Vergennes | USA Vermont

Vergennes is an incorporated city in Addison County, situated at the head of navigation on Otter Creek. It is the oldest city in Vermont (chartered in 1788) and the third oldest in New England. Defined by its 19th-century brick architecture, its industrial waterfall, and its status as the smallest city in the United States by land area (approx. 5.2 sq km), it serves as a compact, high-density cultural and commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural basin.

Historical Timeline

Inhabited by the Abenaki people. Established in 1788 and named after the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Comte de Vergennes. A critical historical event occurred during the War of 1812, when Vergennes was chosen as the site for the shipyard of Commodore Thomas Macdonough. The fleet that defeated the British at the Battle of Plattsburgh was built here in record time (40 days for the flagship Saratoga). In the late 19th century, the city’s falls powered extensive sawmills, tanneries, and ironworks. In 2026, Vergennes maintains a reputation as a "Little City" with a disproportionately large culinary and arts scene.

Demographics & Population

The 2026 population is approximately 2,600. The demographics are White (92%), Two or more races (4%), and Hispanic or Latino (2.5%). The economy is driven by Aerospace Manufacturing (Collins Aerospace), Specialty Retail, Hospitality, and Regional Services.

Urban Layout & Key Districts

Vergennes is organized around a central green and a steep descent to the Otter Creek waterfront.

City Green / Main Street: The civic heart; features the historic Bixby Library, the Vergennes Opera House, and independent boutiques.

The Falls District: The industrial and natural focal point where Main Street crosses Otter Creek; home to the city’s hydroelectric station and historical mill sites.

Basin Harbor: (Located 11 km west); a premier lakeside resort area on Lake Champlain that operates as an extension of the city’s recreational life.

Top City Landmarks

The Falls of Otter Creek: A 37-foot natural waterfall in the center of the city that historically powered the local economy and remains a visual centerpiece.

Bixby Memorial Free Library: A grand Classical Revival building featuring a stained-glass dome and extensive collections of local historical artifacts.

Vergennes Opera House: Located on the second floor of City Hall; a restored 1897 theater that hosts regional music, theater, and community events.

Macdonough Monument: An obelisk located on the City Green commemorating the 1814 naval victory on Lake Champlain.

Basin Harbor Club: A historic resort featuring a private airstrip, golf course, and the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum.

Northlands Job Corps Center: Housed on the site of the former Vermont Industrial School, a prominent campus on the city's northern edge.

Transportation Network

Movement is highly pedestrian within the city core. Vergennes is served by VT-22A and is adjacent to US-7. Public transit is provided by Tri-Valley Transit (TVT). Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express serves the Ferrisburgh-Vergennes station (located 3 km north of downtown). The nearest major airport is Burlington International (BTV), 35 km north.

Safety & "Red Zones"

The general safety level is exceptionally high. Crime is statistically negligible. Standard awareness is advised near the Otter Creek Falls overlooks, which can be slippery and have steep drops. Environmental hazards include spring flooding of the creek and severe winter icing.

Digital & Financial Infrastructure

Internet speeds are high, with fiber-optic availability via Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) and Consolidated Communications. Mobile service is strong throughout the city. Card acceptance is universal. Vermont has a progressive state income tax. Vergennes does not currently levy a local option tax.

Climate & Air Quality

Temperatures range from -11°C to -1°C in winter and 15°C to 27°C in summer. The city's proximity to Lake Champlain provides a slight moderating effect on temperatures compared to inland Vermont. Air quality is pristine.

Culture & Social Norms

The standard tipping percentage is 20%. A "Sophisticated-Small Town" greeting is standard. Dress codes are "Vermont-Casual" (functional layers with a focus on local craft). The city is culturally defined by its Naval History, Culinary Arts, and Civic Pride.

Local Cost Index

1 Espresso: $4.50 (USD)

1 Standard Lunch: $18.00 (USD)

1 Opera House Ticket: $20.00–$45.00.

Nearby Day Trips

Button Bay State Park: (10 km west; offering camping and panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks).

Middlebury, VT: (20 km south; home to Middlebury College).

Lake Champlain Maritime Museum: (11 km west; featuring full-scale replicas of historic lake vessels).

Facts & Legends

Vergennes is the smallest city in the U.S. by land area to have its own independent school district. Historically, it was the first place in Vermont to manufacture iron. A local legend involves the "Commodore’s Ghost," said to be seen pacing the banks of the Otter Creek basin during the month of September, the anniversary of the Battle of Plattsburgh. Another legend concerns a "Secret Tunnel" connecting the Bixby Library to the waterfront, supposedly used for moving sensitive documents or as an escape route during the 19th century.