Charleston, Vermont, USA (East, West)
1849 Charleston

Orleans Co. The principal stream in this town is Clyde River, which enters the township in Brighton, and runs north-westerly nearly through its centre, into Salem. There are some falls of consequence on this stream, particularly the Great Falls, where the descent is more than 100 feet in forty rods, but its current is generally slow. The alluvial flats along this stream are extensive, but generally too low and wet for cultivation. In the southeast part of the township are 1,000 acres of bog meadow, in a body, upon this river. There are several considerable ponds. Echo Pond, the most important, is in the northern part, and was named by Gen. J. Whitelaw, on account of the succession of echoes which are usually heard, when any sound is produced in its vicinity. It is one and a half miles long and half a mile wide. The stream which discharges the waters of Seymour's Lake, in Morgan, into Clyde River, passes through this pond. On the outlet mills are erected. The other pond of most consequence is called Pension Pond, and lies in the course of Clyde River. These ponds abound in fish, and large quantities are annually caught. There are two small villages situated upon Clyde River, about six miles apart, designated as East Charleston and West Charleston. The soil of the township is a rich loam, and produces good crops, and the roads and business of the town are rapidly improving.

Boundaries. North-east by Morgan, south-east by Brighton, south-west by a part of Westmore and Brownington, and north-west by Salem.

First Settlers. The settlement of this township was commenced in 1803, by Andrew McGaffey, who this year moved his family here from Lyndon. Mrs. McGaffey died Oct. 30, of this year, which was the first death in town. In July, Abner Allyn also moved his family here, and his was the second family in town. In 1804 Joseph Seavey moved his family here ; Orin Percival, his in 1805 ; and from this time the settlement proceeded more rapidly.

First Ministers. The dates of the settlement of the first ministers in this town are not given. The Freewill Baptists are the most numerous denomination of Christians. There are, however, other denominations, all of which are generally supplied by itineant preachers.

Productions of the Soil. Wheat, 1,431 bushels ; Indian corn, 467 bushels ; potatoes, 26,279 bushels ; hay, 1,499 tons ; maple sugar, 23,965 pounds ; wool, 2,861 pounds.

Distances. Twelve miles east from Irasburgh, and fifty-four north-east from Montpelier.

A gazetteer of Vermont... by John Hayward Boston - Tappan, Whittemore, and Mason 1849

Visit Charleston, Vermont, USA (East, West)
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.