National Register Listing

Cotton Free Library

Quaker Village Rd., near Jct. of Baker Ct. and Quaker Village Rd., Weybridge, VT
The Cotton Free Library possesses significance for embodying the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, and method of construction. It qualifies for statewide and local significance under criteria A for its significance in education - and under criteria C for its architectural significance. It is a well-preserved example of a small-town Colonial Revival library, similar to others constructed at the turn of the century. The outstanding architectural features of the building include a monumental portico with a circular window in the tympanum, paired Tuscan columns, and double entrance doors with muntins in a modified Union Jack motif and many historic interior details such as pressed metal walls, comice, and ceiling, glazed fireplace tiles and wood detailing. It exemplifies the recommendations of the National Free Library Association, which gave local communities guidance and funding from the State of Vermont for their operations. The Cotton Free Library continues to serve as a memorial to one of the early citizens, Joshua Franklin Cotton, who funded the town library. Since its origins, the Library has served as an active part of the life of Weybridge, serving as a tool to teach many children to read. Along with the Weybridge town hall, it forms the historic heart of the village.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Education

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

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.

library
Audiobooks about the history of Vermont.
Vermont was the site of a famous military raid during the Revolutionary War: In 1777, the British planned a surprise attack on the American military stores at the town of Bennington, Vermont. However, the Americans were able to repel the attack in a battle that is now known as the Battle of Bennington. The victory helped to boost American morale and played a key role in turning the tide of the Revolutionary War.
Vermont random facts
Addison County, Vermont is situated in the western part of the state and has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The land was originally inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Abenaki people, who relied on the region's fertile soil and abundant natural resources for sustenance.

European settlement in the area began in the mid-18th century, with the establishment of New Haven and Vergennes, two of the county's oldest towns. The region quickly attracted settlers due to its favorable farming conditions, proximity to Lake Champlain, and opportunities for trade. Agriculture soon became the backbone of the local economy, with farmers producing hay, corn, wheat, and dairy products.

During the American Revolution, Addison County played a significant role in the fight for independence. The Battle of Bennington, a pivotal engagement in the war, took place just south of the county's border in 1777. Many local residents patriotically served in the Continental Army, defending their homes and fighting for liberty.

In the 19th century, Addison County experienced steady growth and development. The construction of the Champlain Canal in the early 1800s brought increased commerce and trade, and the county's population expanded. Villages like Middlebury and Bristol emerged as important centers of education and industry, hosting prestigious colleges and bustling mills and factories.

Today, Addison County remains an agricultural hub, known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant small towns, and strong sense of community. While the county has seen many changes over the years, its rich heritage and agricultural traditions continue to shape its identity.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Addison County, Vermont.

  • 1761 - Addison County is chartered and named after English writer Joseph Addison
  • 1773 - The town of Middlebury is settled
  • 1785 - Middlebury College is founded
  • 1796 - The town of Vergennes becomes the first chartered city in Vermont
  • 1800s - Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, becomes a major industry in the county
  • 1825 - The Champlain Transportation Company is established to provide transportation on Lake Champlain
  • 1834 - The Rutland and Burlington Railroad, the county's first railroad, is completed
  • 1840 - The Vermont Central Railroad is built through the county, connecting it to the rest of the state
  • 1851 - Middlebury Female Seminary, precursor to Middlebury College's women's program, is founded
  • 1861-1865 - Many men from Addison County serve in the Civil War
  • 1883 - The Pulp Mill Bridge in Middlebury is completed, becoming an iconic landmark in the county
  • 1891 - The town of Bristol is connected to the rest of the county by a railroad
  • 1914-1918 - Many residents of Addison County serve in World War I
  • 1920s - The Great Depression affects the county's economy, leading to decreased farm prices and increased poverty
  • 1930s - The federal government initiates various relief programs in the county during the Great Depression
  • 1941-1945 - Many residents of Addison County serve in World War II
  • 1950s-1960s - Interstate 89 is built through the eastern part of the county, improving transportation
  • 2000s - The county experiences steady population growth, with more people moving to the area
  • Present - Addison County is known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant arts scene