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Late fall on Bread & Milk Road in 1978.
Anyone remember the cows?

Late Fall 2025 Activities In Vernon

We usually don't do a late fall newsletter but with nearly a dozen events in November and December we are passing them along.

Still a few events taking place outdoors with a Revolutionary War Reenactment in Ellington and a walk at Risley Reservoir. Then we have November holiday fairs at Arts Center East and the Vernon Historical Society. Plus several talks and then two musical events in December leading up to Christmas.

Most of the organizations sponsoring these events are members of the Vernon Volunteers' Collaborative. You can learn more about them on their website. Check organizer's websites for any last minute changes.

We'll probably send our next newsletter in March when the snow is melting and crocus are popping up.

You can also visit our Tankerhoosen website.

Click on images for a larger view.

Jon Roe   


FRIENDS OF RPL: Rachel Carson Speaks

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 12 P.M.: Join the Friends of Rockville Public Library for "Rachel Carson Speaks." "Silent Spring," published in 1962, outlined the death of animal life as we know it due to the indiscriminate use of pesticides. Carson fought hard and finally won the battle of being a woman scientist and taking on the big chemical corporations.

BEV YORK presents programs on local, Connecticut and national history. Her style incorporates interactive and visual materials to enhance her lectures. Bev tells the story of Rachel's quarrel with the manufacturers and today's urgent campaign against worldwide pollution and poisons.

At this meeting, the Friends will also be collecting nonperishable food items which will be brought to the Cornerstone as well as boxes of cereal which will be delivered at a later date to several food pantries in our area.

The program will be held at the Rockville Public Library, 52 Union Street in Rockville.

» Learn more.


RPL: Costumes of Bygone Years

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 6:30 P.M.: The Rockville Public Library is proud to present "Costumes of Bygone Years", a nine-volume visual archive tracing the evolution of ladies fashion through the mid-1960s.

Compiled by Vernon resident MARIETTE N. FITCH in memory of Leila M. Church, the collection has been digitized and preserved in partnership with the Vernon Historical Society and Smith College intern ANNIKA MORSE.

Join us for a special program unveiling this resource. Registration is required as seats are limited.

The Rockville Public Library is located at 52 Union Street in Rockville.

» Learn more.


NECWM: The Strange Case of Dr. Beckwith

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 7:30 P.M.: The New England Civil War Museum (NECWM) presents PETER VERMILYEA with "The Strange Case of Dr. Beckwith: The Challenges of Mobilization on the Northern Homefront."

Union victory in the Civil War was far from a sure thing. At a moment of crisis in the summer of 1862, the Lincoln Administration called for an additional 600,000 volunteers for the Union army. By examining one Connecticut community, this talk will look at the difficulties the US government had.

The program is free and will take place at NECWM, 14 Park Place in Rockville.

On Thursday, December 4 DREW GRUBER will present "The Battle of Eltham's Landing" at the NECWM. See for details.

» Learn more.


The British Are Coming

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 9 A.M. - 2 P.M.: The Ellington Historical Society (EHS) hosts the 54th Regiment of Foot (British) and the Lebanon Militia (American) who will have a Revolutionary War Reenactment Camp at the Nellie McKnight Museum.

Step back in time and experience history come alive. Visitors will witness a dramatic demonstration bringing the strategies, uniforms and stories of the Revolutionary War to life. This educational and entertaining program is perfect for history enthusiasts of all ages and offers a unique opportunity to see first hand the people and events that shaped our nation.

The Nellie Mc Knight Museum is located at 70 Main St. in Ellington.

» Learn more.


Model Train Show

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1-3 P.M.: The Vernon Model Train Show will feature operating model railroads, exhibitors selling model railroad equipment, and a fun, family atmosphere.

If you are a model railroad enthusiast, or would like to learn more about this fascinating hobby, the Vernon Model Train Show is the place to be. Experienced model railroaders will be on hand to answer questions and provide insight into the model railroad world.

Show proceeds benefit the Rockville High School Band and Choir programs.

Sponsored by the Amherst Railway Society.

Adults: $8, Children 12 and under free when accompanied by an adult, Family max: $20.

This year the show will be held at Rockville High School, 70 Loveland Hill Road in Vernon. Questions: Contact DAVID OWENS at: secretary@amherstrail.org.

» Learn more.


ACE: Holiday Artisan Craft Fair

NOVEMBER 13-23: Arts Center East's popular Annual Holiday Artisan Craft Fair returns to showcase local and regional artisans and celebrate the season.

Browse and shop for unique items from over 60 artisans. Merchandise includes soaps, lotions, candles, jewelry, stationary, ceramics, wood crafts, textiles, home décor, and unique gift items. Find the perfect gift for anyone on your list including yourself.

Check website for times. ACE is located at 709 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon.

» Learn more.


RPL: Noah Webster & Partisan Politics

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 6 P.M.: Join the Rockville Public Library for a talk by CRAIG HOTCHIKISS on Noah Webster House on "Noah Webster & the Rise of Partisan Politics in a Divided America."

Join us with CRAIG HOTCHKISS of Noah Webster House for this lecture. This presentation will delve into the later life and career of Noah Webster as essential to the founding of the American Republic and will examine how Webster serviced the country and governed the nation under the provisions of the new U.S. Constitution. From George Washington's inauguration in 1789, to 1797 when President John Adams assumes office, to the end of his life in 1843.

Mr. Hotchkiss taught United States History at South Windsor High School for 33 years and served as the History Department Chair for nearly a decade. Upon retirement, He served as the Education Manager at The Mark Twain House & Museum.

Registration is required. The program will be held at the Rockville Public Library, 52 Union Street in Rockville.

» Learn more.


VHS: Holiday Craft Fair

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29 & 30: The Vernon Historical Society's annual Holiday Craft Fair and Sale is set for Thanksgiving weekend.

In addition to the work of local crafters, the Craft Fair offers the popular 'Nearly New' tables covered with treasures and holiday items at reasonable prices. Any donations are appreciated and the proceeds from the sale go to support the work of the Society.

Our Holiday Craft Fair hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The Vernon Historical Society is located at 734 Hartford Turnpike in Vernon.

» Learn more.


MLCT: Risley Park Hike

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 11 A.M.: As part of CT Trails Day the Manchester Land Conservation Trust will lead a 2.5-mile hike at Risley Park; the Trust's largest parcel of protected land, spanning 155.3 acres in Vernon and Bolton, and hosts a section of the Shenipsit Trail, part of the Blue Trail system of the Connecticut Forest and Park Association. The property includes several trails, a former apple orchard, farmland, pond, dam, and meadow.

Park at the lot on Lake Street, Vernon, across from Amy Drive -- GPS 366 Lake Street.

The hike will be led by SUSAN BARLOW. For Questions contact Susan at (860) 643-9776 or sbarlow627@aol.com.

» Learn more.


TVC: Peace On Earth Concert

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 7:30 P.M.: The Vernon Chorale invites you to join them for "Peace on Earth," a heart-warming concert celebrating the beauty of winter, the joy of the holidays, and an inspiring message of peace. The program will feature a variety of choral works including Frank Martin's beloved Mass for Double Choir.

This concert will be held at First Congregational Church of Vernon UCC, 695 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon. The cost is $20 for adults and $15 for seniors and students.

Tickets can be purchased online, at Arts Center East, 709 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon, CT, or at the door.

» Learn more or purchase tickets.


ACE: Holiday Music For Guitar & Mandolin

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 3 P.M.: Arts Center East (ACE) presents Holiday Music for Guitar & Mandolin. Enchanting instrumental renditions of traditional and contemporary holiday music. A variety of lively tunes and lyrical melodies with an international flavor.

Vernon residents, JUDY HANDLER & MARK lEVESQUE play their own arrangements of beautiful, inspiring holiday music from many cultures. Audiences will have a chance to join in with some singalongs and rhythm instruments.

Judy & Mark offer a compelling exploration about the origins of holiday music from the U.S., England, Ireland, Wales, Austria, Spain, Ukraine and songs of Hanukkah.

Cost: $25 pre-order/$30 at the door. ACE is located at 709 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon.

» Learn more.


Also In December

  • December 5 - Winterfest At Central Park at 6 p.m.
  • December 6 - Arctic Splash At Valley Falls at 1 p.m.
  • December 20 - Friends of Rockville Library's Cookie Sale

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