Peacham Historical Association

“History is the witness that testifies to the passing of time.” ~ Cicero

Historic Homes of Peacham in words and pictures surveys the rich legacy of 18th and 19th century houses in
Peacham, one of the most photographed towns in Vermont. The book documents this remarkably intact 18th
century village with descriptions and photographs of over 100 houses built before 1900. The pre-1860 buildings
are still predominant and provide the essential character and continuity within the village of Peacham.

The house descriptions highlight architectural details and tell the stories of the owners of the substantial
homes, farmhouses, barns, and stores. The book chronicles how the early pioneer settlers came from southern
New England at the end of the Revolutionary War, cleared the land, built log cabins, reared their families,
and created a prosperous community.

By 1795 Peacham was the largest town in Caledonia County; and by 1800 the settlers had built one of the
15 oldest church buildings in Vermont, established the Caledonia Grammar School, better known as
Peacham Academy, and constructed several one-room schoolhouses. Peacham’s population reached its
zenith in 1840, and the town was a busy commercial center with stores; doctors, lawyers, a blacksmith
shop, six saw mills, and many small local industries.

© 2009 L BROWN & SONS PRINTING, INC.