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History of Burlington, Vermont, USA
Journey back in time to Burlington, Vermont, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Burlington, Vermont, USA.
About Burlington
Vermont's largest city, Burlington, is situated on the shores of Lake Champlain. It's known for its vibrant downtown, cultural events, and the University of Vermont.
Burlington derived its name from the Burling family, of New York.
How New England Towns Received Their Names
The Day
New London, Connecticut
October 21, 1914
Burlington was the site of the world’s first international hockey match. The game took place in 1886, between the Montreal Crystals and the local Van Ness House hockey team. The Montreal Crystals won 3-0.
Burlington Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Valuable Book Given Free to Our Readers
Wells, Richardson & Co., Burlington, Vt.
The Ladies' Home Journal
May 1898
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Wholesale Paints, Oils, Brushes and Varnishes
1907

"The fire was the result of an internal explosion which killed 2 men. The city of Burlington and local merchants banded together to help rebuild this business with help from outside also. The employees were paid their weeks wage , though the fire happened on a Thursday with extra kicked in to cover loss of personal items . Local employers offered them work until the factory was rebuilt and running, which it was. The plant was rebuilt and in 1919 , there was a strike there when wages were cut. In 1923, the plant closed after the market collapsed . The Vermont shareholders finally wrestled the control of the company from the Mass parent firm and formed the Vermont Milk Chocolate factory , re-opening the plant late 20's operating until 1939. They also leased space to other companies, among them the Everpure Ice Company , whom they took to court to take possession of assets after that company folded in ... Read more
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to BURLINGTON

VERMONT Ancestors Genealogy Mug - Maple Syrup, Skiing and Craft Breweries - Vermont Roots Gift
Vermont ancestry explains a lot. 🍁 Celebrate your Green Mountain roots with a playful mix of skiing, pure maple syrup, sugar on snow, Vermont creemees, craft breweries, covered bridges and mountain scenery, all wrapped up in a vintage-inspired tribute to the place your ancestors called home.

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 Burlington: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Burlington through the years.
This is the chief town in the county of Chittenden. It is delightfully situated upon the tongue of land formed by the confluence of the Winooski, or Onion river, with lake Champlain. This is the most important town in Vermont. It lies in lat. 44° 27' N., and in lon. 73° 15' W. It is 38 miles W.N.W. from Montpelier, 62 S. by E. from St. Johns, L.C., 80 S.S.E. from Montreal, 70 N. from Whitehall, 22 S.E. from Plattsburgh, 10 miles across the lake to Port Kent, N.Y. and 440 from Washington.
Although some beginnings were made before that event, no permanent settlement was effected in this township till about the close of the revolution in 1783. The town was organized by the election of town officers about the year 1786. The surface of the township is agreeably diversified, and is so much elevated above the lake that the air is pure and wholesome.
This town is not surpassed in beauty of location by any one in New England. It lies on the east shore of Burlington...
The surface of the township is agreeably diversified, and is so much elevated above the lake that the air is pure and wholesome.
This town is not surpassed in beauty of location by any one in New England. It lies on the east shore of Burlington Bay, and occupies a gentle declivity, descending towards the west, and terminated by the waters of the lake. The principal streets, running east and west, are one mile in length, and these are intersected at right angles, by streets running north and south, and cutting the whole village into regular squares. A large share of the business on Lake Champlain centres at this place, and the town is rapidly increasing in wealth and consequence.
There are regular daily lines...
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The Steam Saw Mill, Machine Shop, and Iron Foundry owned by Henry Symonds, at Burlington, Vt., was yesterday morning destroyed by fire, together with an adjoining dwelling-house.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Volume 2 Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859
The fire had its origin, it is thought, from some defect in the furnace draught, for the damage from flames was largely confined to the portion of the building over the furnace. Mr. Lord built a fire early in the morning and a short time later notified that smoke was coming from the building.
When the department arrived large clouds of smoke were pouring from the building and the fire had gotten into the partitions, necessitating the use of a large...
Waterfront Park: Burlington's waterfront area along Lake Champlain is a gem. You can take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the waterfront, have a picnic, or simply relax on the grass. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year.
ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: This interactive science and nature museum is perfect for families. It features a range of exhibits related to the ecology and history of Lake Champlain. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on displays and the opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem.
Lake Champlain Cruises: Take a boat tour on Lake Champlain to enjoy breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains and the Vermont shoreline. Various...
Discover YOUR Roots: Burlington Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Burlington through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Burlington, Vermont, USA
We currently have information about 298 ancestors who were born or died in Burlington.
View ancestors by year of birthAncestors Who Were Married in Burlington, Vermont, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Burlington.
View married ancestorsAncestors buried in Burlington - Cemeteries in Burlington, Vermont, USA
Old Mt. Calvary CemeterySearch Burlington Genealogy
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