Vernon

About Vernon

Tucked into the hills of Tolland County, Vernon lives up to its motto — The Crossroads for Opportunity — as a welcoming, well-connected community just east of Hartford. Home to the historic village of Rockville, Vernon blends small-town New England charm with the convenience of a thriving suburban hub. It's the kind of place where history walks alongside everyday life.

What to Know

• The Tower on Fox Hill in Henry Park is one of Vernon's most beloved landmarks — a scenic stone tower offering sweeping views of the surrounding hills and a favorite gathering spot for locals year-round.
• Vernon contains the former City of Rockville, once a thriving mill city incorporated in 1889, whose handsome 19th-century architecture still lines its downtown streets.
• The Hockanum River winds through town, offering trails and natural greenery that connect neighborhoods and invite outdoor exploration.
• Vernon is served by the Vernon Public Schools district, anchored by Rockville High School, which draws students from across the town's diverse neighborhoods.
• The town is conveniently positioned along Interstate 84, making it an easy commute to Hartford and a natural stop between eastern and central Connecticut.

History

Vernon was incorporated in October 1808, carved out of the town of Bolton, and named in honor of George Washington's beloved Mount Vernon estate. Its 19th-century growth was fueled by the textile industry, particularly in Rockville, which became a prosperous mill city before consolidating with Vernon in 1965.

Community & Living

Vernon has the soul of a close-knit New England town with the amenities of a larger community — parks, local shops, and active civic life keep neighbors genuinely connected. Residents tend to love the mix of historic character, green open space, and easy access to everything the greater Hartford region has to offer.