The summer season starts for Vermont’s Champlain Region State Historic Site on Saturday, May 27, 2017, with the opening of the Chimney Point, Mount Independence, and Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Sites at 9:30 am.
Chimney Point is on Lake Champlain in Addison, one of the most strategic spots on the lake. New this year are two exhibits with artifacts from the Lake Champlain Bridge archaeology work that look at the nearly 9,000 years of human habitation here. Grounds include a short trail with interpretive signs and a historic pier from the 1929 Lake Champlain Bridge, and a walk across the new bridge. Visiters can try the new bridge area map quest — forms are available at Chimney Point or at the New York Visitor Center at the New York end of the bridge. Open Wednesdays through Sundays and Monday holidays, 9:30 am to 5 pm. Admission is $5.00 for adults and free for children under 15. For more information call (802) 759-2412.
Orwell’s Mount Independence, a National Historic Landmark, is named after the Declaration of Independence. This year is the 240th anniversary of American, British, and German occupation. A new book on its Revolutionary history is coming out in July. The museum also offers six miles of trails to walk. The year’s highlight is Soldiers Atop the Mount living history weekend, August 26 and 27, with a 5K walk on the 26th. Open daily, 9:30 am to 5 pm. Admission is $5.00 for adults and free for children under 15. For more information call (802) 948-2000.
The Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site is the location of the only Revolutionary War battle fought in what would become Vermont. It is one of the best-preserved battlefields in America, retaining most of its original setting. This year is the 240th anniversary of the July 7, 1777, battle, celebrated with a battle weekend on July 8 and 9. Up to 400 reenactors and new offerings are expected. Open Thursdays through Sundays and Monday holidays, 9:30 am to 5 pm. Admission is $3.00 for adults and free for children under 15. For more information call (802) 273-2282.
The last day of the season is Sunday, October 15. Other Vermont State-owned Historic Sites opening on May 27 are the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth, Justin Smith Morrill Homestead in Strafford, and Old Constitution House in Windsor.
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Photo: View of Chimney Point, Vermont, showing the State Historic Site and the Lake Champlain Bridge, courtesy Wikimedia user Zeph77.
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