Nestled in the heart of New England, Vermont is a state that captivates with its stunning natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture.
Known for its rolling green hills, charming small towns, and a commitment to sustainability, Vermont is a place where tradition meets innovation.
But beyond its picturesque landscapes and renowned maple syrup, the state is filled with intriguing facts that often go unnoticed.
From its unique political history to its quirky local customs, Vermont offers a treasure trove of surprises that reflect the spirit of its residents.
In this article, we will delve into some of the most fascinating facts about Vermont, uncovering what makes this state truly one-of-a-kind.
History of Vermont
Vermont’s history is rich and complex, beginning over 450 million years ago with geological formations during the Cambrian and Devonian periods.
The human history of Vermont includes Native American settlements, notably the Abenaki and Iroquois, who thrived until European contact led to significant population declines due to disease and conflict.
The first permanent English settlement was established at Fort Dummer in 1724.
Following the French and Indian War, Vermont declared independence in 1777, becoming a republic until joining the Union as the 14th state in 1791.
Vermont has a legacy of progressive values, including early abolitionist sentiments and public education initiatives.
With that said let’s have a look at some fascinating facts about Vermont;
1. Vermont is known as the Green Mountain State, derived from the French “montagne verte.”
2. It was the 14th state to join the U.S. on March 4, 1791.
3. Montpelier, the capital, is the smallest state capital in the U.S., with around 8,000 residents.
4. Vermont has no billboards, preserving its natural beauty.
5. The state produces 35% of the nation’s maple syrup, making it the largest producer.
6. Vermont has the highest number of breweries per capita in the U.S.
7. The first African American to earn a college degree in the U.S., Alexander Twilight, graduated from Middlebury College in 1823.
8. The state has no skyscrapers; the tallest building is Decker Towers at 124 feet.
9. Vermont is home to over 100 covered bridges, the most per square mile in the U.S.
10. The state’s population is around 643,500, making it the second least populous state.
11. Vermont has a rich dairy farming tradition, with more cows than people.
12. The state has 60 state parks, with Camel’s Hump being the largest.
13. Lake Champlain, shared with New York, is the 7th largest lake in the U.S.
14. The Vermont Republic existed from 1777 to 1791 before joining the U.S.
15. The first postage stamp in the U.S. was made in Brattleboro in 1846.
16. Vermont has the highest percentage of white residents in the U.S. at 95.6%.
17. The state is home to 18 national historic landmarks.
18. The Vermont State House features a gold-topped dome, one of only ten in the U.S.
19. The largest grilled cheese sandwich, weighing 320 pounds, was made in Vermont in 2000.
20. Vermont has 8,696 miles of dirt roads and 7,105 miles of paved roads.
21. The first copper mine in the U.S. opened in Strafford in 1793.
22. The state has a single area code, 802, which is a source of pride.
23. Vermont has no federally recognized Native American tribes today.
24. The state is known for its progressive values, including early abolitionist movements.
25. The highest point in Vermont is Mount Mansfield at 4,393 feet.
26. The lowest point is Lake Champlain at 95 feet.
27. The state has a significant number of outdoor recreational opportunities, including skiing and hiking.
28. Vermont is one of the safest states in the U.S., with low crime rates.
29. The state has a unique law requiring delivery men to walk backward if delivering to homes valued over $500,000.
30. The first railway in Vermont was the Central Vermont Railway, established in the 1840s.
31. The state has a large number of organic farms, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
32. Vermont is known for its artisanal cheese, particularly from Cabot Creamery.
33. The state has a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries and festivals.
34. The Vermont State Fair is one of the oldest in the country, dating back to 1846.
35. The state is home to the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory, a popular tourist destination.
36. Vermont has a rich literary history, with authors like Robert Frost and Howard Frank Mosher.
37. The state is known for its beautiful fall foliage, attracting tourists every autumn.
38. Vermont has a tradition of town meetings, a form of direct democracy.
39. The state has a significant number of historic sites, including Revolutionary War fortifications.
40. Vermont’s state flower is the Red Clover.
41. The state has a low population density, with vast stretches of wilderness.
42. Vermont is one of the few states with a state-owned liquor store system.
43. The state has a strong local food movement, promoting farm-to-table dining.
44. The first ski resort in the U.S. was established in Vermont in the 1930s.
45. Vermont has a unique law that prohibits the sale of doves in freezers.
46. The state has a rich history of maple sugaring, with many festivals celebrating the season.
47. The state has a diverse range of wildlife, including moose and black bears.
48. Vermont’s state bird is the Hermit Thrush.
49. The state has a vibrant farmer’s market scene, promoting local produce.
50. Vermont is home to several historic covered bridges, including the Pulp Mill Bridge.
51. The state has a strong commitment to renewable energy, particularly wind and solar.
52. Vermont has a vibrant music scene, with many festivals celebrating folk and bluegrass music.
53. The state has a unique tradition of “Vermont-style” maple creemees, a soft-serve ice cream.
54. Vermont has a rich history of craftsmanship, particularly in woodworking and pottery.
55. The state has a significant number of historic inns and bed-and-breakfasts.
56. Vermont is known for its outdoor festivals, including the Vermont Maple Festival.
57. The state has a strong sense of community, with many volunteer organizations and local initiatives.
Conclusion
Vermont’s rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique culture make it a truly special place.
From its early days as an independent republic to its modern-day commitment to sustainability and community, the Green Mountain State has always marched to the beat of its own drum.
The fascinating facts explored in this article showcase Vermont’s quirks, traditions, and achievements.
Whether it’s the state’s status as the largest producer of maple syrup, its high number of breweries per capita, or its lack of billboards and skyscrapers, Vermont takes pride in what makes it different.
But beyond the trivia, Vermont’s true essence lies in the character of its people.
The state’s progressive values, strong sense of community, and love of the outdoors are reflected in the lives of its residents.
From the farmers preserving Vermont’s agricultural heritage to the artists and craftspeople showcasing its creative spirit, the people of Vermont are what make it such a special place.
As Vermont looks to the future, it will undoubtedly continue to evolve and change.
But no matter what, the state’s core identity – its natural beauty, its independent spirit, and its commitment to living well – will remain.
