Category: History

middlebury college in fall setting

10 Things to Know About Alexander Twilight

Vermonters adore Alexander Lucius Twilight (1795-1857) for his great ambition, his notable achievements, and for his “unconquerable will.” He was the first person of African descent to receive a college degree from an American college—Middlebury College in 1823—and to be elected to a state legislature—Vermont’s in 1836. For more… Read More

four senior ladies sitting at a table

Happy 150th Birthday, Jessica Swift!

Jessica Swift seated second from left at the Bicentennial Picnic, Middlebury, Village Green 1976. Collection of the Henry Sheldon Museum, Middlebury, Vermont September 17, 2021 is the 150th birthday of Anna Jessica Stewart Swift who lived in the Main House of the inn for most of her 110 years. Read More

5 Important Places in Vermont’s Black History

We rounded up 5 important places to honor Black History Month in and around Middlebury, Vermont for all you African American history buffs. Vermont might be the second whitest state in the nation after Maine, but it’s still rich in African American history. As an Asian American woman, I’m… Read More

Man with backpack on bicycle in the woods

Lake Champlain Bikeways: History and Stunning Scenery

Being located at the foot of the Green Mountains in the pristine Champlain Valley means that we are surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery Mother Nature can offer and that our friends, family, and guests have never ending opportunities to get outdoors and have fun. We have… Read More

Grey stone marker with engraved lettering (Commander George Washington and other generals) marking Mount Independence Historic site.

Mt. Independence Historic Site A Great Summer Stop

Mount Independence is a National Historic Landmark in Orwell, VT, about 30 minutes away from our inn. It is a nice scenic drive there as well so worth the trip! This interesting historic site, according to their website, is “one of the largest and most well preserved Revolutionary War archeological… Read More