|
 Built
in the late 1880's, this monument is a dedication to the famous
Battle of Bennington that took place during the Revolutionary war
in 1777. It was at this location the American colonists maintained
a store of weapons and food, which British General Burgoyne knew
was critical to capture in order to restock his own troops.
Although
the battle came together in nearby Walloomsac, this site seemed
appropriate considering the military and strategic importance of
the arsenal Burgoyne was trying to capture. For almost a century
the battle was celebrated annually in the Old State Arms House Hotel
which was also located on this sight.
In 1877 a local historical
society was formed and they started planning the monument. The committee
considered many designs for the monument. One design which called
for a slender stone column only 100 ft tall was showcased during
the centennial celebration in 1877, which was attended by President
Rutherford B. Hayes. The committee finally accepted J. Phillip Rinn's
"Big Tower" design with some changes. J. Phillip Rinn modified the
original design to include curved edges, and in November 1889 the
final stone was set on. The dedication ceremonies were delayed until
1891, when Bennington welcomed President Benjamin Harrison who attended
the ceremonies and held a reception at the Walloomsac Inn.
Visiting information:
The Bennington Battle Monument, dedicated to the famous Battle of Bennington that took place during the Revolutionary war in 1777, is a 306' stone obelisk opened to the public in 1891. It is located north of VT Rte 9, about 4 miles east of the New York border. A guided elevator takes visitors to the observation floor for spectacular views of Historic Bennington and three states. There is a diorama and several interpretive exhibits on the ground floor along with General Burgoyne's cook kettle. Statues of John Stark, Seth Warner and other notable monuments adorn the grounds. Tickets can be purchased for a small fee in the gift shop that specializes in historical items relating to the Battle of Bennington and Vermont. Open 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week, mid-April to October 31st.
15 Monument Circle, Bennington, VT 05201
Phone: 802-447-0550
http://www.HistoricVermont.org
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