History is full of stories. Some stories are long, like how Vermont became a state. Some stories are sad, like how flooding impacted Vermont. Some stories show how Vermont has changed over time. Historians investigate primary sources and ask questions about the past. Explore some of these stories and ask questions to learn more.
Did you know people have lived on the land that is now Vermont for over 12,000 years? Some of those people are remarkable. Some of those people are ordinary. Some are born here and others move to the state. All of the people are part of Vermont’s story. Read the stories and think about this question: Who is a Vermonter?
There’s more to explore about Vermont! Check out this section to read articles about history from the Green Mountaineer and Historic Roots magazines. Learn about Vermont state symbols and population numbers. Find links to books about Vermont, places to visit, and online resources. What more can you discover about Vermont history?
Are you ready to start exploring Vermont history?
Choose a section above to start your exploration. Or select a box below to see different types of primary sources.
This site is full of information about Vermont history. You can research a topic for a report or you can start clicking around to find something that you think is interesting.
Not sure where to begin?
Read the story below about a notable person in Vermont's history!
Jeffrey Brace
What does Jeffrey Brace's story tell us about the challenges faced by early Black Vermonters?
Boyrereau Brinch, later renamed Jeffrey Brace, was born in West Africa around 1742. White slave traders stole him from his home in Africa when he was a teenager. First, they sold him to an English ship captain. He was then sold in Connecticut. He was enslaved there for fifteen years.