20 Most Interesting Facts about Vermont


 

Vermont is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. The name Vermont was derived from the French words “Mont” and “Vert” which means Green Mountain. It is the second smallest state in terms of population, according to the 2020 U.S. census the state had a population of 643,503. It is a landlocked New England state.

 Vermont is a state known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. While it may be one of the smallest states in the country, it certainly packs a punch when it comes to fascinating facts. In this article, we’ll delve into the 20 most interesting facts about Vermont, shedding light on what makes the Green Mountain State so special and showcasing other interesting facts about Vermont.

1. The Birthplace of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

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Vermont is the birthplace of the beloved ice cream brand, Ben & Jerry’s. The two Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield at the time were in junior high gym class in Merrick. When they found this idea they were in an athletic field while still at school but they hated running, they loved food.

On that particular day, they decided to go into business together. With only savings of $8000 and a diploma from a $5 correspondence course, they started the company by converting an old and abandoned gas station in Burlington Vermont, and started making Vermont’s Finest ice cream.

2. Montpelier, Vermont is the Only State Capital without a McDonald’s

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Just try to imagine a city without McDonalds products. How do the lazy individuals who dislike cooking survive? However, Montpelier Vermont stands still and is the only U.S. state capital to hold the distinction of not having a McDonald’s. This reflects the state’s commitment to preserving its unique character.

Although Montpelier does not have McDonalds others are so close to Montpelier. Vermont holds the distinction of having a total of 27 McDonald’s in the entire state.

Read also the Top 15 Famous People from Vermont.

3. Vermont is the Largest Producer of Maple Syrup

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Vermont is the top producer of Maple Syrup.  It produces the best Maple Syrup in the world hence boosting the economy of Vermont. Vermont produces more than 2 Million gallons of Maple Syrup annually.

According to last year’s statistics, the producers put out 6.65 million maple taps in 2022 which was an increase of 150K over the 2021 number of production.

4. About Half the Milk Consumed in New England is Produced in Vermont

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One of the interesting facts about Vermont is that it is ranked to be the largest milk producer in New England. Dairy is the primary source of agricultural output in the state of Vermont. According to 2021 statistics, dairy farms that milk cattle, sheep, and goats produced approximately 2.5 billion pounds of milk annually.

5. Vermont is the First State to Abolish Slavery

In 1777, Vermont became the first state in the U.S. to abolish slavery, emphasizing its commitment to freedom and equality this was a response to abolitionists’ call across the colonies to end slavery. During that time of slavery, black Americans were highly affected. It was too difficult for them to find work own property or even remain in the state.

Not only did it abolish slavery but also provided full voting rights for African American males. On 25th November 1858 Vermont made the decision clear by ratifying a stronger anti-slavery law into its constitution. Vermont was the first state to abolish slavery as other states continued with the same action but eventually, they too were able to abolish it.

Click here to read more about other states.

6. Vermont is the Only New England State Without a Coastline

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Vermont is the only New England state that doesn’t have a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. It’s landlocked, which adds to its uniqueness. However, as much as it doesn’t have a coastline, it is known for the Green Mountains which runs north to south, and Lake Champlain which makes up 50% of Vermont’s Western border.

It attracts visitors with its lush forests, rolling hills, rich history, and stunning landscapes among many others. If you are planning to visit the state, the lack of ocean waves crashing on its shores should not stop you since other activities can make you stay and visit awesome.

7. Vermont has the Highest Number of Covered Bridges per Square Mile

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Vermont has about 100 authentic covered bridges thus making the state to be the highest number of covered bridges per square mile in the United States. These charming structures harken back to a bygone era. For a bridge to be considered covered, a character of age is not considered but they consider it construction.

A covered bridge is constructed using trusses and not by other methods such as stringers. An example of these bridges include; the Silk Road Covered Bridge, Paper Mill Covered Bridge, and Burt Henry Covered Bridge among many others.

8. Vermont is the Birthplace of Joseph Smith, Founder of Mormonism

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Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, was born on 23rd December 1805 in Sharon, Vermont. He was brought up in a Christian home. At the age of 14, it is narrated that when he read a script he went to the woods to pray, and while he was still there praying God and Jesus Christ appeared to him.

The experience was a turnaround for Joseph Smith where he became a central tenet of Latter-day Saint belief. He began the work of restoring the Church of Jesus Christ to the earth. This makes Vermont an important historical site for the Mormon faith.

Look at the 10 Most Beautiful Overlooked Castles in the United States.

9. Vermont is a State with No Billboards

Vermont was among the first four states to ban billboards. The other states include Maine, Alaska, and Hawaii. In Vermont, after prohibiting Billboards they started putting travel information signs along state highway corridors to guide residents and visitors get into destinations that are located off those highways.

One of the reasons for prohibiting billboards is to preserve its scenic beauty and natural landscapes.

Also, read the Top 15 historical facts about the Constitutional Convention of the United States.

10. Vermont is the Land of Craft Beer

Vermont is the leading capital of American Craft Beer. The state has a vibrant craft beer scene, with more breweries per capita than any other state in the nation. It has an impressive 20.1 gallons brewed for every resident of drinking age. You can explore unique flavors and local brews throughout Vermont.

11. Vermont is Home to the Long Trail

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It is interesting to know that Vermont is home to the Long Trail. It is the oldest long-distance trail in the United States which was constructed between 1910- 1930. The long trail was constructed by the Green Mountain Club which up to date remains responsible for it.

The long train starts in Massachusetts and runs north to the Canada- US border. It offers stunning views and spans over 270 miles. It as well attracts visitors and is one of the famous tourist destinations.

12. Bernie Sanders, is a Vermont Icon

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Bernie Sanders, a politician and activist serving as a senior United States senator was born in Vermont. He is the longest-serving independent in U.S. congressional history.

He has also served as a mayor of Burlington Vermont in 1981 as an independent candidate and was re-elected three times. He served as a U.S. representative for 16 years before being elected to the U.S. Senate in 2006.

Read also the 10 Strange Laws you should be aware of in the United States.

13. Vermont is Covered in Forests

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Around 75% of Vermont is covered in forests, making it one of the most forested states in the United States. The forest contains a different range of tree species which include Oak, maple, and evergreens like pine and spruce. The forest also provides habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Forests in Vermont have a great advantage to the state as they support the economy but supporting industries such as logging and the production of high-quality hardwoods. They also provide outdoor activities such as Hiking, camping, and zip-lining among many others.

14. Vermont is a Skiing Paradise

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If you love and have an interest in skiing then Vermont is the place to visit.  It can boost 20 alpine ski resorts, 30 cross-country touring centers, and 7300 acres of alpine terrain. Winter is the best season to go for skiing.

15. Vermont is the Second Smallest State in Population

Vermont is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. Based on the population it is the second smallest state in the United States.

The smallest is Wyoming with a population of 585 501 people, followed by Vermont with a population of 624 594 people. It has a population density of 67.8 people per square mile the third smallest being North Dakota.

Here are the Top 10 Outstanding Facts about the Constitution of the United States of America (1787).

16. Vermont was the First State Admitted to the Union after the First 13 Colonies

Vermont joined the federal Union as the fourteenth state in 1791 becoming the first state to enter the Union after the original Thirteen Colonies hence making it the first state to enter the union. 

The reason why Vermont was not part of the 13 original colonies was because the Continental Congress did not recognize the jurisdiction’s independence.

17. Norwich University which is the Oldest Private Military College in Vermont

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Norwich is the oldest of six private and senior military colleges in the United States. The university was founded in 1819 in Norwich Vermont as the American Literary Scientific and Military Academy.

The military college is greatly recognized as the “Birthplace of Reserve Officers Training Corps” by the United States Department of Defense.

18. In Vermont, More People Live in Rural Settings than in Urban Settings

It is surprising to know that Vermont has a higher percentage of people living in rural areas than in urban settings. It has approximately 64.9% of its population living in rural areas.

You will find many people move to Vermont to exchange the bustle of city living for a slower pace of life. Being one of the states with a small population means that people are spread apart thus making Vermont extremely rural.

19. John Deere Served his Apprenticeship in Vermont

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John Deere was born in Rutland Vermont. He was an American blacksmith and manufacturer who founded Deere & Company which is among the largest and leading agricultural and construction equipment manufacturers in the world.

At the age of 17 together with his friend Captain Benjamin Lawrence began an apprenticeship. After five years he entered trade for himself. He died at the age of 82 years.

You can read more about the United States in the Top 10 Unknown Facts about the United States Declaration of Independence article.

20. Vermont has the Least Amount of Violent Crimes Out of all 50 States

Compared to other states, Vermont has few instances of violent crime which is the most interesting fact about the state. In the case of those crimes, the majority of them relate to property.

According to statistics Vermont’s crime rate is 1.6 crimes per 1000 people. It is the safest state in America. Also, it is said to have a low risk of terrorism and natural disasters.  According to America’s Health Rankings, Vermont is one of the healthiest states.

Vermont, often referred to as the Green Mountain State, is rich with natural landscapes, and stunning iconic figures. It is one of the cool states with fewer people and fewer crimes. If you are looking for a place to settle, Vermont is a recommendable one. Whether you’re a lover of nature, and history, or simply curious about interesting tidbits, Vermont has something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.

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