Lake Memphremagog as seen from Shattuck Hill
Photograph by Donny Whipple
Shattuck Hill Scenic Overlook
This scenic vista overlooking Lake Memphremagog is mentioned in texts since the initial settlement of the area. Memphremagog was derived from the Abenaki word Memrhabegek, which means “where there is a big expanse of water”. Historically, though inaccurately, the interpretation was the more romantic “Beautiful Waters”.
The overlook facing northeast towards the Canadian border highlights the mountains of Bear, Owl’s Head and Elephantis and the islands of Province, Belle (Bell), Black and Cove.
The site was originally purchased by Captain Charles Sias, a veteran of the American Revolution, who moved there with his family in 1802. At that time, the property was located on the road to the ferry which crossed the lake to get to the “Burlington Road”.
The farm and buildings on the premises were conveyed to Anson Shattuck in 1851 and remained in the Shattuck family for nearly 100 years. It was because of these owners that the thoroughfare approaching the property became known as Shattuck Hill Road. The property was conveyed by the Shattucks to the Buzzells in the mid twentieth century. The Buzzell family occupied the property for 70 years after which it was sold to the DelaBrueres. Throughout its history, the owners of the overlook allowed public viewing. This opportunity has now been granted in perpetuity thanks to the purchase of this land in 2024 by the Town of Derby, funded completely through public donations.
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