The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation encourages the discovery and appreciation of the state’s rich heritage through the stewardship and interpretation of historic sites that evoke an authentic sense of time and place. The sites are open to the public on a seasonal basis. For detailed information including hours of operation, directions, and special event listings, please visit www.historicsites.vermont.gov or call 802-828-3051.

Bennington Battle Monument (Bennington) – This 306-foot tall monument commemorates the 1777 Revolutionary War battle fought to defend a vital supply of military stores. On the ground level, visitors can explore exhibits about the design and construction of the monument. Site amenities include a picnic area and gift shop. The Bennington Battle is open every day except Wednesdays. 802-447-0550.

President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site (Plymouth Notch) – Birthplace and boyhood home
of our 30th President, Plymouth Notch village is just as it was in the early 20th century. Several buildings are open to the public, including the birthplace, general store, church, cheese factory, and 1924 “Summer White House.” The Museum and Education Center houses changing seasonal exhibits and More Than Two Words, an interactive exhibit exploring the life and life’s work of President Coolidge. Site amenities include picnic areas, walking trails, and two gift shops. 802-672-3773.

President Chester A. Arthur State Historic Site (Fairfield) – The 21st President of the United States was born in Fairfield in 1829. The parsonage the Arthur family moved to shortly after his birth has been reconstructed and now features an exhibit on Chester Arthur’s life and his careers in both law and government. Site amenities include a picnic area and walking trails. 802-933-8362.

Chimney Point State Historic Site (Addison) – Discover this historically strategic spot at the foot of the Lake Champlain Bridge. Interpretive exhibits in the c.1785 tavern building explore more than 9,000 years of human activity at this location and celebrate Vermont’s Native American, French, and early American heritage. Enjoy sweeping views of the lake from the tavern porch and walk across the bridge. Site amenities include picnic areas, a history trail, boat access, and a gift shop. Second floor temporarily closed. 802-749-2412.

Eureka Schoolhouse & Baltimore Covered Bridge (Springfield) – The Eureka Schoolhouse stands as the oldest one-room schoolhouse in Vermont. Reconstructed in its current location in 1968, the schoolhouse was built about 1790 to serve Springfield’s first village settlement. The Baltimore Covered Bridge is one of about 100 covered bridges remaining in Vermont. It was constructed by Granville Leland and Dennis Allen in 1870 using a design patented in 1820 by Ithiel Town. The Baltimore Covered Bridge was moved to its present location in 1970. 802-885-8841.

Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site (Hubbardton) – Relive the only Revolutionary War battle fought entirely on Vermont soil. Walk the battlefield interpretive trail to discover important locations and learn about pivotal moments in the engagement. The Museum exhibit, Hubbardton Battle: American Rebels Stem the Tide, July 7, 1777, places the battle in the larger context of the Saratoga Campaign and features period artifacts recovered during archaeological investigations of the battlefield. Site amenities include a picnic area, walking trail, and gift shop. 802-273-2282.

Justin S. Morrill State Historic Site (Strafford) – Built in 1851, this furnished 17-room Gothic Revival-style cottage, with intricate carved wooden detailing, is painted rosy pink to resemble freshly cut stone. As a U.S. Congressman and later Senator, Morrill was responsible for the acts establishing the Land Grant Colleges, opening the door to higher education for millions of Americans. The picturesque grounds of his home include beautifully landscaped flower gardens and seven agricultural buildings. This site was the first National Historic Landmark to be designated in the State of Vermont. The Morrill house interior is shown by guided tours. Outdoor interpretive signage is placed around the property and self-guided exhibits may be found in the Horse Barn and the Homestead Gallery. Site amenities include picnic areas and walking trails. 802-765-4484.

Mount Independence State Historic Site (Orwell) – A National Historic Landmark, Mount Independence was the location of the largest fortification built by American colonial forces during the Revolutionary War. Now a well-preserved archaeological site, Mount Independence boasts six miles of trails though 300 acres of meadows and woodland. The Baldwin Trail includes detailed interpretive signage and meets outdoor trail standards for handicapped accessibility. The museum exhibit, Building Independence on Lake Champlain, takes the story of the Mount to greater depths using artifacts discovered during several archaeological excavations at the site. Site amenities include picnic areas, trails, and a gift shop. 802-948-2000.

Old Constitution House (Windsor) – In July 1777, representatives of the New Hampshire Grants met in this tavern to adopt the first constitution of the “Free and Independent State of Vermont.” Today the museum features fully furnished period rooms and an engaging exhibit that outlines the momentous events surrounding the writing and signing of that document. Site amenities include a walking trail. 802-674-6628.

Underwater Historic Preserves - Five shipwrecks in Lake Champlain are marked and open for scuba divers. Coast Guard-approved yellow buoys identify the Preserves. 802-475-2022.

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