Vernon Center is a small hamlet located in Oneida County, New York. It is situated in the central part of the state, approximately 20 miles southeast of Utica. The community is surrounded by rolling hills, green forests, and open farmland. It is bordered by the towns of Vernon to the west, Augusta to the north, and Kirkland to the south.
The terrain of Vernon Center is marked by a series of ridges and valleys. The area is dominated by the Vernon Ridge, which runs along the western edge of the hamlet. This ridge rises to an elevation of over 1,200 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The terrain is also characterized by a number of small streams and creeks, including West Branch Cowassalon Creek and East Branch Cowassalon Creek.
The climate of Vernon Center is typical of the Northeastern United States, with warm summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s in the summer to the low 20s in the winter. The area receives an average of 40 inches of precipitation per year, with most of it falling as snow during the winter months.
The hamlet of Vernon Center is a small, close-knit community with a population of approximately 500 people. The town is centered around the intersection of Route 26 and Route 31, which are the main roads through the area. There are a few small businesses located in the hamlet, including a gas station, a convenience store, and a post office.
Despite its small size, Vernon Center is home to a number of historic landmarks and attractions. One of the most notable is the Vernon Center Presbyterian Church, which was built in 1825 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The church is a beautiful example of Federal-style architecture and is still an active house of worship.
Another popular attraction in Vernon Center is the Vernon Downs Racetrack and Casino, which is located just a few miles south of the hamlet. The racetrack is a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts and also features a casino with slot machines and table games.
Overall, the geography of Vernon Center is characterized by its rolling hills, green forests, and open farmland. The area is rich in natural beauty and offers a peaceful, rural way of life. Despite its small size, the hamlet is home to a number of historic landmarks and attractions that attract visitors from all over the region.
History, Economy and Politics of Vernon Center, New York
Vernon Center is a small hamlet located in Oneida County, New York. The hamlet is a part of the town of Vernon and is situated in the central portion of the state. Vernon Center was first settled in the early 1800s and was originally known as “Stone Arabia.” The hamlet was renamed “Vernon Center” in 1850, after the town of Vernon in which it is located.
Economically, Vernon Center has historically been an agricultural community. The area is known for its fertile soil and has a long history of dairy farming. The hamlet is also home to a number of small businesses, including a general store, a post office, and a gas station. In recent years, the area has seen some growth in the tourism industry due to its proximity to the Turning Stone Resort and Casino.
Politically, Vernon Center falls under the jurisdiction of the town of Vernon. The town is governed by an elected town board, which is made up of a supervisor and four council members. The town board is responsible for overseeing the town’s budget, maintaining town roads and infrastructure, and providing essential services to residents.
Despite its small size and rural character, Vernon Center has played a role in some significant moments in American history. During the American Revolution, the area was the site of several skirmishes between Continental Army soldiers and British forces. In the mid-1800s, the hamlet was a stop on the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom in the North.
Today, Vernon Center remains a close-knit community with a strong sense of history and tradition. The hamlet is home to several historic buildings, including the Vernon Center Presbyterian Church, which was built in 1830 and is still in use today. The area also hosts several annual events, including a Fourth of July parade and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
In conclusion, Vernon Center, New York is a small hamlet with a rich history and a strong connection to agriculture. The area has played a role in several significant moments in American history and remains an important part of the town of Vernon. Despite some growth in the tourism industry in recent years, the hamlet remains a close-knit community with a strong sense of tradition and history.