Mount Independence State Historic Site
Vermont Division for Historic Preservation
In 1776, the military complex at Mount Independence was one of the largest communities in the United States. Today, a vistors center, exhibits, trails, interpretive signage and historic remains decribe this unique and once-bustling promontory overlooking Lake Champlain.
 May 23: Early Bird Nature Walk
Enjoy the traditional spring bird walk with bird expert Sue Wetmore, as she identifies and “talks to” the birds of spring on Mount Independence. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. No pets please. 8:00 AM
June 13 and 14: Vermont Days
Free admission at all Vermont State Historic Sites and State Park day use areas.
June 13: The Nature of Lake Champlain
Mike Winslow, staff scientist of the Lake Champlain Committee and author of the new book, The Nature of Lake Champlain, leads a “talk and walk” to learn about the natural world of Lake Champlain. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. 2:00 PM.
 June 14: The French and Indian War at Mount Independence
Reenactor and historian James Ross talks about the French and Indian War “battle of snowshoes,” with Robert Rogers and a party of French woodcutters that took place in March 1759, 250 years ago. 1:00 PM
June 27-28: Amateur Radio Field Day Weekend
Members of the SB Electronics Amateur Radio Club will set up a simulated emergency station, using emergency power supplies to practice emergency communications without relying on phone systems, internet, or commercial power sources. The public is welcome to watch and ask questions. Special Champlain Quadricentennial commemorative souvenir. Call for hours.
July 5: The American Withdrawal from the Mount
On July 5 and 6, 1777, American forces withdrew from Mount Independence and Fort Ticonderoga as the British arrived. Commemorate this event with a special musical interpretation by members of the Seth Warner Mount Independence Fife & Drum Corps at the Mount Defiance overlook on the Baldwin Trail. Will we hear an echo? 2:00 PM
July 17: Music on the Mount: Seth Warner Mount Independence Fife & Drum Corps
Enjoy Revolutionary War era music, dramatic readings, and more with this performance by the Seth Warner Mount Independence Fife & Drum Corps led by Rustan Swenson. Swenson will provide commentary about the music and its uses, both military and civilian. This group is much in demand for parades and programs. 7:00 PM
July 25 & 26: Soldiers Atop the Mount
This living history weekend honors the American, British, and German occupation of the Mount. Reenactors demonstrate military tactics, artillery, camp life, colonial crafts, cooking, and clothing. After the military tacticals meet and greet the soldiers. Guided camp tours, trail tours, drilling lessons, and children’s history scavenger hunt and activities. Saturday afternoon enjoy the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence. Call for details. 9:30 AM. – 5:30 PM (admission $6.00 for adults, free for children under 14)
 August 16: Bennington Battle Day
Free admission at all Vermont State Historic Sites to honor Bennington Battle Day.
August 16: John Stark, Hero of the Battle of Bennington
Karl Crannell, author of John Stark: Live Free or Die, will speak about the hero of the Battle of Bennington, honored on this day, and will lead a walk afterwards. 1:00 PM
September 6: Hike Into History
Archaeologist Allen Hathaway focuses on archaeology on this guided hike along one of the Mount’s trails. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Vermont Archaeology Month program. 2:00 PM
October 17: Champlain: The Lake Between
The Mount Independence Coalition screens the documentary, “Champlain: The Lake Between.” The Coalition is a proud sponsor of this new film by Vermont filmmaker Caro Thompson. 1:00 PM Free, donations appreciated.
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