The Shires of Vermont

The Bennington Region lies among the Taconic and Green Mountains of southwestern Vermont. Historic villages are nestled among scenic rural landscapes in the “Valley of Vermont” that runs north and south between the two mountain ranges. As a result of the region’s remarkable topography, rivers and streams flow west into the Hudson River, southeast into the Connecticut River, and northerly into Lake Champlain. In fact, the Town of Peru is home to streams that contribute to all three!

One of the unique and historically important characteristics of the Bennington Region is the presence of two county “shire towns,” Manchester in the north and Bennington in the south. Bennington County is the only county in Vermont with this distinct political geography, represented by two county courthouses, and prominently identified in the well-established “Northshire” and “Southshire” labels that include the two parts of the region. These two areas enjoy distinct identities, but the “Shires” theme that runs through the region’s character highlights the unique characteristics of the northern and southern communities and to draw them together socially and economically.

By way of example, the formally designated “Shires of Vermont Byway” now runs the length of the region along the Valley of Vermont, and the “Shires of Vermont Marathon” is an annual 26.2 mile long foot race contested over the back roads between Bennington and Manchester. The Shires concept helps promote the region’s assets to tourists and businesses and provides a valued sense of history and place for residents of the region.

Interested in learning more about on the events, attractions, and opportunities in the Bennington Region?
The Bennington Area Chamber of Commerce  and the Manchester Business Association are outstanding places to start.