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Hidden Stone Foundations In Vermont’s Woods

Published:

by Sasha Mcallister

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Have you ever stumbled upon hidden stone foundations while hiking through Vermont's woods? These mysterious remnants often spark curiosity about their origins. Were they part of old homesteads, mills, or something else entirely? Vermont's forests hold many secrets, and these stone structures are among the most intriguing. Some date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers. Others might be remnants of forgotten industries. Exploring these hidden gems can feel like stepping back in time. Let's uncover the stories behind these fascinating stone foundations and what they reveal about Vermont's past.

Hidden Stone Foundations in Vermont's Woods

Vermont's woods hold secrets from the past, hidden beneath layers of moss and leaves. Stone foundations, remnants of old homes and buildings, tell stories of a bygone era. Let's explore some of these fascinating sites.

Abandoned Farmsteads

Many of Vermont's stone foundations come from old farmsteads. These places once bustled with activity but now lie silent, reclaimed by nature.

  1. Jericho's Forgotten Farms

    • Jericho's woods hide several stone foundations from 19th-century farms. These ruins offer a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

  2. Tunbridge's Lost Homesteads

    • Deep in Tunbridge's forests, stone foundations mark the spots where families once lived and worked. Exploring these sites feels like stepping back in time.

  3. Woodstock's Hidden Farms

    • Woodstock's dense woods conceal the remains of old farmhouses. These foundations, covered in moss, tell tales of hard work and rural life.

Old Mill Sites

Vermont's rivers and streams powered many mills in the past. Though the mills are gone, their stone foundations remain.

  1. Grafton's Mill Ruins

    • Near Grafton's streams, stone foundations of old mills can be found. These sites remind visitors of the area's industrial past.

  2. Manchester's Forgotten Mills

    • Manchester's woods hide the remains of several mills. These stone structures once played a crucial role in the local economy.

  3. Middletown Springs' Mill Foundations

    • Middletown Springs boasts several old mill sites. The stone foundations here are a testament to the town's industrious past.

Abandoned Settlements

Some stone foundations mark the locations of entire settlements that have vanished over time.

  1. Glastenbury's Ghost Town

    • Glastenbury was once a thriving town. Now, only stone foundations remain, hidden in the woods, telling stories of a community that disappeared.

  2. Ricker Basin's Lost Village

    • Ricker Basin, now part of the Green Mountain National Forest, was once a bustling village. Today, stone foundations are all that remain of this forgotten place.

  3. Somerset's Vanished Hamlet

    • Somerset's woods conceal the stone foundations of a hamlet that once existed. Exploring these ruins offers a haunting glimpse into the past.

Historic Homesteads

Some stone foundations belonged to notable historic figures or families.

  1. Ethan Allen's Homestead

    • Near Burlington, the stone foundation of Ethan Allen's original homestead can be found. This site offers a connection to one of Vermont's most famous historical figures.

  2. Calvin Coolidge's Birthplace

    • Plymouth Notch holds the stone foundation of Calvin Coolidge's birthplace. This site provides insight into the early life of the 30th President of the United States.

  3. The Old Scott Farm

    • Dummerston's woods hide the stone foundation of the Old Scott Farm. This historic site tells the story of one of the area's early farming families.

Forgotten Churches

Some stone foundations mark the locations of old churches, once central to community life.

  1. Ruins of the Old West Church

    • Near Calais, the stone foundation of the Old West Church can be found. This site was once a gathering place for the local community.

  2. St. Johnsbury's Hidden Chapel

    • St. Johnsbury's woods hide the stone foundation of a long-forgotten chapel. Exploring this site offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of past residents.

  3. The Old Meeting House in East Montpelier

    • East Montpelier's woods conceal the stone foundation of an old meeting house. This site was once a hub of community activity and worship.

Vermont's Hidden Stone Foundations: A Glimpse into the Past

Hidden stone foundations in Vermont's woods offer a unique peek into history. These remnants tell stories of early settlers, their homes, and their lives. Exploring these sites can be both educational and adventurous. You might find old cellar holes, stone walls, or even remnants of mills. Each discovery adds a piece to the puzzle of Vermont's past.

Respect these sites. They are fragile and valuable. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Share your findings with local historical societies. They can provide more context and help preserve these treasures.

Next time you hike in Vermont, keep an eye out for these hidden gems. They are a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of those who came before us. Happy exploring!