Vermont Ghost Towns: A Glimpse into the Green Mountain State's Abandoned Settlements
The landscape of Vermont is renowned for its rolling hills and vibrant forests, but hidden within this scenery are the remnants of communities that once thrived. These ghost towns—settlements that have been abandoned or have dwindled to a fraction of their former population—offer a silent testimony to the state's industrial and agricultural past.
From former mill towns to remote mountain outposts, these sites reflect the shifting economic tides of the region, where the decline of local industries often led to the exodus of entire populations.
Key Facts
- Vermont contains several ghost towns across various counties, including Bennington, Caledonia, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor.
- Some abandoned sites are now preserved within state parks, such as Ricker Basin and West Castleton.
- The remnants of these towns range from former industrial mill centers to unincorporated areas with minimal settlement history.
- Certain sites, like Greenbank's Hollow, still feature historic infrastructure such as covered bridges.
Notable Abandoned Settlements in Vermont
Vermont's ghost towns are scattered across its diverse geography. Some were once bustling hubs of commerce, while others were small family-run operations that eventually faded away.
Industrial and Mill Towns
Greenbank's Hollow, located in Caledonia County, serves as a prime example of a former mill town. While the community is no longer active, the area remains a point of interest due to the presence of the Greenbanks Hollow Covered Bridge.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Remote and Mountain Settlements
Geography often played a role in the abandonment of these towns. Ricker Basin, situated on Ricker Mountain within Little River State Park in Washington County, is one such location. Similarly, West Castleton in Rutland County is now located within the boundaries of Bomoseen State Park.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Other Forgotten Communities
Several other locations are recognized as ghost towns or abandoned settlements, including Glastenbury in Bennington County, Lewiston in Windsor County, and Somerset in Windham County. Other noted sites include Sterling, Smithfield, and the Smith Family Farms.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Summary of Vermont Ghost Towns
| Town Name | County/Location | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Greenbank's Hollow | Caledonia County | Former mill town; Covered Bridge |
| Ricker Basin | Washington County | Little River State Park |
| West Castleton | Rutland County | Bomoseen State Park |
| Glastenbury | Bennington County | Abandoned settlement |
| Lewiston | Windsor County | Abandoned settlement |
| Somerset | Windham County | Abandoned settlement |
| Sterling | Not Specified | Abandoned settlement |
| Smithfield | Not Specified | Abandoned settlement |
| Smith Family Farms | Not Specified | Abandoned settlement |
Unincorporated Areas
Beyond the traditional ghost towns, there are unincorporated towns—areas that lack a formal local government—that have very little to no history of significant settlement. An example of such a location is Lewis, Vermont.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Vermont ghost towns are located in state parks?
Ricker Basin is located in Little River State Park, and West Castleton is located within Bomoseen State Park.
What is a notable landmark in Greenbank's Hollow?
The Greenbanks Hollow Covered Bridge is a prominent landmark located in this former mill town.
Is Lewis, Vermont, considered a traditional ghost town?
Lewis is categorized as an unincorporated town with little to no history of settlement, distinguishing it from towns that were once populated and later abandoned.
In which county is Glastenbury located?
Glastenbury is located in Bennington County.
What caused these towns to become ghost towns?
While specific causes vary, many were former mill towns or agricultural settlements that declined as industries shifted or land became unsustainable for settlement.