Wilder, VT

Wilder, Vermont is a small unincorporated village located in the town of Hartford. Its history is closely tied to the development of the Wilder Dam and the establishment of the Wilder Village Corporation.

The area now known as Wilder was once home to the indigenous Abenaki people. European settlement in the region began in the late 18th century. The first permanent European settler was James Sanderson, who established a farm in the late 1780s. As more settlers arrived, the area became known as "Sanderson's Landing."

In the early 20th century, the construction of the Wilder Dam and the Wilder Hydroelectric Station created a significant change in the landscape and shaped the development of the area. The Wilder Dam, completed in 1939, was built by the Army Corps of Engineers to regulate the flow of the Connecticut River and provide hydroelectric power.

To accommodate the workers and their families involved in the construction of the dam, the Wilder Village Corporation was established. The corporation was created in 1934 as a subsidiary of the Corps of Engineers and was responsible for the construction and management of housing, schools, social and recreational facilities, and other amenities for the workers.

The village was named after Matthew A. Wilder, a prominent engineer and chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' New England division during the dam's construction. The rapid development of the village led to the establishment of a post office in 1937.

After the completion of the dam, the Wilder Village Corporation remained responsible for the maintenance and management of the village. Over time, the corporation evolved and worked to provide affordable housing and community services to the residents.

Today, Wilder remains an attractive residential area and is home to a diverse community. The village retains some of its original housing stock, known as "Wilder Prefab Houses," which were built during its initial development. The Wilder Dam and Hydroelectric Station continue to generate power, providing renewable energy to the region.

Overall, the history of Wilder, Vermont is closely tied to the development of the Wilder Dam and the establishment of the Wilder Village Corporation, which had a significant impact on the growth and character of the village.

Wilder, VT is a small village located in the town of Hartford, Vermont. While it may not have as many attractions as larger cities, there are still some notable places to visit in and around Wilder. Here are a few attractions:

Quechee Gorge

Located just a short drive away from Wilder, Quechee Gorge is known as Vermont's "Little Grand Canyon." It offers stunning views of a deep and narrow gorge, hiking trails, and a visitor center.

Montshire Museum of Science

This hands-on museum is located in Norwich, which is adjacent to Wilder. It features interactive exhibits on science, nature, and technology, making it a great place for families to explore and learn.

Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) Nature Center

Also located in nearby Quechee, the VINS Nature Center is a nonprofit environmental education organization. It offers educational exhibits, live bird shows, walking trails, and interactive programs focused on wildlife and conservation.

Lebanon Opera House

Located just across the Connecticut River in Lebanon, New Hampshire, the Lebanon Opera House hosts a variety of performances, including live theater, concerts, dance shows, and more.

White River Junction

Just a short drive from Wilder, White River Junction is a historic downtown area with eclectic shops, art galleries, theaters, and restaurants. It's a great place to explore and soak in the charm of this New England town.

Dartmouth College

Located in nearby Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth College is an Ivy League institution with a beautiful campus. Visitors can explore the campus, visit the Hood Museum of Art, attend performances at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, or catch a game at Memorial Field.

While Wilder itself may not have numerous attractions, its proximity to other nearby towns and attractions makes it a convenient base for exploring the region.

The climate of Wilder, Vermont is classified as continental. It experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Here are some key characteristics of the climate in Wilder:

Winters

Winters in Wilder can be quite cold, with average temperatures hovering around freezing point or slightly below. January, the coldest month, has an average high of 29°F (-2°C) and an average low of 12°F (-11°C). Snowfall is common and can accumulate to significant depths, creating a winter wonderland.

Spring

Spring in Wilder is characterized by milder temperatures, with increasing warmth as the season progresses. March still has lingering winter weather, with an average high of 39°F (4°C) and an average low of 19°F (-7°C). By May, temperatures rise significantly, with average highs reaching the mid-60s°F (around 18-20°C), and flowers and trees begin to bloom.

Summers

Summers in Wilder are warm and pleasant, with occasional humidity. July is the warmest month, with average temperatures ranging from 80°F (27°C) for highs to 59°F (15°C) for lows. While heatwaves are possible, temperatures rarely exceed 90°F (32°C). The area receives a moderate amount of rainfall during the summer months.

Fall

Autumn in Wilder is renowned for its stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. September starts with mild temperatures, with average highs in the mid-70s°F (24°C) and lows in the 50s°F (around 10-15°C). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually drop. By November, average highs are in the mid-40s°F (7°C) and lows dip below freezing.

Overall, Wilder, VT offers a vibrant display of all four seasons, with cold and snowy winters, warm summers, and beautiful foliage in the fall. It can be an appealing destination for those seeking varied climate experiences.

Wilder is an unincorporated village located within the town of Hartford in Windsor County, Vermont. Although Wilder is a relatively small community, it is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own distinct characteristics. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods of Wilder:

Wilder Village

This is the central area of Wilder and is home to many local businesses, shops, and services. You'll find a variety of amenities here, including grocery stores, restaurants, banks, and the Wilder Post Office. The village is also known for its charming New England-style architecture.

Fernwood

Situated on the eastern side of Wilder, Fernwood is a residential neighborhood characterized by quiet streets and an abundance of picturesque natural scenery. The neighborhood consists mainly of single-family homes and is known for its peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere.

Gillette Avenue

Located in the northern part of Wilder, Gillette Avenue is a residential area known for its affordability. The neighborhood primarily consists of well-maintained older homes along tree-lined streets. Gillette Avenue is conveniently located near the Wilder Village, allowing easy access to various amenities.

Wilder Dam

Positioned to the west of Wilder Village, this neighborhood takes its name from the nearby Wilder Dam and the Connecticut River, which runs through it. The area is surrounded by beautiful wooded landscapes and offers fantastic scenic views. It mostly comprises residential properties, including contemporary houses and a few apartments.

Gilman Island

Situated within the Connecticut River, Gilman Island is a small residential community accessible only by a bridge. This neighborhood offers a unique living experience, with secluded properties and a rustic ambiance. It's a nature lover's paradise, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and water sports.

Overall, Wilder, VT, provides a diverse range of neighborhoods catering to various preferences, from bustling village life to peaceful residential areas immersed in natural beauty.