance.

Ferry Brook Range today:

The Ferry Brook Range continues to serve as the heart of CCSS’ operations.

More than a century after its founding, the range still reflects the values it was built on:

  • Safety first

  • Education always

  • Community at the center

From youth programs to competitions to fundraising events that support local initiatives, CCSS carries forward a tradition that began in 1923, one shaped by volunteers, families, and generations of members committed to doing things the right way.