Larrabee's Point Complex facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Larrabee's Point Complex
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The stone warehouse, as seen from across the lake
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 Location in Vermont
Location in the United States
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| Location | Western terminus of Vermont Route 74, Shoreham, Vermont |
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| Area | 7 acres (2.8 ha) |
| Built | 1823 |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 80000423 |
| Added to NRHP | May 1, 1980 |
The Larrabee's Point Complex is a group of buildings and structures connected to a ferry. It is located at the western end of Vermont Route 74 in Shoreham, Vermont. This complex includes the facilities used by the Ticonderoga-Larrabees Point Ferry, which is the oldest operating ferry on Lake Champlain. It also has two old buildings that were important to the ferry's history. The whole complex was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. This means it is recognized as an important historic site.
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A Look at Larrabee's Point History
Larrabee's Point is in the southwestern part of Shoreham. It sits on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, where the lake is quite narrow. This spot is directly across from Ticonderoga, New York.
How the Ferry Started
A man named John Larrabee bought the land here in 1787. A few years later, in 1799, he received special permission from the state to start a ferry service. This ferry helped people and goods cross the lake.
Busy Times at the Point
By 1875, Larrabee's Point was a very busy place. It had a large hotel and a big dock. This dock was large enough for big steamships that carried tourists around the lake. The ferry was also very important for moving goods and supplies.
Changes Over Time
However, the ferry's role in carrying goods became less important in the late 1800s. This happened because railroads arrived in Addison County. Trains could move goods faster and more cheaply.
Important Old Buildings at Larrabee's Point
Even though the ferry's role changed, some historic buildings remain. They remind us of the area's past importance.
The Stone Warehouse
The stone warehouse was built in 1823. It stands next to the current ferry slip. This building is a strong reminder of how important the ferry once was for trade. Today, this old warehouse is used by a lake cruise ship service.
John Larrabee's House
Across Vermont Route 74 from the warehouse is John Larrabee's house. It was built around 1835. This house is a brick building with two and a half stories. It shows a mix of old building styles called Federal and Greek Revival. Later, a Victorian-style porch was added to the front of the house, facing the lake.
The Ferry Slip and Wharf
The ferry slip area is still used by the modern ferry today. The old stone wharf next to it is also a historic part of the complex. The small wooden building that holds the ferry office, located between the ferry slip and the warehouse, is not considered a historic building.
