Brattleboro

Brattleboro, Vermont, is a town with a rich history that is deeply interwoven with the development of southern Vermont and the broader New England region. Here is a detailed history of Brattleboro, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History and Settlement

• 1670s-1720s: The area that is now Brattleboro was originally inhabited by the Abenaki people, part of the larger Algonquian-speaking indigenous peoples of the northeastern United States. English settlers began exploring the region in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.

• 1753: The town of Brattleboro was chartered in 1753 as part of the New Hampshire land grants issued by Governor Benning Wentworth. It was named after Colonel William Brattle, Jr., a prominent Boston physician and politician.

• Fort Dummer: This was the first permanent European settlement in what would become Vermont, established in 1724. It was a British fortification built during Dummer's War to protect against attacks from the French and their Native American allies.

19th Century Development

• Industrial Growth: Brattleboro developed into a significant industrial and commercial center, driven by its location along the Connecticut River. The town had several mills and factories, including those producing paper, textiles, and machinery.

• Estey Organ Company: Founded in 1846, the Estey Organ Company became one of the largest and most notable manufacturers of reed organs in the world. The company’s products were shipped globally, and its presence significantly contributed to Brattleboro’s economy.

• Abolitionist Activities: Brattleboro was an active center for abolitionist sentiment prior to and during the Civil War. The town was involved in the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved individuals escape to freedom.

20th Century to Present

• Retreat Farm and The Brattleboro Retreat: Founded in 1834, the Brattleboro Retreat is a historic psychiatric hospital and one of the first of its kind in the United States. The Retreat Farm, initially part of the institution, is now a community space and historic site.

• Arts and Culture: In the 20th century, Brattleboro became known for its vibrant arts community. The Brattleboro Music Center, founded in 1952, and the New England Youth Theatre are important cultural institutions.

• Landmarks: The town is home to several historic buildings and sites, including the Brooks House, a grand hotel built in 1871, and the Creamery Covered Bridge, a picturesque structure built in 1879 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Strolling of the Heifers: This annual festival, inspired by the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, is a unique event promoting sustainable agriculture and local food. It attracts visitors from across the region.

Notable Figures

• Rudyard Kipling: The famous British author lived in Brattleboro from 1892 to 1896, during which time he wrote several of his well-known works, including “The Jungle Book.”

• Lucy Terry Prince: An important African-American figure in Vermont’s history, she was a former slave who became a well-respected storyteller and the first known African-American poet, living part of her life in Vermont.

Brattleboro today remains a vibrant and eclectic town, known for its community-oriented spirit, commitment to arts and culture, and beautiful natural surroundings. It is a hub for progressive ideas, attracting a diverse population dedicated to maintaining the town’s historic charm and forward-thinking ethos.