History of Calais, Vermont, USA

1839 - Calais
Calais, Vermont
Washington county. Abijah Wheelock and others first settled this town in 1787. It lies 36 miles E. by S. from Burlington and 12 N.E. from Montpelier. Population, 1830, 1,539. Calais has a number of streams, branches of Onion river, and several fine ponds. Two thousand pounds of trout have been taken in a season. There is some manufacturing carried on in the town, and it feeds about 6,000 sheep.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839

1849 Calais
WASHINGTON Co. This township is watered by two branches of Winooski River, one entering it near the north-east the other near the northwest corner. They unite near the south line of the town, affording, in their course, a great number of valuable privileges for mills and other machinery. It is also well watered with springs and brooks. The soil is a warm loam, easily cultivated, well adapted to the production of all kinds of grain, and is not inferior to other towns in its vicinity for grazing. The surface of the township is somewhat uneven, but very little of it so broken as to be incapable of cultivation. The timber on the streams is mostly hemlock, spruce, and pine ; on the higher lands, maple, beech, &c. The lowest lands here are in general driest and the most feasible soil. The north line of the township intersects two considerable ponds. There are several other small, but beautiful ponds lying within the township, and which abound with trout and other fish. Long Pond lies in... Read MORE...

1854 - Calais
Calais, a post-township of Washington county, Vermont, 8 miles N. E. of Montpelier, intersected by branches of the Onion river. Population, 1410.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1859
CALAIS, a township of Washington co., in the state of Vermont, 10 m. NE of Montpelier. It is watered by branches of the Onion river, and contains several ponds abounding with trout. It is chiefly pastoral. Pop. 1,709.

A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Volume 2 Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859

1895 - Calais
Calais, a post-hamlet of Washington co., Vt., in Calais township, 10 miles N.N.E. of Montpelier. The township has a woollen-factory and 3 churches. Pop. of the township, 1309.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1916
Calais, a post-village of Washington co., Vt., in Calais township (town), 10 miles NNE. of Montpelier. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1101.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Calais:
Adamant Cooperative: Start your journey in Calais by visiting the Adamant Cooperative. This community-run store is a hub for local products, art, and crafts. You can find unique gifts and get a taste of the local culture.

Kent Museum: Explore the Kent Museum, which showcases the history of Calais and its residents. The museum often hosts events and exhibits that delve into the town's past, providing an insightful look into its heritage.

Maple Corner Community Center: Check out the Maple Corner Community Center, a lively gathering place for locals. They often host events, concerts, and community activities. It's a great spot to connect with the residents and get a feel for the town's close-knit community.

Hiking Trails: Calais is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Head to the local trails, such as the Worcester Range Trails or the Adamant Music School Trails, to enjoy the scenic beauty and fresh air.

Floating Bridge: Visit... Read MORE...