Richmond, Vermont -- a small community of around 4,167 residents (as of the 2020 census) -- is located just 13 miles south of Burlington. It's a great choice if you work in Burlington but want to live in a more rural, small community. It's an easy commute to Burlington via I-89.
Richmond VermontRichmond's Round Church
Chartered in 1794, Richmond is probably most noted for being home to The Round Church -- actually a 16-sided "polygon." The people of Richmond built The Old Round Church to serve as a "meeting house." The idea originated in 1796, but it was not until 1812 when two local residents donated the land for the site that work on the church began. Money was raised by selling pews, the work done by local craftsmen, and in 1813 the meeting house was completed.
For 160 years many town activities took place at The Round Church. Every church denomination was allowed to enjoy their share and on the first Tuesday of every March, Richmond residents gathered there for their annual Town Meeting Day. The church is the source of many local legends, including the one that says there were just 16 men who each built one side and a 17th who built the belfry. Another legend is that the church is round to keep the devil out of the inside corners of the church, while others say this prevents the enemy from hiding around the corner outside the church.
The Round Church underwent intense restoration from 2005-2015. It is open to visitors from Memorial Day through the Fall Foliage season and is also a popular venue for weddings and community programs.
However, there is definitely more to this community than just The Old Round Church. Richmond is also home to the Cochran Ski Area run by the Cochran family since 1961. Their Ski School has taught skiers from beginners to gold medal champions.
Goals for the town's future include expanding commercial services in and near the village, creation of more home businesses, and establishing clear standards for developers. Students from Richmond attend Richmond Elementary School, Camel's Hump Middle School, and Mount Mansfield High School.