The Town of Vernon was formed from parts of Augusta and Westmoreland, as part of the original Oneida Reservation. The Town of Vernon is located on the southwest border of Oneida County. With the Oneida Creek flowing in the west boundary and the Skanandoa Creek flowing in the east boundary, Vernon is recognized as one of the most fertile towns in the county. Various mills were also formed in the town due to the utilization of power from the creeks.

In 1794, the town’s origin began with the arrival of the first settler, Josiah Bushnell, who appeared on the Bleecker Patent. After the Oneida Reservation was sold, early settlers flocked to the town, coming from areas located in Connecticut and Massachusetts. In 1805, the Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Society was organized, and in 1807, the Baptist Society was established.

The primary developing factor in Vernon was the Genesee Trail, which ran east to west through the town. Later in 1800, the road was chartered as the Seneca Turnpike toll road. Dairy farming remains continuous as the source of livelihood for the town’s occupants.

Located at the geographical center of New York State, the Oneida Castle stands at what was once the Oneida Indians’ Chief village. Three attempts were made to have the state’s capital located at Oneida Castle. Located in the southeast part of the town of Vernon is the hamlet of Vernon Center. Associated with the play Hamlet, reflecting upon the Vernon Center’s relation to faith and community.