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1 PM – 2:30 PM
In this illustrated talk, Stephen Zeoli, president of the Mount Independence Coalition, will focus on the epic painting, The Declaration of Independence by noted artist John Trumbull, in the US Capitol rotunda. He will discuss Lt. Trumbull’s important contributions to Mount Independence and provide background on his work and research to create this painting.
12 PM – 3 PM
It’s National Trails Day. Stephen Zeoli, president of the Mount Independence Coalition, is your guide on this hike into Revolutionary War history. Co-sponsored by Mount Independence Coalition.
10 AM – 5 PM
Come kickstart the summer season at Calvin Coolidge’s hometown by enjoying free admission to the site. A ribbon cutting for the new special exhibit “Coolidge’s Contemporaries: The ascension of early 20th century world leaders” will take place on Sunday June 11 at 2:00 p.m. The Orton Family, proprietors of the Vermont Country Store, will speak about the Coolidge legacy in Vermont and cut the ribbon. Refreshments to follow.
10 AM – 5 PM
Come kickstart the summer season at Calvin Coolidge’s hometown by enjoying free admission to the site. A ribbon cutting for the new special exhibit “Coolidge’s Contemporaries: The ascension of early 20th century world leaders” will take place on Sunday June 11 at 2:00 p.m. The Orton Family, proprietors of the Vermont Country Store, will speak about the Coolidge legacy in Vermont and cut the ribbon. Refreshments to follow.
2 PM – 4 PM
FREE EVENT
Bring the family and be our guests for an Ice Cream Social, Guided Tours of Justin Morrill’s Gothic Revival Home, Victorian Gardens, Interpretive Exhibits, and a Puppet Show. In “Bully! For The Three Big Pigs” a cast of hand-crafted marionettes romp through an artist’s studio, an opera stage, and the problem-solving mind of a builder, providing a feast for the eyes, ears, and imagination.
10 AM – 5 PM
Beginning June 14th, Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site’s resident farmer will be on hand each Wednesday of the season to demonstrate historic farming tools and techniques. Visitors may witness such activities as sheep shearing, rye harvesting, or cider pressing. In addition to being an excellent educator, Farmer Fred is also a renown storyteller and is sure to entertain.
11 AM – 4 PM
Learn the history of Flag Day and the meaning of symbols used in flags! Activities for children and information for everyone.
10 AM – 4 PM
This needle felting class with Neysa Russo of The Felting Studio will focus on creating a small tapestry with ‘Vermont Wildlife’ as the theme. Choose from an abundance of designs or create your own from scratch. For Adults and teens - Beginners Welcome!
$60 includes materials for a 13″ x 13″ tapestry, to register please call: 802-765-4288
11 AM
Historical tours of Strafford’s village, which remains much the same as in Morrill’s time. Tours include Morrill’s birthplace, his father’s blacksmith shop, two libraries, the Strafford Town House, and the mausoleum where Morrill is buried.
$5.00; Children under 15 free, to register please call: 802-765-4288
10 AM – 5 PM
Is your father a history buff? This self-driving tour starts at the Monument and will take visitors all the way to the Battlefield. Enjoy a scenic and historic drive with plaques and markers to read along the way and a historic covered bridge to cross! Driving tour information will be available at the Monument gift shop and includes a brief history of the Battle and the Monument.
10:30 AM – 12 PM
Hooray for summer outdoor play! Four Winds Nature Institute will bring seasonally-appropriate loose parts, science tools, a mud kitchen, and more to help nurture a sense of wonder, place, and well-being.
FREE EVENT! Please preregister: 802-765-4288
2 PM
An appreciative and encouraging audience is sought for the first concert of the Grace Coolidge Musicale series. This recital will showcase the blossoming talents of piano students from across Vermont and honors the nurturing spirit of First Lady Coolidge. Grace was an educator before her marriage to Calvin Coolidge and harbored a profound appreciation for music. Under these auspices, the students have been invited to perform on a unique instrument. The piano to be played was a gift from the Baldwin Company to Grace during her tenure in the White House. It was once performed on by Russian virtuoso Sergei Rachmaninoff and was the first piano known fly in an airplane. Admission to the concert is free.
7 PM
Enjoy golden hour on the scenic grounds of historic Plymouth Notch during Vermont’s most verdant time of year. Buster Keaton’s 1924 silent film, “Sherlock Jr.” and other short works will be shown on the Museum and Education Center lawn. Bring a lawn chair. Visitors are encouraged to come early to enjoy a picnic. In the event of rain, the screening will be in the museum.
5 PM – 7 PM FREE EVENT!
The Morrill Homestead’s annual Gallery in the Garden art show and online auction is a highlight of the Upper Valley art season. The 2023 edition features works created in an array of styles by fine artists from the Strafford community, the Upper Valley, and beyond. Eighteen artists present their unique perspectives on the theme “Art as Voice” in ways that are moving, playful, profound, and inspiring.
Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
5 p.m. – Reception for the art show opening in the Carriage Barn. Sherry SaintGermaine and Mary Louise Pierson are the featured artists and inspiration for the “Art as Voice” exhibit.
“Minis for Morrill” paintings on view in the Education Center —magnificent 4″x4″ mini paintings by artists of regional and national reputation to be auctioned online.
“Art as Voice” also includes works by Gerry Bergstein, Todd Binzen, Gail Boyajian, Jennifer Brown, Matt Brown, Kelly Coffin, Dierdre Dennis, Kate Emlen, Oona Gardner, Jean Gerber, Jo Levasseur, Jeanne McMahan, Michael Moore, Andy Newman, William Ransom, Celia Reisman, and Enrico Riley.
10 AM – 5 PM
The historic village of Plymouth Notch celebrates the 151st birthday of President Calvin Coolidge and the 247th birthday of the United States.
The party kicks off at 11:30 with an adjudicated baking contest. Members of the public are invited to enter their version of Grace Coolidge’s Icebox Cookies to be tasted by members of the Coolidge family.
At 12:00 a processional led the Vermont National Guard will depart from the village to the cemetery for the laying of a wreath at the President’s grave. Cake will be served immediately following the cemetery ceremony.
Throughout the day the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation will be hosting the Coolidge Cup, a national speech and debate competition. The final round of debate takes place at 4:00. Members of the public are highly encouraged to listen in as young orators from across the nation make their voices heard. For additional information please visit https://coolidgefoundation.org/debate/coolidge-cup/.
To enter the baking contest please contact the site administrator for a copy of Grace’s cookie recipe at rejoice.scherry@vermont.gov.
12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Join us for the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence with Citizen Faye, and enjoy lively discussion and audience participation following the reading!
10 AM – 5 PM
July 8th and 9th
This living history weekend encampment honors the 246th anniversary of the July 7, 1777, Revolutionary War battle fought here. Scores of reenactors portray the American, British, and German soldiers. Tactical military and other special demonstrations, camp life activities, guided tours, and talks. Opportunities for all ages. Dedication of a DAR 250th anniversary marker on Saturday. Call (802) 273-2282 for details. Presented by the reenactors, the historic site, and many Hubbardton organizations. $8 adults, $1 children ages 6 – 14, under 6 free.
10 AM – 12 PM
Please join David Paganelli, Orange County Forester, for an informal tree walk around the grounds of the Homestead. We will walk the grounds and discuss the various unusual plantings, and also the native trees at the forest edge. All are welcome. Cost $5, to register please call: 802-765-4288
10 AM – 5 PM
July 8th and 9th
This living history weekend encampment honors the 246th anniversary of the July 7, 1777, Revolutionary War battle fought here. Scores of reenactors portray the American, British, and German soldiers. Tactical military and other special demonstrations, camp life activities, guided tours, and talks. Opportunities for all ages. Dedication of a DAR 250th anniversary marker on Saturday. Call (802) 273-2282 for details. Presented by the reenactors, the historic site, and many Hubbardton organizations. $8 adults, $1 children ages 6 – 14, under 6 free.
9 AM – 12 PM
Learning photography is a great way for young people to explore outdoors and appreciate nature. World Story Exchange teacher Scott McClure Miller has taught photography to children in 11 countries for the past decade. Join Scott this summer on the lovely grounds of the Morrill Homestead. Each day will be a fun mixture of practicing photography skills and learning to apply artistic principals through the camera, all while exploring the Homestead and the Strafford village. The week will culminate with a photo exhibit of campers’ work in the Strafford Post Office. Cameras kits are provided. Ages 8-14.
$150 per child (Financial assistance available.) To register please call: 802-765-4288
9 AM – 12 PM
Learning photography is a great way for young people to explore outdoors and appreciate nature. World Story Exchange teacher Scott McClure Miller has taught photography to children in 11 countries for the past decade. Join Scott this summer on the lovely grounds of the Morrill Homestead. Each day will be a fun mixture of practicing photography skills and learning to apply artistic principals through the camera, all while exploring the Homestead and the Strafford village. The week will culminate with a photo exhibit of campers’ work in the Strafford Post Office. Cameras kits are provided. Ages 8-14.
$150 per child (Financial assistance available.) To register please call: 802-765-4288
9 AM – 12 PM
Learning photography is a great way for young people to explore outdoors and appreciate nature. World Story Exchange teacher Scott McClure Miller has taught photography to children in 11 countries for the past decade. Join Scott this summer on the lovely grounds of the Morrill Homestead. Each day will be a fun mixture of practicing photography skills and learning to apply artistic principals through the camera, all while exploring the Homestead and the Strafford village. The week will culminate with a photo exhibit of campers’ work in the Strafford Post Office. Cameras kits are provided. Ages 8-14.
$150 per child (Financial assistance available.) To register please call: 802-765-4288
9 AM – 12 PM
Learning photography is a great way for young people to explore outdoors and appreciate nature. World Story Exchange teacher Scott McClure Miller has taught photography to children in 11 countries for the past decade. Join Scott this summer on the lovely grounds of the Morrill Homestead. Each day will be a fun mixture of practicing photography skills and learning to apply artistic principals through the camera, all while exploring the Homestead and the Strafford village. The week will culminate with a photo exhibit of campers’ work in the Strafford Post Office. Cameras kits are provided. Ages 8-14.
$150 per child (Financial assistance available.) To register please call: 802-765-4288
9 AM – 12 PM
Learning photography is a great way for young people to explore outdoors and appreciate nature. World Story Exchange teacher Scott McClure Miller has taught photography to children in 11 countries for the past decade. Join Scott this summer on the lovely grounds of the Morrill Homestead. Each day will be a fun mixture of practicing photography skills and learning to apply artistic principals through the camera, all while exploring the Homestead and the Strafford village. The week will culminate with a photo exhibit of campers’ work in the Strafford Post Office. Cameras kits are provided. Ages 8-14.
$150 per child (Financial assistance available.) To register please call: 802-765-4288
7 PM
Pack a picnic! Summer is at its peak in the historic village of Plymouth Notch. Enjoy a selection of Clara Bow films on the Museum and Education Lawn. Ms. Bow was the ultimate rags to riches story of the 1920s. She left an impoverished life in Brooklyn to pursue a successful Hollywood career. Her wild-child lifestyle earned her a tabloid-following and reputation as an original “It girl.” Come see the movements and artistry that made her famous on the big screen. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. In the event of rain, the screening will be inside the museum.
2 PM – 3:30 PM
Modern day historian Paul Andriscin turns back the time machine to interview Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, Col. Charles Burrall, and maybe other personages from the past, to learn about what it was like to serve on Mount Independence in 1776-1777.
Regenerative Agriculture for the Home Gardener: Sustainability Practices You Can Implement In Your Own Garden
2 PM – 4 PM
Join us to understand carbon sequestration, learn how to improve soil health, and increase habitat for biodiversity and a more livable future. Karen Ganey is a permaculture designer and educator who founded Permaculture Solutions, an ecological landscape design company, where she designs gardens and programs for schools, hospitals and municipalities. She also works with the Regeneration Corps where she manages native tree nurseries for agroforestry and land justice projects and teaches climate solutions, anti-racism, regenerative agriculture through the lens of a Just Transition. $10, to register please call: 802-765-4288
1 PM – 2:30 PM
Archaeologists from Northeast Archaeology Research Center will talk about their Mount Independence digital mapping project, part of the site’s American Battlefield Protection Program grant for site collection stewardship.
12 PM – 4 PM
Green Mountain Timekeepers Society members are in residence on the Chimney Point porch to keep time and talk with you about the history of your clocks and watches and how they can be repaired. Bring your old clocks and watches or photographs and learn more about your timepieces. Clock repair demonstrations throughout the afternoon.
1 PM – 4 PM
In this watercolor workshop, we will emphasize painting the beautiful flowers blooming in the Morrill Homestead Gardens. The focus will be to follow in the tradition of observing and painting botanicals with lots of encouragement for embracing your own original style. Some drawing instruction will be provided along with tips and practices in watercolor techniques. A suggested materials list will be provided upon registration. $40 per person, to register please call: 802-765-4288
10 AM - 5 PM
August 3rd and 5th
On August 3, 1923 Vice President Coolidge was vacationing in his hometown when President Warren Harding passed away. At 2:47 a.m. he took the presidential oath of office in his father’s house and assumed the presidency.
Witness a reenactment of this exciting event on precisely the 100th anniversary – August 3, 2023 at 2:47 a.m. If you are not a morning person, a second oath reenactment will occur at 2:47 p.m. Enter into an immersive experience by conversing with costumed actors portraying Plymouth Villagers as they talk about memories of young Cal growing up and what it was like to receive the news that he was president.
On August 5, we will celebrate with a reprisal appearance of the Plymouth villagers and a reenactment of the memorial service and eulogy to President Harding as it took place in the village’s Union Christian Church in 1923.
The Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation will be co-hosting the celebration of this momentous anniversary. For additional activities and information, including a naturalization ceremony on August 3, please visit their website at: https://coolidgefoundation.org/
10 AM - 5 PM
August 3rd and 5th
On August 3, 1923 Vice President Coolidge was vacationing in his hometown when President Warren Harding passed away. At 2:47 a.m. he took the presidential oath of office in his father’s house and assumed the presidency.
Witness a reenactment of this exciting event on precisely the 100th anniversary – August 3, 2023 at 2:47 a.m. If you are not a morning person, a second oath reenactment will occur at 2:47 p.m. Enter into an immersive experience by conversing with costumed actors portraying Plymouth Villagers as they talk about memories of young Cal growing up and what it was like to receive the news that he was president.
On August 5, we will celebrate with a reprisal appearance of the Plymouth villagers and a reenactment of the memorial service and eulogy to President Harding as it took place in the village’s Union Christian Church in 1923.
The Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation will be co-hosting the celebration of this momentous anniversary. For additional activities and information, including a naturalization ceremony on August 3, please visit their website at: https://coolidgefoundation.org/
1 PM – 2:30 PM
Historian, author, and educator Jason Barney will talk about the activities of the American Revolution in northern Vermont and shine the light on some lesser known actions. Copies of his 2022 book on the subject will be available. Co-sponsored by Mount Independence Coalition.
12 PM – 3 PM
On this guided tour, walk in the footsteps of Revolutionary War soldiers. Mount Independence Coalition president Stephen Zeoli is your guide. As you walk around he will tell you about some of the events that led up to Revolution—to get you thinking about the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and Mount Independence in 2026. Wear walking shoes and dress for the weather. Co-sponsored by Mount Independence Coalition.
7:30 AM to 12 PM
The beloved 18th annual 5k starts and ends on Monument Circle! Enjoy an easy and fun day of fresh air and exercise for the whole family!
9 AM – 12 PM
Come make block prints inspired by the gardens and architecture of the Morrill Homestead. We’ll start off with a brief tour of the grounds, and then we’ll meet in the education center to work on making art from what we discover. In this class you will learn basic design, carving, and printing techniques in a relaxed, supportive, and playful atmosphere. You will come away with a completed print, suitable for framing, embellishing and/or mailing as a card. $45 All materials are included. To register please call: 802-765-4288
10 AM – 5 PM
August 12th & 13th
In August of 1777 a decisive battle took place 9 miles from a much-needed storehouse, where the Monument now stands. A small contingent of minute men and farmers stayed behind guarding the storehouse. Reenactors will be onsite to discuss the importance of the Battle of Bennington and what life was like for Colonial Soldiers. This is an ongoing outdoor event and will include a battle reenactment, musket drills, a drum and fife demonstration, and more!
10 AM – 5 PM
August 12th & 13th
In August of 1777 a decisive battle took place 9 miles from a much-needed storehouse, where the Monument now stands. A small contingent of minute men and farmers stayed behind guarding the storehouse. Reenactors will be onsite to discuss the importance of the Battle of Bennington and what life was like for Colonial Soldiers. This is an ongoing outdoor event and will include a battle reenactment, musket drills, a drum and fife demonstration, and more!
4 PM
This presentation will address the 1862 and 1890 Land-Grant legislation introduced by Justin Morrill. Morrill advocated for federal funding to provide public colleges and universities in the United States. However, when President Lincoln signed the 1862 Land-Grant Act, African Americans were yet to be included as humans and full citizens. This presentation will focus on the role libraries and librarians had in developing and sustaining HBCU’s Land-Grant colleges. Julius Jefferson, recent President of the American Library Association, is a section head of the Congressional Research Service at the Library of Congress and was appointed by President Biden to the National Museum and Library Services Board. $10 in-person or $5 via Zoom, to register please call: 802-765-4288
9 AM – 5 PM
Come learn the art of basketry with Dona Nazarenko of Country Spirit Baskets. The Traditional Bread and Biscuit Basket has many uses for storage and organizing or can be a valuable catch-all for every table. Option of adding colors if you would like. $55- All materials included. Please register by August 15 by calling 802-765-4288
10 AM – 1 PM
On this 12th annual driving tour, Jim Rowe, historian of the Crown Point Road Association, is your leader to look at the Hydeville Branch of the 1776 Mount Independence-Hubbardton Military Road. Meet at the Hubbardton Battlefield with your own vehicle for orientation. The tour will travel north from Hydeville through west Castleton to eastern Benson. Co-sponsored by Crown Point Road Association
10 AM – 5PM
The Monument opened on August 19th 1891 what is now called the 'Gilded Age,’ a time when wealthy and influential women broke the door of the Gilded Cage! The Vintage Visitors will present Flown from the Gilded Cage: Progressive Ladies of the Gilded Age at this year’s anniversary event!
1 PM – 3 PM
Mushroom expert Meg Madden leads a walk to look for and learn about mushrooms on Mount Independence. Limited to 20 number of people. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Included in regular museum admission. Sponsored by the Mount Independence Coalition.
Call 802-948-2000 to reserve your spot.
2 PM
Featuring Abby Charbeneau and Susan Cobb playing four-handed piano repertoire, enjoy a free concert featuring Grace Coolidge’s piano. Mrs. Coolidge received the piano as a gift from the Baldwin Company during her tenure in the White House and enjoyed playing it in the president’s residence.
Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, 10 AM – 3:30 PM
Reenactors honor the 1776-1777 history of Mount Independence during this living history weekend. Saturday’s popular interactive Baldwin Trail Walkabout, 10:30 to 1:30, features experts at trail stations bringing the site’s history to life. Military tactical, annual reading of Declaration of Independence, and camp life and skill demonstrations. Admission $9. Call (802) 948-2000 for details.
2 PM – 5 PM
September 2nd and 3rd (FREE EVENT!)
Stars from Vermont and internationally known musicians team up for the 18th annual Plymouth Folk and Blues Fest. This lively two-day, outdoor festival will feature the music of Dana and Susan Robinson, Jesse Terry, Danielle Miraglia, Krishna Guthrie, The Kennedys, and The Art of DonnCherie. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the pure country air of historic. This event is free and donations are appreciated. Non-perishable food donations in support of the Vermont Food Bank are also welcomed.
Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, 10 AM – 3:30 PM
Reenactors honor the 1776-1777 history of Mount Independence during this living history weekend. Saturday’s popular interactive Baldwin Trail Walkabout, 10:30 to 1:30, features experts at trail stations bringing the site’s history to life. Military tactical, annual reading of Declaration of Independence, and camp life and skill demonstrations. Admission $9. Call (802) 948-2000 for details.
2 PM – 5 PM
September 2nd and 3rd (FREE EVENT!)
Stars from Vermont and internationally known musicians team up for the 18th annual Plymouth Folk and Blues Fest. This lively two-day, outdoor festival will feature the music of Dana and Susan Robinson, Jesse Terry, Danielle Miraglia, Krishna Guthrie, The Kennedys, and The Art of DonnCherie. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the pure country air of historic. This event is free and donations are appreciated. Non-perishable food donations in support of the Vermont Food Bank are also welcomed.
10 AM – 12 PM
Come join local naturalist Micki Colbeck for a fairly easy walk around the Homestead. We’ll look at mosses, ferns, lichens, and flowers that have all been hiding in plain sight. Bring a magnifying loop if you have one, but it’s not necessary. Kids are welcome, but please leave dogs behind. $5, please call to register: 802-765-4288
10 AM – 5 PM
The site is open without charge on Patriot Day for those who wish to contemplate or to honor past heroes.
10 AM – 1 PM
Hike up to Pittsford Ridge, to experience the area many American soldiers withdrew from the July 7, 1777, Battle of Hubbardton. Learn about the importance of this natural area too. Meet at the museum for orientation. Your guides are Jim Rowe, historian of the Crown Point Road Association, and Travis Hart, state and private lands biologist with the VT Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.
1 PM – 3 PM
Learn the history of what surrounds you as you walk across the Lake Champlain Bridge. Chimney Point site administrator Elsa Gilbertson and Crown Point, NY, site manager Sam Huntington lead this guided round trip walk. Meet at Chimney Point. Rain or shine, dress for the weather. Bring a picnic to enjoy before. Fee includes admission to both museums to visit before or after the walk. Light refreshments afterwards. Vermont Archaeology Month event.
4 PM (FREE EVENT!)
Archeologists from UVM’s Consulting Archaeology Program will share what they found and learned from last summer’s dig on the grounds of the Homestead. This excavation yielded some surprising results! Please call to preregister: 802-765-4288
12 PM – 5 PM
Atlatl experts Bob and Cheryll Berg of Thunderbird Atlatl teach traditional and modern techniques of atlatl and dart construction, flint knapping, hafting stone points, and cordage making. Enjoy atlatl lore and coaching on the use of your new atlatl. Pre-registration required. Call 802-759-2412. $70 fee includes instruction and materials. Vermont Archaeology Month event.
10:30 AM – 4 PM
Participate in or watch this annual atlatl championship testing skills in accuracy and distance. The sport of using the atlatl to throw darts is based on the ancient hunting technique. Newcomers to experts welcome. Flint-knapping demonstrations and lessons throughout the day. Depending on the pandemic situation, be prepared to practice social distancing and wearing facial masks if needed. Pre-registration mandatory. *COMPETITORS: $10 * VISITORS: $5 ADULT, FREE UNDER 15.
Call (802) 759-2412 to register. Vermont Archaeology Month event.
10 AM – 4 PM
Create your own bee skep—for decorative purposes only—with Barry Keegan. $60 fee includes all materials required and museum admission. Enjoy a relaxing time on Lake Champlain as you learn and create. Pre-registration is required, call (802) 759-2412. Vermont Archaeology Month event.
1 PM – 4 PM
AWARD WINNER! “Top Ten Fall Events” —Vermont Chamber of Commerce
Bring the whole family to a harvest festival at the Homestead. Listen to live toe-tapping fiddle and accordion music. Meet farm animals—the kind that Justin Morrill would have had on his small 19th-century farm. Make your own cider in an antique press, taste heirloom apples, fine artisan cheeses, Vermont ice cream, and homemade apple pie. Play period games, and hike the lookout trail. Also includes wagon rides, gardens, basket-making demo, exhibits, an icehouse, and a historic Gothic Revival home. $5 adults – under 15 free. Please pay when you arrive.
2 PM
Featuring Elizabeth Borowsky, piano and Cecylia Barczyk, cello, enjoy a free concert featuring Grace Coolidge’s piano. Mrs. Coolidge received the piano as a gift from the Baldwin Company during her tenure in the White House and enjoyed playing it in the president’s residence.
10 AM – 4 PM
Sure to be a family favorite, the Fall Festival in Plymouth Notch will feature many popular fall activities. Enjoy a hayride with Farmer Fred, taste multiple varieties of Vermont-grown heritage apples, watch cider pressing, and observe the handiwork of a diversity of craft demonstrators and hobbyists. Fall foliage in Plymouth traditionally reaches its peak in early October. With luck, the maples growing across the 360-degree hills surrounding Plymouth will be at their brightest.
9 AM – 12 PM (FREE EVENT!)
Assist our Master Gardeners with the annual autumn “putting the garden to bed” day at the Justin Morrill State Historic Site in Strafford, Vermont. Tasks include cutting back perennials and pulling annuals, raking, mulching, weeding, bringing old plants to the compost area—generally cleaning up the kitchen garden and ornamental garden beds and preparing them for the winter and the next growing season. (Master Gardeners can earn outreach hours with us.) All Welcome.
1 PM – 4 PM
Enjoy Fall at Mount Independence with a guided hike into history. Stephen Zeoli is your guide. He will show you many points of Revolutionary War interest, as we gear up for the 250th anniversary in 2026 of the Declaration of Independence and Mount Independence. Co-sponsored by Mount Independence Coalition. Included in museum admission--$6.00 adults, free for children under 15.
10 AM – 3 PM
In this total immersion into history day, we’ll look into significant perhaps less well-known aspects about Mount Independence using a variety of ways to learn. Historians, archaeologists, reenactors, and others will present illustrated talks, historic personages, reading the landscape, and a report on the site’s American Battlefield Protection Program collection stewardship project. The day is a special opportunity and suitable for all levels of interest—from beginners to avid experts. Call (802) 948-2000 for details on admission fee, schedule, and how to pre-register. Lunch included.
11 AM – 3 PM
Winter is ready to fall upon the quiet village of Plymouth Notch. Before the snows deepen, join the residents of the village as they celebrate the holiday season. The Coolidge birthplace will be festooned with fresh greenery as it would have been during Christmastime in Calvin Coolidge’s childhood. The greenery continues throughout the village where wreaths don the doors of the homes and lanterns light the paths. Craft demonstrators and hobbyists will show off and sell their handiwork. At 1:00 a tree lighting ceremony will call into remembrance the moment President Coolidge threw the switch on the very first lit National tree in 1923. Immediately following, the warmth of the village’s Union Christian Church will welcome visitors for a time of caroling. Don’t forget to pick out gifts at the museum gift shop clearance sale.