At various times in it's early history, Vermont was "claimed" as part of New France (Quebec), Massachusetts, New York and New Hampshire. On July 4, 1777, the Constitution of Vermont was drafted and was adopted. This was among the first written constitutions in North America and was the first to constitutionally provide for the abolition of slavery, suffrage for men who did not own land, and public schools. Vermont continued to govern itself as a sovereign entity for 14 years until it eventually became the 14th state to join the United States - the first state after the initial 13 colonies.

Vermont is the only New England state to NOT have a seacoast but is flanked on the west by Lake Champlain - sometimes called the 6th Great Lake. Notable "native" sons and daughters include 2 U.S. presidents: Chester A. Arthur and Calvin "Silent Cal" Coolidge, poet Robert Frost, author John Irving, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield (i.e. Ben and Jerry of ice cream fame), Nobel Peace Prize winner Jody Williams, presidential wannabe Howard Dean and John LeClair, NHL hockey player.

Famous for its scenery (the name Vermont comes from the French "vert mont" for Green Mountains), dairy products and maple syrup, granite and marble, Vermont has long been known for its liberal politics and staunchly independent political thinking.

In honor of this proud tradition as the 14th state to join the union - we are offering 14 uniquely Vermont items in this square. Not all are pictured above

1. XXL Ben & Jerry's tee-shirt. Ben & Jerry's - Vermont's Finest is the #1 Vermont tourist attraction. Dark blue with Woody Jackson design created just for B&J - from Waterbury Vermont
2. Homemade Maple Walnut Granola from Stowe Vermont
3. Danforth Pewter - reknown throughout the world, made in Vermont. 6 wine glass markers - Pets theme - 2 cats, 3 dogs (including a Scottie/Cairn) and a bone
4. Country Cow Cocoa, 9 oz. container
5. Ben & Jerry's PINT COZY - you KNOW how cold your hands get holding those pints of B&J when you scarf them down straight from the container. Everyone needs one of these for their next "fix" of Cherry Garcia
6. Key ring made from an authentic Maple syrup tap that is used to get the sap from the Maple trees. Very unique
7. Crystal Maple Sugar in a sprinkle bottle - perfect on your morning toast or in your coffee.
8. Cow Ploppings - Free Range Candy - Pasture Pancake Maple flavor from Manchester Center
9. Beautiful square cheese/cutting board from Cabot - World's BEST Cheddar - Montpelier, Vermont
10. Candy bar from Lake Champlain Chocolates - Burlington Vermont. Dark Chocolate with peppermint Crunch
11. Maple Sampler Recipe Book - collection of maple syrup Recipes - from Shelburne Vermont
12. Two package of note cards by Vermont artists - Nancy Revoir Dezotell (birds) and Sabra Field whose woodcuts are seen world-wide
13. Vermont Dogs - a wonderful book full of stories to make you laugh and cry
14. Terrier ornament - made from multiple pieces of wood carefully fitted together to make a 3-dimensional design. Handcrafted in Brandon Vermont of Black Walnut.