Bellows Falls Co-operative Creamery Complex

a.k.a. Bellows Falls Co-operative Creamery

Island St., Rockingham, VT
Local significance of the building:
Industry; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

Vermont was home to the first African American college graduate: In 1823, Alexander Twilight became the first African American college graduate in the United States. He earned his degree from Middlebury College in Vermont.
Windham County, Vermont has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The county was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Abenaki people, who relied on the land's abundant natural resources for their sustenance. European settlers began arriving in the area in the mid-18th century, with the establishment of Fort Dummer in present-day Brattleboro in 1724. The initial settlements faced challenges from both Native American tribes and conflicts between colonial powers.

In the late 18th century, Windham County played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War. It was the site of important military actions, such as the Battle of Bennington in 1777, which marked a turning point for the American forces. Following the war, Windham County experienced rapid growth and became known for its thriving manufacturing industry, particularly in textiles, paper, and agriculture.

As transportation improved with the expansion of railroads and canals, Windham County became an important hub for trade and commerce. The county grew economically, attracting businesses and industries that fueled its development. The advent of the industrial revolution in the 19th century transformed many towns in Windham County, such as Brattleboro and Bellows Falls, into bustling centers of production and trade.

In the 20th century, Windham County faced economic challenges as the decline of industries such as manufacturing and logging affected the region. However, the county adapted to the changing times and embraced new opportunities, particularly in tourism, services, and the arts. Today, Windham County is cherished for its picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant cultural scene, attracting visitors from near and far.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Windham County, Vermont.

  • 1771 - Windham County formed and named after Windham in Connecticut
  • 1777 - Putney, one of the county's towns, incorporated
  • 1781 - Brattleboro, the county seat, incorporated
  • 1800s - Windham County experiences industrial growth with mills and factories
  • 1834 - Vermont's first medical college, the Vermont Academy of Medicine, established in Brattleboro
  • 1845 - Westminster, known for its historic meeting house, incorporated
  • 1855 - Marlboro College founded in Marlboro
  • 1869 - Wilmington Village becomes a popular tourist destination
  • 1900s - Windham County becomes a popular area for tourism and outdoor activities
  • 1935 - Mount Snow ski resort opens in Dover
  • 1970s - Windham County becomes known for its vibrant arts community