Town of Hinesburg
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.