National Register of Historic Places listings in Orleans County, Vermont facts for kids
Welcome to Orleans County, Vermont! This area is home to many special places that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of important buildings, sites, and areas that tell us about the history of the United States. When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized as being very important for its history, architecture, or what happened there. It helps protect these places so future generations can learn from them too.
In Orleans County, there are 27 different places and areas that have been added to this special list. These include everything from old houses and libraries to entire villages and even covered bridges! Let's explore some of these amazing historic spots.
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Contents
Exploring Historic Places in Orleans County
Have you ever wondered what life was like long ago? The National Register of Historic Places helps us discover just that! It's like a treasure map to the past, showing us buildings and places that have stood for many years and have important stories to tell.
Historic Villages and Downtowns
Some of the most interesting listings are entire historic districts. These are areas where many buildings together create a special historical feeling.
Brownington Village Historic District
Imagine stepping back in time! The Brownington Village Historic District is one such place. It includes many old buildings that show what a Vermont village looked like in the past. It's a great spot to see how people lived and worked many years ago.
Newport Downtown Historic District
Newport's downtown area is also a historic district. This means that many of the buildings along Main Street and nearby streets have historical importance. Walking through this area, you can see the architecture and layout that tell the story of how Newport grew as a city. The Goodrich Memorial Library, which is also on the Register, is part of this district.
Special Buildings and Landmarks
Many individual buildings in Orleans County are also on the National Register. These often have unique designs or played important roles in their communities.
Haskell Free Library and Opera House
One truly unique building is the Haskell Free Library and Opera House in Derby Line. What makes it so special? It's built right on the border between the United States and Canada! You can check out a book in one country and read it in another, all within the same building. It's a symbol of peace and cooperation between the two nations.
Goodrich Memorial Library
The Goodrich Memorial Library in Newport is another beautiful historic building. Libraries are often important community centers, and this one has been serving the people of Newport for a long time. It's a great example of classic architecture.
Orleans County Courthouse and Jail Complex
In Newport, you can also find the Orleans County Courthouse and Jail Complex. These buildings are important because they represent the legal and justice system of the county over many years. They show how government and law enforcement worked in the past.
Old Stores and Businesses
Historic commercial buildings also tell us a lot about the past. The L. P. Jenne Block in Derby and the King Block in Barton are examples of old business buildings. They show how people shopped and ran businesses in earlier times.
J. S. Sweeney Store, Barn, Livery and Hall
In Charleston, the J. S. Sweeney Store, Barn, Livery and Hall is a collection of buildings that shows how a general store and its related services operated in the past. A "livery" was a place where horses and carriages could be rented or kept. This complex gives us a glimpse into rural life and commerce.
Historic Bridges
Vermont is famous for its covered bridges, and Orleans County has a few on the National Register!
Orne Covered Bridge
The Orne Covered Bridge in Irasburg is a beautiful example of these historic structures. Covered bridges were built to protect the wooden parts of the bridge from the weather, making them last longer. They are often very picturesque and remind us of a simpler time.
River Road Covered Bridge
Another charming covered bridge is the River Road Covered Bridge, south of North Troy. These bridges are not just pretty; they are also important examples of old engineering and craftsmanship.
Natural and Recreational Areas
Sometimes, natural areas or parks are also listed if they have historical significance.
Crystal Lake State Park
Crystal Lake State Park in Barton is a beautiful place for recreation, and it's also on the National Register. This means that the park itself, or certain features within it, are considered historically important. It might be for its role in early tourism or its unique natural features.
Other Interesting Sites
There are many other types of places on the list, each with its own story.
Fox Hall
Fox Hall in Westmore is an interesting old house that has been recognized for its historical value. Old homes often give us clues about the people who lived there and the architectural styles of their time.
U.S. Inspection Stations
Several U.S. Inspection Stations, like those in Beebe Plain, Derby Line, and North Troy, are also listed. These buildings were important for controlling who and what crossed the border between the U.S. and Canada. They show how border security and customs have evolved over time.
Images for kids
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A church in the Crystal Lake Falls Historic District.
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Crystal Lake State Park.
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The Goodrich Memorial Library in Newport.
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The Goodrich Memorial Library.
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The Haskell Free Library and Opera House.
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The L. P. Jenne Block.
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The Orleans County Courthouse and Jail Complex.
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The Orne Covered Bridge.
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The River Road Covered Bridge.
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The J. S. Sweeney Store, Barn, Livery and Hall.
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The U.S. Courthouse, Post Office and Customs House in Newport.
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The U.S. Inspection Station at Beebe Plain.
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Fox Hall in Westmore.
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The Old Stone House Museum in Brownington Village.
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The King Block in Barton.
