The Big List

  • Brandon, Vermont

    πŸ“ Location & Geography

    Brandon is a charming town located in Rutland County, Vermont, United States. It is nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, surrounded by a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine waterways. The town covers a total area of 40.6 square miles, of which 40.2 square miles is land and 0.4 square miles is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Brandon, Vermont are approximately 43.8 degrees North latitude and 73.1 degrees West longitude.

    πŸ—ΊοΈ Region & Area

    Brandon is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is situated in the western part of Vermont, close to the border with New York. The town is in Rutland County, which is one of the 14 counties in Vermont. Brandon’s ZIP code is 05733.

    πŸ‘₯ Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 census, Brandon had a population of 3,966 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 43.4 years. The population is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.

    πŸ›οΈ History

    Brandon was chartered on October 20, 1761, by Benning Wentworth, the colonial governor of New Hampshire. The town was named after Brandon, Suffolk in England. In the 19th century, Brandon was a major hub for manufacturing, particularly in the areas of iron, tannery, and paper production. Today, it retains its historic charm with a well-preserved downtown area featuring numerous buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Brandon is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by the Green Mountains, offering a wealth of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and bird watching. There are several parks and recreational areas in and around the town, including the Neshobe River, which is a popular spot for fishing and canoeing. Brandon’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its well-maintained trails and green spaces.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Brandon is managed by the Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union. The town is home to Neshobe Elementary School and Otter Valley Union High School. For higher education, residents have access to nearby institutions such as Middlebury College and Castleton University.

    🚧 Transportation

    Brandon is served by U.S. Route 7, which runs north-south through the town, connecting it to Rutland and Middlebury. The town is also accessible via Vermont Route 73. Public transportation is provided by The Bus, which operates a service between Brandon and Rutland. The nearest major airports are Burlington International Airport and Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport.

    πŸ“œ Trivia & Events

    Brandon is known for its vibrant arts scene and hosts several events throughout the year, including the Brandon Artists Guild’s annual Art in the Park festival. The town is also home to the Brandon Museum at the Stephen A. Douglas Birthplace, which showcases the history of the town and its notable resident, Stephen A. Douglas, a famous 19th-century politician. The town’s rich history, arts scene, and natural beauty make it a popular destination for tourists.


  • Bomoseen, Vermont

    πŸ“ Location & Geography

    Bomoseen is a small, picturesque city located in Rutland County, Vermont. It is nestled in the northeastern United States and is known for its natural beauty. The city is situated near Lake Bomoseen, the largest lake entirely within the state’s borders. The city’s terrain is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine waters.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Bomoseen are approximately 43.6584Β° N latitude and 73.1792Β° W longitude.

    πŸ—ΊοΈ Region & Area

    Bomoseen is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The city is located in the western part of Vermont, in Rutland County. The city itself is relatively small, reflecting the rural nature of much of Vermont.

    πŸ‘₯ Population & Demographics

    Bomoseen is a small city with a population that fluctuates around a few hundred residents. The city has a diverse age range, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees. The majority of the population is Caucasian, with a small percentage of other ethnicities represented.

    πŸ›οΈ History

    Bomoseen has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The city grew around the slate industry, which was prevalent in the area. The city’s name is derived from the Native American word, meaning “at the rock.” This is likely a reference to the slate quarries in the area. Over the years, Bomoseen has transitioned from a bustling industrial town to a peaceful residential area.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Bomoseen is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The city is home to Lake Bomoseen State Park, a popular destination for camping, hiking, and boating. The lake itself is a major attraction, offering opportunities for fishing, swimming, and other water activities. The surrounding forests are home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Bomoseen is managed by the Addison Rutland Supervisory Union. The city is served by the Castleton Elementary School, Fair Haven Grade School, and Fair Haven Union High School. For higher education, the nearby Castleton University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation in Bomoseen is primarily by private vehicle. The city is served by a network of local roads and highways, including Route 4A. The nearest airport is Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport, located approximately 20 miles to the east.

    πŸ“œ Trivia & Events

    Bomoseen hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Bomoseen State Park Summer Concert Series. The city is also known for its slate quarries, which were once the largest in the world. Today, the Slate Valley Museum in nearby Granville, New York, offers exhibits on the history and significance of the slate industry in the region.


  • Benson, Vermont

    πŸ“ Location & Geography

    Benson is a charming town located in the state of Vermont, United States. It is nestled within Rutland County and is covered by the ZIP codes 05731 and 05743. The town is situated in the western part of the state, close to the New York border. Benson is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, flat farmlands, and dense forests, offering a picturesque landscape.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of Benson, Vermont are approximately 43.61Β° N latitude and 73.31Β° W longitude.

    πŸ—ΊοΈ Region & Area

    Benson is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of approximately 48.7 square miles, of which about 1.2 square miles is water. The town is surrounded by other Vermont towns including Orwell to the north, Sudbury to the east, and Fair Haven to the south.

    πŸ‘₯ Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 census, Benson had a population of approximately 1,056 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of around 42 years. The population is predominantly Caucasian, with minorities making up a small portion of the community.

    πŸ›οΈ History

    Benson was chartered on October 27, 1780, by the Vermont Legislature. The town was named after Egbert Benson, a noted lawyer and politician from New York. Over the years, Benson has maintained its rural charm and agricultural roots, with dairy farming being a significant part of the local economy.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Benson is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. The town is home to several parks and hiking trails, including the popular Lake Champlain Bikeway. The town also features the Benson Village Forest, a vast area of woodland ideal for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography. Benson’s environmental efforts focus on preserving its natural resources and maintaining the town’s rural character.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Benson is managed by the Addison Rutland Supervisory Union. The town is home to the Benson Village School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend Fair Haven Union High School, located in the neighboring town of Fair Haven.

    🚧 Transportation

    Benson is primarily a car-dependent town with most residents relying on private vehicles for transportation. The town is served by Vermont Route 22A, which provides easy access to nearby towns and cities. The closest major airport is Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport, located about 30 miles to the east of Benson.

    πŸ“œ Trivia & Events

    Every year, the town of Benson hosts the “Benson Fishing Derby”, a popular event that attracts residents and visitors alike. The town is also home to the Wheel Inn, a local restaurant famous for its homemade pies. In terms of historical trivia, Benson was one of the last towns to be chartered in Vermont before Vermont became a state.


  • Belmont, Vermont

    πŸ“ Location & Geography

    Belmont, Vermont is a small, picturesque village located in the town of Mount Holly in Rutland County. The town is nestled in the Green Mountains, part of the Appalachian Mountain range, and is characterized by its hilly terrain, lush forests, and serene lakes.

    🌎 Coordinates

    Belmont is located at approximately 43.42Β° N latitude and 72.88Β° W longitude.

    πŸ—ΊοΈ Region & Area

    Belmont is part of the Northeastern region of the United States, in the New England area. It is situated in the southern part of Vermont, within Rutland County. The village itself is relatively small, covering an area of just a few square miles.

    πŸ‘₯ Population & Demographics

    As part of the town of Mount Holly, Belmont shares its population count with the larger town. As of the 2010 census, Mount Holly had a population of 1,237 people. The population is predominantly white, with a median age of 47.8 years.

    πŸ›οΈ History

    Belmont was first settled in the late 18th century, and was originally known as Mechanicsville. It was later renamed Belmont, and became a part of the town of Mount Holly. The village has retained much of its historical charm, with several buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Belmont Village Historic District.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Belmont is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Green Mountains. The area is home to a variety of wildlife and offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Star Lake, located in the village, is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. The village is also close to Okemo State Forest and Camp Plymouth State Park, which offer hiking, camping, and bird watching.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Belmont is managed by the Mount Holly School District. The district operates the Mount Holly School, which serves students from kindergarten through grade six. For secondary education, students attend schools in the neighboring towns, including the Green Mountain Union High School.

    🚧 Transportation

    Belmont is primarily accessed by road, with Vermont Route 155 running through the village. The closest major airport is Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport, located approximately 20 miles away. Public transportation in the area is limited, so most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting.

    πŸ“œ Trivia & Events

    Belmont is known for its annual community events, which include a Fourth of July parade and a winter holiday celebration. The village also hosts the Mount Holly Day, a popular event that features a craft fair, live music, and a variety of food vendors. Despite its small size, Belmont has been the filming location for a few movies, including the 1987 film “Baby Boom” starring Diane Keaton.


  • Rutland, Vermont

    πŸ“ Location & Geography

    Rutland is a city located in the state of Vermont, in the United States. It is the seat of Rutland County, nestled in the southwestern part of the state. The city is surrounded by the town of Rutland, which is a separate municipality, and the city is not a part of the town. Rutland covers a total area of approximately 7.67 square miles, of which 7.6 square miles is land and 0.04 square miles is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Rutland, Vermont are approximately 43.6106Β° N latitude and 72.9726Β° W longitude.

    πŸ—ΊοΈ Region & Area

    Rutland is situated in the New England region of the United States. It is the third-largest city in the state of Vermont. The city is part of the Rutland Micropolitan NECTA, which includes all of Rutland County.

    πŸ‘₯ Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the city of Rutland had a population of approximately 15,325 people. The city has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.8 years. The racial makeup of the city is predominantly white, with minorities making up a small percentage of the population.

    πŸ›οΈ History

    Rutland was originally chartered in 1761 by Governor Benning Wentworth of New Hampshire and was settled in 1770 by families from Connecticut. The city experienced significant growth in the 19th century due to the marble and railroad industries. Rutland was incorporated as a city in 1892, and it has been the county seat since 1784.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Rutland is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Green Mountains to the east and the Taconic Mountains to the west. The city is home to several parks, including Pine Hill Park, which offers miles of mountain biking and hiking trails. Rutland is also in proximity to Killington and Pico ski resorts, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

    🏫 Education

    Rutland is served by the Rutland City Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Rutland High School. The city is also home to the College of St. Joseph and the Community College of Vermont.

    🚧 Transportation

    Rutland is served by Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express, which provides daily passenger rail service to New York City. The Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport provides commercial air service. The Marble Valley Regional Transit District operates “The Bus,” a network of public buses serving Rutland and surrounding communities.

    πŸ“œ Trivia & Events

    Rutland is known for its annual Halloween Parade, which has been a tradition since 1960 and inspired a storyline in the Batman comic book series. The city also hosts the Vermont State Fair every September, which features agricultural exhibits, rides, and entertainment. Rutland’s downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.