Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site
Preserving History, Inspiring Young Minds
At Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site, we believe that the preservation of history and the nurturing of young learners go hand in hand. Our programs are designed to connect children and families with the rich heritage of the Kingsley Grist Mill while fostering curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. By blending early education with cultural appreciation, we create a unique environment where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally while developing a deep respect for their community’s past.
About us
Our Story
A Legacy of Preservation and Community
The Kingsley Grist Mill has stood as a symbol of resilience and craftsmanship for generations. Originally built to serve the needs of local farmers and families, the mill became a gathering place where community life flourished. Over time, as industries evolved and modern conveniences replaced traditional milling, the site risked being forgotten. Yet, thanks to the dedication of local historians, educators, and families, the Kingsley Grist Mill was preserved as a National Historic Site, ensuring that its story would continue to inspire. Our journey has been one of growth and renewal. What began as a preservation effort has blossomed into a vibrant educational hub where children and families can connect with history in meaningful ways. Through school partnerships, seasonal events, and interactive exhibits, we have expanded our reach and deepened our impact. Today, we are proud to serve as both a guardian of heritage and a catalyst for community engagement. The mill is not just a building—it is a living story of hard work, ingenuity, and the power of community. By sharing this story, we hope to instill in every visitor a sense of pride, curiosity, and responsibility for the world we share.
What We Do
Learning Through History and Exploration
At Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site, our programs are designed to bring history alive for children, families, and the wider community. We believe that learning should be immersive, joyful, and rooted in real-world experiences. That is why our daily activities combine storytelling, hands-on exploration, and creative play. Children might grind grain using traditional methods, participate in guided tours that highlight the ingenuity of early millworkers, or engage in art projects inspired by the natural beauty of Vermont. Each activity is carefully designed to spark curiosity, encourage problem-solving, and foster a sense of connection to both history and community.
Our learning approach emphasizes balance. We integrate structured educational moments with opportunities for free exploration, ensuring that children develop both knowledge and independence. By blending history, science, and creativity, we create a holistic environment where children can thrive. Families who join us quickly discover that our programs are not only educational but also deeply meaningful, offering shared experiences that strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. Whether through seasonal festivals, school partnerships, or weekend workshops, we provide opportunities for every child and family to engage with history in a way that feels personal, relevant, and inspiring.
Where History Meets Learning
Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site is more than a preserved landmark—it is a living classroom where children and families can explore the past while building skills for the future. Located in North Clarendon, Vermont, our site combines the authenticity of a historic mill with the warmth of a community-centered learning environment. We believe that education should be immersive, joyful, and rooted in real-world connections, which is why our programs blend history, creativity, and exploration.Our educational philosophy is built on the idea that children learn best when they are actively engaged. By weaving together storytelling, hands-on activities, and opportunities for play, we create experiences that nurture curiosity, critical thinking, and a sense of belonging. What makes us unique is our ability to balance historical preservation with modern educational practices, ensuring that every child not only learns about the past but also develops the confidence and imagination to shape the future. Families who join us quickly discover that we are not just preserving a building—we are cultivating a community of learners, dreamers, and caretakers of heritage.
Keeping History Alive for Future Generations
The Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site is more than a preserved structure—it is a living reminder of the ingenuity, resilience, and community spirit that shaped Vermont. Every stone, beam, and wheel tells a story of families who worked together, shared resources, and built a foundation for the generations that followed. Our commitment to preservation is not only about maintaining the physical mill but also about safeguarding the values it represents. We believe that children and families deserve the opportunity to experience history in a way that feels real and immediate, not distant or abstract. By walking through the mill, hearing the hum of its machinery, and engaging in hands-on activities, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the past and its relevance to the present. Preservation is also about stewardship—teaching children that they, too, play a role in caring for the world around them. Through our programs, we inspire families to see themselves as part of an ongoing story, one that honors tradition while embracing the future.
Creating Memories That Last a Lifetime
At Kingsley Grist Mill, we believe that learning is most powerful when it is shared. That is why our programs are designed not only for children but also for families to experience together. Parents and caregivers are invited to join their children in activities that spark curiosity, creativity, and conversation. Whether it’s grinding grain, exploring the natural surroundings, or participating in seasonal festivals, these shared experiences strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories. We understand that families today are looking for opportunities that are both meaningful and enjoyable, and we strive to provide exactly that. Our approach blends education with play, ensuring that children are engaged while parents feel connected and supported. Families often tell us that their time at the mill becomes a cherished tradition, something they look forward to year after year. By learning together, families not only gain knowledge but also build a sense of belonging—to each other, to the community, and to the heritage we all share.
From Curiosity to Confidence
Every child who visits the Kingsley Grist Mill brings with them a spark of curiosity. Our role is to nurture that spark, guiding children as they explore, question, and discover. We believe that history is not just about the past—it is a tool for building confidence, resilience, and imagination. When children see how communities once worked together to solve problems, they begin to understand their own potential to make a difference. Our programs encourage children to take risks, try new things, and celebrate their successes, no matter how small. This process builds self-esteem and helps children develop the social and emotional skills they need to thrive. Parents often remark on the transformation they see in their children after participating in our programs: greater confidence, deeper curiosity, and a stronger sense of connection to the world around them. By inspiring the next generation, we ensure that the values of creativity, community, and stewardship continue to flourish long into the future.
Our mission
Vision
Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future
Our vision is to ensure that the Kingsley Grist Mill remains a vibrant center of learning, exploration, and community for generations to come. We see the mill not only as a historic landmark but also as a living classroom where children and families can discover the value of heritage while developing the skills and imagination needed for the future. By preserving the physical structure and sharing its stories, we aim to cultivate a sense of pride, responsibility, and curiosity in every visitor. Our long-term goal is to expand our educational offerings, strengthen our community partnerships, and continue to serve as a trusted resource for families and schools across Vermont and beyond.
Values
Guided by Care, Community, and Curiosity
Our values shape everything we do. We are committed to creating a safe, nurturing environment where children feel supported and families feel welcomed. We value curiosity as the spark that drives learning, and we encourage children to ask questions, explore freely, and make meaningful connections. We also value community, recognizing that the mill has always been a gathering place where people come together to share, learn, and grow. By honoring these values, we ensure that every program, event, and interaction reflects our dedication to both historical preservation and child development. Families can trust that their children are not only learning about the past but also building the confidence, empathy, and creativity to thrive in the present.
Impact
Building Connections That Last a Lifetime
The impact of our work extends far beyond the walls of the mill. By engaging children and families in hands-on learning, we help cultivate a lifelong love of history, creativity, and community. Parents often tell us that their children leave our programs with a deeper sense of curiosity and a stronger appreciation for the world around them. Teachers share that our educational partnerships enrich classroom learning and provide students with experiences they cannot find in textbooks. The community benefits as well, as our events bring people together, strengthen local pride, and support the preservation of Vermont’s cultural heritage. Ultimately, our impact is measured not only in the knowledge children gain but also in the joy, confidence, and sense of belonging they carry with them long after their visit.
Our team
Dedicated Educators, Caring Guides
At Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site, our team is the heart of everything we do. Each member brings not only professional expertise but also a deep commitment to nurturing children, preserving history, and building community. Families can trust that their children are guided by caring, qualified individuals who see every interaction as an opportunity to inspire curiosity and confidence.
Laura Bennett
Director of Education
Laura has spent over fifteen years designing and leading educational programs for children and families. With a background in early childhood education and museum studies, she combines her love of history with her passion for child development. Laura believes that learning should be joyful and hands-on, and she has developed many of the interactive activities that make our programs unique. Parents appreciate her warm, approachable style and her ability to connect with children of all ages.
Daniel Brooks
Community Engagement Coordinator
Daniel has a strong background in nonprofit leadership and community development. He is responsible for building partnerships with schools, local organizations, and families. His work ensures that the mill remains a vibrant hub of community life. Daniel is known for his ability to listen deeply, respond thoughtfully, and create programs that reflect the needs and interests of the families we serve.
Sophia Martinez
Lead Educator
Sophia brings over a decade of classroom experience to her role at the mill. She specializes in integrating history with creative play, helping children see connections between the past and their own lives. Sophia is especially skilled at working with younger children, guiding them with patience, warmth, and a sense of fun. Families often remark on her ability to make every child feel seen, valued, and encouraged.
Ethan Clarke
Preservation Specialist
Ethan ensures that the historic integrity of the Kingsley Grist Mill is maintained while also making the site safe and accessible for children and families. With a background in historic preservation and carpentry, he brings both technical skill and a deep respect for heritage. Ethan often leads behind-the-scenes tours, showing children how the mill works and why preservation matters. His enthusiasm for history is contagious, and he inspires children to see themselves as caretakers of the past.
Our work
Programs & Services
Enriching Experiences for Every Age
At Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site, we design our programs to meet the needs of children at different stages of development while also creating opportunities for families to learn together. Our early childhood programs introduce young learners to history through sensory play, storytelling, and simple hands-on activities that spark curiosity. For elementary-aged children, we provide more structured workshops that combine history, science, and art, allowing them to explore the mill’s machinery, experiment with traditional crafts, and connect the past to their own lives. Older students and teens benefit from in-depth programs that encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership, often through project-based learning and community service opportunities.
Our curriculum is carefully crafted to balance academic enrichment with creativity and play. We emphasize experiential learning, where children are encouraged to touch, explore, and ask questions. Special activities such as seasonal festivals, family workshops, and guided tours provide opportunities for shared learning and fun. We also offer tailored programs for schools and community groups, ensuring that every visit is meaningful and memorable. By blending history, education, and play, our services create a holistic experience that nurtures curiosity, builds confidence, and strengthens family connections.
Community & Engagement
Building Connections That Strengthen Us All
The Kingsley Grist Mill has always been more than a building—it has been a gathering place where people come together to share, learn, and celebrate. Today, we continue that tradition by fostering strong connections with families, schools, and community organizations. We believe that education is most powerful when it is shared, which is why we actively involve parents and caregivers in our programs. From family workshops to parent-child activities, we create opportunities for families to learn side by side, deepening bonds and creating lasting memories.
Our community partnerships extend our impact beyond the mill itself. We collaborate with local schools to enrich classroom learning, with cultural organizations to celebrate Vermont’s heritage, and with civic groups to host events that bring people together. Seasonal festivals, heritage days, and volunteer opportunities invite the wider community to engage with history in meaningful ways. By weaving together education, family involvement, and community celebration, we ensure that the Kingsley Grist Mill remains a living, breathing part of Vermont’s cultural fabric.
Testimonials
Voices of Families Who Believe in Us
“My daughter, age 6, came home from her first visit to the mill bubbling with excitement. She couldn’t stop talking about grinding grain and learning how people lived long ago. It was the first time I saw her connect history to her own life in such a joyful way.” – Anna, Parent of a Kindergartener
“As a parent of two boys, ages 8 and 10, I am always looking for activities that are both fun and educational. The Kingsley Grist Mill programs strike the perfect balance. My children learned so much while also laughing, playing, and making new friends.”
– David, Parent of Elementary Students
“Our family has attended several seasonal events at the mill, and each one has been a highlight of our year. The staff are warm and welcoming, and the activities are thoughtfully designed for all ages. It feels like being part of a larger family.”
– Priya, Parent of a Preschooler
“My teenager was initially reluctant to join a history program, but the hands-on approach completely changed his perspective. He came away not only with knowledge but also with a sense of pride in our community’s heritage.”
– Mark, Parent of a Middle School Student
Our volunteer
Why Volunteer With Us
Volunteering at Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site is more than giving your time—it is becoming part of a living story that connects past, present, and future. Our volunteers are essential to preserving the mill’s legacy and ensuring that children and families can continue to learn from it for generations to come. By sharing your skills, energy, and enthusiasm, you help us create meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity, strengthen community bonds, and celebrate Vermont’s heritage.
Ways to Help
There are many ways to get involved, whether you enjoy working directly with children, supporting educational programs, or helping behind the scenes. Volunteers assist with guided tours, seasonal events, and family workshops, bringing history to life through storytelling and hands-on activities. Others contribute by maintaining the grounds, supporting preservation efforts, or helping with administrative tasks that keep our programs running smoothly. Whatever your interests or skills, there is a place for you here.
Impact of Volunteering
The impact of volunteering extends far beyond the hours you give. Volunteers help children discover the joy of learning, families create lasting memories, and communities strengthen their ties to local history. Many of our volunteers tell us that the experience is deeply rewarding, offering not only the chance to give back but also the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others. By volunteering with us, you become part of a tradition of care, stewardship, and community that defines the Kingsley Grist Mill.
Join Us
Be Part of Our Mission
Working at Kingsley Grist Mill National Historic Site is more than a job—it is an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of children, families, and the community. Our team is united by a shared passion for education, history, and child development. We believe in creating a supportive, collaborative environment where every staff member feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique strengths.
