WILLISTON, Vt. (WCAX) - The first big box store in Williston opened on this day in history. Walmart welcomed shoppers on Jan. 29, 1997. The grand opening marked the end of years of permitting and legal battles. A citizens’ group had fought to keep Taft Corners as a quiet crossroads, but the victory by the developer would open the door to more big retailers, eventually transforming the area into one of Vermont’s busiest commercial centers. Copyright 2026 WCAX.