Retrospective Burlington

Case Studies in Preservation

University of Vermont
Historic Preservation Program

Arts

By William Grenier

Flynn Theater Historic buildings can make great incubators for innovation and the arts. There is no single broad formula that can be applied to instigate successful merging of arts and preservation. Some projects grow organically, some are the product of careful consideration of an institution, and others may be the result of a community coming together around a project they believe in. No matter how funding for these projects is appropriated, there is one common thread; these buildings make lasting impressions upon their community. More...

Commerce

By Liz King

RichardsonChurch Street has long been known as a great center of commerce and business for the city of Burlington, Vermont, and one of, if not the most, popular destinations for tourists and residents alike. This of course did not happen overnight; within the last century, Church Street has transformed significantly to become the popular pedestrian mall that it is today, and it is unquestionable that the preservation of its historic properties has played a key role in the continued success of the Marketplace. More...

Community

By Julia Grey

Follett HouseThe importance of community involvement is paramount in Preservation. From private businesses to public offices and places of worship, community support has been the driving force behind these three highlighted projects, and often times it was because of the outcry from the community that the projects began, continued, and succeeded. Ethan Allen Firehouse, the Follett House, and Howard Mortuary Chapel reflect that sense of community into their various uses today. More...

Education

By Ben Haley

Wheeler House An overview of the history of preservation in Burlington would not be complete without a look at work by the University of Vermont over the past few decades. Historic preservation efforts have occurred on three of UVM’s most important historic structures—the Old Mill, Pomeroy Hall, and Wheeler House. All three are centrally located on campus, around the University Green, and their preservation stories are examined individually. More...

Transportation, Accommodations & Housing

By Dan Rhode

Main Street has always been a central district of Burlington.  As the city has had its ups and downs, so has Main Street.  From the boom of the Gilded Age with the construction of buildings like the Hotel Vermont and Union Station due to the increase in demand of transportation, to the burned-out remnants of the old Woodbury Armory in 2003, Main Street has always represented a feel and life of the city of Burlington.  With the new revitalization efforts of the downtown and the Lake Champlain waterfront continuing to bring new life to the city, there have been many buildings that have contributed to the history of Burlington.  In the Main Street corridor three distinct buildings weave their stories into the greater story of the city of Burlington. More...