The Lake Champlain Quadricentennial brought some renewed attention to the lake’s many shipwrecks. These Lake Champlain, particularly Burlington, shipping disasters must have been easily viewed from Burlington’s Hill Section, where many of the historic homes here still feature “widows walks.” From these roof-top perches, captains could view their ships at anchor in Burlington Harbor and captains’ wives could view the safe return of their spouses.

Lake Champlain is home to more that 300 historic shipwrecks! A recent Vermont Public Radio series details these historic shipping disasters on Lake Champlain (History Under the Waves).

This fascinating series describes the sinking of several ships including one of the first steamboats in the United States. The Phoenix was a side-wheel steamer active during the early 1800s. It sank engulfed in flames after a pantry fire spread throughout the ship on September 5, 1819.  The ship sank just north of Burlington at Colchester Reef.

The tale of this disaster includes casualties, a theft, a lifeboat shortage, and the bravery of a substitute captain (the ship’s captain was home with the flu, his son filled in for him on this momentous occasion).  Learn more about the Phoenix here.

While none of these Burlington homes existed that fateful night, they do afford great views of the lake:

MLS No. 2907366 Burlington Lake View Home

MLS No. 2907238 Burlington Lake View Home

August 2-8 is National Farmers Market Week and the best place in all of Vermont to celebrate this organic occasion is the Burlington Farmers Market. This market is right downtown in Burlington’s City Hall Park. The food here is unparalleled in quality and freshness. From Digger Mirth Collective arugula to Jericho Settlers’ Farm grass-fed beef, you’ll find the best tasting food in the Champlain Valley right here in downtown Burlington.

The Farmers’ Market happens every Saturday 8:30 am – 2:00 pm (May 9 – October 31) and features crafts, prepared foods, and the freshest produce.

Farmers’ Markets are heralded for supporting farmers, strengthening local economies, and generally helping people stay healthy. The Burlington Farmers’ Market does all this with the flare of a European style street market.

Here are a few downtown Burlington homes
that are walking distance to the Farmers’ Market:

MLS No. 2908468 Burlington Downton
MLS No. 2908 Burlington Downtown
MLS No. 2907679 Burlington Downtown

You will be enchanted to attend any or all of the events celebrating Lake Champlain. I admire and respect this lovely body of water. Many times I fly in over the lake and feel the peace and calm the waters give to our small city of Burlington, Vermont.

I’ve sailed on Lake Champlain for 25 years and still marvel at the beauty of the high peaks of the Adirondacks on the west and the distant view of Camel’s Hump and Mt. Mansfield on the east. Where else in the US do you have a fresh body of water 120 miles long and only 3 miles wide with mountains clinging on the horizon?  I am a huge fan.

You should participate in the celebration – this weekend July 17 & 18 in Vergennes – French Heritage days at the restored Opera House will be terrific.  And the Otter Creek Basen and other areas in and around Vergennes will be hopping with activities.  Check it out  at www.champlain400.com

And if you fall in love with the lake – take a peek at these properties on Lake Champlain!

Lakefront in Colchester – private!

Updated camp in Charlotte!

Champlain Islands!

The price category under $350,000 is active – not great – but active. And the homes over $550,000 are having a tough time. Buyers just keep waiting. And of course – the banks are toughon lending. But why don’t buyers simply write up offers? I don’t get it…..give it a try – sellers are anxious and it is a GREAT time to buy. The Bubble has not hit us – thanks to conservative building policies in Vermont. But sales are down by 20% in Chittenden County and sellers MUST be prudent about their list price if they want to sell in a timely fashion. BUT – Buyers – “go for it” – Trade and throw out some offers – you would be surprised – sellers will negotiate – they want to sell!!!