Named after a French city near the Mediterranean Sea, Montpelier is the capital of the state of Vermont. The city has one of the smallest populations among the state capitals in the United States. Located near the center of the state, Montpelier lies along the upper part of the Winooski River in the wooded hills of the Green Mountains.

Places of interest

Montpelier's main buildings include the State House, the Supreme Court Building, and the Washington County Courthouse. The State House, or the state Capitol, is considered the most important historic site in Vermont. At the State House stands a marble statue of Ethan Allen, a hero of the American Revolution. Vermont College, part of Norwich University, was founded in Montpelier in 1834. On its campus is the T.W. Wood Gallery and Arts Center.

Economy

Montpelier's economy is based on insurance and tourism. Machines, plastics, and wood and concrete products are manufactured. Granite quarrying is also important.

History

The township of Montpelier was established in 1781 by people from Massachusetts and western Vermont. The first settlers were veterans who had fought in the American Revolution under the leadership of Col. Jacob Davis. He gave the city its name. The first permanent home on the site was built in 1787. Montpelier was selected as the state capital in 1805 and was made a city in 1895.

In 1857 a fire completely destroyed the State House. The present state Capitol, completed in 1859, is the third built on the site. Population (2000 census), 8,035.