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A look back in the history of Vernon

| 05 Feb 2013 | 05:44
    The photo shows the early construction of Highland Lakes, which was established during the 1930s and 1940s.
    The photo shows the early construction of Highland Lakes, which was established during the 1930s and 1940s.

VERNON — The Vernon Historical Society presents “Those Were the Days — Highland Lakes” on Feb. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Vernon Senior Center. The panel comprised of Ron Dupont Sr., Joan Ross, Irene Boeren, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Reeth, Mr. and Mrs. James Opfer, and Donald Crane will talk about the early years in Highland Lakes.

The area at the top of Breakneck Road was known in the 1800s as the Parker School or Brushy Meadows Pond area. Then in 1925, Robert Baldwin built Lake No. 1. The year 1935 saw development take off with Seckler & Shepperd’s plan for “Lake Vernon.” By 1936, the name changed to “Highland Lakes” and the construction of cabins began. By 1950, five lakes comprised the recreational community, and many folks spent their summers enjoying life in the mountains.

The panel will recall those early years. Guests can join in the discussion with their own memories and stories. Guests can also bring photographs of old Vernon, as the Historical Society has an onsite scanner so the photographs can be scanned and added to its archives.

The program is free. The event is held at the Vernon Senior Center, located behind the Vernon Municipal Building at 21 Church St. There will be free refreshments. For information call Carol Kadish at 973-764-4671.