Townshend

Discover Townshend, Vermont

Nestled in the embrace of the Green Mountains in southeastern Vermont’s Windham County, Townshend offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and community spirit. This charming town, with its classic New England character, invites visitors and residents alike to experience the authentic Vermont lifestyle along the scenic West River Valley.

Meet Our Featured Members

Learn more about the thriving businesses that call Townshend, Vermont, home.

Valley Village, Inc.

Grace Cottage Family Health & Hospital

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Townshend’s economy blends traditional Vermont industries with modern enterprises. Local farms maintain the agricultural heritage that has shaped the region for generations, producing everything from dairy products and maple syrup to organic vegetables and artisanal foods. These agricultural businesses not only contribute to the local economy but also maintain the working landscape that gives Townshend its distinctive character.

Grace Cottage Hospital provides essential healthcare services to residents throughout the West River Valley while serving as an important employer. Additionally, light manufacturing and service businesses round out the local economy, creating a resilient economic base that supports a high quality of life.

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Messenger Valley Pharmacy

802 Credit Union

Caleb’s Cherubs Educational Fund

Unity Heat Pumps LLC

Green Mountain Tent Rentals

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Historic Roots

Most likely named for Charles Townshend II, the British Barrister whose controversial Townshend Acts contributed to the American Revolution and the Boston Tea Party, Townshend possesses a heritage that runs deeper than its tranquil appearance might suggest. The town’s history is etched into its landscape, from the picturesque town green bordering Route 30 to the historic buildings that tell the story of generations past.

One of Townshend’s most treasured historical landmarks is the Scott Covered Bridge, one of the longest covered bridges in Vermont. This magnificent structure spans the West River, serving as both a link to the town’s past and a beloved attraction for photographers and history enthusiasts. Its weathered timbers and expert craftsmanship represent the architectural heritage that makes Vermont’s covered bridges so special.

Recreation & the Townshend Dam

Townshend’s natural environment provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor recreation throughout the year. Townshend State Park offers well-maintained hiking trails, peaceful camping sites, and opportunities to connect with Vermont’s natural beauty.

Townshend Lake and Dam, created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, not only serve important flood control functions but also offer recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, and swimming. Anglers appreciate the lake’s populations of smallmouth bass, trout, and other fish species, while paddlers enjoy exploring its tranquil waters. The surrounding shoreline provides excellent spots for picnicking and wildlife observation.

Community Life

Despite its small size, Townshend boasts a vibrant community life centered around its historic common. Throughout the warmer months, the Townshend Farmers’ Market brings together local producers, artisans, and residents, creating a weekly celebration of local agriculture and craftsmanship.

The Townshend Common also hosts seasonal community events, concerts, and gatherings that strengthen local bonds and welcome visitors into the fabric of town life. These celebrations reflect Townshend’s commitment to preserving its small-town character while embracing the diversity and creativity of its residents.

A Vermont Treasure in the West River Valley

Townshend provides an authentic glimpse of Vermont life away from the tourist crowds. Its location along Route 30 provides easy access to larger towns like Brattleboro while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere that makes rural Vermont so special. Discover Townshend, where Vermont’s past and present coexist in perfect harmony.