History of Charleston, Vermont, USA

1803 (Charleston, VT) - Commodore Abraham Whipple was given a grant to the town, along with 50-60 of his shipmates. He called it "Navy." Abner Allen, from Barton, Vermont, was the first settler in 1803.

wikipedia.org

In 1825, the town changed its name from Navy to Charleston, presumably after a naval battle that had occurred off Charleston, South Carolina.

wikipedia.org

1839 - Charleston
Charleston, Vermont
Orleans county. Echo Pond, the outlet of lake Seymour, waters this town. Lake Seymour is a large sheet of water and passes N. into lake Memphremagog. Charleston lies about 35 miles N.E. from Hydepark, 55 N.N.E. from Montpelier, and 15 S. of Canada line. Population, 1830, 564.
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 Charleston
Orleans Co. The principal stream in this town is Clyde River, which enters the township in Brighton, and runs north-westerly nearly through its centre, into Salem. There are some falls of consequence on this stream, particularly the Great Falls, where the descent is more than 100 feet in forty rods, but its current is generally slow. The alluvial flats along this stream are extensive, but generally too low and wet for cultivation. In the southeast part of the township are 1,000 acres of bog meadow, in a body, upon this river. There are several considerable ponds. Echo Pond, the most important, is in the northern part, and was named by Gen. J. Whitelaw, on account of the succession of echoes which are usually heard, when any sound is produced in its vicinity. It is one and a half miles long and half a mile wide. The stream which discharges the waters of Seymour's Lake, in Morgan, into Clyde River, passes through this pond. On the outlet mills are erected. The other pond of most... Read MORE...

1854 - Charleston
Charleston, a township of Orleans county, Vermont, 55 miles N. E. from Montpelier. Population, 1008.
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.

1877 - Charleston
This township, situated in the easterly part of Orleans County, is in lat. 44° 51', and long. 4° 53' bounded N. E. by Morgan, S. E. by Brighton, S. W. by a part of Westmore and Brownington, and N. W. by Salem; and lies 50 miles N. E. of Montpelier. It was granted to Gov. Thomas Chittenden the 6th, and chartered the 8th of Nov., 1780, to Hon. Abraham Whipple, his shipmates and others; containing 23,040 acres. Commodore Whipple was a distinguished naval officer in the Revolutionary war, and he first named this township Navy, in honor of the American navy which he so bravely defended. This tract was originally divided into 69 equal shares. By the terms of the charter one share was granted for the first settled minister, one for glebe, one for support of town schools, one for support of grammar school, and one for college.

None of the original grantees ever resided in town, and but three- John L. Chandler, Elisha and Andrew Brown-were ever known to come here. The most of them lived in... Read MORE...

1895 - Charleston
Charleston, a township of Orleans co., Vt. It has an academy and active manufactures. Pop. 1058.
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

A round barn (not uncommon for the time and place) was erected in Charleston in 1908. It was possibly the largest such structure in New England.

wikipedia.org

1916
Charleston, a township (town) of Orleans co., Vt. Pop. in 1900, 1025.
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

1918 - (Charleston, VT) - The large round barn (possibly the largest in New England) burned to the ground in 1918.

wikipedia.org

A series of fires destroyed East Charleston May 18, 1921, and West Charleston on the following day.

wikipedia.org

Charleston, Vermont is a charming town with a relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by scenic beauty. While it may not be the largest town, there are still plenty of things to see and do in and around the area. Here's a list to get you started:
Shadow Lake: Begin your visit with some outdoor recreation at Shadow Lake. Whether it's kayaking, fishing, or just enjoying a peaceful walk along the shore, this lake offers a serene setting.

Brighton State Park: Just a short drive away, Brighton State Park is a haven for nature lovers. Hiking trails, birdwatching, and picnicking are popular activities in this beautiful state park.

Charleston Historical Society: Delve into the town's history by visiting the local historical society. Learn about the early settlers, the development of the town, and key historical events.

Bald Mountain Trail: If you're up for a hike, the Bald Mountain Trail provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. It's a moderate hike that rewards you with a panoramic vista at the summit.

Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge: Explore the wildlife refuge, perfect for those interested in birdwatching and observing the local flora and fauna.

Local Farms and Markets: Check out the... Read MORE...