Historical Markers in
Windsor County, Vermont

Abby Maria Hemenway Achsa W. Sprague (1827-1862) Alden Partridge American Literary, Scientific, and Military Academy Bomber Crash on Hawks Mountain / Crew of B-29A #44-62228 Crashed Perkinsville, Vermont 15 June 1947 Bridgewater Veterans Memorial Bridgewater World War I Monument Burning of Royalton Calvin Coolidge Calvin Coolidge Homestead Capt. John Coolidge Flagpole Chester Academy / District No. 20 Central School Chester Civil War Memorial Chester Depot Chester Vietnam Conflict Monument Chester World War I and II and Korean Conflict Monument Civilian Conservation Corps West River Forest Camp Constitution House Disastrous Train Wreck Dorothy Thompson Memorial Common Early Settlers & Allen R. Foley Edwin A. Battison Eighteen Hundred And Froze To Death / United Church Of Bethel Eureka Schoolhouse & Baltimore Covered Bridge First Public Grammar School Helen Hartness Flanders Hiram Powers Historical Marker Hugh Henry Family Homestead Indian Stones International Mechanical Engineering Heritage Collection International Mechanical Engineering Heritage Site James Hartness & Precision Valley Inventors Jessie LaFountain Bigwood Joseph Smith Monument Justin Morgan Marianne Gaillard Faulkner Merritt Austin Edson North Chester Norwich Honor Roll Norwich Vietnam War Memorial Paul Revere Bell Plymouth WW1 Memorial Quechee Gorge Revolutionary War Campground on the Crown Point Road Robbins and Lawrence Armory and Machine Shop Robbins and Lawrence Armory and Machine Shop Salmond Bridge Site of First Ski Tow in the United States Stellafane Observatory Stone Turnpike Marker Stone Turnpike Marker Taftsville Covered Bridge The Gage Accident The Royalton Raid Theron Boyd House Theta Chi Fraternity Theta Chi Fraternity Town of Norwich Town of Norwich War Memorial Vermont Vermont Gold Rush Veteran’s Memorial Wagon Wheels Farm Weston Civil War Monument Weston Korean War – Vietnam War Monument Weston Village Historic District William Jarvis Windsor Vermont Windsor Veterans Memorial Windsor Veterans Monument Windsor, Vermont Windsor’s First Meeting House Woodstock Woodstock Civil War Memorial
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.
Windsor County, Vermont has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1777. The county was named after the town of Windsor, which was the birthplace of the state of Vermont. The area itself, however, had been inhabited by the indigenous Abenaki people for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers.

In the early days of settlement, Windsor County thrived as an agricultural and industrial hub. Its fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for farming, with dairy and cheese production becoming major industries. The county also benefited from the development of mills along its many rivers, which powered the production of textiles, lumber, and other goods.

During the 19th century, Windsor County played a significant role in the abolitionist movement and the fight against slavery. Many residents were staunch abolitionists and actively participated in the Underground Railroad, helping to guide escaped slaves to freedom. Windsor County was also home to the Vermont Anti-Slavery Society and played a crucial role in supporting the Union cause during the Civil War.

In the 20th century, Windsor County experienced changes and challenges brought about by the decline of agriculture and the rise of tourism. The county adapted to these shifts by promoting its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, attracting visitors to its charming towns and picturesque landscapes. Today, Windsor County remains a vibrant and diverse community that balances its rich history with a commitment to sustainable development and preserving its natural resources.

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

  • 1761: Windsor County is established as one of the four original counties of the Vermont Republic.
  • 1777: Vermont declares itself an independent republic, with Windsor as the capital.
  • 1781: The Vermont Republic is admitted to the United States as the 14th state.
  • 1790: Windsor County's population reaches over 4,000 residents.
  • 1846: The Vermont Central Railroad is completed, connecting Windsor County to the national rail network.
  • 1903: The Taftsville Bridge, one of the longest covered bridges in Vermont, is constructed.
  • 1955: The Vermont State Veterans' Home is established in Windsor County to provide care for veterans.
  • 1988: The Quechee Gorge, known as "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon," is designated as a state park.
  • 1993: The Windsor County Courthouse, a historic Georgian-style building, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2011: Windsor County experiences widespread damage from Hurricane Irene, leading to significant recovery and rebuilding efforts.