Clean up underway at Historic Mill Site destroyed by fire in Vernon

VERNON, Conn. (WTNH) — Demolition crews started clearing debris from the remnants of a 130-year-old mill located at 114 Brooklyn Street in Vernon.

The mill, which stood as a historic landmark, was destroyed by a fire on December 12, 2022. Despite thorough investigations into the cause of the fire, authorities were unable to pinpoint a cause.

Following the fire, Vernon’s land use officials promptly notified the property owner, JFC3 Investments LLC of Meriden, about the need to clear the debris and reopen the adjoining sidewalk.

“It is a property owner’s responsibility to ensure compliance with town ordinances and codes,” Mayor Dan Champagne said. “I am glad to finally see progress at 114 Brooklyn Street.”

In December, a citation was issued formally notifying JFC3 Investments LLC that the structure was deemed unsafe. Daily fines were imposed as a consequence. Last week, a contractor hired by the property owner arrived on-site and initiated the process of clearing the debris.

Given the building’s close proximity to the Hockanum River, certain aspects of the cleanup will require manual labor. Despite complaints from residents regarding the prolonged closure of the adjacent sidewalk, town officials remained steadfast in their pursuit of enforcing compliance.

The building holds significant historical value as part of the Rockville Historic District. Over its long history, it housed various businesses, including textile and printing companies, a baseball manufacturing firm, and a furniture retailer.

The property changed hands multiple times before being acquired by JFC3 Investments LLC in December 2022.

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