Rock of Ages Granite Quarry Shuts Down Tours and Visitors Center
After more than a century of opening its doors to the public, Rock of Ages, a prominent granite company based in Barre, has made the tough decision to cease its quarry tours and close its visitors center. This move effectively marks the end of public access to its operations, a decision that has left many longtime visitors and enthusiasts disappointed.
The company announced the closure of its tours on its website last week, citing the necessity to adapt to changing site regulations and operational requirements. Despite numerous inquiries, Rock of Ages and its parent company, Polycor, have remained tight-lipped about the specifics surrounding the decision.
Established in 1885, the Rock of Ages quarry has played a pivotal role in Barre’s economy, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Barre Granite Association notes that even today, the city is home to over a dozen granite-related businesses, showcasing the enduring legacy of the industry in the region.
Since as early as 1924, Rock of Ages has been a draw for visitors keen on witnessing the majestic granite quarry in action. The company’s creation of a “Retiring Room” for guests to observe operations marked the beginning of a tradition that continued with tours introduced in 1930. Despite a brief hiatus in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, tours resumed in 2022, offering a unique glimpse into the world of granite quarrying.
Heather Pelham, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, expressed her disappointment at the closure, emphasizing the significant impact it will have on the state’s economy. Tourism plays a crucial role in supporting local businesses and providing employment opportunities for thousands of individuals, making the loss of Rock of Ages’ tours a blow to the entire region.
Pelham highlighted the positive contributions of tourism to Vermont, noting that visitors not only support attractions but also stimulate activity in downtown areas, dining establishments, and accommodations. In 2023 alone, tourists collectively contributed $282 million in state and local tax revenue, underscoring the vital role of tourism in sustaining Vermont’s economy.
While the closure of Rock of Ages’ tours is a setback, central Vermont still boasts a wealth of cultural treasures, historic landmarks, and recreational offerings for visitors to explore. The Barre Granite Museum, open seasonally from May to October, remains a beacon for those eager to delve into the city’s rich granite heritage. Additionally, the Vermont Historical Society operates the Vermont History Museum in Montpelier and the Vermont History Center in Barre, providing further opportunities for visitors to delve into the region’s past.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Millstone Trails Association manages a network of trails that wind through and around Barre’s former quarry sites, offering a unique perspective on the area’s industrial history. These trails provide a tranquil setting for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers to appreciate the beauty of Vermont’s landscape while reflecting on the legacy of its granite industry.
As the dust settles on the closure of Rock of Ages’ tours, the community is left to reflect on the end of an era. The decision to shut down public access to the quarry marks a turning point in the region’s history, underscoring the need to adapt to changing circumstances while preserving the legacy of Vermont’s granite industry for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
