Highgate (pop. 3,268) is located in
Franklin County; it borders Canada and
Lake Champlain.
Chartered on August 17, 1763, Highgate was originally settled by Hessian troops who believed they were putting down roots in Canada. It is said there are just two other Highgates, both known to be named after a London suburb: Ontario, Canada and St. Mary's Parish, Jamaica. John Godrey Saxe was born here; in addition to his notable contributions to public life, Saxe's poetry is included in American verse anthologies, and his story "Four Blind Men and an Elephant," is a successful children's picture books.
An annual August attraction is the Franklin County Field Days, which features classic county fair activities and exhibits.
Nearby points of interest include the first church built in Vermont, and a section of the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge.
