First called Eagle Flats because of eagles nesting nearby.  Post Office changed name to Vernon for George Washington's home, Mount Vernon.  Seat of Wilbarger County, headquarters of huge W.T. Waggoner Ranch, and commercial center for rich farming, ranching, and oil business.  About 15 miles north is Doan's Crossing, one of the most famous of historic cattle crossings on the Red River.  Industries include agriculture supplies and processing, seed breeding, textiles, meat packing, cottonseed, and alfalfa milling. 
Home of Vernon College.

Red River Valley Museum -

Exhibits include William A. Bond big game hunter collection, archeological exhibit, Indian artifacts, Waggoner Ranch history exhibit, including work of sculptor Electra Waggoner Biggs.  Currently compiling history of Waggoner Ranch dealing with the history of ranching, farming and the oil industry in Wilbarger County.  Also of special interest is Jack Teagarden exhibit containing memorabilia of great jazz trombonist who was born and reared in Vernon.

Open Tuesday - Sunday, 1 - 5 p.m.  4400College Drive.