Addison County, Vermont, located in the scenic Champlain Valley in the western part of the state, is rich with New England history and natural beauty. Established in 1785 and named after Joseph Addison, an English writer and politician, the county developed as a key agricultural and industrial hub in the early years of Vermont’s statehood. Known for its rolling hills, lakeside views, and historic villages, Addison County has evolved from an early farming community into a center of education and tourism while preserving its heritage. The area is also home to Middlebury College, one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the United States.
Origins and Key Historical Events
Indigenous Peoples and Early European Exploration
Long before European settlers arrived, Addison County was home to the Abenaki people, who were part of the larger Wabanaki Confederacy in the northeastern United States. The Abenaki used the land for fishing, hunting, and agriculture, relying on the Champlain Valley’s rich resources. The region’s waterways, particularly Lake Champlain, were central to their culture and trade networks.
European exploration of the region began in the early 17th century, with Samuel de Champlain’s exploration of Lake Champlain in 1609 marking the first recorded European presence. Champlain’s exploration opened the area to French traders and settlers, though European settlement was limited until the 18th century. The area changed hands multiple times during conflicts between the French and British, particularly during the French and Indian War, before ultimately becoming part of the British-controlled colonies.
The Founding of Addison County and Early Settlement (1785)
Addison County was officially established in 1785, soon after Vermont declared itself an independent republic (1777-1791) and before it joined the United States in 1791 as the 14th state. The county was named after Joseph Addison, a prominent English essayist and playwright, symbolizing a connection to English heritage despite Vermont’s early resistance to British control. Settlers from Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York were drawn to the region for its fertile soil, abundant forests, and waterways, which provided ideal conditions for farming and trade.
Middlebury, the county seat, became an important settlement in the area and quickly grew as a hub for commerce, education, and governance. Early industries included sawmills, gristmills, and small factories, which used the flowing rivers, such as Otter Creek, to power machinery. The establishment of Middlebury College in 1800 further solidified Middlebury’s significance in the county and the state, providing higher education to Vermonters and contributing to the intellectual and cultural development of the region.
Growth of Agriculture and Industry
In the 19th century, Addison County developed as an agricultural and industrial center in Vermont. The fertile lands of the Champlain Valley were ideal for farming, and the county became known for dairy production, apple orchards, and wool from sheep farming. By the mid-1800s, Addison County was one of the most productive agricultural areas in Vermont, supplying products like butter, cheese, and wool to the surrounding regions.
Industry also played a significant role in Addison County’s economy. The county’s numerous rivers and streams provided power for mills and factories, enabling the growth of industries such as textiles, timber, and ironworks. Middlebury and Vergennes became important centers for manufacturing, with mills producing a variety of goods. Vergennes, situated on Otter Creek, was also home to a shipyard that built vessels for the War of 1812.
Addison County in the Civil War
The Civil War brought significant changes to Addison County, as it did throughout the nation. Many residents enlisted to fight for the Union, and the county provided substantial support for the war effort. The strong abolitionist sentiment in Vermont fueled local support for the Union cause, and residents actively participated in various war-related activities, including recruiting efforts and fundraising for soldiers’ families.
Following the Civil War, the county returned to its agricultural roots, though farming methods evolved with new technologies. The introduction of railroads in the late 19th century allowed Addison County farmers and manufacturers to reach broader markets, leading to further economic growth and increased access to goods and services.
20th Century Developments and the Great Depression
The 20th century brought both challenges and growth to Addison County. The Great Depression of the 1930s hit the agricultural economy hard, and many farmers struggled to make ends meet. However, New Deal programs such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA) provided employment opportunities and led to infrastructure improvements. These projects helped the county weather the economic downturn and recover in the post-Depression years.
In the post-World War II era, Addison County experienced modernization and a shift in its economy. Although agriculture remained an important industry, tourism began to grow as visitors were drawn to the area’s natural beauty, historic sites, and the cultural attractions offered by Middlebury College. The establishment of state parks and conservation efforts helped protect the county’s landscapes and created recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors.
Modern Addison County
Today, Addison County is a thriving area that balances its agricultural heritage with education, tourism, and small-scale industry. Middlebury College continues to be a significant influence, attracting students, faculty, and cultural events to the region. Addison County’s rural landscapes, preserved historic sites, and scenic lake views make it a popular destination for those seeking New England charm and outdoor recreation. The county’s farmers have adapted to changing markets, with an emphasis on sustainable and organic farming, artisan cheese-making, and agritourism.
Historical Sites in Addison County
1. Middlebury College
Overview: Established in 1800, Middlebury College is one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the United States and a cornerstone of Addison County. The college’s campus features beautiful historic buildings, including Old Chapel and the Emma Willard House, as well as art galleries and museums that showcase art, history, and natural sciences. The college plays a central role in the cultural and educational life of the county.
Location: 14 Old Chapel Rd., Middlebury, VT
Ticket Price: Free to walk around campus; museum fees may apply.
Parking Information: Free parking available on campus for visitors.
2. Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History
Overview: The Henry Sheldon Museum, located in Middlebury, is the oldest community-based museum in the United States. Founded in 1882, the museum offers exhibits on Vermont’s cultural history, featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Addison County’s development. The museum also includes a collection of decorative arts, local maps, and early tools, providing a comprehensive look at Vermont’s heritage.
Location: 1 Park St., Middlebury, VT
Ticket Price: $10 for adults, $5 for students, free for children under 12.
Parking Information: Free on-site parking available.
3. Vergennes Falls Park
Overview: Located in Vergennes, this scenic park features the impressive Otter Creek Falls, a natural waterfall with historical significance. The falls provided power for early industries, including sawmills and gristmills, which helped Vergennes grow into a manufacturing hub. Today, the park offers beautiful views, picnic areas, and interpretive signs that share the history of the falls and the surrounding area.
Location: Canal St., Vergennes, VT
Ticket Price: Free entry.
Parking Information: Free parking available near the park entrance.
4. Chimney Point State Historic Site
Overview: Chimney Point is one of Vermont’s most significant historical sites, with a history that spans thousands of years. Originally an Abenaki settlement, the site later became a French fort and then a British settlement. The historic site offers exhibits on Native American culture, French colonial history, and early American settlement, making it an important educational destination for those interested in Vermont’s early history.
Location: 8149 VT-17, Addison, VT
Ticket Price: $5 for adults, $3 for children.
Parking Information: Free on-site parking available.
5. UVM Morgan Horse Farm
Overview: The University of Vermont Morgan Horse Farm, located in Weybridge, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Morgan horse, one of the earliest American horse breeds. The farm offers tours that showcase the history of the breed, its role in Vermont’s agricultural history, and the farm’s work in breeding and training Morgan horses. Visitors can see the historic barns, stables, and horses up close.
Location: 74 Battell Dr., Weybridge, VT
Ticket Price: $5 for adults, $3 for children.
Parking Information: Free parking available on-site.
6. Rokeby Museum
Overview: The Rokeby Museum in Ferrisburgh was once a stop on the Underground Railroad and is a National Historic Landmark. The museum preserves the home of the Robinson family, who were abolitionists and operated a station on the Underground Railroad. Exhibits focus on abolitionism, the Robinson family’s role in the movement, and life in 19th-century Vermont. The museum also includes walking trails that explore the property’s natural beauty.
Location: 4334 US-7, Ferrisburgh, VT
Ticket Price: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, free for children under 16.
Parking Information: Free on-site parking available.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Addison County is located in the Champlain Valley of western Vermont, bordered by the Green Mountains to the east and Lake Champlain to the west. The county’s geography includes fertile farmland, forested hills, and scenic lakefronts, making it ideal for both agriculture and tourism. Addison County experiences a humid continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The changing seasons bring colorful foliage in the fall and vibrant greenery in the spring, adding to the area’s natural beauty.
Quick Facts
- Year Founded: 1785
- County Seat: Middlebury
- Population: Approximately 37,000
- Population Density: Around 53 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Middlebury, Vergennes, Bristol
- Major Highways: U.S. Route 7, Vermont Route 22A
- Adjacent Counties: Chittenden County (north), Washington County (northeast), Orange County (east), Windsor County (southeast), Rutland County (south), Essex County, New York (west, across Lake Champlain)