Manchester library offers immersive celebration of Vermont republic’s founding

Step through the doors of Manchester Community Library, 138 Cemetery Street, and travel back in time during an immersive celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Vermont republic. This interactive experience brings revolutionary-era Manchester to life, inviting patrons of all ages to explore the library while engaging directly with historical figures, completing missions, and uncovering clues along the way.

This LiveHistory event takes place on Thursday, February 5, from 12 to 6 pm. Throughout the day, professional actors will portray key figures in Vermont history, including some who lived and traveled through the town of Manchester. Green Mountain Boys Jonas Fay and General Christopher Roberts; Ethan Allen’s brother, Ira; and Judge Mark T. Skinner, for whom Manchester’s original library was named in 1897, will move through the library, greeting visitors and striking up conversations as participants follow chosen paths through history. Designed as a living, breathing social history experience, the event allows guests to arrive in 15-minute intervals and wander freely, encountering characters, completing tasks, and taking part in a history-themed scavenger hunt.

This open, drop-in program encourages curiosity, conversation, and discovery, offering a unique and engaging way to learn about the Northshire’s most influential Revolutionary-era figures while honoring the region’s role in the founding of the Vermont Republic. Visitors are welcome to stay as long as they like, making each experience personal and self-directed.

LiveHistory is a theatre company specializing in bringing local history to life through immersive, interactive performances. The company creates customized historical experiences for museums, libraries, and cultural institutions and has toured internationally in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Bermuda, England, Wales, and Ireland.

This event is part of the area’s celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the Vermont Republic and has been made possible through partnerships with the Manchester Historical Society, the Bennington Regional 250th Anniversary Committee, and Sunderland 250.