New Vineyard
New Vineyard is a bedroom community that sits 10 miles north of Farmington and 35 miles south of Sugarloaf, USA, the region's premier ski resort.
New Vineyard was settled by people who came from Martha's Vineyard, off the coast of Massachusetts, and before its incorporation in 1802, its name depended upon who owned the mills at any given time. It was variously known as Stewart's Mills, Luce's Mills, or Vaughn's Mills.
The mills were grist, saw and spool. The population peaked at 865 in 1860.
The town sits on Rt. 27. It boasts a library and historical society. It is home to Porter Lake and the recreational activities it provides, including swimming and boat access.
The town celebrates July 4 each year with a firemen's parade. Farm Team baseball is a popular summer activity.
Like many of these small communities, volunteerism is a tradition in New Vineyard. Volunteers built the new town office, to bring the structure in under budget. Its style matches that of the historical society museum, attached to the public library.
Town Profile: Incorporated in 1802; 750 residents. It is 10 miles north of Farmington.
Town Offices: Lake St. Phone/fax 652-2222. Open 1-6pm, Mon. and Fri; Tues. and Thurs., 10:30am-5pm.
Selectmen Meetings: Mon., at 6:30pm, Smith Hall.
Planning Board Meetings: First and third Tues. at 7pm, town office.
Elections: Held at the town office in March.
Taxes: $12.25 on $1,000 of valuation.
Snow removal: Town
Animal Shelter: Franklin County, 778-2638
Ambulance: 911 (emergency only)
Fire: 652-2481 (emergency).
Fire Chief: Robert Holbrook, 652-2481.
Franklin County Sheriff's Office: 778-9891.
Town Clerk: Arlene Davis, 652-2222.
