Bennington: The Quintessential New England Experience

• HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [siː jə]
• YesYup
  [jʌp]
• NoNah
  [nɑː]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pliːz/jʊr ˈwɛlkəm]
• Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [ˈpɑːrdən miː]
• How are you?Howdy
  [haʊ-di]
• Fine. And you?Doin' alright. How 'bout you?
  [dɔɪn ɔːˈraɪt haʊ baʊt jʊ]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' ya
  [aɪ eɪnt ˈɡɛtɪn jə]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I take a peek at the menu?
  [kæn aɪ teɪk ə piːk æt ðə ˈmɛnjuː]
• I don't eat meatI'm a veggie
  [aɪm ə ˈvɛdʒi]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please
  [kæn aɪ ˈsɛtəl ʌp pliːz]

• Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
• Go away!Git outta here!
  [ɡɪt ˈaʊtə hɪr]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kɔl ðə kɑps]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [ɡɛt ə dɑk]
• I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [aɪm ɔːl tɜrnd əˈraʊnd]
• I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [aɪm ˈfilɪn ˈʌndər ðə ˈwɛðər]

• I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to buy...
  [aɪm ˈlʊkɪn tə baɪ]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [ʤʌst ˈbraʊzɪn]
• How much is it?How much fer that?
  [haʊ mʌʧ fər ðæt]
• That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [ðæts stip]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya drop the price?
  [kæn jə drɑp ðə prɑɪs]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [wɑts ðə taɪm]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [hæf pæst (ˈtɛn)]
• MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔrnɪn]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
• EveningEvenin'
  [ˈivnɪn]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [ˈjɛstdeɪ]
• TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [təˈmɑrə]
• 1One
  [wʌn]
• 2Two
  [tuː]
• 3Three
  [θriː]
• 4Four
  [fɔːr]
• 5Five
  [faɪv]
• 6Six
  [sɪks]
• 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
• 8Eight
  [eɪt]
• 9Nine
  [naɪn]
• 10Ten
  [tɛn]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wɛərz ðə]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [wɑts ðə ˈædi]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out (on the map)?
  [kæn jə pɔɪnt ɪt aʊt ɒn ðə mæp]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next one (bus)?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst wʌn (bʌs)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt (tə ....)]

Bennington, Vermont was chartered on January 3, 1749, by Colonial Governor Benning Wentworth of New Hampshire. The town was named in his honor. Bennington was the first town to be settled west of the Green Mountains, making it a critical point in the expansion of colonial New England.

One of the pivotal moments in American Revolutionary history, the Battle of Bennington took place on August 16, 1777. This battle saw the American forces, led by General John Stark, achieve a significant victory over British troops and their Hessian allies. The victory prevented the British from capturing much-needed supplies and bolstered American morale, contributing to the eventual defeat of British General John Burgoyne at Saratoga.

Erected to commemorate the Battle of Bennington, the Bennington Battle Monument stands 306 feet tall and was completed in 1889. It is the tallest human-made structure in Vermont and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The monument is a testament to the town's historical significance and serves as a prominent landmark.

Founded in 1762, Old First Church is one of the oldest Protestant congregations in Vermont. The present structure, built in 1805, is a fine example of Georgian architecture. The churchyard is the final resting place of poet Robert Frost, adding to its historical and cultural significance.

During the 19th century, Bennington became a hub of industrial activity, particularly known for its pottery and textiles. The town's location and abundant natural resources made it an ideal center for manufacturing. Today, visitors can explore this rich industrial heritage at sites like the Bennington Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Bennington pottery.

Established in 1852, the Bennington Museum is dedicated to the history, art, and culture of the region. It features diverse exhibits, including the world's largest collection of Bennington pottery, American folk art, and the works of Grandma Moses, a celebrated American folk artist who spent much of her life in nearby Eagle Bridge, New York.

Bennington has been home to several notable literary figures, including Shirley Jackson, author of 'The Haunting of Hill House' and 'The Lottery.' Her residence in North Bennington is a point of interest for literary enthusiasts. The town's serene environment has inspired many writers over the years.

Founded in 1932, Bennington College is a private liberal arts college known for its progressive approach to education. The campus is noted for its modernist architecture and beautiful natural setting. The college has produced numerous influential alumni in various fields, contributing to the town's vibrant cultural scene.

Bennington, Vermont, is easily accessible by car, bus, and train. The closest major airport is Albany International Airport in New York, approximately 40 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a bus to Bennington. The town is also served by several interstate highways, making it accessible by car from neighboring states. Additionally, bus services like Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway connect Bennington to major cities in the region.

Once in Bennington, getting around is quite straightforward. The town is small enough to explore on foot, especially the downtown area. For longer distances, local taxi services and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are available. Public transportation is limited, but the Green Mountain Community Network operates local bus routes. Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas and scenic byways.

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful throughout Bennington, so you can easily withdraw cash if needed. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially if you plan to visit local markets or rural areas.

Bennington is generally a safe town with a low crime rate. However, it is always wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Bennington has a well-equipped police department and medical facilities, including the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect all places of worship and local customs. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don’t play loud music or speak loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' A handshake is common when meeting someone new. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be polite to waitstaff. Don’t tip less than 15% at restaurants, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Bennington like a local, visit the Bennington Farmers’ Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history. Don’t miss a visit to the Bennington Battle Monument and the Old First Church. For a unique experience, explore the scenic hiking trails like the Appalachian Trail or the Robert Frost Stone House Museum.