The site of Vermont’s state government, Montpelier is the capital city of the state. While it is the least populous state capital in the United States, that distinction has not impacted the type or amount of monuments it features to cultivate attention from across the community and beyond. The city takes pride in being a small town with big city amenities that include a lively arts scene and an active community life.
That community life is evident in Montpelier’s Capital District, which features numerous places to visit. The highlight of this area is the Vermont State Capital itself, but various other landmarks like the Vermont History Museum are part of it.
A statue of Ethan Allen is one of the more prominent statues on the capital complex. The leader of the Green Mountain Boys and one of the founders of Vermont, he lobbied Congress for Vermont’s official state recognition.
A courtyard outside of Montpelier City Hall features a space that is “dedicated to all who have contributed to the civic life of Montpelier.” Various benches and other landmarks in the area have been dedicated to specific individuals.
The statue of Thomas Chittenden is another of the prominent statues outside the Vermont capital. He was a major figure in the early history of Vermont, serving as the leader of the territory for nearly two decades.
These are just a few of the obscure and outstanding monuments located in Montpelier. The city is home to other notable monuments as well as landmarks that have the potential to attract the attention of people from across the country. Additionally, the capital itself has proven to be a powerful means of identity for various organizations in the city. That status has allowed it to define maps and guides to the city itself.
All of these developments highlight the power of monuments to define the present and future of the city in a way that resonates with both residents and visitors.
