In 1779, Ethan Allen, widely regarded as the “founder of Vermont,” and his brother Ira Allen built a house together by hand on the banks of the Batten Kill River in Sunderland. The Ethan and Ira Allen House, nestled in the Green Mountains of Southern Vermont, is one of Vermont’s oldest inns and operated as a tavern for many years. 

Ethan was the charismatic founder and leader of Vermont’s Green Mountain Boys militia, while Ira was the first Treasurer of Vermont and a founder of the University of Vermont. Ethan, in joint command with Benedict Arnold, captured Fort Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain, an important early victory of the Revolutionary War. Strong support for the Continental Army eventually led to Vermont’s acceptance as the 14th State of the Union.

The Allen Brothers’ home is adjacent to Hill Farm’s property on Route 7A (the Ethan Allen Highway) with direct frontage on the famed Batten Kill River. The house was significantly expanded in 1846, adding several more bedrooms, most of which are suites. Today, the Ethan and Ira Allen House is comfortable, updated and rambling, but has also been carefully preserved, with its original hand-hewn beams and brick-and-stone fireplace, retaining the spirit of the remarkable people who lived here.

Honoring and preserving Vermont’s history. A uniquely special place.