The author of an iconic Vermont book has passed away. Esther Swift wrote "Vermont Place Names: Footprints Of History," in 1974.
In 2007, the Vermont Historical Society told the Herald of Randolph that the book was "one of a half-dozen essential books on Vermont." That’s the year Swift was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Center for Research on Vermont.
Swift grew up in Montpelier, and went on to earn several degrees, including a Ph.D from the University of Chicago. She sent several years working with the United Nations to build libraries overseas before working for the Billings Farm and Museum. She lived in South Royalton for many years.
Swift also published many other articles and books on Vermont history.
Esther Swift passed away on Saturday. She’ll be honored at a graveside service at Green Mountain Cemetery in Montpelier at 11 a.m. on Tuesday.