Join naturalist and author Judy Chaves for a "virtual" hike up Mt. Philo on September 23rd, at 3 p.m. at Rokeby Museum in Ferrisburgh, Vermont. Chaves' illustrated talk, using then-and-now photos, old maps, and even a bit of poetry, will share what historic gems lie hidden — within plain sight — in the park.

Overlooking the Champlain Valley from its vantage point in southern Chittenden County, Mt. Philo has been enjoyed by generations of residents and visitors seeking outdoor enjoyment. The landscape history of Mt. Philo, Vermont's first state park, is the landscape history of Vermont, in miniature. "Sheep fever," the devastating deforestation of the mid-1800s, Vermont's early tourism industry, the early conservation and park movements, reforestation....it's all there on the mountain, if you know where to look.

North Ferrisburgh resident (and long-time Mt. Philo hiker), Judy Chaves, has spent 8 years researching the mountain's history and has recently written a guidebook to the park's historic sites. Signed copies of the guidebook will be available for purchase. The program is co-sponsored by the Ferrisburgh Historical Society. $5/person or free with Museum admission or membership in FHS or Rokeby Museum.

About Rokeby Museum
Rokeby Museum is a 90-acre historic site and National Historic Landmark designated for its exceptional Underground Railroad history. From 1793 to 1961 Rokeby was home to four generations of the Robinson family, all of whom enjoyed Mt. Philo and made note of the mountain in drawings, photographs and letters. The Museum is located on Route 7 in Ferrisburgh. www.rokeby.org

Nov 6, 2024, 7 to 8 PM

Nov 7, 2024, 12 to 7:30 PM

Nov 9, 2024, 7:30 to 9 PM