Pinnacle Forest

History

Steeped in tradition and rich in history

Rich in History

Walk around the village for a better look at how the marble industry significantly influenced our town, or stop into the Dorset Historical Society’s Bley House Museum, which showcases Dorset artists and highlights the town's storied history. Photo courtesy of DHS.

Dorset is steeped in tradition and rich in history, offering an abundance of historic attractions. Walk around the village for a better look at how the marble industry significantly influenced our town, or stop into the Dorset Historical Society’s Bley House Museum, which showcases Dorset artists and highlights the town’s storied history. At every turn, you’ll see our vibrant history reflected in both our historic attractions and the people who call Dorset home. 

The Wilson HouseThe Wilson House

The Wilson House is a historic hotel that attracts visitors from across the world. The Wilson House is the birthplace of William Griffith Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous and its accompanying 12-step program. Many visitors are in recovery themselves and want to celebrate Wilson’s legacy, while others just want to visit the homestead, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Manley-Lefevre House

Manley-Lefevre HouseThe Manley-Lefevre House was built in approximately 1815 by Martin Manley, using marble harvested from a quarry located on the property. In 1908, the property was transferred to Edwin Lefevre, a U.S. ambassador and financial reporter. Today, the Manley-Lefevre House is home to Marble House Project, a multidisciplinary artist residency program. The home is used exclusively for artists and is only open to visitors on special days.

Dorset Historical Society

Dorset Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1963. Its mission is to discover and collect materials to help establish and illustrate the history of the Town of Dorset; to preserve relevant collections; to exhibit archival materials and share historical information; and to educate its members and the public about Dorset’s storied history. Dorset Historical Society’s Bley House Museum is located on Route 30 and features exhibits by local artists and makers. The Museum also includes the Marble Gallery, showcasing more than 130 years of the marble industry in Dorset.

Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home

Hildene, the Lincoln Family HomeHildene, the Lincoln Family Home is the former summer residence of  Abraham Lincoln’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln, and his wife, Mary. Located in nearby Manchester, Vermont, the estate sits on 400-acres and includes breathtaking gardens, museum and exhibits, farm and cheesemaking facility, and more. Hildene hosts special events throughout the year that are a favorite of locals and visitors alike.