Whether for the birthplace of Bag Balm, the largest marble quarry in the world, or the first canal in the United States, an array of green-and-gold cast aluminum signs cover every corner of Vermont.  Known officially as Roadside Historic Site Markers, these plaques commemorate persons, places, or events of historical significance to the state.

This year, numerous new historic markers were placed across Vermont.  These include signs honoring Revolutionary War hero Seth Warner, Woodstock’s Prosper Ski Lodge, The Vermont Country Store, and Killington’s Long Trail Lodge, among others.  While 15 of them were slated to be installed in 2025, several have yet to be added, such as one for Devil’s Bowl Speedway in West Haven and Leonard Lord of Swanton.  This could mean that they will be unveiled in 2026, along with several others.

On average, 10 new markers are added every year, amounting to a total of 335 in 2025.  This does not include those that have been removed for various purposes, such as for refurbishment, replacements, etc.  For a full list of markers and statuses, check this list on Vermont.gov.  Other helpful sites for directions to the markers include The Historical Marker Database: https://www.hmdb.org/.

Have a historic site marker proposal?  Fill out this form on Vermont.gov to suggest a new one, and be sure to include the suggested marker’s title and specific location (town/city, address, coordinates, etc.).

Existing markers include those marking major battles and raids, such as one in Saint Albans to offer a glimpse into October 19, 1864, when 22 Confederate soldiers moved into the city, shooting up the park and robbing 3 banks; and another in nearby Sheldon provides insight into the Fenian Raids, an attempted invasion on Canada by Irish patriots following the Civil War.  In the Rutland County town of Hubbardton, a historic marker stands at the site of the only battle fought on Vermont grounds–the Battle of Hubbardton.

In Plymouth, a historic marker details the discovery of gold in southern Vermont, where prospectors scoured Buffalo Brook and a farm in Ludlow belonging to the family of BFA French teacher, Bruce Pollard.

All of these historic markers tell unique stories and offer little-known facts about the people and events that have shaped Vermont.  They are important for ensuring that pieces of the state’s history are not forgotten, and for educating visitors and locals alike on why the Green Mountain State is such a special place.