National Historic Landmarks

National Historic Landmarks are cultural properties designated by the Secretary of the Interior as being nationally significant. Acknowledged as among the nation's most significant historic places, these buildings, sites, districts, structures, and objects possess exceptional value or quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of the United States. The designation is an official recognition by the federal government of the significance of historic properties.

The nearly 2,600 properties designated (as of 2021) as National Historic Landmarks are the most significant places in American history that illustrate and commemorate our collective past, enabling an understanding of our national identity. National Historic Landmarks represent and interpret outstanding and tragic aspects of our history and culture. Through these resources, all Americans can better understand and appreciate broad trends and events, important persons, influential ideas, and valuable accomplishments that are significant in our national history.

Presently, there are eighteen National Historic Landmarks recognized in the State of Vermont. These landmarks convey the state’s history from early Native American settlement to the modern day. Included are iconic examples of architecture and engineering such as the Brown Covered Bridge, Rockingham Meetinghouse, and Round Church; sites critical to American history such as the Calvin Coolidge Homestead District, Mount Independence, and Justin Smith Morrill Homestead; and homes like Naulakha and the Robert Frost Farm where important pieces of literature were produced. Many of the eighteen National Historic Landmarks in Vermont are open to the public as museums and historic sites. Official copies of all National Historic Landmark nomination applications for properties in Vermont can be viewed in the state’s Online Resource Center (ORC).

Vermont’s National Historic Landmarks