Town of Richmond
When traveling east on Route 2 toward Montpelier, the road winds between the Interstate and Winooski River into the village of Richmond. A peppering of new homes are visible, quietly taking their place in an area supported by agriculture since its incorporation in 1794. It is said that Richmond came into being because of politics, resulting in the consolidation of lands that were part of Jericho, Williston, Huntington and Bolton.
Whatever the reason for the incorporation, Richmond residents love their community, evident by the number of descendants of early settlers living there. When waiting for the town’s signal stop light to change to green, one realizes that stores, churches, library, restaurants, parks, and town offices are within walking distance from the Victorian and federal homes that line its streets. Malls and supermarkets are conspicuously absent from the Richmond landscape.
The best known structure in Richmond is the Round Church, located on Bridge Street near Fay’s Corners. Built through the collaboration of the Baptists, Methodists, Congregationalists, Universalists, and Christians in 1812, the structure served as the center of Richmond’s religious, governmental, and social activities until 1973, when deterioration made closing necessary. Restored by the Richmond Historical Society, the Round Church reopened in 1981, and is open to visitors during Summer and Fall. A popular site for weddings, concerts, and meetings, the Round Church is well-utilized.
Local children learn to ski at Cochran’s Ski Area, located on Cochran Road. Operated by the family of Gordon Cochran, whose four children brought fame to the town as members of the U.S. Olympic Ski Team. In 1972, Barbara Ann brought home the U.S. gold medal for winning the Women’s Special Slalom.
In addition to skiing, hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and fishing opportunities abound. The Winooski River and local streams are ideal for fishing for Bass and Rainbow Trout. Richmond residents can easily access activities in adjacent community.
Even the media has recognized Richmond’s charm. Moviemakers used the Village Center for several scenes in the movie, "Me, Myself, and Irene." Generations of photographers are drawn to the Round Church. The scenery and abundance of wildlife throughout Richmond’s three square miles has often been the subject of photographs for regional and national magazines. Like most Vermont communities, Richmond offers quality of life, surrounded by incredible beauty to those who live, and stay, within its boundaries.