Vermont Division for Historic Preservation – Montpelier, VT

Vermont Division for Historic Preservation: Stewards of Heritage

The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation (VDHP) is the state agency dedicated to identifying, preserving, and interpreting Vermont’s rich cultural heritage. Headquartered in the Davis Building at 1 National Life Drive, the Division operates under the Agency of Commerce and Community Development. While the Division manages state-owned historic sites located throughout Vermont—such as the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site and the Bennington Battle Monument—this Montpelier office serves as the administrative and strategic hub for preservation efforts statewide.

State-Owned Historic Sites

The VDHP oversees the operation and maintenance of Vermont’s premier historic destinations.

• Site Management: The office coordinates staffing, conservation, and public programming for sites like the Chimney Point Museum and the Mount Independence State Historic Site.
• Collections Care: Curators based here manage the vast collection of artifacts, furniture, and documents associated with the state’s history.

Preservation Programs

Beyond site management, the Division administers federal and state programs that encourage preservation in communities.

• National Register: The office processes nominations for the National Register of Historic Places, helping property owners gain recognition and eligibility for tax credits.
• Roadside Historic Markers: The Division manages the iconic green and gold cast-iron markers seen along Vermont highways, which commemorate significant people, events, and places.
• Archeology: The State Archeologist works from this division to identify and protect sensitive archeological sites across the state.
• Tax Credits and Grants: Staff administer the Historic Preservation Grant Program and tax credits for the rehabilitation of historic barns and buildings.

Project Review

The Division plays a regulatory role in development projects.

• Section 106 Review: The office reviews federally funded or permitted projects to assess their impact on historic resources, ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of heritage.
• Act 250: VDHP provides expert testimony and review for state land use permits regarding historic and archeological resources.