The Strong House Inn is one-of-a-kind.  Beneath the striking  beauty and comfortable setting of this Federal House structure is a heritage rich in tradition and of both local and national historic significance.  A special attraction of the property has always been the opportunity to partake of the genuine history upon which Vergennes, Vermont, and indeed, this country are founded.  Join other guests around the grand fireplace as they recount the political history of the Strong family and resurrect the definitive Battle of Plattsburgh and the Vermont militia during the War of 1812.

 

The Strong House Inn is of historic significance:

 

 

 

 

   The Strong House Inn is one-of-a-kind. Beneath the striking beauty and comfortable setting of this Federal House structure is a heritage rich in tradition and of both local and national historic significance. A special attraction of the property has always been the opportunity to partake of the genuine history upon which Vergennes, Vermont, and indeed, this country are founded. Join other guests around the grand fireplace as they recount the political history of the Strong family and resurrect the definitive Battle of Plattsburgh and the Vermont militia during the War of 1812.

See the National Registry Page -- See the History Page

 

 

Vergennes, the 3rd oldest city in America:

 

   Vergennes, Vermont, the smallest chartered city in the United States, lies on Otter Creek in the Champlain Valley. Vergennes derives its name from its elegant French patron, Le Comte de Vergennes, and its unique individuality from its first settler, Donald MacIntosh and its famous founder, Ethan Allen.

 

     First settled in 1764 by Connecticut pioneers, it faced dangers from invading New Yorkers and the revolution. Ethan Allen envisioned a flourishing settlement on the falls; owned much of the land; defended it; and obtained its charter from the Vermont Legislature!

 

     The early 1800's were a high point in Vergennes history. Commodore Thomas MacDonough built his fleet at the base of the Falls, This fleet was to be victorious in vanquishing the British at the Battle of Plattsburgh in the War of 1812.

 

     Sawmills, gristmills, a potash factory, forges, tanneries, breweries, distilleries, a horse shoe nail factory - all flourished. These industries provided a stable economic base for the city until the beginning of the 20th century when the invention of the automobile rang the death knell for shipping along FallsBWOtter Creek. Fire destroyed many of the old factories, most of which were not rebuilt. The C.F. Benton .Co. manufactured spark plugs, (then a new age industry). With the advent of the airplane, the focus shifted to gauges and fuel systems for flight. The company was purchased by Simmonds Precision and later by BF Goodrich. Today, BF Goodrich and Country Home Products, a garden implement manufacturing business, provide the industrial base for the city.

(see Judy Besse's original watercolor)

     Main Street in Vergennes is masterful combination of the old and the new. Stately homes are reminiscent of bygone days; the attraction for tourists is evident in the number of restaurants and Bed and Breakfast Inns. The elms which lined the streets have been replaced by flowering trees and shrubs. The City Park is still the center of the community and serves as a welcome place of respite.Champlain

 

     Residents of the area work primarily in industry either in Vergennes or in the greater Chittenden county area. There are also an equal number of professionals and farmers. The area boasts many churches with Vergennes having five within the city limits.

 

     From warships to barges, to steamboats, to pleasure boats, Otter Creek, seven miles of navigable water that empties into Lake Champlain, has been the gateway to Vergennes. Today the river is a recreational waterway bringing power boats, sailing vessels and canoeists to Vergennes as well as providing excellent fishing for Walleye, Perch, Horned Pout and Lake Trout.

 

 

     Vergennes, Vermont, the smallest chartered city in the United States, lies on Otter Creek in the Champlain Valley. Vergennes derives its name from its elegant French patron, Le Comte de Vergennes, and its unique individuality from its first settler, Donald MacIntosh and its famous founder, Ethan Allen.

 

     First settled in 1764 by Connecticut pioneers, it faced dangers from invading New Yorkers and the revolution. Ethan Allen envisioned a flourishing settlement on the falls; owned much of the land; defended it; and obtained its charter from the Vermont Legislature!

 

     The early 1800's were a high point in Vergennes history. Commodore Thomas MacDonough built his fleet at the base of the Falls, This fleet was to be victorious in vanquishing the British at the Battle of Plattsburgh in the War of 1812.

 

     Sawmills, gristmills, a potash factory, forges, tanneries, breweries, distilleries, a horse shoe nail factory - all flourished. These industries provided a stable economic base for the city until the beginning of the 20th century when the invention of the automobile rang the death knell for shipping along FallsBWOtter Creek. Fire destroyed many of the old factories, most of which were not rebuilt. The C.F. Benton .Co. manufactured spark plugs, (then a new age industry). With the advent of the airplane, the focus shifted to gauges and fuel systems for flight. The company was purchased by Simmonds Precision and later by BF Goodrich. Today, BF Goodrich and Country Home Products, a garden implement manufacturing business, provide the industrial base for the city.

(see Judy Besse's original watercolor)

 

Vergennes is the center of attention:

 

     Vergennes is ideally located in the heart of the Champlain Valley at the very beginning of Route 22A.  It is just 22 miles south of Burlington and 12 miles north of Middlebury. The shores of Lake Champlain are just 7 miles and a mere 30 miles from the ski slopes of Sugaarbush, Mad River and the Middlebury Snowbowl. Consider the possibilities.

 

In close proximity to several major ski slopes, lodges and resorts:

 

     SUGARBUSH 30 miles from Vergennes is world famoSugarbushus Sugarbush ski slopes and lodge.  Fun for all ages and beautiful scenery. Easy routes from the Strong House Inn, and the Innkeeper will give you today's best tips on when, were and how to travel.

 

Also visit nearby Killington and Mount Snow.  Or if you want some snow fun at the Inn, we keep an assortment of sleighs and toboggans for your own personal slush and snow adventure.  In season you may want to enjoy the on-premises Ice Skating pond were Mary can often be found offering warm fires and hot beverages and snacks to her much appreciated guests.See the Winter Newsletter