Nestled in the town of Barre, Vermont, the Websterville Quarry stands as a testament to a bygone era. It is a vivid reminder of the region's rich granite history that dates back to the latter half of the 1800s. With the arrival of railroad transportation, exploration of the area's bountiful granite deposits became accessible, leading to an influx of stone cutters from across the globe. By 1900, the region was a bustling hub of activity, with an estimated 3,500 workers engaged in nearly 70 quarries and an additional 3,500 at the adjacent granite factories. However, as the years rolled on, many quarries, including Websterville, were closed and abandoned, leaving Rock of Ages as the lone operating quarry in the vicinity.

The Websterville Quarry, opened in the 1800s, held the distinction of being the northernmost quarry in the region and was among the largest. Today, remnants of its vastness can be witnessed right off Websterville Road in the village of Websterville. A stone's throw away lies the iconic Rock of Ages quarry, a beacon of the area's enduring granite legacy.

Visitors curious about Websterville Quarry can park along the road and walk to one of its designated viewpoints. For safety, a fence encircles the quarry, ensuring that no one accidentally tumbles down the cliffs into the waters below. From the viewpoints, one can marvel at the beauty of the quarry, bearing witness to nature's reclaiming of a once industrious site. If you plan to bring your furry friend along, ensure they remain leashed, especially since much of the route is along the road.

It is vital for visitors to respect the area. Graffiti is strictly prohibited, and a 'leave no trace' principle should be adhered to – whatever you bring in should be taken out. This ensures that the beauty of the quarry remains intact for future generations. While the charm of abandoned sites like Websterville Quarry can be intriguing, visitors must tread with caution. These sites aren't regularly maintained, and there may be hidden hazards. Always be vigilant and heed any "no trespassing" signs you might encounter.

Adjacent to Websterville Quarry, the Millstone Trails offers a unique exploration opportunity. This 1500-acre park comprises three interconnected regions: Barre Town Forest, Canyonlands, and Gnome Man's Land. The trails snake through historic quarries and reclaimed forests, a stark contrast to the barren landscapes of the past when not a single tree stood in sight. Today, birch and sugar maples have reclaimed the terrain, adding a serene ambiance. The park offers a mix of manmade quarry pools, granite cliffs, and paths crafted from quarry scrap rock, providing visitors with a distinctive experience.

For those keen to delve deeper into Barre's quarry history, the Rock of Ages Visitors Center and the Vermont Granite Museum in downtown Barre are must-visits. They provide immersive tours and exhibits detailing the city's significant granite quarrying and processing industry, offering a comprehensive understanding of this integral facet of Barre's heritage.