Christian Street Rural Historic District

Christian St., Hemlock Ridge Dr., and Jericho St., Hartford, VT
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Agriculture; Religion

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

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 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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.