Orleans County, Vermont
Brownington Village Historic District
Crystal Lake Falls Historic District
Crystal Lake State Park
Derby House Hotel
Dickerman, Jerry E., House
District Number Four School
Fox Hall
Goodrich Memorial Library
Greensboro Depot
Haskell Free Library and Opera House
Hayden, William, House
Holland Congregational Church
House at 68 Highland Avenue
Irasburg Town Hall
Jenne, L.P., Block
King Block
Lakeview Inn
Newport Downtown Historic District
Orleans County Courthouse and Jail Complex
Orne Covered Bridge
River Road Covered Bridge
Sweeney, J. S., Store, Barn, Livery and Hall
U.S. Courthouse, Post Office and Customs House
U.S. Inspection Station-Beebe Plain, Vermont
U.S. Inspection Station-Derby Line, Vermont
U.S. Inspection Station-North Troy, Vermont
White, Ai J., Duplex
Coventry Civil War Monument
Coventry Remembers
Derby Academy
Early 19th Century Newport / Newport au dèbut du 19e siècle
Early 20th Century, Newport / Newport au début du 20e siècle
First Reparative Probation Case in the United States
Grand Army of the Republic Memorial
Haskell Free Library and Opera House
Henry M. Leland
Newport's Fire Fighters / Les Pompiers de Newport
Newport's Hotels and Tourism / Les Hotels de Newport et le Tourisme
Northern Forest Canoe Trail
Old Stone House
Pomerleau Park
Runaway Pond
Sterling College
The Arrival of the Railroad / L'Arrivée du Chemin de Fer
The Lane Opera House / Le « Lane Opera House »
Tour Boats on the Lake / Les Bateaux de Randonnée sur le Lac
Vermont
Veterans Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
War Memorial
The county played a significant role in the logging industry during the 19th century, with its vast forests providing valuable timber for construction and trade. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s further stimulated economic growth, as it facilitated the transportation of lumber and other goods. Orleans County also became known for its agricultural productivity, with many farmers cultivating crops such as potatoes, dairy products, and maple syrup.
During the early 20th century, the county saw a decline in logging due to the depletion of natural resources and competition from other regions. However, it experienced a revival in the tourism industry, capitalizing on its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Lake Willoughby, one of Vermont's most beloved lakes, and its surrounding natural attractions, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and winter activities, have attracted visitors from across the country.
Today, Orleans County continues to be deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage while embracing the economic opportunities brought by tourism and outdoor activities. With its charming small towns, beautiful landscapes, and close-knit communities, the county attracts both residents and visitors who appreciate its historical significance, natural beauty, and rural way of life.
Brief timeline of the history of Orleans County, Vermont:
- 1761 - Orleans County is granted by Benning Wentworth, Governor of New Hampshire, to settlers from Connecticut and Massachusetts.
- 1791 - Vermont becomes the 14th state.
- 1792 - Orleans County is officially recognized as a county within Vermont.
- 1799 - Barton is settled by Ebenezer and Jeduthan Barton.
- 1810 - Craftsbury is incorporated as a town.
- 1818 - Troy is established as a separate town from Newport.
- 1840 - Irasburg is incorporated as a town.
- 1860 - Coventry is incorporated as a town.
- 1866 - The Vermont legislature authorizes the formation of a town from parts of Charleston, Coventry, and Irasburg, giving birth to Orleans.
- 1881 - The National Standard Paper Mill is established in Island Pond.
- 1913 - Lowell is incorporated as a town.
- 1921 - Jay is incorporated as a town.
- 1959 - The Interstate 91 highway is completed, connecting the county to the rest of Vermont and New Hampshire.
- 1982 - The Jay Peak Resort opens, becoming a popular tourist destination.
- 1995 - The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail is established, offering recreational opportunities to residents and visitors.
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Orleans County, Vermont.