Jamaica, Vermont

Chartered in 1780, the historic village of Jamaica, Vermont, is on scenic Vermont Route 100 midway between
Brattleboro and Manchester. MapQuest and other navigators will find Jamaica Village at 3735 Route 30.

Settled near the confluence of the West River and Ball Mountain Brook in the southern part of the state, the Village of Jamaica has maintained the charm and character of old Vermont. Hiking trails in the Jamaica State Park and back roads intersect the village center, where a leisurely pace and casual atmosphere beckon visitors to slow down and enjoy the day. Jamaica is also right in the middle of ski country in southern Vermont. Stratton, Bromley, Magic and Mount Snow are all within a 10-15 mile radius.

The village is fast becoming noted for its artisan-made rustic furniture, pottery, hand-weaving, fine art and photography, gourmet coffee, sumptuous dining, elegant lodgings, gardens, attractive mountain trails and rivers.

"Jamaica is the quintessential Vermont town that hasn't been tampered with," says Nancy Price who operates a photographic gallery . "If you removed the cars, it would look the same as it did 100 years ago," she adds. There's not a franchise, a branch store or an outlet to be found in Jamaica. It's a sleepy town except on the week-end when there are more out-of-state plates to be seen in town than local Vermont ones.

The village is 227 miles from New York City (about 4 hours driving time). Directions: In Bennington, turn left onto Route 7 north toward Manchester. In Manchester, take Route 11 northeast. Turn onto Route 30 south and drive about 15 miles into Jamaica.

Despite the distance it has become an area favoured by weekenders from the big city and especially following 9/11. Like neighboring Manchester, property prices in the surrounding area are approaching the million dollar mark.

A sampling of local business:

Elaine Beckwith Gallery - Fine Art.
Representing over 30 artists in a collection that is original and
discerning. Paintings, sculpture and artist-pulled prints. Featuringetchings and paintings by Joel Beckwith.
Open 10:00 - 5:30 daily (closed Tuesday).
Elaine and Joel Beckwith
(802) 874-7234
www.beckwithgallery.com

Jamaica Coffee House
Purveyors of fine coffee, teas, espresso and delicious baked goods in a festive atmosphere.
Jennie & Reggie
(802) 874-4643

Old Corker's Emporium
Featuring Skip's own line of handcrafted lodge-style rustic furniture.
Locally crafted antler lamps and chandeliers, sporting and fishing antiques and collectibles.
Skip and Maureen Woodruff
(802) 874-4172
www.oldcorkersantiques.com

The Monsoon Shop

The Monsoon Shop on Main Street in Jamaica is an oasis of style and grace where the sign above the door reads, "Enter As Strangers- Leave As Friends". During the holiday season the folks at Monsoon invite you to use the Monsoon Lounge, help yourself to some tea, cider and homeade nibbles by the very blue christmas tree.

Co-owner Julia Genatossio says, "Although we are primarily an online catalog, we love to open our doors to The Monsoon Shop at special times of the year to let the public shop in the historic pub space on the first floor of the old Jamaica House Hotel. We feel like in addition to giving our customers access to our Good Karma/Good Art finds, we get access to and are blessed to meet some of the most remarkable people here in this little shop in what often feels like such a remote place."

3849 Main Street (inside the historic Jamaica House Hotel.)
(802) 874-4149

website: www.monsoonvt.com

Jamaica Country Market
A friendly market at the center of the village with fresh produce, natural foods, deli, fabulous pies, micro-brews, wine and snacks for every palate.Featuring fresh products and plenty that's just plain fun. Open long hours daily Mother & Daughter Proprietors - Holly and Aurora Krom
(802) 874-4151

Jennie Blue
Whimsical wonderful gifts, pottery resplendent with checks, hearts, flowers and critters. Jennie's own custom ceramic pieces for weddings, babies and life's other celebrations. Paintings by local artists, jewelry, personal and home accessories and whatever Jennie finds in her travels.
6 days 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (Tuesday by chance)
Jen Connor
(802) 874-4222
www.vermontpottery.com

Margie's Muse Handweaving, Knitting, and Gallery
Fiber art, open weaving studio, luscious knitting yarns and supplies.
Featuring Margaret's own handwoven pieces to adorn the body and make your home cozy. Come be inspired by the original and varied handmade work of local artisans - jewelry, glasswork, paintings, quilts, clothing, dolls, and wearable butterfly wings are just some of the treasures you will discover here.
Thursday through Monday.
Margaret Silvia
(802) 874-7201
www.margiesmuse.com

Nancy Price Gallery
Featuring fine art and photography by nationally known and local Vermont artists.
Nancy Price
(802) 874-4489
www.nancypricegallery.com

Three Mountain Inn
With an abundance of history and a sense of luxury, the Three Mountain Inn will revive your senses. Enjoy a romantic dinner in one of two intimate dining rooms. Relax by one of the many fireplaces. We invite you to enjoy a warm and comfortable atmosphere, with exceptional food, luxury accommodations, and the finest of personal service.
Jennifer and Ed Dorta-Duque
(802) 874-4140
www.ThreeMountainInn.com

Charles Gardiner Antiques
Old things, out of fashion, suitable only for a seasonal country retreat.
By chance or appointment mid-May until mid-October
Charles Gardiner
(802) 874-4009 or (978) 827-3079
www.charlesgardinerantiques.com

Antiques Anonymous
Small barn filled with furniture and accessories, quilts, early toys,
advertising signs, clocks, sports, political and historical memorabilia.
The most interesting shop around. Always buying.
Open by chance or appointment.
Andy and Fiona Avery.
(802) 874-4207
www.vermontada.com/antiquesanonymous.htm

D&K's Garden Center
Wonderful Vermont hardy perennials, display gardens, cutting gardens, greenhouses bursting with annuals. Garden design, landscaping and caretaking services.
Open daily
Dale and Karen Ameden & family
(802) 874-4160
www.dkgarden.com

Jamaica Cottage Shop
Located at 132 Route 100, 5 miles north of Jamaica Village in Rawsonville.
Post & beam storage sheds, horse barns and camping cabins. Nationwide shipping.
Domenic Mangano
(802) 297-3760 or toll-free (866) 297-3760
www.jamaicacottageshop.com

Stone Boat Farm Bed & Breakfast
Located 3 miles north of Jamaica Village on Rte 30/100. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy our affordable, European-style bed and breakfast. We offer cozy, brook-side rooms and continental breakfast, wireless internet, private entrances and baths.
Geoffrey and Christine Cunnar
(802) 297-9929
www.stoneboatfarm.com

Monson Shop in Jamaica

Margie's Muse Handweaving & Gallery

Did you know that many of the photos seen here on Scenes of Vermont are available for sale and download on www.photosvermont.com?

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