Paula Jean Welden, an 18-year-old Bennington College student, disappeared on December 1, 1946, after leaving her dorm about 2:30 p.m. to hike the Long Trail near Glastenbury Mountain in Bennington, Vermont. She wore a red parka and jeans and was last seen hitchhiking to the trail; several witnesses reported seeing her on the trail that afternoon. One man said he spoke with her about 4:00 p.m. when she asked how long the trail was before continuing.

Her roommate reported her missing the next morning. Paula’s father organized large searches that drew police from neighboring states and hundreds of volunteers; a $5,000 reward was offered but no trace of her was ever found. The disappearance spawned many theories, from accidental exposure to foul play, and helped prompt creation of the Vermont State Police. The case remains unsolved. If anyone knew Paula, her routines at Bennington College, or her plans that day, please share what you remember.