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History of Westfield, Vermont, USA
Journey back in time to Westfield, Vermont, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Westfield, Vermont, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Westfield
Westfield is a town in Orleans County, Vermont. It's located in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom and offers a rural way of life.
Chartered on May 15, 1780, Westfield was one of six towns granted as part of a fund- raising effort. Colonel William Williams of Wilmington, Vermont, among others, had served on a legislative committee that came up with the solution of selling these lands for raising funds. Only two grantees paid their granting fees on time and were chartered that May: Enosburg and Westfield. Out of several explanations for Westfield’s town name, the most plausible is that it was named after the Honorable William West, Esquire, a distinguished resident of Scituate, Rhode Island and one of several New England legislators supporting statehood for Vermont. West sold this and other lands he had been given for his political services in 1785, and there is no record of him ever visiting the area... westfield.vt.gov
Chartered on May 15, 1780, Westfield was one of six towns granted as part of a fund- raising effort. Colonel William Williams of Wilmington, Vermont, among others, had served on a legislative committee that came up with the solution of selling these lands for raising funds. Only two grantees paid their granting fees on time and were chartered that May: Enosburg and Westfield. Out of several explanations for Westfield’s town name, the most plausible is that it was named after the Honorable William West, Esquire, a distinguished resident of Scituate, Rhode Island and one of several New England legislators supporting statehood for Vermont. West sold this and other lands he had been given for his political services in 1785, and there is no record of him ever visiting the area... westfield.vt.gov
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VINTAGE WESTFIELD
Westfield Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Westfield, Vt., Main St., Looking North, 1906
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Main St. South from Park, Westfield, Vt.
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Town of Westfield, Vt., 1907
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Congregational Church, 1907
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Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Main St., Westfield, Vt.
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Main St., South
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Mill Brook Scene
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Main St., North
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Winter Street Scene
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Miller & Carter's Store
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Grayholm for Tourists
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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New Church
Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Covered Bridge
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to WESTFIELD
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 Westfield: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Westfield through the years.
Westfield was chartered on May 15, 1780 by the Vermont Legislature.
It is the least densely populated town in the county of Orleans. The town was named after Rhode Island general and politician, William West, a supporter of Vermont statehood.
1800 - Population of Westfield, Vermont - 16
1810 - Population of Westfield, Vermont - 149
1820 - Population of Westfield, Vermont - 225
Westfield’s only post office was located in the village in 1830 when the population of the town was just over 350.
1830 - Population of Westfield, Vermont - 353
1839 - Westfield
Westfield, Vermont
Orleans county. A number of the branches of Missisque river meet in this town, and afford a good water power. A part of the surface of Westfield is mountainous; through which is a pass in the Green mountains, called Hazen's Notch. Westfield was first settled about the year 1800. It lies 42 miles N. from Montpelier and 44 N.E. from Burlington. Population, 1830, 353.
Orleans county. A number of the branches of Missisque river meet in this town, and afford a good water power. A part of the surface of Westfield is mountainous; through which is a pass in the Green mountains, called Hazen's Notch. Westfield was first settled about the year 1800. It lies 42 miles N. from Montpelier and 44 N.E. from Burlington. Population, 1830, 353.
1840 - Population of Westfield, Vermont - 370
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1849 - Westfield
Orleans Co. A number of the branches of Missisco River meet in this town, and afford a good water power. A part of the surface of Westfield is mountainous, and in the town is the pass in the Green Mountains called Hazen's Notch.
Boundaries. North by Jay, east by Troy, south by Lowell, and west by Montgomery.
First Settlers. The settlement of Westfield was commenced about the year 1790, by Jesse Olds, a Mr. Hobbs, and others.
There are in this town a variety of religious denominations.
Productions of the Soil. Wheat, 917 bushels ; Indian corn, 958 bushels ; potatoes, 19,190 bushels; hay, 1,221 tons; maple sugar, 11,375 pounds; wool, 3,711 pounds.
Distances. Ten miles north-west from Irasburgh, and forty-four miles north from Montpelier.
Boundaries. North by Jay, east by Troy, south by Lowell, and west by Montgomery.
First Settlers. The settlement of Westfield was commenced about the year 1790, by Jesse Olds, a Mr. Hobbs, and others.
There are in this town a variety of religious denominations.
Productions of the Soil. Wheat, 917 bushels ; Indian corn, 958 bushels ; potatoes, 19,190 bushels; hay, 1,221 tons; maple sugar, 11,375 pounds; wool, 3,711 pounds.
Distances. Ten miles north-west from Irasburgh, and forty-four miles north from Montpelier.
1854 - Westfield
Westfield, a post-township in Orleans co., Vermont, 44 miles N. from Montpelier. Population, 602.
1895 - Westfield
Westfield, a post-hamlet of Orleans co., Vt., in Westfield township, about 37 miles E. by N. of St. Albans. It has 2 churches, and manufactures of lumber and starch. The township is intersected by the Missisquoi River. Pop. of township, 721.
1906
Westfield, a post-township (town) of Orleans co., Vt., about 37 miles E. by N. of St. Albans. Pop. in 1900, 646.
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Westfield, Vermont:
1. Jay Peak Resort:
One of the biggest attractions in the area is Jay Peak Resort, which is just a short drive away from Westfield. This year-round resort offers activities like skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking, mountain biking, and a fantastic water park in the summer. The Jay Peak Golf Course is also a hit among golf enthusiasts.
2. Long Trail State Forest:
If you're a fan of hiking, Westfield offers access to the Long Trail State Forest, which is part of the famous Long Trail system that stretches across Vermont. You can embark on scenic hikes and enjoy the beautiful Vermont wilderness. Don't forget to pack a picnic and your camera for some great photo opportunities.
3. Lake Memphremagog:
Westfield is located near Lake Memphremagog, a stunning glacial lake that spans the U.S.-Canada border. You can enjoy a day of swimming, fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake's crystal-clear waters. There are also boat tours available if you want to relax and...
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One of the biggest attractions in the area is Jay Peak Resort, which is just a short drive away from Westfield. This year-round resort offers activities like skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking, mountain biking, and a fantastic water park in the summer. The Jay Peak Golf Course is also a hit among golf enthusiasts.
2. Long Trail State Forest:
If you're a fan of hiking, Westfield offers access to the Long Trail State Forest, which is part of the famous Long Trail system that stretches across Vermont. You can embark on scenic hikes and enjoy the beautiful Vermont wilderness. Don't forget to pack a picnic and your camera for some great photo opportunities.
3. Lake Memphremagog:
Westfield is located near Lake Memphremagog, a stunning glacial lake that spans the U.S.-Canada border. You can enjoy a day of swimming, fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake's crystal-clear waters. There are also boat tours available if you want to relax and...
GENEALOGY IN WESTFIELD
Discover YOUR Roots: Westfield Ancestry
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BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Westfield, Vermont, USA
We currently have information about 8 ancestors who were born or died in Westfield.
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Ancestors Who Were Married in Westfield, Vermont, USA
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Updated: 1/13/2025 10:56:38 AM
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