Town Name: Derby 
Population: 4,579
Area: 57.6 mi²
A Glimpse Into Derby’s History
Chartered in 1788, Derby is a charming and historic town in Orleans County. It originally encompassed a separate town known as Salem, but when boundary disputes arose, Salem was divided—part merging with Derby and the rest joining Newport City. Today, Derby blends its rich history with modern conveniences, making it a sought-after location in Northern Vermont.
Why Live in Derby?
As the second-largest town in Orleans County, Derby has experienced significant growth over the past 15 years. Route 5, also known as Derby Road, serves as the commercial hub, connecting Derby to Newport and offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and essential services. The town is also known for its scenic beauty, with most of the eastern shores of Lake Memphremagog located here, alongside a picturesque walking and biking path that follows a former railroad route.
Derby is also home to Derby Line, a unique village that shares an international border with Canada. The town boasts a mix of charming historic homes and spacious rural estates.
Things to Do in Derby
Derby offers year-round recreational opportunities, whether you love water activities, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences.
Top Attractions:
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Lakes, Ponds, & Rivers – Lake Memphremagog, Lake Salem, Little Salem, Clyde Pond, Clyde River, Derby Pond, and Brownington Pond
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Outdoor Recreation – Scenic bike & walking path (Memphremegog Trails & Bike Path), VAST snowmobile trails, and multiple campgrounds
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Historic & Cultural Landmarks – The famous Haskell Free Library & Opera House, which straddles the U.S.-Canada border
Outdoor Activities:
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Summer Fun: Boating, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, and golfing
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Winter Adventures: Snowmobiling, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing
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Year-Round Enjoyment: Shopping, dining, and exploring the vibrant local community
Fun Facts About Derby
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The Clyde River, Derby’s only river, runs 25 miles from Island Pond to Newport.
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The town features several historic mansions, reflecting its deep New England heritage.
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The Haskell Opera House is famous for having a stage in Canada and seating in the U.S.!
Schools:
- K-6: Derby Elementary School
- Jr High: North Country Junior High School
- High School: North Country Union High School
Derby VT Listings
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