Charles Bell was born in Walden on this day in 1845. Bell got basic education at local schools, including five weeks at the old Caledonia County Grammar School in Peacham.

Unfortunately, his formal education ended early. He enlisted in Company B when he was 17 years old, fighting in the Civil War. Upon return he represented Walden in the legislature, gaining recognition first as a Congressman and then as a Senator.

He learned by doing, and had an aptitude for life’s lessons. Bell became Master of the Vermont State Grange and also served as Vermont Railroad Commissioner. In 1904, Bell was elected Governor of Vermont.

Image courtesy the Vermont Historical Society.