Addison, Vt. –The Vermont state historic sites of Chimney Point in Addison, Mount Independence in Orwell, and the Hubbardton Battlefield in Hubbardton will open for the 2009 season on Saturday, May 23, at 9:30 a.m. You’re invited this year to discover—or rediscover—Vermont and its fascinating history.
Chimney Point on Lake Champlain is one of the earliest, mostly intensely settled, and most strategic sites on the lake. Exhibits and programs present the story of the three early cultures in the area —Native American, French colonial, and early American. A new exhibit, opening June 13, looks at the early French history of the area. Season highlights include hands-on Sunday afternoon activities, second
Saturdays exploring the French Colonial past, the annual evening social on August 13, and the 14th annual Northeast Open Atlatl Championship weekend, September 19 to 20. The atlatl weekend is part of the larger Festival of Nations with the Crown Point, New York, Historic Site, a signature event for the 2009 Samuel de Champlain Quadricentennial commemorative year. Chimney Point is open Wednesdays to Sundays and Monday holidays, including Memorial Day, from 9:30 to 5:00.
Orwell’s Mount Independence, named after the Declaration of Independence, was built in 1776-77 on Lake Champlain to protect the American colonies against British invasion from the north. The museum’s exhibits include a talking hologram sculpture and exciting Revolutionary War artifacts from the site, including two huge logs from the Great Bridge and a cannon recovered from Lake Champlain. Six miles of scenic walking and hiking trails wind past archaeological sites. The season begins on Saturday, May 23, at 8:00 a.m. with the favorite annual Early Bird Nature Walk, led by bird expert Susan Wetmore. No pets please. The fee is $5.00 for adults. Other special events include nature and history programs and the annual Soldiers Atop the Mount encampment on July 25 and 26. The site is open daily, 9:30 to 5:00.
The Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site is the location of Vermont’s only Revolutionary War battle. At noon on May 25th there will be a Memorial Day commemoration. The annual living history weekend, with the battle reenactment, is July 11and 12. Other programs include lectures and guided hikes on September 12 and October 4. The site is open Thursdays through Sundays and Monday holidays, including Memorial Day, from 9:30 to 5:00.
All sites have scenic grounds for walking and picnics, and specialty museum shops with many books and other items. Each has a modest admission fee for adults. Children under 15 are free. Come visit the Vermont state historic sites—see history where it happened!
For directions, more information about these sites, or to receive a calendar of events, please call 802-759-2412 or visit HYPERLINK http://www.HistoricVermont.org www.HistoricVermont.org/sites.
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