Bennington

Bennington, Vermont, is a town where the past is palpable, from its revolutionary roots to its enduring artistic spirit. As Vermont's first chartered town, established in 1749, Bennington holds a significant place in American history. It's a place where the Green Mountains meet the Taconic Range, offering a scenic backdrop to a community rich in culture and outdoor pursuits.

Divided into distinct areas like historic Old Bennington and the more active downtown, the town offers a blend of colonial charm and contemporary life. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, delve into local artistry, and discover a landscape that has inspired poets and pioneers alike. Bennington serves as a gateway to southern Vermont, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the region's natural beauty and historical depth.

## From Colonial Charters to Revolutionary Fervor Bennington's story begins in 1749, when it was chartered by New Hampshire Governor Benning Wentworth, making it the very first town in what would become Vermont. Actual settlement began in 1761 with a group of Congregational Separatists from Massachusetts and Connecticut, who established a faith-based community in what is now Old Bennington. These early settlers found themselves caught in land disputes between the New York and New Hampshire colonies, leading to the formation of a local militia known as the Green Mountain Boys, led by the legendary Ethan Allen.

The town played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War. In August 1777, the Battle of Bennington, though fought just over the border in New York, was a crucial victory for American forces, who successfully defended a vital supply depot from British troops. This morale-boosting win is considered a turning point that contributed to the British surrender at Saratoga. Following the Revolution, Vermont declared itself an independent republic, with its constitution being the first on the continent to outlaw adult slavery, a full decade before the U.S. Constitution.

## Industrial Innovation and Artistic Expression Throughout the 19th century, Bennington developed a strong manufacturing tradition, fueled by its abundant water power and natural resources. Early industries included sawmills, gristmills, and paper mills. The town became nationally recognized for the quality of its pottery, iron, and textiles. The Norton Pottery, established in 1785, was a significant player, initially producing redware and later renowned for its decorated stoneware. The U.S. Pottery Company also gained national prominence, even showcasing its wares at the 1853 Crystal Palace Exposition in New York City.

In the 20th century, Bennington continued to foster innovation, particularly in education and the arts. Bennington College, founded in 1932, was a pioneering institution that integrated visual and performing arts into its liberal arts curriculum and established a unique annual internship requirement for all students. Today, Bennington remains an active community with a thriving arts scene, recognized nationally for its cultural vitality.

Begin your exploration in Old Bennington, where history comes alive. The Bennington Battle Monument, a towering 306-foot stone obelisk, commemorates the pivotal Revolutionary War battle and offers panoramic views of three states from its observation deck. Nearby, the Old First Church, a striking example of Federal-period architecture, stands as Vermont's oldest Protestant congregation and the first church in the state to reflect the separation of church and state. In its adjacent cemetery, the Bennington Centre Cemetery, you'll find the grave of poet Robert Frost.

Delve deeper into the region's heritage at the Bennington Museum, home to a comprehensive collection of Vermont history and art, including one of the oldest American flags and the world's largest public collection of Grandma Moses paintings. For those interested in local crafts, a visit to Bennington Potters offers a glimpse into a long-standing tradition of pottery making. Don't miss the chance to explore Bennington's charming downtown, with its locally owned shops and cafes. The area is also known for its picturesque covered bridges, with three clustered along the Walloomsac River.

Bennington is a year-round destination, each season offering a distinct experience. For warm-weather activities like hiking and exploring, late June to early September is ideal, with average high temperatures around 79°F in July. Autumn, particularly early to mid-October, is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, drawing large crowds to witness the display of red, orange, and yellow leaves. Winter brings a snowy landscape, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, with several resorts within an hour's drive. Spring offers wildflower walks and the Vermont Maple Open House Weekend in March.

Bennington is located in southwestern Vermont, easily accessible by car from major Northeast cities; Albany International Airport is about an hour's drive away. The town itself is walkable, especially the historic downtown and Old Bennington areas. Give yourself 2-3 days to explore Bennington thoroughly, and more if you plan to visit surrounding towns. Accommodations range from charming inns to motels, with options like the Catamount Motel conveniently located near downtown. Restaurants and grocery stores are readily available. Be aware that some attractions, like the Bennington Battle Monument's observation deck, may have seasonal access or undergo preservation efforts, so it's advisable to check ahead.