Montpelier [key], city (1990 pop. 8,247), state capital (since 1805) and seat of Washington co., central Vt., at the junction of the Winooski and North Branch rivers; inc. 1855. The economy is dominated by state government and insurance industries. It is also a trading center in a lumber, granite, and winter resort area. Granite is processed, and there is light manufacturing. Vermont College of Norwich Univ., New England Culinary Institute, and the state historical society are there. The city has maintained a 19th-century charm; of interest are the state capitol and federal courthouse. It is the birthplace of Admiral George Dewey. Surrounded by mountains, Montpelier has an excellent view of Mt. Mansfield, the highest point in the state.
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