Waitsfield Village Historic District
VT 100 and Bridge St., Waitsfield, VT Local significance of the district: Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
About National Register Listings
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 the first state to establish a state park: In 1900, Vermont established the first state park in the United States, known as the Mt. Tom State Park. The park is located in Woodstock, Vermont.
About Washington County
Washington County Timeline
Washington County, Vermont has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. The county, located in the central part of the state, was established on October 20, 1810, and was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. Prior to European settlement, the area was occupied by various indigenous tribes, primarily the Abenaki people.
In the late 1700s, settlers from Massachusetts and Connecticut began to move into the region, attracted by its fertile land and abundant natural resources. The first town in Washington County, Montpelier, was settled in 1787 and would later become the state capital. Other towns in the county, such as Barre, Waterbury, and Northfield, were established in the early 19th century and played important roles in the county's development.
One of the key events in Washington County's history was the establishment of granite quarries in Barre in the late 19th century. The high-quality granite found in the area helped fuel the growth of the local economy and contributed to the county's reputation as a major supplier of granite for buildings and monuments across the United States.
Throughout its history, Washington County has been influenced by various social and political movements. The county played a significant role in the abolitionist movement during the mid-19th century, with many residents actively supporting the cause of ending slavery. Additionally, during the 20th century, the county saw political changes and advancements in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Today, Washington County continues to thrive as a diverse and vibrant region. Its rich history, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The county's commitment to preserving its historical sites and promoting economic growth ensures that its legacy will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
In the late 1700s, settlers from Massachusetts and Connecticut began to move into the region, attracted by its fertile land and abundant natural resources. The first town in Washington County, Montpelier, was settled in 1787 and would later become the state capital. Other towns in the county, such as Barre, Waterbury, and Northfield, were established in the early 19th century and played important roles in the county's development.
One of the key events in Washington County's history was the establishment of granite quarries in Barre in the late 19th century. The high-quality granite found in the area helped fuel the growth of the local economy and contributed to the county's reputation as a major supplier of granite for buildings and monuments across the United States.
Throughout its history, Washington County has been influenced by various social and political movements. The county played a significant role in the abolitionist movement during the mid-19th century, with many residents actively supporting the cause of ending slavery. Additionally, during the 20th century, the county saw political changes and advancements in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Today, Washington County continues to thrive as a diverse and vibrant region. Its rich history, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The county's commitment to preserving its historical sites and promoting economic growth ensures that its legacy will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
Washington County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Washington County, Vermont.
- 1781: Washington County is created by the Vermont General Assembly.
- 1787: Montpelier is chosen as the county seat.
- 1804: The Vermont State House is constructed in Montpelier.
- 1813: Arguably the first ski club in the United States is formed in Warren.
- 1831: Norwich University, the oldest private military college in the country, is founded in Northfield.
- 1849: The Vermont Central Railroad reaches Montpelier, connecting the county to a wider rail network.
- 1883: The Green Mountain Club is formed in Waterbury, promoting the development and maintenance of the Long Trail.
- 1944: The Barre Granite Strike begins, resulting in a significant labor dispute in the granite industry.
- 1951: The Interstate Highway System is established, eventually leading to the construction of Interstate 89 through the county.
- 1993: The Vermont State Hospital in Berlin closes, leading to the relocation of its services and patients.