The Chittenden Historical Society. Chittenden, Vermont.

Projects

Cataloguing

Computer Guy Grapic
Beginning in the spring of 2007, the society embarked on a process of cataloging and indexing its collections for easier retrieval of information in the future. Photos are being identified, indexed and placed in protective covers in albums for easier viewing. Separate indexed books are being filled with biographies, genealogies and obituaries. The society welcomes new materials to add to its collections. The collections will be put on the computer donated to the society in 2007. Limited copying is available on a donated printer.

Grange Hall

Project Photo Album.

Back of Grange Hall
Grange Hall Addition.

In 2000 the society, working under the Board of Selectmen, formed the Historic Buildings Preservation Committee (HBPC) to restore and repair the town’s historic public buildings. At present restoration of the North Chittenden Grange Hall is under way. The 1833 building originally housed a Congregational Church, but by the early 1880s it became a Grange Hall. In 1906 it was purchased by the town and used as a town hall, alternating with the one in South Chittenden. Having fallen into disrepair, it is being restored for use as a cultural and recreational center to embrace all ages of residents.

It is a landmark building sitting on a hill overlooking the village of Holden and still retains many of its original features, beaded wainscoting, period moldings, a small balcony and coffered ceilings. In 2006 Phase I to install the well, septic field and relocate the entrance to the original location was accomplished. This year is seeing improvements to the building itself.

  • complete architectural and engineering plans
  • all state permits required so far have been obtained
  • leveled the sagging floor
  • leveled the basement floor and add gravel
  • installed insulated sub-basement heating ducts
  • installed engineered iron support beam system under floor
  • replaced rotted southeast corner post and other damaged pieces
  • built shell of addition to house lift and baths
  • added cement block to the foundation and raise grade
  • attach well and septic service into building
  • original balcony and coffered ceiling revealed
  • restoration of the exterior shell
  • replacing windows to original tall design

Exterior painting and additional grading will be done in Spring 2008. See our News page for information about the next phase.

Grants from the Freeman Foundation, the Cerf Community Trust (Both through Preservation Trust of Vermont) and now the Vermont Council on the Arts Cultural Facilities (a Vermont State grant) are helping fund the project.

Contributions may be made to the Town of Chittenden HBPC, c/o Chittenden Town Treasurer, P.O. Box 89, Chittenden, VT 05737.

Cemetery Work

Wetmore Cemetery
Wetmore Cemetery

The Chittenden Historical Society is working with the Chittenden Cemetery Commissioners to restore its historic cemeteries. Work will begin with the Wetmore Cemetery in Spring 2008.

Bump Cemetery
Bump Cemetery