East Middlebury, Vermont facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
East Middlebury, Vermont
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Location in Addison County and the state of Vermont.
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| Country | United States |
| State | Vermont |
| County | Addison |
| Town | Middlebury |
| Area | |
| • Total | 0.724 sq mi (1.88 km2) |
| • Land | 0.709 sq mi (1.84 km2) |
| • Water | 0.015 sq mi (0.04 km2) |
| Elevation | 407 ft (124 m) |
| Population
(2010)
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| • Total | 425 |
| • Density | 587.0/sq mi (226.6/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP code |
05740
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| Area code(s) | 802 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1460830 |
East Middlebury is a small community in Addison County, Vermont, United States. It's part of the larger town of Middlebury. In 2010, about 425 people lived there. East Middlebury is known as a census-designated place, which means it's a specific area identified by the U.S. Census Bureau for statistical purposes.
Contents
A Look Back at East Middlebury's History
East Middlebury became known to settlers from English America after the French and Indian War. The official document that created Middlebury was signed in 1761. The first settlement in East Middlebury began in 1775. That's when Ebar Evarts cleared land to build a tavern. This tavern was the start of what is now the famous Waybury Inn.
Early Development and Waterpower
In 1790, Jonathan Foot started developing the area around the Middlebury River Gorge. The village grew because it was located at the western end of a trail that crossed the Green Mountains. This trail led into the Otter Creek Valley, making it an important travel spot. The Middlebury River Gorge was also perfect for waterpower. Many mills were built along its banks.
The very first mill in the town was a sawmill. It was on the south side of the river, near the top of the gorge. This area was also home to The East Middlebury Iron Works, which operated from 1831 to 1890. It was the last iron works in Vermont to close. The river also powered other mills, including a grist mill, a wool finishing mill, and a tannery.
Growing Community and Businesses
In 1810, Jonathan Foot built a "place of entertainment," which was the Waybury Inn. It also served as a stop for stagecoaches traveling over the mountain pass. By 1812, the village had added a general store.
In 1814, Epaphras Jones built another glass factory in East Middlebury. He had already started the Vermont Glass Factory Company at Lake Dunmore. This new factory was a round brick building located near the Waybury Inn. By 1821, the community had ten homes, an inn, and a few shops. Growth continued, and by 1850, there were 50 homes in the village.
Norman Tupper built another grist mill further south on the river. In 1915, the Brown Novelty Company bought this mill to make wooden toys. The former Episcopal Rectory, also known as Partridge House, is believed to be the oldest house in the village. It might even be the original house built by Jonathan Foot. The Foote/Zahn's house was built by Epaphras Jones, whose glass factory was right across the street.
How East Middlebury is Governed
East Middlebury has its own special governing body called the East Middlebury Prudential Committee. This committee is elected by the people and works independently from the main Middlebury town government. Its main job is to manage East Middlebury's Fire District #1 and the local water system.
One of the committee's duties is to set the water rates for homes and businesses in East Middlebury. Even though many factories and small businesses have left the area, East Middlebury remains a beautiful place. It is located right next to the river and below the Green Mountains. The village has faced major floods in the past, including in 1928, 1937, and 2011.
Images for kids
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See also
In Spanish: East Middlebury para niños
