History of Jamaica, Vermont, USA

1780 - Jamaica settlement founded
The settlement was founded in 1780 and first occupied by a few young, energetic and adventuresome people who built primitive log cabins along the mountain streams and rivers.
www.jamaicavermont.org

1839 - Jamaica
Jamaica, Vermont
Windham county. West river waters this town, and gives good mill seats. At a pleasant village near the centre of the town are valuable manufacturing establishments. The surface of the town is very uneven; in some parts mountainous, but the soil is generally good and productive. Lime-stone of a good quality is found here. Jamaica was first settled in 1780. Population, 1830, 1,523. It lies 90 miles S. from Montpelier and 14 N.W. from Newfane.
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 Jamaica
Windham Co. West River passes through this township, and, together with its tributaries, affords numerous and excellent mill privileges. The surface of Jamaica is broken and mountainous, and the elevations rocky, but the soil is, in general, warm and productive. A range of primitive limestone passes through the township, from which lime is manufactured in the eastern part, where there is a fine locality of dolomite. It is granular, flexible, and of a snow white color. In a vein of the dolomite is found the micaceous oxyde of iron. It is brilliant, fine grained, and the particles are separated by rubbing between the fingers. There is a pleasant and flourishing village near the centre of the town, in which are several stores and manufacturing establishments. The Ball Mountain Manufacturing Company in this town was incorporated in 1848.

Boundaries. North by Windham and Londonderry. east by Townshend, south by Wardsborough, and west by a part of Stratton, and a part of... Read MORE...

1854 - Jamaica
Jamaica, a post-township of Windham co., Vermont, on West river, about 90 miles S. from Montpelier, contains a village of its own name. Population, 1606.
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.

1895 - Jamaica
Jamaica, a post-village of Windham co., Vt., in Jamaica township on West River, about 40 miles S. by E. of Rutland. It has a national bank, a savings-bank, 3 churches, and manufactures of chairs, leather, shoes, &c. Pop of the township, 1223.
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

1900 - Giant Potato
Charles S Conant, of Jamaica, has dug a potato this season that weighed two poinds, two and a half ounces, and consisted of one large potato with a family of nine little potatoes growing from it.
St Albans Daily Messenger
St Albans, Vermont
September 24, 1900

1916
Jamaica, a post-village of Windham co., Vt., in Jamaica township (town), on the West River, about 40 miles S. by E. of Rutland. It has manufactures of chairs, axe- handles, etc. Pop. of the town in 1900, 800.
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

1964 - Last towns in Vermont received electricity - Victory, Granby and Jamaica


www.worldatlas.com/ webimage/ countrys/ namerica/ usstates/ vttimeln.htm

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Jamaica:
Jamaica State Park:

Start your journey with nature at Jamaica State Park. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, camping, and fishing. The park is particularly beautiful during the fall when the foliage is breathtaking.

Ball Mountain Dam:

If you enjoy scenic drives, head to Ball Mountain Dam. The drive is not only picturesque but also leads to a peaceful reservoir where you can enjoy a picnic and some quiet time.

Hiking in Green Mountain National Forest:

Jamaica is nestled near the Green Mountain National Forest, providing ample opportunities for hiking. Explore trails like the West River Trail or venture into the forest for a more immersive experience.

Jamaica Village Schoolhouse:

Take a step back in time by visiting the Jamaica Village Schoolhouse, a historic one-room schoolhouse that offers a glimpse into the town's past.

Shopping in Jamaica:

Stroll through the quaint village center and explore local shops. You might find... Read MORE...