1. Vermont became the 14th state in the US on July 1, 1791. It was the first state to enter the Union following the original 13 colonies.
2. The Vermont Statehouse, located in Montpelier, was dedicated on July 1, 1859. The building is known for its unique gold dome, an architectural feature that was added in 1908.
3. On July 1, 1863, the Union Army's First Vermont Brigade played a key role in the Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War. The brigade suffered heavy casualties but managed to hold its ground against Confederate forces.
4. Vermont was the first state in the US to abolish slavery in its Constitution, which was adopted on July 1, 1777. However, it took several years for the state to fully enforce the law and ensure the freedom of all enslaved individuals within its borders.
5. The world's first snowmobile race was held in West Yellowstone, Montana on July 1, 1965. The race included several Vermont-based snowmobile manufacturers and helped to popularize the sport in the United States.