PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release – August 13, 2024
Media Contacts:
Bradley Greenough, Stewardship Forester
Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation | Agency of Natural Resources
brad.greenough@vermont.gov; 802-595-3143
Public Invited to an Informational Meeting on the Goodell House Renovation
Montpelier, VT- The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) is set to host a public informational meeting to introduce a proposed concept for the relocation and historical reconstruction of the Goodell House, a structure of historic significance located in the Mt. Mansfield State Forest just outside of the Little River State Park.
The Goodell House is the last standing structure within the Stevenson Brook Historic Archaeology District (Site VT-WA-0027), a historic district that encompasses a former hill farm community which included several farms, mills, schools, cemeteries, and other structures. Almeron and Lutheria Goodell built the Goodell House in the 1860s, where they lived with their two children, farming a small 14-acre parcel. Without intervention, the house could deteriorate beyond repair, resulting in the loss of a historic resource in the area.
The proposed plan envisions transforming the Goodell House into a four-season hut under joint management with the Vermont Huts Association.
“We have a rare opportunity here to not only help support the many recreation opportunities that Little River State Park and surrounding State Lands provide, but also play a role in preserving the history associated with the Goodell House before the structure is permanently lost,” said RJ Thompson, Executive Director of Vermont Huts Association.
As part of this proposal, and if this amendment is approved to the Mount Mansfield State Forest Long Range Management Plan, the Goodell House will be carefully taken apart, moved to a new site approximately 600 feet away along the Dalley Loop Road, and meticulously reconstructed in a manner that preserves its historical integrity.
Nick Caputo, Vermont State Parks Regional Manager, affirms the suitability of the new site for the historical reconstruction based on the ecological assessment conducted by the FPR Barre District Stewardship Team. "We have been trying to determine the best viable repurpose for this unique structure for years but have struggled to secure the necessary funding. Relocating to this better location presents a great opportunity to preserve the structure while also enhancing access to the outdoors, which is core to our mission. The partnership with Vermont Huts could be the missing puzzle piece, allowing us to retain the structure’s history and transform it into a valuable recreation resource, emphasizing the importance of collaboration."
The presentation of this concept and a public informational meeting will be held on August 29, 6:00 -8:00 pm, at the Best Western Plus Waterbury Stowe, 45 Blush Hill Rd, Waterbury, VT 05676. It will then be followed by a public comment period open from August 29- September 30, 2024.
Learn more about the Mount Mansfield State Forest Long Range Management Plan and the proposed amendment.
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