Caledonia County, Vermont

Barnet Center Historic DIstrict Benoit Apartment House-74 Pearl Street Benoit Apartment House-76 Pearl Street Bradley Covered Bridge Building at 143 Highland Avenue Burklyn Hall Burrington Covered Bridge Caledonia No. 9 Grange Hall Centre Covered Bridge Chamberlin Mill Covered Bridge Christian Union Society Meetinghouse Cobb School Cote Apartment House Darling Estate Historic District Darling Inn Darling, J.R., Store District 6 School House Downtown Hardwick Village Historic Diistrict (Boundary Increase) Downtown Hardwick Village Historic District Elkins Tavern Fairbanks Museum Fairbanks, Franklin, House Gilkerson, William and Agnes, Farm Goodine, Alice Lord, House Greenbanks Hollow Covered Bridge Grouselands Hardwick Street Historic District Lee Farm Lind Houses Lower Waterford Congregational Church Maple Street-Clarks Avenue Historic District Marshall, Caleb H., House Mathewson Block McIndoes Academy Methodist-Episcopal Church Morency Paint Shop and Apartment Building New Discovery State Park Old Schoolhouse Bridge Peacham Corner Historic District Railroad Street Historic District Ricker Pond State Park Riverside Shearer and Corser Double House Shedd, Josiah and Lydia, Farmstead St. Johnsbury Athenaeum St. Johnsbury Federal Fish Culture Station St. Johnsbury Historic District St. Johnsbury Main Street Historic District Stannard Schoolhouse Stillwater State Park Thresher Mill Thurston, Phineas, House Toll House Union Meeting House West View Farm Wheelock Common Historic District Whitehill House Whittier House

Caledonia County, located in northeastern Vermont, has a rich history that can be traced back to its early settlement in the late 18th century. The county was officially established in 1796 and was named after the Latin word for Scotland, reflecting the Scottish origins of many of its early settlers. These settlers were drawn to the area by the availability of land and natural resources.

In its early years, Caledonia County was primarily an agricultural community, with farming being the main economic activity. The county's fertile soil and favorable climate made it suitable for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and potatoes. Additionally, the county saw the emergence of several lumber mills, taking advantage of the abundant forests in the region.

The county experienced significant growth and development with the arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century. The railroad connected Caledonia County to other major cities and markets, facilitating the transportation of goods and boosting the local economy. This led to the establishment of new industries such as manufacturing, as well as an increase in population as more people were attracted to the area for employment opportunities.

Throughout its history, Caledonia County has also played a role in various historical events. It saw some involvement in the American Revolutionary War, as the area was strategically located near the Canadian border. Additionally, the county witnessed the rise of the granite industry in the late 19th century, which brought economic prosperity to the region. Today, Caledonia County continues to thrive as a diverse community with a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and other industries, while also preserving its rich history and natural beauty.
Brief timeline of the history of Caledonia County, Vermont:

  • The area that is now Caledonia County, VT is inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years.
  • 1764 - The area is granted as a land patent by King George III of England.
  • 1792 - Caledonia County is officially established as a county in the state of Vermont.
  • 1802 - The town of Danville is incorporated, becoming the first town in Caledonia County.
  • 1850 - The county's population surpasses 20,000.
  • 1861-1865 - Many residents of Caledonia County serve in the American Civil War.
  • 1885 - The Fairbanks Scale & Foundry Company, a major employer, is founded in St. Johnsbury.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardship to Caledonia County.
  • 1954 - The Interstate 91 highway is completed, improving transportation in the county.
  • 1970s - Caledonia County sees an increase in tourism, with attractions such as ski resorts.
  • 2000 - The population of Caledonia County reaches over 31,000.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Caledonia County, Vermont.