Founded as Fort Dummer in 1724, from its earliest days the town that would become Brattleboro enjoyed beautiful views and a strong spirit. It quickly grew into a home for Vermont industry and pleasure, attracting tourists, traders and innovators from across the region. Former Brattleboro Reformer contributor Fran Lynggaard Hansen describes the town's history through highlights from her "Downstreet" column, including accounts of the 1848 smallpox outbreak, the founding of the Estey Organ Company, the construction of the Harris Ski Jump, the story behind George Crowell's Lindenhurst mansion and the efforts of the dedicated volunteers who launched the first Winter Carnival. Portraying residents at work, at play, and in service to one another, she captures the essence of Brattleboro's enduring charm.