Krider Nurseries, founded in 1896 by Vernon Krider (1876-1955), grew into one of Middlebury's largest industries, operating primarily as a regional wholesale business while also serving the mail-order market. It produced its first catalog in 1906 and bought the patent to produce and sell the first thornless rose. In 1933-1934, the nursery constructed and exhibited Krider's Diversified Garden at the Century of Progress International Exposition in Chicago, and some of its plants and structures were returned to Middlebury, where the garden was reconstructed in 1935. After falling into decay, the garden was restored by the community in 1995. Krider Nurseries ceased operation in 1990.