Five state-owned historic sites set to undergo restoration

The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation (VDHP) is pleased to announce that significant historic preservation and restoration projects are underway at five state-owned historic sites. These infrastructure improvements are designed to stabilize and protect Vermont’s cultural landmarks, ensuring these places are preserved and accessible for future generations.

The 2026 project slate represents a continued investment in the stewardship of Vermont’s diverse heritage. Following recent years of record-breaking attendance at state sites, these updates focus on long-term structural integrity, historical authenticity, and accessibility. New exhibits are planned at many of the sites once these restoration projects are completed.

While construction is ongoing, VDHP aims to minimize impact on the visitor experience. Travelers are encouraged to check the official State Historic Sites website at https://historicsites.vermont.gov/ for updated hours of operation and any site-specific access notices before visiting the following project sites:

President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, in Plymouth Notch. At the Homestead where Coolidge was sworn in as president, restoration work is focused on the foundation, drainage issues, and brick chimneys, while more and better accessibility features are also being implemented. The building is expected to be closed to the public until September; however, the rest of the historic village and museums remain open for the full season. New ADA-compliant paths will be in place this spring.

Senator Justin S. Morrill State Historic Site, in Strafford. The site will be closed this season as construction crews work to correct the home’s foundation, improve drainage above and around the home, remove damaged trees, and update electric utilities. The Friends of the Morrill Homestead will host events at the site throughout the summer; visitors should go to https://www.morrillhomestead.org/ for a full schedule.

Old Constitution House State Historic Site, in Windsor. VDHP will replace outdated mechanical systems at the historic site associated with Vermont’s first Constitution. To mitigate persistent weatherization issues, the project involves infilling the basement, installing a new elevated HVAC system, restoring historic windows, and removing damaged/aging trees. The house is closed to the public while these upgrades are in progress.

Theron Boyd State Historic Site, in Quechee. At this late-18^th-century house, which remains untouched by modern conveniences like electricity, essential structural and flood mitigation will address the foundation and site. Supported in part by federal grants and a generous private donation, the project also addresses character-defining exterior features, including the cladding, window surrounds, entry frontispiece, and cornice detailing.

Bennington Battle Monument State Historic Site, in Bennington. Archaeological work will be undertaken on Monument Circle to uncover new information regarding the 1777 storehouse that prompted the Battle of Bennington. This research provides a deeper look at the history of the site where the monument was later constructed in 1889.

The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation, part of the Department of Housing and Community Development, is responsible for the stewardship and interpretation of state-owned historic sites. Through its programs, the Division for Historic Preservation integrates Vermont’s history into community growth and planning, fostering research, education, and the adaptive use of historic properties across the state.