📍 Location & Geography
Sharon is a charming town located in Windsor County, Vermont, United States. It is nestled in the scenic White River Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. The town is approximately 40 miles southeast of the state capital, Montpelier, and about 15 miles north of White River Junction. Sharon spans an area of 39.9 square miles, with 39.5 square miles of land and 0.4 square miles of water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Sharon, Vermont are approximately 43°47′N 72°26′W. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, close to the New Hampshire border.
🗺️ Region & Area
Sharon is part of the Northeastern region of the United States, specifically within the New England area. It is located in the central part of Windsor County, one of the 14 counties of Vermont. The town is divided into several unincorporated communities, including Sharon Village and Downers.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 Census, Sharon had a population of 1,502 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 42.8 years. The gender distribution is fairly even, with 49.6% of the population being male and 50.4% female. The majority of residents identify as White, with small percentages of Asian, African American, and other races.
🏛️ History
Sharon was chartered on August 17, 1761, by New Hampshire Governor Benning Wentworth. The town was named after the Plain of Sharon, a fertile region mentioned in the Bible. Sharon was primarily an agricultural community in its early years, with dairy farming being a significant industry. The town has managed to retain much of its historical charm while adapting to modern times.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Sharon is known for its beautiful natural landscapes. The town is home to several parks and natural attractions, including the Downer State Forest and the Sharon Town Forest. The White River, which flows through the town, offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Sharon also has several hiking and biking trails, providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
🏫 Education
Education in Sharon is managed by the Sharon School District. The town has one public school, Sharon Elementary School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students usually attend schools in neighboring towns. Sharon is also home to The Sharon Academy, an independent middle and high school. For higher education, the town is within commuting distance to Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire.
🚧 Transportation
Sharon is served by Interstate 89, which provides easy access to other parts of Vermont and New England. The town also has several state routes, including Route 14 and Route 132. Public transportation is provided by the Stagecoach Transportation Services, which offers bus services to other towns in the region. The closest major airport is the Lebanon Municipal Airport in New Hampshire, about 20 miles south of Sharon.
📜 Trivia & Events
Sharon is known as the birthplace of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, and the site is now a historical landmark known as the Joseph Smith Birthplace Memorial. The town also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Sharon Sprouts Market, a local farmers market, and the annual Old Home Days, a celebration of the town’s history and community.