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Nestled
between Charlotte and Huntington in southern Chittenden
County, Hinesburg retains the rural flavor of traditional
Vermont within a short commute to Burlington. Wending
its way south, Route 116 bisects the township, creating
the boundary between the Green Mountains to the east and
the Champlain Valley on the west.
Incorporated in 1762, the village, like so many others
in the region, did not begin to prosper until after the
Revolutionary War. Named for Abel Hine, a member of the
original charter and its first Town Clerk, Hinesburg's
population was greater than that of Burlington during
the 1790s. In addition to farms and other agricultural
pursuits, factories soon flourished in the area now known
as Mechanicsville, powered by mills and dams built on
the stream connecting Hinesburg Pond (Lake Iroquois) and
Pond Brook.
Many descendants of the first settlers remain, as do landmarks.
Lantman's IGA inhabits the site of the first tavern built
by Elijah Peck in 1794. The Lantman family purchased the
property in 1926, opening a grocery store that still operates
on the premises. Hinesburg's feeling of community extends
to the schools. Kindergarten through 8th grade students
attend Hinesburg Elementary in the Village. Champlain
Valley Union High School, highly acclaimed academically,
is located in Hinesburg and also serves Charlotte, Shelburne,
and Williston.
In addition to promoting quality family life, the Hinesburg
community is committed to preserving open space. The Town
Forest, Lake Iroquois, the Fred Johnson Wildlife Management
area, and Geprag Park offer hiking, swimming, cross-country
skiing, and other outdoor activities. Located two and
one-half miles south of the Village, Cedar Knoll Country
Club's 27 challenging holes and driving range is a popular
destination for area golfers.
Although a sense of history is evident, newcomers have
added their voices to the community, embraced into the
community reminiscent of the spirit of Hinesburg's earliest
settlers.
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