The town lies in a valley within the Green Mountains and has been home to Norwich University since 1866.

[6] Northfield, was settled between 1785 and the 1820s by Yankees from Connecticut, Massachusetts, and older Vermont towns.

[7] Initially centered around farming and barter, Northfield's economic activities diversified.

Potash production thrived until about 1814, after which Elijah Paine's woolen mill became a major employer.

Wool prices declined in the 1840s, but Charles Paine, Elijah Paine's son and president of the Vermont Central Railroad constructed the railroad through town and established its headquarters in Northfield.

In 1852, the railroad changed ownership and gradually moved to St. Albans, causing the town's population to decline.

Residents began to demand improved infrastructure and services, and petitioned the legislature to establish a separate Village of Northfield.

More were constructed, and by the outbreak of World War I, over 525 people were employed in the granite sheds.

Later, the granite industry faced challenges, leading to closures, and by 1954, only the Rock of Ages plant was left.

Norwich University is a senior military college that enrolls undergraduate students, and has a large online graduate program.

The town's largest employer is Norwich University, followed by Cabot Hosiery Mills.