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Vermont is known as the "Green Mountain State." The name "Vermont" itself has French origins. In 1609, French explorer Samuel de Champlain encountered a large lake in the region. that was named after him; Lake Champlain. He is also credited with visiting the land around the lake we know as Vermont. The word Vermont comes from two French words: vert (meaning “green”) and mont (meaning “mountain”). Thus, Vermont’s nickname, the “Green Mountain State,” directly reflects the lush, forested peaks that dominate its landscape.[1]
During the colonial era, Vermont was part of the Vermont Republic, which existed from 1777 to 1791 before Vermont became an official state. Within this republic, a group of determined foot soldiers emerged—the Green Mountain Boys—led by Ethan Allen. These rugged fighters played a crucial role in securing Vermont’s independence from neighboring states like New York and New Hampshire. Their tenacity and love for their mountainous homeland forever etched the name “Green Mountain State” into Vermont’s history.[2]
Vermont is the 49th most populous and the 45th most extensive state. As of 2024, Vermont’s population was approximately 647,818.[3] Vermont’s economy relies heavily on the service sector. It has a low unemployment rate compared to other states. Key economic activities include maple syrup production, cheese, and wood products. Vermont is the largest producer of maple syrup in the U.S. The state also excels in wood and paper products manufacturing.[4]
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History of Vermont
Vermont has been the home of Native American communities for thousands of years. Built by the French in 1666, Fort Sainte Anne was the first permanent European settlement in Vermont.[5] However, the first successful European settlement in Vermont can be traced back to the Dutch-British settlers who explored the region during the latter half of the 17th century. In 1690, a group led by Captain Jacobus de Warm established the De Warm Stockade at Chimney Point, which is now Chimney Point State Historic Site.
Settlers with New Hampshire land grant titles established the Vermont Republic in 1777 during the American Revolutionary War. Vermont abolished slavery before any other U.S. state. In 1791, Vermont became the 14th state in the Union.[6] Vermont played a significant role during the Civil War.[7] The state fought on the Union side and contributed troops, supplies, and leadership.[8]
The 19th century saw agricultural growth, industrialization, and the rise of small towns. In the 20th century, Vermont embraced tourism, environmental conservation, and a reputation for progressive politics.[9]
Demographics of Vermont
The demographic distribution of Vermont is as follows:[10]
- White: 92.93%
- Two or more races: 3.37%
- Asian: 1.68%
- Black or African American: 1.27%
- Other race: 0.49%
- Native American: 0.24%
- Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.03%
Most common surnames in Vermont
Researching family history in Vermont
The National Archives at Boston has historical records for Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The Howard and Alba Leahy Library of the Vermont Historical Society has a wide collection of historical books and records. The Vermont State Archives has records from all levels of Vermont government including vital records. The Vermont Agency of Administration, Department of Libraries has extensive holdings including newspapers available to Vermont residents. The Vermont Genealogy Library is the home of the Vermont French-Canadian Genealogical Society and has records of Vermonters who have French-Canadian, Scottish, English, Irish, or German ancestry. There are many more local genealogical and historical societies that may have additional records.
Vermont county list
| Addison | Bennington | Caledonia | Chittenden |
| Essex | Franklin | Grand isle | Lamoille |
| Orange | Orleans | Rutland | Washington |
| Windham | Windsor |
See also
Explore more about Vermont
MyHeritage.com has 35 collections of Vermont records including Vermont, Deaths, Vermont, Births, and US Naturalization Records, New England, 1791-1906, The Vermont Collection Catalog entry has additional valuable records.
References
- ↑ Why Is Vermont Called the Green Mountain State?
- ↑ 6 Vermont Nicknames and the Stories Behind Them
- ↑ Vermont Population 2024 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs)
- ↑ Vermont - Agriculture, Manufacturing, Tourism | Britannica
- ↑ National Park Service - Explorers and Settlers (Vermont)
- ↑ Vermont Republic
- ↑ Vermont's Vital Role in the Civil War: Bravery, Sacrifice, and Abolitionism
- ↑ Vermonters in the Civil War
- ↑ Vermont History Explorer
- ↑ Vermont Population 2024 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs)