[1] The city of Vergennes was first settled in the 1760s, but only began significant growth in the 1780s, when it became one of Vermont's early industrial centers.

Sawmills, gristmills, and later other types of industry were all powered by the waters of the creek, and the city experienced growth through the 19th century.

It became a critical factor in the War of 1812, when Vergennes, with ready access to Lake Champlain via Otter Creek, served as a military base.

The ironworks and the Macdonough Shipyard both played key roles in the eventual United States victory at the 1814 Battle of Plattsburgh.

It extends northward along both sides of Otter Creek, in order to include the now largely archaeological remnants of the iron works and shipyard.