Four new historic markers up in Vermont town of Montgomery

MONTGOMERY, Vt. (AP) — Four new roadside markers have been installed to help tell the history of the northern Vermont town of Montgomery.

Three markers have been placed near covered bridges in the community that is sometimes known as the “covered bridge capital of Vermont,” the Vermont Division of Historic Preservation said.

The Longley, Comstock and Fuller covered bridges, built between 1863 and 1890, all follow the lattice truss design patented in 1820 by architect Ithiel Town. Restoration of the bridges over the years, largely needed because of flooding, follow the principle of design preservation using stronger trusses and salvageable materials.

The fourth marker commemorates Pratt Hall, originally constructed in 1835 as the Episcopal Union Church. In 1974 the building was sold to the Montgomery Historical Society. Since 1977 the building has served as a centerpiece for community events and gatherings.

The Vermont Roadside Historic Site Marker program was established in 1947 by the Vermont Legislature. The first markers were installed in 1949.

Currently there are 295 markers in production or placed throughout Vermont. One Vermont roadside marker has been erected in Virginia to commemorate Vermonters who fought at the battle of Cedar Creek during the Civil War.