Wings of Tatev | Goris

Information

Landmark: Wings of Tatev
City: Goris
Country: Armenia
Continent: Asia

Wings of Tatev, Goris, Armenia, Asia

Derby Line Historic Village is a unique international community located on the Canada–United States border in Newport, Vermont, USA, and Stanstead, Quebec, Canada.

Visual Characteristics

The village is characterized by a distinct border line running through its center, marked by a granite curb and a black line painted on the road. Buildings on the American side are constructed primarily of wood and stone, with typical New England architectural styles. Structures on the Canadian side exhibit similar materials and construction methods, reflecting the shared architectural heritage of the region. The landscape is predominantly rural, with rolling hills and agricultural fields.

Location & Access Logistics

Derby Line Historic Village is situated directly on Interstate 91 at Exit 29. The border crossing is a primary access point. From Newport, Vermont city center, it is approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) north via I-91. Parking is available at designated areas near the border crossing and in the village center. Public transport options are limited; the nearest Amtrak station is in Newport, Vermont, requiring onward travel by taxi or private vehicle.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The village's unique status originated from the arbitrary drawing of the border in the late 18th century, which divided existing settlements. The most notable structure is the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, built in 1904, which straddles the international boundary. The land itself is part of the glaciated terrain of the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada, characterized by sedimentary rock formations and fertile soil.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the international border line as it passes through the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, with specific entrances and a line painted on the floor indicating the boundary. Walking tours of the village can highlight the architectural differences and similarities between the American and Canadian sides. Observing the border crossing operations is also a point of interest.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the Haskell Free Library and Opera House during operating hours. Limited shade is provided by trees along the main street. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available on both sides of the border. Food vendors and restaurants are located in the nearby village centers of Derby Line, Vermont, and Stanstead, Quebec.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is mid-morning or late afternoon when the sun angle provides good illumination of the buildings and border markings. The months of June through September offer the most favorable weather conditions for outdoor exploration. There are no tide-dependent activities.

Facts & Legends

A well-known anecdote concerns the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, where patrons can sit in one country and read a book or watch a performance while their feet are in another. During Prohibition in the United States, the border town was reportedly a hub for smuggling activities.