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History of Brighton, Vermont, USA
Journey back in time to Brighton, Vermont, USA
(Gilead) (Random) (Island Pond)
Explore Brighton, Vermont, USA! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.Brighton Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to BRIGHTON

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.

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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!
Discover Brighton: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1839 - Brighton
A town in Essex county. Population, 1830, 105.
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
A town in Essex county. Population, 1830, 105.
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 - Brighton
Essex Co. This town was named Random by the Hon. Joseph Brown, it being a random purchase from an agent sent to Providence, from Vermont. The name was altered to Brighton, November 3, 1832. The settlement was commenced in 1823, by Enos Bishop ; and John Stevens moved his family into the town in 1825. The settlement is mostly in the westerly part of the town. The town was organized in March, 1832.
The township is watered chiefly by Ferren's River, and other head branches of Clyde River, but some of the head branches of the Passumpsic and Nulhegan Rivers originate here. Pitkin's Pond and Knowlton Lake discharge their waters through Clyde River. This is considered a very good township of land, and contains much excellent white pine timber, with several fine mill sites.
Boundaries. Northerly by Wenlock, easterly by Ferdinand, southerly by Newark and a part of Westmore and East Haven, and westerly by Charleston.
Productions of the Soil Wheat, 358 bushels ; Indian corn, 54 bushels... Read MORE...
Essex Co. This town was named Random by the Hon. Joseph Brown, it being a random purchase from an agent sent to Providence, from Vermont. The name was altered to Brighton, November 3, 1832. The settlement was commenced in 1823, by Enos Bishop ; and John Stevens moved his family into the town in 1825. The settlement is mostly in the westerly part of the town. The town was organized in March, 1832.
The township is watered chiefly by Ferren's River, and other head branches of Clyde River, but some of the head branches of the Passumpsic and Nulhegan Rivers originate here. Pitkin's Pond and Knowlton Lake discharge their waters through Clyde River. This is considered a very good township of land, and contains much excellent white pine timber, with several fine mill sites.
Boundaries. Northerly by Wenlock, easterly by Ferdinand, southerly by Newark and a part of Westmore and East Haven, and westerly by Charleston.
Productions of the Soil Wheat, 358 bushels ; Indian corn, 54 bushels... Read MORE...
1855 - Amusing Incident
The Caledonian relates an amusing incident that occurred at the Island Pond, Vt. Passenger House, on the 31st inst. - Among the passengers on the Montreal train, was an extremely large personage in the shape of a female. Her head and shoulders, the Caledonian says, were covered with a large old-fashioned shawl fastened under the chin, while from underneath the shawl hung a large mass of uncombed black hair, completely covering the upper part of her face. On her left arm she carried a satchel somewhat the worse for wear, while with her right hand she was vainly endeavoring to keep a faded calico dress of magnificent dimensions from dragging upon the platform; a more uncouth figure could not well be imagined. After causing a great deal of merriment, she asked if she was in the States. On being answered in the affirmative she said she would take the liberty of divesting herself of a portion of her clothes, which she accordingly did to the, probably, no little astonishment of the amused... Read MORE...
The Caledonian relates an amusing incident that occurred at the Island Pond, Vt. Passenger House, on the 31st inst. - Among the passengers on the Montreal train, was an extremely large personage in the shape of a female. Her head and shoulders, the Caledonian says, were covered with a large old-fashioned shawl fastened under the chin, while from underneath the shawl hung a large mass of uncombed black hair, completely covering the upper part of her face. On her left arm she carried a satchel somewhat the worse for wear, while with her right hand she was vainly endeavoring to keep a faded calico dress of magnificent dimensions from dragging upon the platform; a more uncouth figure could not well be imagined. After causing a great deal of merriment, she asked if she was in the States. On being answered in the affirmative she said she would take the liberty of divesting herself of a portion of her clothes, which she accordingly did to the, probably, no little astonishment of the amused... Read MORE...
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Brighton, Vermont:
Island Pond: Start your journey by visiting Island Pond, the largest lake in the Northeast Kingdom. It's perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming during the summer months. You can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from local outfitters and explore the pristine waters. In the winter, the lake transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering opportunities for ice fishing and snowmobiling.
Brighton State Park: This park is a must-visit for nature lovers. It features a 5,200-acre forest, including Spectacle Pond, which is great for picnicking, swimming, and fishing. There are several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially during the fall foliage season.
Snowmobiling: Brighton is a paradise for snowmobilers in the winter. The VAST (Vermont Association of Snow Travelers) trail system winds its way through the town, providing miles of well-groomed trails for snowmobile enthusiasts. You can rent snowmobiles or join a guided tour to explore... Read MORE...
Island Pond: Start your journey by visiting Island Pond, the largest lake in the Northeast Kingdom. It's perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming during the summer months. You can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from local outfitters and explore the pristine waters. In the winter, the lake transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering opportunities for ice fishing and snowmobiling.
Brighton State Park: This park is a must-visit for nature lovers. It features a 5,200-acre forest, including Spectacle Pond, which is great for picnicking, swimming, and fishing. There are several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially during the fall foliage season.
Snowmobiling: Brighton is a paradise for snowmobilers in the winter. The VAST (Vermont Association of Snow Travelers) trail system winds its way through the town, providing miles of well-groomed trails for snowmobile enthusiasts. You can rent snowmobiles or join a guided tour to explore... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Brighton Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Brighton, Vermont, USA
We currently have information about 10 ancestors who were born or died in Brighton.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Brighton, Vermont, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Brighton.View Them Now
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