Early Settlement Long before the European settlers arrived in what is now Vermont, Native peoples camped, hunted and fished their way up and down the Champlain Valley. Chimney Point State Historic Site, tells the story of not only these original Vermonters, but also the French who were to follow them in securing this strategic location. One of the nation’s oldest log cabins, and an early schoolhouse are illustrate early building styles and community life. Revolutionary War During the summer of 1777 the tide turned for the Colonists in the Revolutionary War. Mount Independence and Hubbardton played crucial roles in the eventual defeat of the British. Today these Vermont State historic sites (and the Bennington Battle Monument and the Old Constitution House – where delegates from the newly formed Republic of Vermont crafted their constitution) bring this history to life through reenactments, lectures, living history, exhibits and special events. U.S. Presidents and Senators It was in Plymouth Notch, Vermont , that vacationing Vice President Calvin Coolidge was sworn in as the 30th President of the United States by the light of a kerosene lamp in his Vermont home. Today Plymouth Notch remains a pristine example of an early 20th century Vermont hill town. President Chester A. Arthur’s childhood home is also preserved, as is the gothic cottage style home, gardens and barns of Senator Justin Morrill. Bridges and Shipwrecks Not all history happens on land. Lake Champlain, one of the nation’s most historic waterways, contains countless shipwrecks dating back to the 1700’s. The state maintains five underwater historic sites for scuba divers. Inland, 106 historic covered bridges span rivers and streams. For more information about Vermont Historic Sites, and the numerous special events and programs, visit http://historicsites.vermont.gov |