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History of Vermont, USA
Journey back in time to Vermont, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Vermont, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Vermont
Vermont was the first state admitted to the Union after the ratification of the Constitution.
In ratio of cows to people, Vermont has the greatest number of dairy cows in the country.
50states.com
Vermont has the most covered bridges per square mile of any state in the USA.
"Derived from the French words vert (“green”) and mont (“mountain”). Samuel Peters claimed that he christened the land with that name in 1763 while standing on top of a mountain, saying, “The new name is Vert-Mont, in token that her mountains and hills shall be ever green and shall never die." Most historians would disagree, as would Thomas Young, the Pennsylvania statesman who suggested that his state’s constitution be used as the basis for Vermont's and is generally credited with suggesting the name to maintain the memory of the Green Mountain Boys, the militia organization formed to resist New York’s attempted take-over of the area." mentalfloss.com
In ratio of cows to people, Vermont has the greatest number of dairy cows in the country.
50states.com
Vermont has the most covered bridges per square mile of any state in the USA.
"Derived from the French words vert (“green”) and mont (“mountain”). Samuel Peters claimed that he christened the land with that name in 1763 while standing on top of a mountain, saying, “The new name is Vert-Mont, in token that her mountains and hills shall be ever green and shall never die." Most historians would disagree, as would Thomas Young, the Pennsylvania statesman who suggested that his state’s constitution be used as the basis for Vermont's and is generally credited with suggesting the name to maintain the memory of the Green Mountain Boys, the militia organization formed to resist New York’s attempted take-over of the area." mentalfloss.com
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VINTAGE VERMONT
Vermont Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Vermont, USA
Postcard
Arrowhead Mountain, Milton, Vt.
Vermont, USA
Postcard
University Place. Burlington, VT.
Vermont, USA
(IL) - Chicago Tribune, Chicago, Illinois
Vermont, USA
Postcard
Main Street, Middlebury, Vt.
Vermont, USA
Flag of Vermont
Adopted June 1, 1923
Adopted June 1, 1923
Vermont, USA
Postcard
What Some People Think of Vermont
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to VERMONT
I Love VERMONT Mug – Maple Syrup, Sugar on Snow & Creemee Coffee Cup
Celebrate the flavors and charm of the Green Mountain State with this Vermont-inspired ceramic mug. Featuring a beautiful design highlighting maple syrup, sugar on snow, and iconic creemees, it’s perfect for locals, visitors, and anyone who loves Vermont.
VERMONT Roots Mug: Skiing, Syrup and Suds - Vermont Genealogy
Celebrate your Vermont heritage with our whimsical ceramic mug! Featuring the caption, "My Ancestors Came From Vermont! That explains a lot about my love for skiing, maple syrup and finding the best craft breweries," this mug is perfect for those who proudly embrace their Green Mountain State roots.
VERMONT Roots - Genealogy-Themed Ceramic Coffee Mug Gift Idea
Celebrate your family heritage with our "Vermont Roots" Genealogy Coffee Mug! Whether you’re sipping your morning brew or relaxing with an evening tea, this sturdy ceramic mug is the perfect companion for anyone who proudly traces their lineage back to the Green Mountain State.
VERMONT Long Trail Mug – Vintage Postcard - Hiking & Adventure Coffee Cup
Carry a piece of Vermont with every sip! The Long Trail Vermont Mug features vintage postcard art and the charming slogan “Following Footprints of the Past on the Long Trail!” Perfect for hikers, history buffs, and coffee lovers alike, this high-quality ceramic mug is dishwasher & microwave safe. Ideal for sipping coffee while planning your next trek, reminiscing about past hikes, or cozy mornings with maps spread out, it’s a heartfelt nod to adventure, nature, and the trails that connect us. Bring warmth, story, and a touch of Vermont to your kitchen or campsite!
VERMONT Long Trail Aluminum Bookmark - Following in the Footsteps of Hikers Before Me
Mark your place in style with this durable aluminum bookmark featuring a vintage postcard image of Vermont’s legendary Long Trail. Adorned with the inspiring slogan "Following in the Footsteps of Those Who Hiked Before Me!", it’s the perfect keepsake for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and Long Trail hikers. Lightweight yet sturdy, this bookmark makes a great gift for bookworms and adventurers alike. Whether you're reading trail guides or your favorite novel, let this bookmark keep the spirit of the Long Trail alive!
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Vermont: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Vermont through the years.
1609 - The area which is today Vermont was first explored by Frenchman Samuel de Champlain in 1609, when he claimed it for his home country.
Read more about Samuel DE CHAMPLAIN
1724 - British built Fort Drummer, first permanent settlement in Vermont
In 1724, the British established Fort Drummer, marking a significant moment in Vermont's history as the first permanent European settlement in the region. Situated strategically near present-day Brattleboro, the fort was built during a period when European powers were actively expanding their colonial footholds across North America. Fort Drummer served primarily as a defensive outpost against potential Native American attacks and as a trading hub for fur and other goods.
The construction of Fort Drummer represented the beginning of British colonial influence in Vermont, then part of the wider frontier of New England. The fort's establishment also paved the way for subsequent European settlements and the gradual encroachment on Native American lands in the area.
The construction of Fort Drummer represented the beginning of British colonial influence in Vermont, then part of the wider frontier of New England. The fort's establishment also paved the way for subsequent European settlements and the gradual encroachment on Native American lands in the area.
1791 - Vermont became 14th U. S. state
In 1791, Vermont achieved a significant milestone in American history by becoming the 14th state to join the United States of America. Located in the northeastern region of the country, Vermont's path to statehood was marked by a unique series of events. Originally settled by Europeans in the early 18th century, Vermont was claimed by both New Hampshire and New York due to overlapping colonial charters. The settlers in Vermont, known for their independent spirit and self-governance, resisted both claims and established their own republic in 1777 during the American Revolutionary War, declaring independence.
However, Vermont's desire for statehood intensified as the young United States grew. After negotiating with New York and resolving territorial disputes, Vermont was finally admitted into the Union on March 4, 1791.
However, Vermont's desire for statehood intensified as the young United States grew. After negotiating with New York and resolving territorial disputes, Vermont was finally admitted into the Union on March 4, 1791.
January 17, 1817 - A luminous snowstorm occurred in Vermont and New Hampshire. Saint Elmo's fire appeared as static discharges on roof peaks, fence posts, and the hats and fingers of people. Thunderstorms prevailed over central New England.
1823 - Champlain Canal opened, created water route between Vermont, New York City
The Champlain Canal, inaugurated in 1823, marked a significant milestone in American transportation history by facilitating a crucial water route between northern Vermont and New York City. Spanning approximately 60 miles, the canal connected Lake Champlain to the Hudson River, enhancing trade and commerce between the regions. This strategic waterway allowed for the transportation of goods, primarily agricultural products and raw materials, from the fertile lands of Vermont and northern New York to the bustling markets of New York City.
The canal's construction was part of a broader effort during the early 19th century to improve inland navigation and link interior regions with coastal cities. It played a pivotal role in promoting economic development and settlement in the Champlain Valley, fostering towns along its banks such as Whitehall and Plattsburgh.
The canal's construction was part of a broader effort during the early 19th century to improve inland navigation and link interior regions with coastal cities. It played a pivotal role in promoting economic development and settlement in the Champlain Valley, fostering towns along its banks such as Whitehall and Plattsburgh.
1833 - July 2 - An unusually large New England tornado, one half to three quarters of a mile wide, went from Salem Pond to Norton Pond, VT, and then into Canada. It prostrated nearly everything in its path.
1839 - Vermont
VERMONT
The people of the territory now called the state of Vermont, having been connected with New York and having experienced great dissatisfaction with their connexion with that state, assembled in convention and on the 15th of January, 1777, declared themselves independent, and organized a government for themselves.
The hardy mountaineers, who had become impatient under their connexion with and dependence on the great state of New York, in pursuance of their own peculiar views of the rights and duties of a free and independent people, adopted many singular and peculiar provisions in their constitution.
The state is bounded N. by Lower Canada, E. by Connecticut river, S. by Massachusetts, and W. by New York. Situated between 42°44' and 45°N. Latitude, and 73°16' and 71°20'W. Longitude.
Vermont is divided into 14 counties, to wit: Bennington, Windham, Rutland, Windsor, Addison, Orange, Chittenden, Washington, Caledonia, Franklin, Orleans, Lamoille, Essex and Grand Isle....
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The people of the territory now called the state of Vermont, having been connected with New York and having experienced great dissatisfaction with their connexion with that state, assembled in convention and on the 15th of January, 1777, declared themselves independent, and organized a government for themselves.
The hardy mountaineers, who had become impatient under their connexion with and dependence on the great state of New York, in pursuance of their own peculiar views of the rights and duties of a free and independent people, adopted many singular and peculiar provisions in their constitution.
The state is bounded N. by Lower Canada, E. by Connecticut river, S. by Massachusetts, and W. by New York. Situated between 42°44' and 45°N. Latitude, and 73°16' and 71°20'W. Longitude.
Vermont is divided into 14 counties, to wit: Bennington, Windham, Rutland, Windsor, Addison, Orange, Chittenden, Washington, Caledonia, Franklin, Orleans, Lamoille, Essex and Grand Isle....
1849 - Vermont's first railroad completed from Boston to Lake Champlain
Show more local history, news & stories
1868 - There is a little town in Vermont where the people have considerable fun with their "fence viewers."
One of the officers weighs three hundred pounds, another is six feet three inches tall, and the third is extremely small. It was recently voted that all fences on which the fat man could sit, which the tall man couldn't straddle, nor the little one crawl through, should be deemed legal fences.
1870 - It is stated on high authority, of actual statistics, that the people of Vermont - a State almost exclusively devoted to agriculture -
hold more money and other property per capita than the people of any other State in the Union.
1888 - In portions of Vermont and New Hampshire the mercury registered 30 degrees below zero on the 21st.
1895 - Vermont
Vermont' (named from the French Monts Verts or Verts Monts, i.e., "Green Mountains," the principal mountain-range in the state), the northwesternmost of the New England states of the American Union, bounded N. by the Canadian province of Quebec, E. by New Hampshire, the W. bank of the Connecticut River being the boundary line, S. by Massachusetts, and W. by New York, Lake Champlain and Poultney River dividing it from New York in part. In Lake Champlain there lie within the limits of this state the islands of North and South Hero, Isle La Motte, Hog, Wood, Butler's, Potter's, Providence, Straw, Gull, Fishbladder, Savage, and other islands, the most important of which, with a peninsula which extends into the lake from Canada, constitute the county of Grand Isle. The state is 150 miles long, from 35 to 85 miles wide, and has an area of 9565 square miles (land area, 9135 square miles), or 5,846,400 acres...
The Counties number 14, as follows: Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, ...
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The Counties number 14, as follows: Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, ...
1927 - November 4 - Flooding in Vermont caused 84 deaths
A great Vermont flood occurred. Tropical rains deluged the Green Mountain area of Vermont causing the worst flood in the history of the state. Torrential rains, up to 15 inches in the higher elevations, sent streams on a rampage devastating the Winooski Valley. Flooding claimed 200 lives and caused 40 million dollars damage.
1936 - February 24th - 25th - Vermont and New Hampshire received brown snow due to dust from storms in the Great Plains Region. A muddy rain fell across parts of northern New York State.
1965 - August 29 - A national record for the month of August was established when 2.5 inches of snow fell atop Mount Washington NH.
Temperatures in New England dipped to 39 degrees at Nantucket MA, and to 25 degrees in Vermont. For many location it was the earliest freeze of record.
Vermont has something to offer for everyone. So, here's a list of places to go and things to do in the Green Mountain State:
1. Explore Burlington: Start your Vermont adventure in Burlington, the state's largest city, located on the shores of Lake Champlain. Stroll along the bustling Church Street Marketplace, visit the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, and enjoy the vibrant arts scene.
2. Lake Champlain: Spend some time on Lake Champlain. You can go sailing, kayaking, or simply relax on the beaches. Don't forget to take a scenic cruise to enjoy breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains.
3. Hike the Green Mountains: Vermont is famous for its lush Green Mountains. Go hiking in places like Smugglers' Notch State Park, Camel's Hump State Park, or Mount Mansfield, the state's highest peak, for some stunning vistas.
4. Skiing and Snowboarding: In the winter, Vermont is a haven for skiers and snowboarders. Head to popular ski resorts like Stowe, Killington, Jay Peak, or Sugarbush for some downhill fun.
5. Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour: Visit the iconic Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory in...
Read more
2. Lake Champlain: Spend some time on Lake Champlain. You can go sailing, kayaking, or simply relax on the beaches. Don't forget to take a scenic cruise to enjoy breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains.
3. Hike the Green Mountains: Vermont is famous for its lush Green Mountains. Go hiking in places like Smugglers' Notch State Park, Camel's Hump State Park, or Mount Mansfield, the state's highest peak, for some stunning vistas.
4. Skiing and Snowboarding: In the winter, Vermont is a haven for skiers and snowboarders. Head to popular ski resorts like Stowe, Killington, Jay Peak, or Sugarbush for some downhill fun.
5. Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour: Visit the iconic Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory in...
GENEALOGY IN VERMONT
Discover YOUR Roots: Vermont Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Vermont through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Vermont, USA
We currently have information about 536 ancestors who were born or died in Vermont.
View ancestors by year of birthMARRIAGES
Ancestors Who Were Married in Vermont, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Vermont.
View married ancestorsRESEARCH RESOURCES
Genealogy Resources and General Items of Interest for Vermont
Vermont Land Records, Early to 1900
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org: How to Find Your Family History on the World's Largest Free Genealogy Website
History of Chittenden County, Vermont With Illustrations and Biographical Sketches of Some of Its Prominent Men and Pioneers
Edited By W. S. Rann, Syracuse, N. Y. D. Mason & Co., Publishers, 1886
Edited By W. S. Rann, Syracuse, N. Y. D. Mason & Co., Publishers, 1886
History of Addison County, Vermont, With Illustrations And Biographical Sketches of Some Of Its Prominent Men and Pioneers.
Edited by H. P. Smith. Syracuse, N. Y.;
D. Mason & Co., Publishers, 1886
Researching Your Colonial New England Ancestors
Researching Your Colonial New England Ancestors
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Updated: 11/18/2024 7:43:16 PM
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