In the 1830s and 1840s the economic center of Bennington was located along the Walloomsac River, taking advantage of the water power it provided. By the mid-19th century the downtown had important ceramic, textile, and iron industries in addition to grist and saw mills. The historic district includes residential, commercial, public, and manufacturing buildings, ranging in style from Federal to Renaissance Revival. A walking tour pamphlet is available at the Chamber of Commerce.