Famous People
Jessamyn West-Famous author of over 20 books. One of her most famous works was Friendly Persuasion, in which a movie of her book was released in 1956. The movie and book centered on Vernon's part in General John Hunt Morgan's raid. She also wrote short stories and poems.
Hannah Milhous Nixon-The mother of Richard Nixon, America's 37th president. She was born in Bigger Township in 1885, and moved to California with her parents in 1897. She was a cousin to Jessamyn West.
Indy 500 Drivers-Three Indianapolis 500 drivers are buried in the Vernon Cemetery.
Wilbur Shaw-the first three time winner of the Indy 500
Pat O'Connor-the only man killed in the only single-file start ever attempted at the Indy 500 in 1956.
Jim Hemmings-qualified for the 500 race, but was killed in a crash in a grand prix in the month of May
without ever driving in the Indy 500 itself.
Edgar Whitcomb-Governor of Indiana for 8 years. Whitcomb was inaugurated on January 13, 1969. He was born in Hayden and was the author of a book of his experiences in WWII entitled Escape From the Corregidor.
Powell Crosley-Manufacturer of cars and refrigerators and former owner of the Cincinnati Reds. He owned the property that is now Crosley Fish & Wildlife Area.
Professional Baseball Players
T.C. Steele- A noted American impressionist artist in the early 20th century. He spent five summers in Vernon between 1886 and 1894 and painted one of his most famous works here, "On the Muscatatuck"
Skyline Bill- George Willman was a native of Jennings County who was reared in the West. He was a stagecoach driver near Skyline, Montana. He was an animal trainer and showman who came back to Vernon and set up his "Wigwam Hollow" museum. He is buried in a grave on the Crosley Fish & Wildlife Area.
Ovid Butler-Founder of Butler University
Tony Ferrell- Professional Monster Truck Driver. Has driven Wild Thang, and currently drives Blue Thunder.