Vernon Township, New Jersey: 100 Things to Know

Vernon Township, New Jersey is fondly known as "Vernon" by its 24,206 residents. It's a suburban town located in Sussex County, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and recreational opportunities. Here are 100 intriguing facts and figures about Vernon Township:

History and Founding

• Vernon Township was established on February 21, 1792, and named in honor of General George Washington's Mount Vernon estate.
• The first settlers arrived in the area in the mid-18th century, primarily from New England and Europe.
• Vernon was originally a part of Sussex Borough until it was separated in 1824.

Geography and Natural Beauty

• Vernon Township covers an area of 35.7 square miles (92.5 square kilometers).
• It's located in the Kittatinny Valley, bordered by the Pochuck and Wallkill Mountains.
• The highest point in the township is Wawayanda Mountain, rising to 1,391 feet (424 meters) above sea level.
• Vernon is home to numerous lakes and streams, including Lake Wallkill and Swartswood Lake.

Demographics and Population

• As of 2020, Vernon Township's population was estimated at 24,206.
• The median age is 44.3 years old, with 23.2% of the population under the age of 18.
• The population is predominantly White (84.6%), with 6.5% Hispanic or Latino.

Economy and Industry

• Vernon Township has a diverse economy, with major industries including healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and tourism.
• The largest employers in the township are Wallkill Valley Regional High School, Mountain Creek Resort, and Newton Medical Center.
• The median household income in Vernon is $104,924, higher than the state average.

Education and Schools

• Vernon Township is served by the Vernon Township School District, which consists of six elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school.
• The district has excellent academic ratings, with 98% of high school graduates pursuing higher education.
• Sussex County Community College maintains a campus in the township, offering associate degree and certificate programs.

Recreation and Leisure

• Vernon Township is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous parks and recreation areas.
• Mountain Creek Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, biking, and water sports.
• Lake Wallkill offers fishing, boating, and swimming.
• The Appalachian Trail passes through the township, providing scenic hiking opportunities.

Arts and Culture

• Vernon Township supports a vibrant arts community, with several art studios and galleries.
• The Wallkill River School of Art offers classes and workshops for all skill levels.
• The Vernon Historical Society preserves the township's rich history and operates a museum.

Community and Services

• Vernon Township has a strong sense of community, with numerous volunteer organizations and civic groups.
• The township offers a range of services, including a police department, fire department, and public library.
• Newton Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare to the township and surrounding areas.

Notable Landmarks and Attractions

• High Point State Park: The highest point in New Jersey, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Mountain Creek Resort: A year-round destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.
• Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge: A 10,400-acre preserve known for its diverse wildlife and habitats.
• Vernon Valley/Great Gorge Village: A historic village with charming shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Fun Facts and Quirks

• Vernon Township is home to the "World's Largest Jack-o'-Lantern."
• The township has a tradition of hosting the Vernon Apple Festival each October.
• The "Vernon Vern" mascot represents the township's spirit and pride.
• Vernon is a popular setting for films and television shows, including "The Deer Hunter" and "The Sopranos."

Statistical Tables

|| Vernon Township || Sussex County || New Jersey ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Population || 24,206 || 144,221 || 9,288,994 ||
| Median Age || 44.3 || 43.7 || 39.6 ||
| Median Household Income || $104,924 || $96,475 || $88,000 ||
| High School Graduation Rate || 98% || 95% || 91% ||

|| Vernon Township || New Jersey ||
|---|---|---|
| Land Area || 35.7 square miles || 8,723 square miles ||
| Number of Lakes || 10 || 1,000+ ||
| Miles of Appalachian Trail || 10 || 50 ||
| Number of Golf Courses || 2 || 150 ||

Conclusion

Vernon Township, New Jersey, is a charming and thriving community that offers a wealth of opportunities for its residents. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse economy, Vernon is a perfect place to live, work, and play.