SALISBURY — Charles Billings will soon be publishing his book on Ripton history, the first such book on the topic. The Salisbury Historical Society will host Billings on Wednesday, July 26, at 7 p.m. at the Salisbury Congregational Church for a presentation based on his research.
Billings will summarize Ripton’s history from the town’s charter in 1781 by Ripton Parish to its organization in 1828. The talk will use historic photos, documents and maps to illustrate various aspects of Ripton’s evolution — from a roadless wilderness to a Bread Loaf Inn resort destination and the self-professed home of Robert Frost.
The talk will also touch on how Ripton got its shape, the earliest homes and remaining barns, its seven schools and 24 mills, the village stores, and other aspects of the evolving life of this mountain community.