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Check out our events for 2025
2025 - 250th Events
September 13, 2025 -The Battle of Bennington: Exclusive Second Engagement Tour and Reception
For the first time ever, permission has been granted by a private landowner to allow a guided tour of the location known as “The Rocky Ridge” that played a key role in the second and decisive phase of the battle. The tour, led by local historian and author Phil Holland, will begin at 1 pm and last about an hour. It will involve moderate to strenuous hiking on a wooded hillside. Following the tour, at 2:30 pm there will be a reception at the Barnett House with 18th-century-themed music and refreshments, a silent auction and raffle, and a presentation by Saratoga National Park Historian Eric Schnitzer about some of the British cannons that were used at the Battle titled “Grasshoppers and Butterflies Reconsidered: British Light 3 Pounders of the 1770’s.” Those not choosing to undertake the tour can come for the reception and presentation only. The $35 cost for the event includes the $25 fee to become a member of the Friends of the Bennington Battlefield, as this is a member-only event. If you are already a member, the cost is $10. To RSVP, please visit https://bit.ly/45hVd4L. Membership and event fees go to supporting the mission of the Friends. For more information about the Friends, please visit benningtonbattlefield.org
Sept. 13-14, 2025 - Quiltfest 2025
The Quiet Valley Quilters’ Guild of Bennington, Vermont is pleased to present the BENNINGTON QUILTFEST on Saturday, September 13, 2025, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 14, 2025, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will be held at the Mount Anthony Union Middle School, 747 East Rd., Bennington, VT 05201.
The show features over a hundred new quilts, featured quilter Maria Ferri Cousins on-site with free lectures both days, 20 guild ‘miniature’ challenge quilts, a special exhibit of 48 Semiquincentennial quilts, vendors, raffle quilt and baskets, and a consignment and gift boutique. The on-site Quiltfest Café serves breakfast and lunch each day. Except for the 2025 guild challenge, this is a non-judged show. We are asking attendees to vote on their favorite choices for large and small quilts. These People’s Choice Awards will be announced on Sunday.
The featured quilter, Maria Ferri Cousins has been busy with sewing, needlepoint and embroidery since childhood. She won her first blue ribbon in a local Needle Work Competition on Long Island, NY in 1975 and started quilting in 1998. Most of her quilting work was in art quilts using fusible applique and confetti. In 2013 she collaborated with a Spanish artist to create some beautiful painted pieces especially with rescued endangered animals. She is currently painting her own art and collaborating with other artists. Her quilts have won many national, regional and local shows. Maria is holding free lectures at 1:00PM on both days. Both lectures will start with her presentation called "Make it Your Own" but on Saturday she will show her process for painting on silk and on Sunday she will share her process of using a confetti background with fusible applique. Each day will include a trunk show of her work.
Our Special Exhibit theme is the Semiquincentennial of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence. We will be displaying quilts and wall hangings in celebration of our 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026. Participation in the exhibit was open to guild and non-guild quilters.
A queen size autumn leaf quilt, titled ‘Maple Mischief’, will be raffled off at the 2025 Bennington Quiltfest on Sunday, September 14, 2025. It is 86” x 86” and is based on the Autumn Leaves pattern by Wendy Sheppard. Quiet Valley Quilters’ Guild members machine pieced and appliqued the blocks in this quilt, and it was hand quilted by several members of the guild.
The on-site Quiltfest Café serves breakfast and lunch each day. The café features homemade breakfast sandwiches, pastries, soups, quiche and gourmet sandwiches.
Admission: $10. Parking is plentiful and event is handicapped accessible.
For More Information: visit https://quietvalleyquilters.com/bennington-quiltfest/
In addition to our show, the Jane Stickle quilt that inspires quilters all over the world will be on its yearly display at Bennington Museum from Labor Day through Indigenous People's Day. The 1863 Jane Stickle Quilt comprises 169 five-inch blocks, each in different patterns, containing a remarkable total of 5,602 pieces surrounded by a unique scalloped border. There will be a reciprocal 10% admission discount to Quiltfest attendees and Bennington Museum visitors if you present your blue Quiltfest wristband or Bennington Museum admission sticker at the door. Bennington Museum will also offer a 15% discount on all store purchases to Quiltfest attendees. For more information about the Stickle Quilt, merchandise, and videos, visit their website
September 18, 2025- Plunder & Trophies: After the Battle of Bennington
Vermont 250th: with Michael P. Gabriel - 5:30 p.n to 6:30 p.m. at the Manchester Community Library located on 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255.
This talk will explore an often-overlooked topic, what happened to the items recovered on a Revolutionary War battlefield, in this case at Bennington. During the Revolutionary War both sides routinely sold items recovered from the battlefield and divided the proceeds among soldiers who had participated in the actions. The sale of this “plunder” provided another incentive for soldiers to fight beyond loyalty to their cause. This presentation will discuss the collection, sale, and distribution of plunder, mainly focusing on the American side. It draws upon a wide range of primary sources, including pension records, diaries, and the papers of different officers.
About Michael P. Gabriel: Michael P. Gabriel is a professor of History at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, where he has taught for over thirty years. He is the author or editor of five books on the American Revolutionary War, including The Battle of Bennington: Soldiers and Civilians (2012), and one of World War II, Physician Soldier: The South Pacific Letters of Captain Fred Gabriel from the 39th Station Hospital (2020).
October 9, 2025- Revolution and Remedy: The Impact of the American War of Independence on Medicine.
This talk will look at a central concept in the history of medicine: the relationship between war and the healing arts. Starting with a brief overview of medicine since ancient times and the general state of the field by the 1770s, it then focuses on some of the developments that occurred specifically during the American Revolution, at the same time not losing sight of the tremendous costs this period had for real individuals, both soldiers and civilians. It finishes by opening up the talk to a discussion with the audience on the nature of society, war, and medical advancement. Presented by Prof. Rebecca Bennette from 530 to 7 p.m. at the Manchester Community Library located on 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255.
October 18, 2025- George Washington's Corn Whiskey and Thomas Jefferson's Peas: Farms, Gardens, and the Founders
Find out what crops and garden veggies were grown in (and around) 1776 and why - and learn about Harvard's hasty pudding, the all-American pumpkin, the problematic potato, and the reason for all those New England stone walls. Presented by Rebecca Rupp at 11 a.m. at the Manchester Community Library located on 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255.
November 4, 2025- British View of the American Revolution
Presented by Prof. Paul Monod from 5:30-7p.m. at the Manchester Community Library located on 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255.
April 7, 2026- Poetry Month: Lucy Terry Prince
Lucy Prince lived in Sunderland for about 25 years between 1795 and 1821. Three children lived with her in a small shack; they struggled to get by. She is best known today as our country's first African American poet. She wrote the poem "Bars Fight" in 1746, when she was 21 years old and enslaved in Deerfield, Massachusetts. Lucy was considered devoutly religious and was a member of the Manchester Congregational Church. In this presentation you will learn about her life, her descendants, and her struggles to fit into a white society here in southern Vermont. Presented by Avis Hayden & Kiev Rattee from 5:30-7p.m. at the Manchester Community Library located on 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255.
Past Events of 2025
Two Lights for Tomorrow - April 18-19
Two Lights for Tomorrow is a nationwide initiative to commence the celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The famous ride of Paul Revere occurred overnight on April 18 – 19, 1775. Two Lights for Tomorrow originated out of multi-state collaboration at A Common Cause to All in Williamsburg, VA, and uses the imagery of that shining light 250 years ago as a uniting call to action today for our fellow citizens, no matter where they are, to commemorate and remind ourselves that our history is about working together for a better tomorrow.
At its heart it is a call across the country, in private homes, local communities, and statehouses alike, for two lights to be displayed to remind us all of the importance to come together to form a more perfect union. For Bennington, that means you will see two lights in the top window of the Town offices this coming Friday night and they will remain there for a week. You will also see the two lights soaring high above town in the Battle Monument, and above the entrance of the Bennington Museum, to name a few.
Everyone can participate! All you have to do is display two lights at your business, or in your homes before or on April 18 and 19, 2025, to raise awareness and draw attention to and commemorate the beginning of our constant endeavor as a nation to work together for a better tomorrow!
Why two lights? The phrase "One if by land, and two if by sea" is from the poem "Paul Revere's Ride" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem commemorates the historical event where Paul Revere rode to warn colonists about the impending British attack. Revere has arranged with a friend to hang lanterns in the Old North Church steeple to indicate what the British plans were for the attack… one lantern was to be hung if by land, and two lanterns if by rowing across the water. Two lanterns were hung, and the stage was set for the Battle of Lexington and Concord and for the beginning of the Revolutionary War.
"Two Lights For Tomorrow" originated from "A Common Cause to All," a convening of state 250th planners co-hosted by VA250 and Colonial Williamsburg who resolved to commemorate our shared American story, recognizing its fullness and complexity, its achievements, and its shortcomings and honoring the many voices that together Forge One Nation. They pledged to a new common cause for all Americans to unite in reflection, celebration, and aspiration. Americans can share in this common cause by shining two lights for a unified future.
Getting involved is easy: simply place two lights in your window on April 18-19. Share your photos and stories on social media using #VA250 and #TwoLightsForTomorrow. Encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to join in! Bennington is proud to be a part of this worthy cause.
April 27, 2025 - Arlington in the Revolutionary War
Join us for a presentation on Arlington’s involvement during a key moment in the Revolutionary War, starting at 2pm. At the Arlington Common, 3938 Vermont Rte 7a, Arlington, VT 05250. More information about the event to come.
May 3-4, 2025 - Expedition to Fort Ticonderoga
Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys expedition to capture Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point. A region wide commemoration in Bennington County and nearby NY of the lead-up to America’s First Victory, the capture of Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point. On Saturday there will be events throughout the Southshire in Pownal, Bennington, and Shaftsbury at historic sites, which continue Sunday in the Northshire in Arlington, Sunderland, Manchester, and Dorset. Happenings at the various sites includes re-enactors, historical information tables, kids activities and games, musket demonstrations, talks and tours, and a passport book for collecting stamps from the various sites with the chance to win a prize. Download the brochure.
Click here for map and details on the Expedition to Ticonderoga event!
May 18, 2025 - Ira Allen of Vermont
Join us for a presentation about Ira Allen by Kevin Graffagnino from 2pm - 3pm in the Asa Paresky Education Center at the Bennington Museum.
Who is Ira Allen? Ira Allen was a key figure for both The Green Mountain Boys and the formation of the State of Vermont alongside his brother Ethan Allen.
June 5 2025- Lost Nation film Screening
film screening of Lost Nation by director Jay Craven, starting at 5:30 at the Manchester Community Library located on 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255.
June 10, 2025- "David Redding, Hanged in Bennington”
Join us for the story of David Redding, learn who he was, what he did and why he was eventually hung. Presented by Phil Holland from 530pm to 7pm, at the Manchester Community Library located on 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255.
June 14, 2025- Flag Day
250th Anniversary of the Birth of US Army and Elks Lodge 125 Years of Service Celebrated at Flag Day Commemoration
The Bennington Elks Lodge #567 invites the community to a special 250th annual Flag Day Celebration, set for this Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 12:30 pm. The event will be held at the Elks Lodge, located at 125 Washington Street Bennington Vermont. This year’s event holds particular significance as it is the 125th anniversary of the Bennington Elks Lodge as well as the 250th anniversary of the birth of the US Army. The event has been recognized as an official State of Vermont 250th Anniversary event.
The community is warmly invited to join this patriotic celebration which will feature inspiring guest speakers, live music, and a flag ceremony led by the Cub Scout Pack 330. Following the ceremony, there will be a festive picnic, fostering camaraderie and community spirit. Bennington Police Chief Paul Doucette and honored guests will share remarks to commemorate the occasion, reflecting on the importance of Flag Day and the shared history of our Lodge and state.
“We are thrilled to bring our community together for this milestone celebration,” notes Kelly Kervan of Bennington Elks Lodge #567. “This event honors our nation’s flag, our Lodge’s 125 years of service, and the 250 anniversary of the creation of the US Army. We look forward to welcoming everyone for a day of unity and patriotism.”
The event is free and open to the public, with festivities beginning promptly at noon. For more information, please contact Bennington Elks lodge at 802.442.2736
The Bennington Elks Lodge #567 was founded in 1900 and has been a cornerstone of community service, fostering fellowship, charity, and patriotism for 125 years. The Lodge is proud to partner with local organizations and the town of Bennington to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of the US Army.
4th of July Schedule
10:30 am - Bennington Battlefield - Introduction by David Pitlyk, with Sean Considine doing a reading Burgoyne’s proclamation/manifesto. Refreshments table and a toast the success of the revolution.
11:30 am - Bennington Battle Monument - Program begins. Women’s Declaration of Rights.
12:00 noon - Bennington Battle Monument - Reading of Declaration of Independence.
1:00 pm - Bennington Town Offices - 4th of July Bell Ringing Ceremony (public invited to ring bell after ceremony) and musket salute.
5:00 pm - Willow Park - Music, food and craft vendors.
9:30 pm - Fireworks Display.
July 25, 2025- anniversary of the Dorset Conventions
Join us at Northshire Bookstore on July 25th at 6pm to hear Dorset Historical Society Curator Emeritus Jon Mathewson discuss the new book Dorset. The book covers the origins of Dorset and its pictorial history from 1850-1965, but Mathewson’s talk will highlight the era before photography with a special emphasis on the history of the Dorset Conventions.
From 1768 on, people settled in several parts of Dorset, creating 14 school districts and six distinct villages. Discover the industry and recreation of North Dorset, the marble mills of East Dorset, the quarries of South Dorset, and the businesses of Dorset Village, as well as the people who have called Dorset home: Alcoholics Anonymous cofounder Bill Wilson, authors Elizabeth Prentiss and Zephine Humphrey, quarry and orchard entrepreneur Ernest West, and many others.
The Dorset Historical Society has been actively preserving and presenting local history since 1963.
August 9, 2025- The Great Battle of Bennington
Learn about who was involved and how The Battle of Bennington went down. Presented by Howard Coffin from 1pm to 2pm, at the Manchester Community Library located on 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255.
August 14-17 - Battle of Bennington Weekend
Events in Bennington, the Battle Monument, and the Bennington Battlefield. Re-enactors at the Battle Monument on Saturday, Commemoration at the Bennington Battlefield on Saturday night, and on Sunday a parade at noon in Downtown Bennington. To learn about the events going on Click here.