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Category: History & Politics of Vermont

Explore the unique history and political culture of Vermont. From its founding ideals to modern-day legislation, this category covers key moments, people, and policies that shaped the Green Mountain State.

The Great Vermont Flood of 1927: What Happened and Where You Can Still See It Today
The Great Vermont Flood of 1927: What Happened and Where You Can Still See It Today

There’s a stretch of Route 2 through Bolton where the Winooski River squeezes in tight against the road, and on a gray November afternoon, after a few days of cold rain, it runs the color of strong tea. I slow down there every time. Not because the road is bad, but because I know what this river did on a November night almost a century ago, and the water still has that same restless look when it’s running high.

The Great Vermont Flood of 1927 is a big part of why central Vermont looks the way it does. It rewrote riverbanks, took out more than a thousand bridges, and killed 84 Vermonters in about a day and a half. It’s also the yardstick every flood since gets measured against, including Irene in 2011 and the July 2023 flood that put Montpelier underwater again.

If you live here, you’ve probably heard an older neighbor mention “the ’27 flood” like it happened a few winters back. If you’re visiting in stick season, you’ve likely driven right past its traces without knowing it. Here’s what actually happened, why it was so devastating, and where you can still see it on the landscape.

What happened in the Great Vermont Flood of 1927?

The rain started around 10 p.m. on November 2, 1927, and didn’t quit until late morning on November 4. On paper that doesn’t sound unusual. Vermont gets long, soaking rains every fall. But this storm carried tropical moisture up the coast and ran into another system moving across the country, and when all that warm, wet air hit the Green Mountains it was forced upward and wrung out over the state.

The worst of it came on the afternoon and evening of November 3, when parts of the state saw more than seven inches fall in roughly six hours. Somerset, high in the southern Green Mountains, recorded the biggest total at 9.68 inches. Most of Vermont landed somewhere between four and nine inches over the whole storm.

Merchants in Barre noticed water seeping into their basements around midday. By that night, the Winooski was rising about four feet an hour at its peak, and people living along it had minutes, not hours, to get out.

Why was the 1927 flood so bad in Vermont?

Timing did most of the damage. The fall of 1927 had already been unusually wet, so by early November the ground was saturated and the brooks were running full. The new rain had nowhere to go except straight downhill into rivers that were already near their banks.

Then there’s geography, which anyone who drives central Vermont understands in their gut. Our towns grew up along rivers because rivers powered the mills. Barre, Montpelier, Waterbury, Bolton, and Winooski are all strung along the same water, so when the Winooski rose, it rose through every one of them.

And in 1927 there was nothing upstream to slow it down. No flood control dams, no reservoirs built to hold back a surge. Just narrow valleys, old mill dams, and far more water than any of them could handle.

How many people died in the 1927 Vermont flood?

Eighty-four Vermonters died, which still makes it the deadliest natural disaster in state history. Fifty-five of those deaths were in the Winooski River basin alone. Around 9,000 people were left homeless, 1,285 bridges were lost, and the damage came to roughly $30 million in 1927 dollars.

The lieutenant governor in Barre

Among the dead was Vermont’s sitting lieutenant governor, S. Hollister Jackson of Barre. On the night of November 3 he tried to leap across what looked like a narrow rivulet of runoff. The ground beside it had been undercut by the water, and it collapsed as he jumped. He fell into the current and drowned, one of seven people lost in Barre.

The boardinghouse in Bolton

Bolton took one of the cruelest blows. When a dam gave way, the surge carried off a boardinghouse full of people. Nineteen died there, including Jennie Dupree Hayes, who ran the place, her daughter, her granddaughter, and sixteen men staying with her, many of them railroad workers.

When I drive through Bolton now, past the farm fields and the long views toward Camel’s Hump, it’s hard to picture. The valley is so quiet most of the year. Maybe that’s why the story stays with you.

Waterbury and Montpelier

About 20 people died in Waterbury, where the water stood around 18 feet high on Main Street. In Montpelier, the Winooski crested at 27.1 feet on the river gauge, and much of downtown sat under 8 to 10 feet of water. Photos from the Vermont Historical Society show men on a homemade raft drifting through the intersection of East State and Main early on November 4, with water up to the storefront windows.

The next day, the State House lawn was littered with lumber and wreckage. If you’ve ever read about why Montpelier became Vermont’s capital in the first place, it’s a striking picture: the seat of state government, buried in debris that floated down from upriver.

How did Vermont recover from the 1927 flood?

Vermonters started digging out before the rain had fully stopped. In downtown Barre, crews used hoses and buckets to clear mud from basements and first floors. Roads and rail lines were so torn up that some places could only be reached by air for a while. If you’ve read about the rise and fall of Vermont’s railroads, 1927 is one of the big turning points, with miles of track gone in a single night.

Governor John Weeks called the White House and asked President Coolidge, a Vermonter himself, to send help. Coolidge sent Commerce Secretary Herbert Hoover, who toured the wreckage and said he’d seen “Vermont at her worst, but Vermonters at their best.” That line still gets repeated every time the rivers come up.

In late November, the legislature met in a special session and approved an $8.5 million bond for rebuilding, paid back through a flood tax. Congress added federal relief money, and the Red Cross sent hundreds of thousands of dollars more.

Rebuilding the bridges

With 1,285 bridges gone, Vermont had to rebuild its road network almost from scratch. A lot of what washed away was wood, and a lot of what replaced it was steel and concrete. It’s one reason the older spans that made it through feel so precious now. When you go looking for Vermont’s covered bridges, the older ones are survivors in more ways than one.

The dams the CCC built

The long-term fix came during the Depression. Through the Civilian Conservation Corps, with the Army Corps of Engineers overseeing the work, three flood control dams went up on Winooski tributaries: East Barre, Wrightsville just north of Montpelier, and Waterbury. CCC crews also rebuilt the old clothespin factory dam in Montpelier and cleared the river channel through the gorge at Middlesex.

Waterbury was the big one. More than 2,000 men worked on it, many of them World War I veterans, and when it was finished in 1938 it was the largest earth-filled dam east of the Mississippi. Today the reservoir behind it is where a lot of us paddle and swim in summer, and most people floating there on a hot July afternoon have no idea it exists because of a November night in 1927.
Where can you see traces of the 1927 flood in Vermont today?

Once you know what to look for, the flood shows up all over central Vermont. A few places worth seeking out:
- The high water plaque in Waterbury. Mounted on the side of a downtown building, the 1927 marker sits roughly 15 feet above today’s ground, about 10 feet above the marker for Irene in 2011. Standing underneath it is humbling.
- Waterbury Dam and Reservoir. The most visible legacy of the flood, with state park land around the shoreline that makes for a quiet stick-season walk.
- Wrightsville Reservoir. Just north of Montpelier, this is the dam engineers watched closely during the July 2023 flood. It held.
- The Vermont Historical Society in Barre. Its library holds a deep collection of 1927 flood photographs, and many of them can be browsed online through Digital Vermont.
- Route 2 between Waterbury and Bolton. Drive it slowly and notice how close the river runs to the road. It explains the whole story without a single sign.
How does the 1927 flood compare to Irene and the 2023 flood?

Every big flood here gets compared to 1927, and none has matched it for loss of life. Irene in 2011 tore apart roads and towns across the southern and central parts of the state, but the 1927 high water marks still sit well above Irene’s in places like Waterbury.

In July 2023, the Winooski crested just over 21 feet in Montpelier, the highest since 1927 but still about six feet below that record. Downtown flooded again, shops on State and Main had to rebuild again, and neighbors showed up with shovels and pumps again. To a lot of us, it felt like Hoover’s line playing out a second time.

The dams built after 1927 did their job in 2023, but they also showed their age. There’s an ongoing conversation now about whether flood control designed in the 1930s can keep up with storms that seem to arrive more often.

That might be the real legacy of 1927. It isn’t just a set of old photographs in an archive. It’s the number people check the river gauge against, and the reason so many Vermonters get a little quiet when a November rain won’t let up.

The brooks up in the hills usually run clear again by morning, but down in the valleys, the river remembers exactly how high it has been.
Shop Green Mountain Peaks on Etsy

Bring a little piece of Vermont into your home with our curated collection of gifts, apparel, and seasonal favorites. From cozy hoodies and crewnecks to Vermont-themed gift boxes and cookbooks, each item is designed to celebrate the Green Mountain spirit.

Vermont-inspired designs and gift sets

Printed and packaged with care

Ships directly to your door

Visit Our Etsy Shop
Discover gifts, apparel, and Vermont treasures made to share and enjoy year-round.
November 3, 2026
The Bennington Triangle, Vermont’s Strangest Mystery
The Bennington Triangle, Vermont’s Strangest Mystery

The fog sits low on Route 9 on a late October morning, pooled in the hollows east of Bennington and stubborn about burning off. Past Woodford the road climbs, the maples thin out, and dark spruce crowds both shoulders. Somewhere to the north, tucked behind one ridge after another, sits Glastenbury Mountain.

Most people drive right through on their way to Brattleboro. But pull into the trailhead lot where the Long Trail crosses the highway, step out, and listen for a minute. The woods go quiet in a way that feels almost deliberate. This is the heart of the Bennington Triangle, and it holds the strangest unsolved mystery in Vermont.

Between 1945 and 1950, five people vanished in and around these woods. Only one was ever found. Nearly eighty years later, nobody can fully explain what happened, and every October the questions roll back in like the fog.

What Is the Bennington Triangle?

The Bennington Triangle is the name given to a stretch of wild, mostly roadless country in southwestern Vermont centered on Glastenbury Mountain. It takes in parts of Bennington, Woodford, Shaftsbury, and Somerset, plus the old township of Glastenbury itself. The name comes from Vermont folklorist Joseph Citro, who borrowed the idea from the Bermuda Triangle when he started connecting the disappearances in his books.

Don’t go looking for neat lines on a map. Citro has said it isn’t a literal triangle, just a pocket of wilderness with a long reputation for strangeness. The country around the mountain covers roughly 36 square miles of unbroken forest, which is a lot of nothing for a state as settled as Vermont.

A ghost town at the center of it all

Glastenbury wasn’t always empty. In the 1800s it was a working town built on logging and charcoal production, with kilns on the slopes and a small settlement called Fayville tucked into the hills. When the timber ran out, the people followed it, and by the early twentieth century the town had all but disappeared.

Today Glastenbury and Somerset are both unincorporated, looked after by a state-appointed supervisor because so few people live there. Hikers still stumble onto cellar holes, stone walls, and old kiln remnants under the ferns. It’s the kind of place where the forest has clearly taken something back, which is part of why the stories stick.

If you like this kind of local lore, it pairs well with our roundup of Vermont’s haunting urban legends. The Bennington Triangle is different in one important way, though. The people who vanished here were real, and some of their files were never closed.

Who Disappeared in the Bennington Triangle?

Five disappearances form the core of the story, all within about five years and all within a short drive of Glastenbury Mountain. On its own, each one might read like a sad but ordinary accident. Lined up together, they start to feel like something else.

Middie Rivers, November 1945

Middie Rivers was a 74-year-old hunting and fishing guide, an experienced woodsman by every account. On November 12, 1945, he was leading a party of four hunters back toward camp near Glastenbury Mountain when he moved out ahead of the group. He was never seen again.

Searchers combed the hollows, but they found no body, no gear, and no clear trail. For a man who’d spent his life in the woods, it was hard to explain.

Paula Jean Welden, December 1946

The case that made the Bennington Triangle famous happened on a Sunday afternoon, December 1, 1946. Paula Jean Welden, an 18-year-old sophomore at Bennington College, told her roommate she was heading out for a hike. She hitched a ride from campus toward Route 9 and set off on the Long Trail, heading north in the direction of Glastenbury Mountain.

She was dressed for a short walk, not a night in the woods. Hundreds of people searched for her, including students, faculty, National Guardsmen, and volunteers, and a $5,000 reward was posted. Nothing turned up.

The Paula Welden disappearance changed Vermont in a lasting way. The search exposed how thin local policing was at the time, and the following year the state created the Vermont State Police. Her case is still listed as unsolved.

James Tedford, December 1949

Three years to the day after Paula vanished, the story took a turn that still gives people chills. James Tedford, a 68-year-old World War I veteran who lived at the Bennington Soldiers’ Home, was riding a bus back to Bennington after visiting relatives in St. Albans. By most accounts he got on the bus, but he never got off in Bennington.

His disappearance went unreported for a full week. No one has ever explained where along that route he went.

Paul Jepson, October 1950

On October 12, 1950, eight-year-old Paul Jepson was left briefly in the family truck near the dump his parents looked after. When his mother came back a short while later, the truck was empty. Despite a large search through the surrounding woods, no trace of him was ever found.

Frieda Langer, October 1950

Just sixteen days later, on October 28, 1950, 53-year-old Frieda Langer set out on a hike with her cousin near the Somerset Reservoir, country she knew well. Somewhere along the way, she disappeared.

Hers is the only body ever recovered from the five cases, and even that discovery answered far fewer questions than people hoped.
What Really Happened in the Bennington Triangle?

Ask around in Bennington and you’ll get a different answer depending on who’s behind the counter. Some people roll their eyes at the whole thing. Others lower their voice a little.

The practical explanation

The simplest theory is the terrain itself. Glastenbury’s woods are steep, wet, and confusing, with brooks that seem to run every direction and ridgelines that look alike once the leaves are down. Winter shows up early at elevation, and someone who slips or gets turned around in late fall can be under snow within days.

It’s also worth remembering what a search looked like in the 1940s. There was no statewide police force until 1947, no cell phones, no thermal cameras, and no easy way to cover thousands of acres of thick forest. A person could be a quarter mile off the trail and never be seen.

The darker possibilities

Some investigators and later writers have suspected foul play, especially in the Welden case. Different people have come under suspicion over the years, but nothing was ever proven, and theories without evidence don’t do the families much good.

The folklore

Then there’s the side of the story that keeps it alive around campfires. Citro traced old accounts describing Glastenbury as a shunned place, including tales passed to early settlers about a stone on the mountain that swallowed people. Locals have added a few chapters since, from strange lights over the ridges to the Bennington Monster, a big hairy creature said to roam these hills.

None of it holds up to much scrutiny, and that’s sort of the point. If you enjoy this side of Vermont, our list of haunted locations in Vermont for brave souls covers more spots where the stories outlived the facts.

Can You Hike Glastenbury Mountain?

You can, and for experienced hikers it’s one of the more rewarding long days in southern Vermont. The usual approach follows the Long Trail north from the Route 9 trailhead between Bennington and Woodford, the same general direction Paula Welden was believed to be heading. Plan on roughly 20 miles round trip with more than 3,000 feet of climbing, so most people either start at first light or turn it into an overnight.

Goddard Shelter sits near the top, and the 3,747-foot summit has a fire tower that climbs above the spruce for a wide view of ridges in every direction. It’s a long way from the parking lot, and it feels like it.

What to know before you go in late fall
- Daylight goes fast in late October and November, so set a turnaround time and stick to it.
- The upper mountain often sees ice or early snow before the valleys do, even when Bennington feels mild.
- Cell service is spotty to nonexistent once you’re a few miles in.
- Hunting seasons run through the fall, so wear blaze orange on the trail.
- Tell someone exactly where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
If you’re heading out alone, our guide to solo hiking in Vermont covers the habits worth building before any long day in the woods. Given the history here, this is not the trail to skip them on.

A shorter way to feel the atmosphere

Not up for 20 miles? Even a short out-and-back from the Route 9 trailhead gets you into the dark, mossy conifer woods that give this area its mood. Go on a gray afternoon in stick season and you’ll understand pretty quickly why the stories took root.
Why Does the Bennington Triangle Still Fascinate Vermonters?

Part of it is timing. Five disappearances in five years, two of them exactly three years apart on December 1, and two more just sixteen days apart in October 1950. Patterns like that are hard to leave alone, whether or not they mean anything.

Part of it is the land. Southern Vermont is gentler than the north in a lot of ways, with rolling farms and tidy village greens, but Glastenbury is a reminder that real wilderness still sits a few miles from Main Street. Stand at the edge of it in late October and it’s easy to feel how small a person is out there.

And part of it is simply that the families never got answers. Behind the campfire stories are real names, real parents, and a college roommate who expected her friend back by dinner. That’s worth keeping in mind before treating the Bennington Triangle as just another spooky-season attraction.

The Long Trail still climbs north toward Glastenbury the same way it did in 1946, and the woods still aren’t saying what they know.
Shop Green Mountain Peaks on Etsy

Bring a little piece of Vermont into your home with our curated collection of gifts, apparel, and seasonal favorites. From cozy hoodies and crewnecks to Vermont-themed gift boxes and cookbooks, each item is designed to celebrate the Green Mountain spirit.

Vermont-inspired designs and gift sets

Printed and packaged with care

Ships directly to your door

Visit Our Etsy Shop
Discover gifts, apparel, and Vermont treasures made to share and enjoy year-round.
October 28, 2026
The Story Behind Vermont’s Witch Trials: Widow Krieger and the Hoosic River
The Story Behind Vermont’s Witch Trials: Widow Krieger and the Hoosic River

Late October in North Pownal, the Hoosic River runs low and dark under the bridge, the color of strong tea. The maples on the hillside have mostly let go by now, and the rock ledge above the water looks grayer than it did in summer. Right there on the riverbank, between the railroad tracks and a few quiet houses, stands a small cast metal sign that stops people mid-stride. It reads WITCH TRIAL.

Most of us learned about Salem in school, but very few people, lifelong Vermonters included, know that Vermont witch trials were a real thing at all. More accurately, that there was one. It happened on this stretch of river in the far southwest corner of the state, and the woman at the center of it lived to tell the tale.

This is the story of Margaret Krieger, the Widow Krieger of Pownal, and how a single paragraph in an old town history turned into one of the most talked about pieces of Vermont folklore every fall.

Did Vermont Have Witch Trials Like Salem?

Not like Salem. The 1692 Salem trials dragged dozens of people into court and ended in executions. Vermont was barely a line on a map back then, and by the time settlers were clearing farms along the Hoosic and the Connecticut, the worst of the New England witch panic was long over.

There is one documented exception, though. Around 1785, nearly a century after Salem, a widow in Pownal was accused of witchcraft and tested in the Hoosic River. Historians call it Vermont’s only known witch trial, and it’s often described as the last recorded witch trial in New England.

At the time, Vermont wasn’t even a state. It was the independent Republic of Vermont, a place still arguing over who owned which hillside and who got to make the rules. That detail ends up mattering a lot.

Who Was the Widow Krieger of Pownal?

For well over a century, nobody really knew. Almost everything we have about the trial comes from T.E. Brownell, who wrote a brief account for the Vermont Historical Gazetteer in 1867, more than 80 years after the fact. He called her the Widow Krieger (you’ll also see Kreiger and Gregor) and never gave a first name.

That changed thanks to Joyce Held, a Pownal resident and member of the Pownal Historical Society. She knew about a rocky outcrop in North Pownal called Krieger’s Rocks, sometimes Witch’s Rocks, but nobody could tell her where the name came from. When she came across Brownell’s passage in the early 2000s, she started digging, and she kept at it for years.

What she found was a real woman: Margaret (Margarete) Schumacher Krieger, born in the 1720s, who married Johann Krieger in 1741. The Kriegers were part of a small group of Dutch and German families working land along the Hoosic, and English colonists in the 1760s wrote them down as squatters. Johann ran a mill. Their son William died at the Battle of Bennington in 1777.

Margaret couldn’t read or write. Held tracked down her will, which she signed with a single letter, M.

A widow who didn’t need anyone’s help

When Johann died in 1785, Margaret was around 60 years old and suddenly on her own with a working mill and good river land. By most accounts she ran things capably and stayed independent, which for a widow on the 18th century frontier was unusual enough to make neighbors uneasy.

The wording that survives says a lot. She was accused, in the language of the day, of being an “extraordinary woman” with extraordinary powers. In a world where a woman managing her own affairs was considered odd, competence itself could look like witchcraft.

What Happened at the Pownal Witch Trial?

The test was the old trial by water, sometimes called swimming a witch. The logic went like this: if the accused floated, the devil was holding her up, so she was a witch. If she sank, she was innocent. You can see the problem with that.

According to local accounts, a group of townspeople acting as a sort of jury took Margaret down to the Hoosic, just below the rocks that would later carry her name, and put her in. Several retellings place it in winter, with the river partly iced over, which makes it even harder to picture.

She sank. And she was pulled out. The marker on the riverbank states it simply: she sank and was saved. Some versions of the story say one of her own accusers had a change of heart and went into the freezing water after her.

Margaret Krieger lived roughly five more years and died in 1790.

Why accuse her at all?

Held’s theory, which Bennington Museum curator Jamie Franklin has backed, has less to do with the supernatural and more to do with land. The Kriegers held acres along the river and a mill at a time when title disputes were everywhere in the young republic. With Johann gone, making his widow look dangerous may have been the easiest way to pry that property loose.

Nobody can prove motive more than two centuries later. But it fits a pattern you see again and again in witchcraft accusations: the accused is usually a woman, often older, a bit of an outsider, and holding onto something other people want.

How Was Vermont’s Only Witch Trial Rediscovered?

For most of the 20th century, the Pownal trial was a footnote that maybe a handful of local history buffs could recite. Then the pieces came together quickly.

Held’s genealogy work tied the legend to a real family. Franklin was building a “Haunted Vermont” exhibition at the Bennington Museum in 2023 and brought the story in. Together, the museum and the Pownal Historical Society secured a Legends & Lore roadside marker through the Vermont Folklife Center and the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, and it was dedicated in September 2023.

A segment on the trial for the public television series New England Legends later earned an Emmy nomination, and suddenly people well outside Bennington County were asking where Pownal even was.

The Witches’ Walk

My favorite part of the revival is the town’s annual Witches’ Walk each September at Strobridge Park in North Pownal. People show up in pointed hats and long skirts, cross the little bridge by the trial site, and spend the afternoon somewhere between remembrance and celebration. The fourth one happened this past September, and a few of Margaret’s descendants traveled to Vermont to be there.

It’s a lovely thing, honestly. A town that once dunked a widow in the river now gathers on the same bank to say her name out loud.
Were There Other Witch Hunts or Superstitions in Vermont?

No other formal witch trials have turned up, at least not yet. But early Vermont had plenty of folk fear, and its closest cousin to the Pownal story is the New England vampire panic.

In 1817, after 20-year-old Frederick Ransom of South Woodstock died of consumption (tuberculosis), his father had Frederick’s heart removed and burned in a blacksmith’s forge, hoping it would protect the rest of the family. We know because Frederick’s brother Daniel wrote about it decades later.

Then there’s the better known Woodstock tale, printed in the Vermont Standard in 1890, about a man named Corwin whose heart was supposedly burned in an iron pot on the Woodstock Village Green around 1830. The Woodstock History Center points out that the local paper of the time never mentioned it, so it lives somewhere between history and legend. Still, crossing that boat-shaped green on a raw November afternoon, it’s hard not to think about it.

None of these were witch trials, but they grew from the same soil: small communities facing sickness, loss, and things they couldn’t explain, and reaching for someone or something to blame. If this side of the state pulls you in, our roundup of haunting urban legends of Vermont and our look at Halloween traditions in old Vermont are good company for a dark evening.

Can You Visit the Vermont Witch Trial Site in Pownal?

You can, and it’s an easy stop if you’re anywhere near Bennington. The Legends & Lore marker stands on the bank of the Hoosic River in the Strobridge Recreation Area in North Pownal, right below Krieger’s Rocks. It’s a quiet place. Freight trains still roll through, the river keeps moving, and on a gray weekday you’ll likely have it to yourself.

A few tips for making a trip of it:
- Go in late fall. Stick season light, bare branches and low clouds, suits this story better than peak foliage does.
- Make it a Bennington history day. The Bennington Museum, the Bennington Battle Monument, and the Old First Church burying ground (where Robert Frost is buried) are all a short drive away.
- Catch the Witches’ Walk. Keep an eye on the Pownal Historical Society for next September’s date.
- Be a good guest. This is a small residential corner of town, so park considerately and keep your visit low-key.
Why her story still lands

Part of what makes the Krieger story stick is how ordinary the setting is. There’s no castle, no courthouse, no gallows. Just a working river, a mill family, and neighbors who decided a woman doing fine on her own had to be up to something.

The other part is that she survived. Margaret Krieger sank, came back up, and went on living in the same town as the people who put her in the water. That takes a kind of nerve you don’t read about in many history books.

The river at North Pownal doesn’t look like the scene of anything, and maybe that’s the most unsettling part of all.
Shop Green Mountain Peaks on Etsy

Bring a little piece of Vermont into your home with our curated collection of gifts, apparel, and seasonal favorites. From cozy hoodies and crewnecks to Vermont-themed gift boxes and cookbooks, each item is designed to celebrate the Green Mountain spirit.

Vermont-inspired designs and gift sets

Printed and packaged with care

Ships directly to your door

Visit Our Etsy Shop
Discover gifts, apparel, and Vermont treasures made to share and enjoy year-round.
October 26, 2026
Vermont’s Railroads: From Glory to Ghosts

Relive the rise and fall of the railroads that built Vermont. Continue reading below 👇

The Rise and Fall of Vermont’s Railroads

August 5, 2026
A Journey Through Smugglers’ Notch: Vermont’s Secret History

The Hidden History of Smugglers’ Notch: Bootleggers, the Embargo Act, and Vermont’s Most Rebellious Pass

July 29, 2026
Exploring Vermont’s Unique Thanksgiving Foods and Customs
Thanksgiving has long been a holiday of gratitude and gathering, but in Vermont it carries a special history tied to the state’s landscape and traditions. From early proclamations during the days of the Vermont Republic to modern farm-to-table feasts, the story of Thanksgiving here reflects both New England roots and distinctly local flavor.

Early Roots of Thanksgiving in New England

The earliest origins of Thanksgiving in America come from the Pilgrims and Puritans of Massachusetts. These early settlers held days of prayer and feasting to mark the end of harvest and to give thanks for survival in difficult times. As migration spread northward, families moving into the Green Mountains carried those customs with them. Vermont’s first communities often looked south to Massachusetts and Connecticut for religious and cultural traditions, adapting them to the harsher northern climate and rugged terrain.

While the concept of giving thanks was not unique to New England, the practice of declaring an annual day of gratitude became firmly rooted in the culture, eventually spreading into Vermont’s earliest towns and villages.

Vermont’s First Official Thanksgiving Proclamations

One of the most fascinating chapters in Vermont’s Thanksgiving history comes from the period when Vermont existed as an independent republic, from 1777 to 1791. During those years, Vermont’s governors issued proclamations calling for days of thanksgiving and prayer. These proclamations often reflected both the religious life of the time and the agricultural cycles that defined survival in the northern hills.

Even after Vermont joined the Union in 1791, the tradition of issuing proclamations continued. Local leaders would declare a day of thanks in late autumn, often aligning with the harvest season and emphasizing moral reflection, gratitude for freedom, and community support. For many Vermonters, Thanksgiving became both a civic and religious occasion that reinforced the tight-knit bonds of rural life.

The 19th Century and Thanksgiving’s Growth in Vermont

The 1800s saw Thanksgiving evolve into a more recognized holiday across New England, thanks in part to the advocacy of writer and editor Sarah Josepha Hale. Her decades-long campaign to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday resonated in Vermont, where local papers often reprinted her calls for unity through gratitude.

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday during the Civil War. Vermonters, who were deeply involved in the war effort, embraced the proclamation with a mixture of solemnity and relief. Churches across the state preached sermons on gratitude and perseverance, while families gathered to share meals that showcased local harvests.

Newspapers from the period describe tables laden with turkey, squash, cranberries, and pies, all grown and prepared in Vermont households. These accounts illustrate how the holiday became a cornerstone of family and community life.

Traditional Vermont Thanksgiving Foods

Food has always been central to Vermont’s Thanksgiving traditions. While turkey was the centerpiece, Vermont tables often included dishes unique to the region. Maple syrup, harvested in the spring but cherished year-round, flavored pies, glazes, and sauces. Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and turnips filled the plates alongside hearty stews made with venison or other local game.

Dairy products also gave Vermont’s Thanksgiving a unique stamp. Sharp cheddar cheese frequently appeared on holiday tables, whether paired with apple pie or served as part of a simple platter. These foods reflected the agricultural abundance of the state and created traditions that remain part of the holiday today.

Community and Church Gatherings

In Vermont’s small towns, Thanksgiving was not only a family affair but also a community event. Churches and town halls often hosted large gatherings where neighbors came together to share food and fellowship. These meals helped ensure that even those without abundant harvests could enjoy a feast. Sermons, hymns, and prayers anchored the day, reinforcing both gratitude and social bonds.

Over time, these gatherings shifted from primarily religious services to more social occasions. By the late 1800s, the emphasis was as much on togetherness and celebration as on solemn reflection. For many Vermonters, Thanksgiving became a highlight of the year to reconnect with neighbors and reaffirm community ties.

20th Century Changes in Vermont Thanksgiving

The 1900s brought new changes to Vermont’s Thanksgiving traditions. As families grew more mobile, the focus shifted from large community dinners to intimate family meals. Rural churches remained important, but more celebrations happened at home around the dining table.

Hunting season also shaped the modern Vermont Thanksgiving. Many families built traditions around combining the holiday meal with hunting trips, gathering wild game in addition to the traditional turkey. Newspapers of the early and mid-20th century frequently published recipes for Thanksgiving, emphasizing both tradition and the use of local ingredients such as apples, squash, and maple syrup.

Modern Vermont Thanksgiving Traditions

Today, Thanksgiving in Vermont continues to be shaped by the land and local culture. Many families buy their turkeys directly from local farms, and farm-to-table practices highlight the freshness of squash, cranberries, and maple-based desserts. Farmers markets and co-ops often prepare special offerings in the weeks leading up to the holiday, making it easy to source local products for the feast.

Volunteerism and community spirit also remain strong. Soup kitchens, food shelves, and churches organize community dinners across the state, ensuring that no one spends the day alone or without a meal. Town parades, football games, and small-scale festivals add a festive atmosphere, while the holiday shopping season begins to stir in local downtowns.

Visiting Vermont for Thanksgiving Today

For visitors, Vermont offers a unique opportunity to experience Thanksgiving with a local twist. Many inns and bed-and-breakfasts serve special meals featuring traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients. Restaurants and bakeries often offer pies, breads, and side dishes that reflect Vermont’s culinary heritage.

Beyond the table, Thanksgiving in Vermont can be enjoyed outdoors. Late fall hikes offer quiet trails and starkly beautiful views during stick season, while small towns begin their holiday celebrations with craft fairs and local shopping events. Living history museums sometimes highlight 18th and 19th century Thanksgiving traditions, offering a glimpse into how the holiday was celebrated generations ago.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving in Vermont is more than a holiday meal. It is a reflection of history, community, and the enduring relationship between people and the land. From the proclamations of the Vermont Republic to today’s farm-to-table gatherings, the traditions have evolved while keeping gratitude at their heart. Whether you live here year-round or visit for the holiday, Vermont offers a Thanksgiving experience steeped in history and enriched by local flavor.
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November 22, 2025
Exploring Halloween Traditions in Old Vermont
Introduction: A Glimpse Into Vermont’s Spooky Past

Halloween in old Vermont looked very different from the holiday we know today. Instead of flashy costumes and candy overflowing from plastic buckets, celebrations were tied to the rhythms of the harvest, the stories whispered in small communities, and the traditions passed down from immigrant families. By looking back at how Vermonters once celebrated, we uncover a holiday that was simpler, sometimes darker, and deeply rooted in both community and superstition.

The Roots of Halloween in Rural Vermont

Much of Vermont’s early Halloween culture was shaped by Irish and Scottish immigrants. These groups carried with them the Celtic festival of Samhain, a holiday that marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year. In rural Vermont, where farming defined daily life, this seasonal shift was especially important.

The belief that spirits could cross more easily into the human world around this time blended naturally with Vermont’s own folklore. The long, cold nights and isolated villages gave rise to a culture that valued both storytelling and cautionary tales. Old World superstitions merged with local legends, creating a unique Vermont take on Halloween.

Bonfires and Harvest Gatherings

Long before pumpkin carving contests or downtown parades, Halloween often meant bonfires. Communities would gather on farm fields or town greens, piling wood high to light the night. These gatherings had a dual purpose: they were celebrations of the harvest and symbolic acts of protection against wandering spirits.

Food was central to these evenings. Families would bring what they had on hand—apple pies, maple sugar candies, roasted pumpkin seeds, or jugs of cider. Sharing food created a sense of unity during the season when farmers had just completed their hardest work of the year. The bonfires became both a practical source of warmth and a cultural anchor that tied Halloween to the harvest cycle.

Ghost Stories Told by Firelight

In a time before television or the internet, storytelling was one of Vermont’s greatest traditions. Halloween nights were the perfect stage for ghost stories. Families and neighbors would circle around fires or sit in dimly lit parlors, sharing tales that had been told for generations.

Many stories were tied to local legends. The tale of Emily’s Bridge in Stowe, said to be haunted by a young woman who died tragically, was a favorite in some regions. Others spoke of the mysterious Lake Champlain monster or the spirits rumored to linger in historic inns. The act of telling these stories reinforced community bonds and gave children a healthy dose of both fright and fascination.

Halloween Mischief in the Villages

Pranks were another hallmark of old Vermont Halloweens. Mischief Night, as it was sometimes called, saw local youth playing tricks on their neighbors. Rather than the egging or toilet-papering we might think of today, their mischief often involved tipping over wagons, removing gates from fences, or switching signs on shops.

While these antics sometimes caused frustration, they were usually tolerated as a harmless part of the season. Communities had an unspoken understanding that Halloween was a time for bending the rules, so long as no one was seriously harmed. Local constables kept an eye on the activities, stepping in only if the mischief went too far.

Costumes and Homemade Masks

Costumes in old Vermont were homemade out of necessity. Families could not purchase outfits from a store, so they used what they had on hand. Old sheets turned into ghostly figures, carved wooden masks gave children a frightful appearance, and worn farm clothes created makeshift disguises.

The homemade nature of these costumes added to their eerie quality. A rough-hewn mask or an oversized coat looked less polished but far more haunting under the glow of a lantern. This kind of creativity reflected the resourcefulness of Vermont families who made do with limited means.

Old Vermont Treats and Seasonal Foods

Halloween treats were not the bags of store-bought candy we associate with the holiday today. Instead, children might receive caramel apples, maple candy, cider donuts, or a slice of pumpkin pie. Neighbors often baked for one another, offering warm and hearty foods rather than small, packaged sweets.

Maple, a Vermont staple, often found its way into these seasonal treats. Maple taffy pulled on the snow or hard maple candies shaped like leaves were common indulgences. These foods tied the holiday to local agriculture and traditions, keeping the celebration closely linked to the land.

Churches, Community Halls, and Schoolhouse Celebrations

Not all Halloween gatherings were informal. Many communities organized events in schoolhouses, churches, or town halls. These parties included barn dances, apple bobbing, and parlor games. Parents appreciated these events as they provided a safer environment for children than roaming the countryside in the dark.

Church groups often hosted harvest parties around Halloween, blending secular traditions with community fellowship. These events became a hallmark of small Vermont towns, ensuring that Halloween was not only about pranks and ghost stories but also about coming together in joy and play.

Vermont Folklore and Superstitions

Halloween was also a time when old superstitions rose to the surface. Stories of witches wandering the hills, black cats crossing one’s path, or omens seen in the weather were common. Vermonters often paid attention to how the wind blew or how the sky looked on Halloween night, interpreting these signs as predictors for the winter ahead.

Some tales served as warnings to children, urging them not to wander too far from home. Others were playful, passed down as a way to keep the holiday mysterious. Whether believed or not, these superstitions gave Halloween an edge of the unknown, reinforcing its role as a night when the ordinary rules of the world felt suspended.

From Old Traditions to Modern Celebrations

By the early 20th century, Halloween in Vermont began to resemble the holiday we know today. Trick-or-treating gradually replaced the old style of neighborhood visits, and candy manufacturers shaped the modern culture of sweets. Yet many rural towns held on to elements of the past. Bonfires, ghost stories, and homemade treats remained part of small-town gatherings well into the mid-1900s.

Today, echoes of these old traditions can still be found. Communities across Vermont host harvest festivals, haunted hayrides, and storytelling nights that honor the spirit of the past. Though costumes are now store-bought and candy comes in bright wrappers, the charm of old Vermont Halloweens continues to inspire celebrations each fall.

Conclusion: Keeping the Spirit Alive

Halloween in old Vermont was a holiday woven from folklore, food, and fellowship. It reflected the creativity of rural families, the importance of community bonds, and the enduring power of spooky tales told by firelight. While modern traditions have changed how we celebrate, the heart of Halloween—the thrill of the unknown and the joy of gathering together—remains the same.

Visitors and locals alike can still find traces of this history in Vermont’s haunted inns, community festivals, and fall traditions. By looking back at how the holiday was once celebrated, we keep the spirit of old Vermont alive and add depth to our own Halloween memories.
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October 25, 2025
Emily’s Bridge: Vermont’s Haunted Gem and Ghostly Tale
Tucked away in the quiet town of Stowe lies one of Vermont’s most talked-about landmarks: Emily’s Bridge. Officially known as Gold Brook Bridge, this 19th-century covered bridge has gained a reputation as the most haunted place in Vermont. Its rustic setting, combined with chilling tales of heartbreak and ghostly encounters, has made it a must-visit destination for both history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts.

Where Is Emily’s Bridge?

Emily’s Bridge is located in Stowe, Vermont, just a short drive from the bustling village center. Stowe is well known for its ski slopes, hiking trails, and spectacular fall foliage, which makes the bridge an easy and popular stop during a Vermont road trip. Gold Brook Bridge itself spans a small creek on Gold Brook Road, about two miles from downtown Stowe.

Because of its location, visitors can easily pair a trip to Emily’s Bridge with a scenic drive through Stowe Hollow, a visit to local shops, or a walk through Stowe’s charming Main Street. The bridge is open year-round, but many people agree that fall, with its colorful leaves and crisp evenings, is the most atmospheric time to visit.

The History of Gold Brook Bridge

Before it became famous as Emily’s Bridge, the Gold Brook Bridge was simply one of many covered bridges in Vermont. Built in 1844, it is a classic example of the wooden covered bridge design that once dotted the state’s rural roads. Covered bridges were practical in their day, protecting wooden planks from snow and rain, and they quickly became an iconic feature of Vermont’s landscape.

While the bridge itself has a straightforward history as part of Stowe’s transportation network, its legend is anything but ordinary. The tale of “Emily” would emerge later, turning this unassuming bridge into one of the most haunted spots in New England.

The Legend of Emily

There are several versions of Emily’s story, but most begin with a young woman in love. The most common tale says Emily was supposed to meet her fiancé at the bridge to elope. When he never arrived, whether because of cold feet, disapproval from her family, or betrayal, Emily’s heartbreak became too much to bear. Consumed by grief, she ended her life at the bridge.

Other versions suggest Emily was left waiting for her lover on her wedding day, while another claims she died in an accident near the bridge. Like many ghost stories, the details have shifted over time, but the theme of love, loss, and tragedy remains central. This timeless combination has kept the legend alive for more than a century.

Reported Paranormal Activity

Stories of Emily’s restless spirit have drawn countless visitors to the bridge. Paranormal investigators, thrill-seekers, and curious travelers report a range of eerie experiences, including:
- Unexplained noises: Visitors describe hearing footsteps, screams, or dragging sounds echoing through the bridge at night.
- Scratches and claw marks: Some say their cars have been mysteriously scratched while parked near the bridge.
- Cold spots and shadows: Sudden chills and fleeting dark figures are common accounts among late-night visitors.
- Apparitions: A few have even claimed to see a ghostly woman in white, believed to be Emily herself.
Whether these stories are fueled by imagination or genuine encounters, they contribute to the lasting reputation of Emily’s Bridge as a paranormal hotspot.

Visiting Emily’s Bridge Today

For those eager to experience the legend firsthand, Emily’s Bridge is open to the public. However, it is important to remember that the bridge is still part of a functioning road. Cars cross the one-lane bridge daily, so visitors should use caution and avoid blocking traffic.

Parking is limited in the immediate area, but many visitors stop briefly to walk across the bridge and soak in the atmosphere. The best times to visit are during fall foliage season or around Halloween, when Stowe itself feels steeped in seasonal magic. At night, the quiet setting can feel especially eerie, but remember to stay respectful of the space and nearby residents.

Emily’s Bridge in Vermont Folklore

Ghost stories have long been a part of New England tradition, blending history with mystery. Emily’s Bridge stands out as Vermont’s most well-known haunted site, but it is far from the only one. Tales of haunted inns, old farmhouses, and mountain spirits are scattered throughout the state. What makes Emily’s Bridge unique is how it combines folklore with a tangible landmark, allowing visitors to step directly into the setting of the story.

Over time, the legend has become woven into Vermont’s cultural identity. Tourists come for the covered bridge charm and leave with a ghost story that adds depth to their trip. The story has also helped promote local ghost tours and seasonal events, contributing to Stowe’s reputation as a destination rich in both history and folklore.

Tips for Experiencing Emily’s Bridge

If you plan to add Emily’s Bridge to your Vermont itinerary, a few tips can make the experience even more memorable:
- Visit at dusk or after dark: The atmosphere is much more chilling once the sun goes down.
- Go with friends: Sharing the experience adds fun and safety.
- Pair with a Stowe outing: Stop by the bridge as part of a day exploring downtown Stowe, local breweries, or scenic hikes.
- Respect the site: The bridge is historic and still in use, so treat it with care.
Final Thoughts: The Enduring Allure of Emily’s Bridge

Emily’s Bridge remains one of Vermont’s most fascinating attractions, blending authentic history with enduring legend. Whether you believe in ghosts or simply enjoy a good story, the bridge offers a glimpse into Vermont’s culture of folklore and its appreciation for historic places. Its beauty, combined with the mystery of Emily’s tale, makes it a place that continues to captivate visitors year after year.

If you’re planning a trip to Vermont, a stop at Emily’s Bridge is more than just a sightseeing opportunity. It’s a chance to step into one of New England’s most famous ghost stories and decide for yourself whether the legend is real or just a chilling tale passed down through generations.
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October 14, 2025
Vermont in the War of 1812: Shipbuilders, Smugglers, and the Battle of Plattsburgh
The War of 1812 is often remembered for iconic events like the burning of Washington, the defense of Fort McHenry, and the Battle of New Orleans. Yet on the northern frontier, Vermont played a quieter but crucial role in shaping the outcome of the conflict. From its shipyards on Otter Creek to its strategic location along Lake Champlain, the state’s contributions were vital to securing the border and supporting the American war effort.

This is the story of Vermont’s place in America’s second fight for independence.

Vermont Before the War: A State on the Edge

In the years before 1812, Vermont sat in a complex position. Officially part of the United States, it shared a long and often porous border with British-controlled Canada.
- Trade across the border was common, both legal and illicit
- Smuggling became an established way of life for some communities
- Political divisions ran deep, with Federalists opposing the war and War Hawks calling for it
The Embargo Act of 1807, intended to pressure Britain and France by restricting American trade, hit Vermont’s merchants and farmers hard. Border communities relied on Canadian markets, and many saw the federal restrictions as an attack on their livelihoods.

Smugglers took to the back roads and mountain passes to move goods north. One of the most famous routes was Smugglers’ Notch, a narrow mountain pass near Stowe. During the embargo years, locals drove cattle through the notch at night, supplying beef to Canada in defiance of federal law. These covert operations not only sustained cross-border trade but also cemented the notch’s reputation as a lifeline for illicit commerce.

Lake Champlain: The Northern Key

Lake Champlain was the most important geographic feature for Vermont during the War of 1812. Stretching from the Canadian border into New York and Vermont, it was a vital waterway for moving troops and supplies.

For the British, control of the lake meant an open route into New York’s Hudson Valley. For the Americans, holding it was essential to protecting the northern frontier. Vermont’s western edge, with towns like Burlington and Vergennes, became a strategic line of defense.

Local militia units kept watch along the shoreline, while the U.S. military improved fortifications and prepared for possible invasions. Ferries, bridges, and roads on the Vermont side allowed rapid troop movements in case of attack.

Life in Wartime Vermont

While major battles often took place across the lake or at the Canadian border, Vermont still felt the effects of war.
- British raids and the threat of invasion kept communities on alert
- Shortages of goods due to trade restrictions impacted daily life
- Smuggling persisted, with some Vermonters quietly trading with Canada despite the war
- Women played a vital role in sustaining farms and businesses while men served in the militia
The northern counties bore the brunt of these pressures. Farmers and merchants faced both economic hardship and the constant worry that fighting could spill into their towns.

Key Engagements and Skirmishes

Although Vermont was not the site of large-scale battles like those in New York or along the Great Lakes, it still saw military action.
- Cross-border skirmishes took place between Vermont militia and British or Canadian forces
- Roads and trails in Vermont became essential for moving troops to the front lines in New York
- Small incidents, such as the capture of supply boats or clashes between patrols, were frequent
These smaller engagements rarely made headlines, but they played a role in keeping the British off balance and maintaining American control of key areas.

The Vergennes Shipyard and Naval Power

Perhaps Vermont’s most significant direct contribution to the War of 1812 came from the small city of Vergennes. Located on Otter Creek, about seven miles from Lake Champlain, Vergennes became the site of a major shipbuilding effort for the American navy.
- The location was ideal because Otter Creek’s narrow entrance could be easily defended
- Timber from Vermont’s forests was plentiful for ship construction
- Skilled laborers from the region contributed to the rapid building of vessels
In 1814, Commodore Thomas Macdonough oversaw the creation of several warships here, including the brig USS Saratoga. These ships would go on to play a central role in the decisive Battle of Plattsburgh later that year.

The Battle of Plattsburgh

Fought in September 1814, the Battle of Plattsburgh was the turning point for the northern theater of the war. While the battle took place across the lake in New York, Vermont’s contributions were essential.
- Vermont militia units provided manpower to support American defenses
- Supplies and reinforcements were funneled through Vermont roads and towns
- The ships built in Vergennes formed the backbone of the American naval fleet
Macdonough’s victory on the water, combined with the land forces’ success, forced the British to retreat and helped bring about favorable terms in the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the war.

Aftermath of the War in Vermont

When peace returned in 1815, Vermont began to recover from the war’s disruptions.
- Trade with Canada resumed, restoring economic stability to border towns
- Veterans returned home, bringing with them stories of service and hardship
- Political divisions began to soften, though debates over federal authority continued
- The shipbuilding skills developed during the war continued to benefit Vermont’s economy
The war also left behind a stronger sense of identity as a northern border state, with pride in having contributed to the nation’s defense.

Sites to Visit Today

For those interested in experiencing Vermont’s War of 1812 history, several locations still preserve its memory.
- Lake Champlain Maritime Museum – Offers exhibits on naval history, including the War of 1812
- Vergennes Falls Park – Near the historic Otter Creek shipyard location
- Historic markers in Burlington and along the Champlain Valley – Highlight military movements and key events
- Smugglers’ Notch – While best known today for its scenic beauty, it was a vital smuggling route during the embargo years that set the stage for Vermont’s role in the war
- Plattsburgh, NY – Just across the lake, with annual reenactments and museums that also tell Vermont’s side of the story
Walking these sites offers a tangible connection to a period when the future of the United States was far from certain and Vermont stood watch on the northern frontier.

Why Vermont’s Role Matters

The War of 1812 is sometimes overshadowed by the Revolutionary War and the Civil War in American memory. However, Vermont’s involvement shows how even a small state can have an outsized impact during times of conflict.
- Its shipyards produced vessels that changed the course of battle
- Its militia guarded a key section of the northern border
- Its communities endured economic hardship while contributing to the war effort
- Its mountain passes, like Smugglers’ Notch, supported clandestine trade that helped shape prewar tensions
By remembering these contributions, the story of Vermont in the War of 1812 becomes more than a footnote. It becomes a testament to resilience, resourcefulness, and strategic importance.

Conclusion

Vermont’s role in the War of 1812 was not marked by famous battles fought on its soil, but by the quiet strength of its people, the ingenuity of its shipbuilders, and the strategic value of its location. From the shipyards of Vergennes to the waters of Lake Champlain, and from the smuggling trails of Smugglers’ Notch to the militia outposts along the border, the state played a key part in securing the northern frontier.

Today, visiting these sites and learning these stories offers not just a history lesson, but a deeper appreciation for how Vermont helped shape the outcome of America’s second war for independence.
August 19, 2025
The Rise and Fall of Vermont’s Railroads

When Trains Ruled the Green Mountains

There was a time when you could stand almost anywhere in Vermont and hear a train. The low rumble of a steam engine working its way through a mountain pass, the sharp whistle cutting through a cold morning, the bustle of a small-town depot where people gathered like it was the center of the universe. Because for a long time, it was.

Vermont’s railroad story is one of the most dramatic in the state’s history. It goes from ambition and industry to abandonment and overgrown trails, with a lot of local legend packed in between. If you’ve ever walked a rail trail or spotted an old stone depot on the edge of a village, you’ve already touched a piece of it.

Laying the Tracks: Railroads Come to Vermont

In the early 1800s, Vermont was mostly forests, farms, and rough dirt roads. Getting goods anywhere took forever and cost plenty. The railroads changed all of that almost overnight.

The Vermont Central Railroad, incorporated in 1843, was the first major player. Its original line connected Burlington to Windsor, and it opened up central Vermont towns that had been largely cut off from outside markets. The Rutland and Burlington Railroad followed close behind, linking the Champlain Valley to southern New England.

Building those lines was brutal work. Vermont’s terrain pushed back hard. Rocky soil, steep grades, brutal winters. But by the 1860s, dozens of rail lines crisscrossed the state, and Vermont was connected to the rest of the country in a way it had never been before.

The Golden Age of Rail: Commerce, Tourism, and Small-Town Life

From roughly the 1870s through the 1920s, the railroads were Vermont.

Logging camps deep in the Northeast Kingdom sent timber south on spur lines. Barre’s granite quarries loaded monument stone onto freight cars and shipped it across the country. Vermont dairy products made it to Boston and New York still fresh, thanks to refrigerated cars that made the whole thing possible.

For regular people, the railroads meant freedom of movement. Vermonters could travel to see family, find work, or attend school in ways that simply hadn’t existed before. Immigrants settling new parts of the state arrived by rail. The stationmaster was often the most informed person in town, getting news before anyone else and knowing who was coming and going.

The railroads also sparked Vermont’s first real tourism boom. Wealthy families from Boston and New York would board sleeping cars and head north to escape the summer heat, landing in resort towns like Woodstock and Stowe, checking into grand hotels that existed almost entirely because of the train lines running past their front doors.

Competition and Consolidation: When the Railroads Changed Hands

As the network grew, smaller lines struggled to stay afloat. Larger railroads began absorbing them. The Central Vermont Railway eventually came under the control of the Grand Trunk Railway of Canada. The Rutland Railroad expanded its reach to connect Montreal, Boston, and New York. The Boston and Maine operated key routes in the southeast corner of the state.

By the early 1900s, most of Vermont’s rail system was controlled by just a handful of companies. That consolidation brought some efficiency to major freight routes, but it also meant local branch lines started getting cut. The cracks were showing.

The Great Decline: Cars, Highways, and a Changing Economy

Starting in the 1930s, Vermont’s rail empire began to quietly fall apart.

Cars gave people independence in a way trains never could. Roads improved, bus lines emerged, and passenger rail lost its grip on everyday travel. Trucks offered door-to-door freight delivery that undercut the railroads on rural routes. Airplanes took over long-distance travel for anyone heading beyond New England.

Meanwhile, aging infrastructure and low ridership made the branch lines nearly impossible to justify financially. Small stations shuttered. Passenger service got cut to almost nothing. The state began pulling up unused tracks and bridges.

The final, dramatic blow came in 1963, when a labor strike at the Rutland Railroad triggered the collapse of the entire line. It was a moment that felt sudden, but in reality had been coming for decades.

What Remains Today: Traces of a Railroad Past

Vermont still carries traces of its railroad past, and some of them are genuinely worth seeking out.

Amtrak’s Vermonter runs daily between St. Albans and Washington, D.C., passing through Essex Junction, Montpelier, and White River Junction. The Ethan Allen Express, restored in 2022 after years of advocacy, now connects Burlington to New York City via Rutland and Albany. The Green Mountain Railroad runs seasonal scenic excursions out of Chester, with special trips during fall foliage and the holidays.

The rail trails might be the most accessible legacy of all. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail follows the old St. Johnsbury and Lamoille County Railroad corridor, eventually stretching from St. Johnsbury all the way to Swanton. The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail connects Richford to St. Albans through quiet farmland. The Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail runs through western Bennington County and crosses into New York along what was once a busy freight corridor.

Original depots are scattered across the state too, many of them repurposed as museums, town offices, or local businesses. Granite Junction in Barre and the Bellows Falls tunnel are standout landmarks from Vermont’s freight era, and historical societies across the state work hard to keep the stories from fading.

Stories from the Rails: Local Legends and Railroad Lore

Ask a Vermonter over 70 about the railroad and you’ll get a story. Sometimes several.

During Prohibition, rumor has it that remote flag stops and whistle signals were used for something other than scheduled service. Illicit alcohol allegedly moved through those quiet back-country stations more than once.

In towns like Island Pond and Randolph, locals still tell stories about trains buried under snowdrifts for days, requiring massive plow engines and whole work crews to dig them out. Some of those storms were legendary even by Vermont standards.

Then there are the ghost stories. The abandoned tunnel in Northfield and the old Rutland roundhouse have both collected their share of legends over the years. Haunted depots, strange lights, unexplained sounds. Whether you believe any of it or not, the atmosphere is hard to argue with.

A Future on the Tracks? Rail in Vermont Today and Tomorrow

Vermont’s rail network will probably never return to what it once was. But there are signs of life.

Amtrak continues to serve the state, and recent infrastructure funding has supported upgrades and service restorations. Freight rail still quietly operates in places like Bellows Falls and along Burlington’s waterfront. Rail trails are growing in popularity every year, drawing cyclists, hikers, and snowshoers who may not even realize they’re following corridors that once carried steam engines through the same scenery.

There’s growing interest in passenger rail as a climate-friendly alternative to highways, and Vermont has the geography and the existing infrastructure to make more of that possible.

The tracks may be overgrown in a lot of places, but the story they tell about Vermont is still very much alive.

August 5, 2025