Julia C.R. Dorr

Rutland County, located in the southern part of Vermont, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Abenaki tribe. European settlement began in the mid-1700s when New England colonists ventured into the region.

The county began to flourish with the arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century, which led to a boom in industry and commerce. Rutland became a major transportation hub, connecting the rural communities of Vermont with larger cities like Boston and New York. With the railroad came a significant increase in population, as people migrated to the area in search of new opportunities.

Rutland County was known for its manufacturing prowess in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The region's natural resources, including marble and slate, drove the growth of industries such as stone quarrying and mining. Marble extracted from Rutland County was used in notable architectural projects across the country, including the New York Public Library and the Arlington National Cemetery.

The decline of the railroad industry, along with changing economic factors, posed challenges for Rutland County in the 20th century. The phasing out of steam locomotives and the rise of the automobile necessitated the development of new industries to sustain the county's economy. Today, Rutland County has diversified its economic base, with sectors such as healthcare, education, tourism, and manufacturing playing significant roles in the local economy. The county continues to honor its rich history while looking towards the future with optimism.