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Tel.: (802) 457-4400 Fax:(802) 457-4827 Toll-Free: (877) 378-8402 Rte. 4 East · Woodstock, VT |
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| Woodstock, Vermont: A Community For All Seasons |
| See Real Estate in Woodstock Vermont.
Long recognized for the beauty and serenity it affords, the
Town of Woodstock is truly one of the most desirable places
in which to reside in New England. Respect for tradition plays
an important role in establishing priorities for future growth
and development of the town. A quality life-style is what Woodstock
has always offered its citizenry. It continues to do so with
fine schools, churches, health facilities and recreational
opportunities. Seasonal recreation that gives pleasure to residents
and tourists alike: Come talk to us about your real estate needs. We listen and produce results. |
A look in the window of Woodstock's past As one drives through this picturesque New England town, one begins to wonder about how this came to be. Surely a town so typically "New England" cannot really exist by all standards of reason. Most New England cities and towns have an apparent economic, industrial, or commercial basis for existence.On the surface, however, Woodstock does not have any of the empty industrial building monsters typical of times past, not does it have any current. How does one then explain the grand old mansions, and amply built old homes dominating the scene? About 20 years after its first settlers arrived, in 1765, Woodstock was selected as the County Seat or Shire Town of Windsor County. This new prominence attracted many professional and business people to the town form as far away as Connecticut and Massachusetts. As they came, they also brought with them their trades, talents, culture, and typically large families. Then with plentiful and cheap building materials, they constructed the many large homes found today around the town. Typical of the colonial Era, Woodstock citizens were independent and self-sufficient as they either made or grew what subsistence they needed. Using their homes as a trade or business base, they offered their services to the community. Typical trades and professions of the day were: Silversmith, Saddlery, Hatter, Blacksmith, Baker, Printer, Jeweler, Cabinet Maker, Tanner, Tinsmith. As was the case in most New England Towns, heavy reliance of the ample resources of streams, timber, and fertile soil, fostered many related industries and products needed to support Woodstock. Typical industries and crafts were: Lumber, Saw Mills, Carding Mill, Pottery, Cooperage, Woolen Mills, Cider Press, Clothiers, Basketry, Woodenware, Bookbinder, Brick Kiln, Iron Casting, Carriage maker, Clockmaker, Wheelwright. Woodstock became famous for the earliest breed of American Horse through history books, and Walt Disney as he featured a movie about Justin Morgan and his Morgan Horses which were stabled in Woodstock for a time in 1802. For years, also, Windsor County was the United States Center of the Jersey Cow. Merion Sheep were first introduced into the county at the Weathersfield Bow, just south of Woodstock, and flourished for 75 years. In the mid-1800's, Woodstock began a gradual transformation into a tourist and resort destination. The peace and tranquility of this lovely rural community offered a welcome respite from the rapid pace of metropolitan life, even in those days. And the amenities of winter and summer resort living attracted visitors from all over the U.S. and world. In addition, Woodstock has established a reputation from several other incidents, the more notable of which being the invention of the rope tow. Back in 1934, at the head of Farmer Gilbert's pasture, a rope was fashioned to enable skiers to propel themselves uphill and eliminate that awful but worthwhile climb back up the hill after they had come down. This idea revolutionized the ski industry, as more modern and comfortable ski lifts have been invented. Today, the downhill ski industry flourishes worldwide and in Woodstock as a result of this invention. Woodstock alone offers many miles of great downhill and cross country skiing for winter diversion. For summer activities, golf, horseback riding, tennis, and many other activities offer the visitor and resident alike a gourmet selection. The town has a long standing reputation for hospitality with it's many fine inns, B & B's, and guest houses. And so, Woodstock as it is today, can only be explained by looking through a window into the past. Recently, Woodstock has been called one of the five most beautiful towns in the U.S. A well deserved and appropriate title. We invite you to discover anew the pleasures and treasures we have to offer. |
he gurgling of a gentle stream as it winds its
way through the town, finch and chickadee chirping, townsmen
cheerily acknowledging one another on the green, a covered
bridge that invites a stroll and the beauty of eighteenth century
architecture complemented by a charming array of shops; this
and more await you in Woodstock, Vermont.
