From Midnight Ghost Walks to Cap and Gown Photos: Remembering SVC’s Everett Mansion Cascades

The Everett Mansion Cascades, SVC (Late 1990s). A timeless piece of estate history nestled in the woods of Bennington, Vermont.

A Late 1990s Snapshot of SVC History

Captured here in a late 1990s photograph, the Everett Mansion Cascades stand as a timeless symbol of Southern Vermont College’s history.

Grand Architecture on Mount Anthony

Built in the 1920s as part of Edward H. Everett’s European-inspired estate gardens, the Cascades were designed to make full use of Mount Anthony's natural slope. Stone staircases led up both sides of the structure, framing a fountain that flowed down a series of tiered terraces into catch basins at the bottom.

Built to Last, Tested by Vermont Winters

It undoubtedly cost a fortune to construct. However, Bennington’s harsh, freezing winters made maintaining a delicate stone water feature quite a challenge.

Bringing the Cascades Back to Life

Each spring, the dedicated SVC Facilities team worked magic to bring the Cascades back to life. From sealing winter leaks to replacing frozen pipes, their efforts ensured the water flowed season after season.

At the Heart of Campus Life

For generations of students, the Cascades were more than just landscape architecture—they were an essential backdrop to campus life.

Midnight Ghost Walks and Haunted Houses

On quiet fall and spring nights, the eerie sound of burbling water set the perfect scene for midnight walks up to the Mansion to search for ghosts. For many years, SVC students transformed the mansion into a popular community haunted house. Passing through the wrought-iron gates with wildlife howling in the woods and the Cascades echoing nearby, visitors were instantly transported into an Addams Family atmosphere.

The Ultimate Cap and Gown Photo Spot

The Cascades were also the ultimate photo spot. Nearly every student posed here at least once—whether with friends, visiting family, or for the mandatory cap and gown portrait. Generations of graduates posed along these rising steps for class photos.

A Piece of History Worth Saving

Sadly, without the continuous upkeep of the SVC Facilities team, the structure has deteriorated significantly over the years. With the Everett Mansion now entering the permitting process to become a resort, there is renewed hope. We can only hope the new developers recognize the Cascades as a piece of history worth saving and restoring to its former glory.

Did you take your graduation photo at the Cascades?

Share your favorite memories in the comments below!

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Bennington, VT (Vermont Apres Ski Town) Magnet