Brattleboro is the oldest town in Vermont, established in 1723 by a blockhouse and stockade, built to defend Massachusetts during the French and Indian Wars.
The French and Indian War was followed by King George’s War in 1744. Once the wars ended, a township was established and quickly became a center for trade. A bridge was built across the Connecticut River in 1804, connecting to Hindsdale, NH. Industry developed using power from the Whetstone Falls, and a rail line was run through town. Service from runs from Washington, DC to St. Albans, VT.
The town is now home to a thriving arts community, and serves as the background to several mysteries by author Archie Mayor, who explores the grittier side of the community. It was the second town in the nation to become Fairtrade certified.
Brattleboro Links
- Brattleboro Reformer – daily news, features and community information for southeastern Vermont
- Brattleboro, VT – town website
- Brattleboro Historical Society
- Latchis Theater – movies, live music, events. See [permalink id=673]Hilltown Music[/permalink] for a calender of musical events.