October 9, 2025

Heading east on Rt 9, then north on 100 until veering off to visit Williamsville covered bridge and village of Williamsville. The bridge was run down-the first one I’ve questioned if I wanted to drive over it. The village was very pretty. Then on to the Dummerston covered bridge over the West River, which was quite a surprise: an actual beach below with easy access down from the parking lot. Excellent views in all directions, including directly up at the bridge itself. I got some postcard worthy pix. Also, in Dummerston we found Old Jelly Mill Falls and had a wonderful time walking on parts that would have been underwater if it weren’t for the drought the whole state’s experiencing. We HAVE to come back here in the spring to see the difference in water levels.

Next was Newfane. I particularly enjoy visiting town greens/commons on these trips, and Newfane’s is by far the most impressive to date. Historic Union Hall, a church, Windham Co Courthouse, a country store founded in 1822, antiques stores, a festival being set up, everything to earn the Picture Postcard title. From there we detoured into Brookline, crossing an interesting metal bridge, but couldn’t find the town hall to photograph.

On to Townshend, which I’m told is pronounced “Townzend”. Another pretty town center, but the real gems were a bit west of there. Lake Townshend and the Scott covered bridge, which is the longest covered span in the state. It was closed to traffic but could be walked. There were several diamond shaped openings with views of the West River, foliage and mountains. We continued through Athens, missing the turn off to the brick meeting house (GPS went out again!) but passing through pretty homes.

Grafton felt larger than many of the towns we’ve visited, but still quaint and postcard-like.  There was a very impressive library and directly across the street a lovely park overlooking the Saxtons River. Passing through town, we continued on Rt 121, which turned to gravel. There were odd stretches of pavement, like where a bridge had been rebuilt, going right back to gravel again. We quickly drove off the GPS again but were able to find the turnoff to Windham without trouble. The last town felt quite remote. Then we headed west, found Rt 11 and followed that back into Bennington Co and home. This trip puts us at 88 towns completed.