Highgate Center, Vermont

Highgate Center, Vermont
Name	Highgate Center
Settlement type	Census-designated place
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	Vermont
Subdivision type2	County
Subdivision name2	Franklin County
Subdivision type3	Town
Subdivision name3	Highgate

Highgate Center, Vermont is a census-designated place and the primary village within the town of Highgate in Franklin County. Situated near the international border with Canada, it is part of the Burlington–South Burlington metropolitan area. The community has historically served as an agricultural and administrative hub for the surrounding region.

History

The area was originally part of a New Hampshire Grants charter issued by Benning Wentworth in 1763. Early settlement was influenced by its proximity to Lake Champlain and strategic location along routes to Montreal. During the War of 1812, the region saw military activity, with local militia mustering in response to British naval actions on the lake. The arrival of the Central Vermont Railroad in the late 19th century connected the community to markets in St. Albans and Montpelier, spurring growth. The village developed around traditional New England institutions like a Congregational church and Grange hall, reflecting its agricultural roots.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 2.6 square miles, all of it land. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills and fertile plains, part of the broader Champlain Valley physiographic region. The Missisquoi River flows to the west, and the community lies just east of Lake Champlain. Major transportation routes include U.S. Route 7 and Vermont Route 78, which provide connections to Swanton and the Canadian border.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 855. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations identifying as Native American or Two or More Races. The median household income was slightly below the Vermont state average, reflecting its rural character. A significant portion of the housing stock consists of owner-occupied single-family homes built during the mid-20th century.

Government

As a village within the town of Highgate, local services are provided by the town government, including a Selectboard and Town Meeting legislative body. For certain utilities and regional planning, the community falls under the jurisdiction of the Northwest Regional Planning Commission. Law enforcement is provided by the Franklin County Sheriff's Department and the Vermont State Police, with fire protection from the Highgate Fire Department.

Education

Residents are served by the Missisquoi Valley School District. Students attend Missisquoi Valley Union High School in Swanton, part of the Vermont Principals' Association. The district also includes elementary schools in the surrounding towns. For post-secondary education, residents have access to institutions like the University of Vermont and Community College of Vermont campuses in nearby St. Albans.

Notable people

* John G. McCullough, former Governor of Vermont and U.S. Representative, practiced law and maintained connections here. * Horace W. Bailey, a state legislator and Lieutenant Governor of Vermont, was a long-time resident and businessman.

Category:Census-designated places in Vermont Category:Populated places in Franklin County, Vermont