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Nestled
in the northeast corner of Chittenden County on Route
128, Westford is a quiet hamlet with a picturesque town
Common that serves as the focal point of the community.
The pavilion on the 2.5 acre green functions regularly
as a bandstand, for picnicking, or a place to sit and
chat on balmy summer days. Recently renovated and landscaped,
the Common is surrounded by town offices and library on
the north, the United Church of Westford on the west,
and the Brick Meeting House on the east. Chartered in
1763, the first settlers did not arrive until after the
Revolutionary War. By 1791, 63 people inhabited the 39
square mile township.
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During
the 19th Century, the Browns River powered mills for area
residents, however farming was the primary occupation
until the latter half of the 20th Century. In 1881, out
of 375 households listed in a gazetteer, only 64 did not
list farming as the family's primary occupation.
Residents enjoy the history that encompasses Westford.
Many of today's roads are the original routes cut into
the countryside by early settlers. Once a Baptist Church,
the Brick Meeting House was constructed in 1822. An effort
to restore the landmark is underway. The town's covered
bridge is also a source of local pride.
Participation
in community and school activities are paramount to Westford
residents. Area children attend Westford School through
the Eighth Grade. Older students choose the high school
they wish to attend. In summer, several sports programs
are underway for both children and adults, including soccer,
Tae Kwon Do, baseball, volleyball, and yoga.
Bordered by Essex and Fairfax, and one-half hour from
both Burlington and St. Albans, those who work outside
of the town commute through picturesque landscapes. Many
of the residents have chosen to work from home in order
to more fully experience Westford's rural ambience. Open
spaces, friendly people, and peaceful living, are just
three of the many reasons to choose Westford as home.
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