Welcome to Kents Corner Historic District, a captivating journey back in time to a well-preserved 19th-century crossroads hamlet located in Calais, Vermont. This historic district is brimming with stories of early settlers, stagecoach travelers, and industrious pioneers.
Let’s set the scene: the late 1780s saw members of the Wheelock family settling in this area, laying the foundations of what would become Kents Corner. By 1797, Remember Kent, one of the early settlers, constructed his first log cabin here. Imagine the rugged landscape and the determination it must have taken to carve out a living in such a frontier setting.
The area gained prominence as a stagecoach stop on the route between Montpelier and Montreal, thanks to the establishment of the Kent family’s tavern and general store. This crossroads became a hub of activity, with weary travelers stopping for rest and refreshment. The tavern, a fine Federal period brick house, still stands today, having most recently served as a local history museum.
The roads that intersect at Kents Corner, Kent Hill Road running east-west and Old West Church Road/Robinson Cemetery Road running north-south, were pivotal in the area’s development. These roads laid the groundwork for the small industrial presence that included mills and a brickyard. Despite these industrial endeavors, the district has retained its rural and agricultural character over the years.
As you explore the area, you’ll notice the predominantly Greek Revival architecture, a testament to the stylistic preferences of the time. One cannot miss the Old West Church, built in 1823-25, a little-altered example of early 19th-century rural Vermont church architecture. It stands proudly, a symbol of the community’s historical roots.
In the broader historical context, Kents Corner is a window into the past, capturing the essence of a rural Vermont community at a time of growth and change in early America. It offers a glimpse into the lives of those who contributed to the development of this region, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
As you wander through the district, allow yourself to imagine the sounds of stagecoach wheels, the hustle and bustle of travelers, and the vibrant discussions that likely took place within the walls of the old tavern. Kents Corner is more than just a historical site; it’s a living narrative of Vermont’s rich past.
