KARINA BLISS WINS THE 2024 CHATHAM HISTORICAL SOCIETY SCHOLARSHIP
The Chatham Historical Society 2024 Margaret Keisler scholarship was awarded to Karina Bliss. The $1500 scholarship, presented at the commencement exercises of Chatham High School, is named in memory of “Peg” Keisler, a lifelong resident of Chatham who was the Borough’s historian and dedicated educator. It is through the generosity of members and friends that make this scholarship possible.
Chatham is made up of unique individuals, each with a distinctive story to tell. As part of the scholarship process, students were asked to share their own stories. The Historical Society received 15 essays all with a different focus. In her essay Karina reflects how her own family, originally from India, found Chatham, settled in, and grew their roots here. Her family has lived in the same house for 50 years. She points out that even though her family has “little in common with Chatham’s settlers, rose farmers, and the Lenape tribe,” originating “from an entirely different part of the world,” they built their roots here. Her family of three generations have witnessed how the town has continued to grow and change, welcoming more immigrants and becoming a more diverse community. As a student, Karina took AP US History, AP World History, and her favorite - AP Art History. Last semester, she also took French Film, which ended up being one of her favorite "accidental" history courses, as each movie identified a different aspect of French history and culture. Over the last two years she worked on her AP portfolio on world architecture and finished her high school art career by painting the senior mural and as a National Art Honors Society Member. This fall, she begins pursuing a dual degree in French and Linguistics at the University of Edinburgh. Studying Art History led to her appreciate the charm of Edinburgh, its old town, and architecture. “Edinburgh's Scottish master's program also allows me to specialize in my degree, and begin researching my preferred branch of Linguistics, which is Historical Linguistics,” she stated. Read Karina's essay here. by Marianne Ivers |
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THOMAS NONNENMACHER AWARDED THE CHATHAM HISTORICAL SOCIETY SCHOLARSHIP 2023
The recipient of the Chatham Historical Society 2023 Margaret Keisler scholarship is Thomas Nonnenmacher. The $1500 scholarship, awarded at the commencement exercises of Chatham High School, is named in memory of “Peg” Keisler, a lifelong resident of Chatham who was the Borough’s historian and dedicated educator. It is through the generosity of members and friends that this scholarship is possible.
Chatham is made up of unique individuals, each with a distinctive story to tell. As part of the scholarship process, students were asked to share their own stories. The Historical Society received approximately 25 essays all with a different focus. In his essay titled “Chatham: My Town by the River” Thomas fondly recalls his elementary school years, when the neighborhood children gathered in his front yard to wait for the school bus to take them to Southern Boulevard School. During those “playground” times the kids at the bus stop bonded and made friends.Thomas has two older brothers, one of which he described as “the coolest kid” on the front lawn playground in his essay.
Thomas is excited to begin his acting studies at Pace University in New York City this fall. Theater and performing arts were “a very big part” of his life over the past few years. Recently, he played Lumiere in the Chatham High School production of Beauty and the Beast. He has previously held many other roles in the high school performing arts productions.
The Chatham Historical Society wishes Thomas much success in his future endeavors. Thomas’s essay can be read here.
Chatham is made up of unique individuals, each with a distinctive story to tell. As part of the scholarship process, students were asked to share their own stories. The Historical Society received approximately 25 essays all with a different focus. In his essay titled “Chatham: My Town by the River” Thomas fondly recalls his elementary school years, when the neighborhood children gathered in his front yard to wait for the school bus to take them to Southern Boulevard School. During those “playground” times the kids at the bus stop bonded and made friends.Thomas has two older brothers, one of which he described as “the coolest kid” on the front lawn playground in his essay.
Thomas is excited to begin his acting studies at Pace University in New York City this fall. Theater and performing arts were “a very big part” of his life over the past few years. Recently, he played Lumiere in the Chatham High School production of Beauty and the Beast. He has previously held many other roles in the high school performing arts productions.
The Chatham Historical Society wishes Thomas much success in his future endeavors. Thomas’s essay can be read here.
by Marianne Ivers
Congratulations to our
2022 Chatham High School Scholarship winner!
2022 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER:
MARIANNA ZINGONE
The recipient of the Chatham Historical Society 2022 Margaret Keisler scholarship is Marianna Zingone. The $1500 scholarship, awarded at the commencement exercises of Chatham High School, is named in memory of “Peg” Keisler, a lifelong resident of Chatham who was the Borough’s historian and dedicated educator. It is through the generosity of members and friends that this scholarship is possible.
Our town is made up of unique individuals, each with a distinctive story to tell. As part of the scholarship application process, students were asked to share their own stories. The Historical Society received 9 essays all with a different focus. Marianna’s is based on what it was like growing up in Chatham with a very special friend.
Marianna lives with her mom, dad and brother, Joseph, on Edgewood Road. She has a love of history – especially art history and archaeology - which she hopes to explore at Bowdoin College in Maine. She also is a talented artist and received the Silver Key Award in Fashion her senior year in the 2022 Regional Scholastic Art Awards. With so many interests, Marianna said she is very excited to see what her future holds.
We wish Marianna a happy life with much success in whatever path she follows.
Click here to read Marianna's winning essay
MARIANNA ZINGONE
The recipient of the Chatham Historical Society 2022 Margaret Keisler scholarship is Marianna Zingone. The $1500 scholarship, awarded at the commencement exercises of Chatham High School, is named in memory of “Peg” Keisler, a lifelong resident of Chatham who was the Borough’s historian and dedicated educator. It is through the generosity of members and friends that this scholarship is possible.
Our town is made up of unique individuals, each with a distinctive story to tell. As part of the scholarship application process, students were asked to share their own stories. The Historical Society received 9 essays all with a different focus. Marianna’s is based on what it was like growing up in Chatham with a very special friend.
Marianna lives with her mom, dad and brother, Joseph, on Edgewood Road. She has a love of history – especially art history and archaeology - which she hopes to explore at Bowdoin College in Maine. She also is a talented artist and received the Silver Key Award in Fashion her senior year in the 2022 Regional Scholastic Art Awards. With so many interests, Marianna said she is very excited to see what her future holds.
We wish Marianna a happy life with much success in whatever path she follows.
Click here to read Marianna's winning essay
Congratulations to our
2021 Chatham High School Scholarship winner!
2021 Chatham High School Scholarship winner!
2021 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER: KAITLIN OSUCHA
Kaitlin Osucha is the 2021 recipient of the Chatham Historical Society Margaret Keisler Scholarship awarded at Chatham High School commencement exercises held at Cougar Field on June 17. The $1500 scholarship is named in memory of “Peg” Keisler, a lifelong resident of Chatham who was the Borough’s historian and a dedicated educator. The generosity of members and friends make this scholarship possible.
Our town is made up of unique individuals each with a distinctive story to tell. As part of the scholarship process, students were asked to share their own stories. The Historical Society received 26 varied essays. Kaitlin’s is based on her initial project to achieve the Girl Scouts’ highest goal, the Gold Award but the undertaking took an unexpected turn. She incorporated her passion for history and love of Chatham into a significant learning experience. Her engaging essay is included at the end of this article.
Kaitlin lives on Yale Street with her mother, father and twin brother, Zachary. They both will be attending Washington College in Maryland. Between Kaitlin’s love of history and strong interest in psychology, the choice of a major will not be an easy one. We wish Kaitlin much success in college and beyond and hope she will keep Chatham in her thoughts.
“I think it’s important to focus on your town and not let the history disappear.”(Kaitlin Osucha)
We should all help to make that happen!
Click here to read Kaitlin's winning essay
Chatham Shade Tree Commission Honors the Memory of Ken Chmura with the Planting of a Dawn Redwood at Garden Park
Chatham's personality is built on by the wealth of its yolunteers. Ken Chmura was a great man - committed to his faith, his family and his community. When Ken passed in April of 2020, Chatham Borough lost a champion of our community. Ken Chmura was always at the ready when called upon. He was a truly treasured member of our Historical Society, assisting with moving, parade float building and promoting our Historical Society to others at Fishawack Festivals, Farmers Markets and even a cemetery field trip for Lafayette School students. Ken lent his time and energy to Chatham Borough in many ways. He was a member of the Shade Tree Commission and he directed the broadcasts for the Chatham Borough Council Meetings.
On Sunday, May 1, 2022, a tree was planted in Ken's memory at Garden Park, near the Chatham Middle School. The planting of "Ken's Tree," a Dawn Redwood, was attended by family and friends, as well as Mayor Kobylarz, members of the Borough Council, and Colleen Truppo from the Shade Tree Commission, who shared memories of Ken.
Thank you Ken for the imprint you left behind!
We miss your willingness to help, sense of humor, your compassion and love of your family, Susan, Jenny, and Kristy.
Chatham's personality is built on by the wealth of its yolunteers. Ken Chmura was a great man - committed to his faith, his family and his community. When Ken passed in April of 2020, Chatham Borough lost a champion of our community. Ken Chmura was always at the ready when called upon. He was a truly treasured member of our Historical Society, assisting with moving, parade float building and promoting our Historical Society to others at Fishawack Festivals, Farmers Markets and even a cemetery field trip for Lafayette School students. Ken lent his time and energy to Chatham Borough in many ways. He was a member of the Shade Tree Commission and he directed the broadcasts for the Chatham Borough Council Meetings.
On Sunday, May 1, 2022, a tree was planted in Ken's memory at Garden Park, near the Chatham Middle School. The planting of "Ken's Tree," a Dawn Redwood, was attended by family and friends, as well as Mayor Kobylarz, members of the Borough Council, and Colleen Truppo from the Shade Tree Commission, who shared memories of Ken.
Thank you Ken for the imprint you left behind!
We miss your willingness to help, sense of humor, your compassion and love of your family, Susan, Jenny, and Kristy.
Check out this children's book, authored by Emery Westfall!
Emery was a treasured member of our Historical Society, who played an active and valuable role in preserving Chatham's history
An Animal Alphabet
A children’s Book by Emery Westfall, Trustee Emeritus of the Chatham Library and the Chatham Historical Society
Did you know that an octopus has 3 hearts? How about that an elephant has 40,000 muscles in its trunk; or, that a herd of black rhinoceros is called a "crash"? Those little-known facts, plus others, are in "An Animal Alphabet." Parents and children will love this researched, sometimes word-bending book! This book is a significant cross-over departure from the usual ABC approach. Although the concept of the book is simple, it shares fun facts and knowledge that most readers don't know. Get ready to learn and smile, laugh-out-loud... or both.
About the Author:
Emery Westfall was born in Ohio and spent most of his adult life in Chatham New Jersey and New York City. He spent his business career in Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations and Special Events for both AT&T and NYNEX (now Verizon). In his personal life, he was a 20-year fundraiser for The United States Olympic Committee. As part of that involvement, he ran the Olympic torch. His other volunteer activities included serving as a Trustee of the Chatham Library and the Chatham Historical Society.
About the Illustrator:
Mary Ann Kitchell is a New Jersey native (born in lrvington, grew up in Summit) now living in Berkeley Heights. Her work includes house portraits, pet portraits, wildlife studies, and children's wall art. She has been painting more than 35 years and enjoys the challenge and satisfaction of creating art that makes people happy.
For Media Inquiries: Please contact Carole Bellidora Westfall
Phone 646-370-4004 email [email protected]
https://AnAnimalAlphabet.com. Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart and BookBaby
A children’s Book by Emery Westfall, Trustee Emeritus of the Chatham Library and the Chatham Historical Society
Did you know that an octopus has 3 hearts? How about that an elephant has 40,000 muscles in its trunk; or, that a herd of black rhinoceros is called a "crash"? Those little-known facts, plus others, are in "An Animal Alphabet." Parents and children will love this researched, sometimes word-bending book! This book is a significant cross-over departure from the usual ABC approach. Although the concept of the book is simple, it shares fun facts and knowledge that most readers don't know. Get ready to learn and smile, laugh-out-loud... or both.
About the Author:
Emery Westfall was born in Ohio and spent most of his adult life in Chatham New Jersey and New York City. He spent his business career in Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations and Special Events for both AT&T and NYNEX (now Verizon). In his personal life, he was a 20-year fundraiser for The United States Olympic Committee. As part of that involvement, he ran the Olympic torch. His other volunteer activities included serving as a Trustee of the Chatham Library and the Chatham Historical Society.
About the Illustrator:
Mary Ann Kitchell is a New Jersey native (born in lrvington, grew up in Summit) now living in Berkeley Heights. Her work includes house portraits, pet portraits, wildlife studies, and children's wall art. She has been painting more than 35 years and enjoys the challenge and satisfaction of creating art that makes people happy.
For Media Inquiries: Please contact Carole Bellidora Westfall
Phone 646-370-4004 email [email protected]
https://AnAnimalAlphabet.com. Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart and BookBaby
AMERICAN RIVER
A New Feature Documentary by Chatham's own Scott Morris
World Premiere
Montclair Film Festival
Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 8:00pm and Sunday, October 24, 2021 at 2:00 pm
A New Feature Documentary by Chatham's own Scott Morris
World Premiere
Montclair Film Festival
Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 8:00pm and Sunday, October 24, 2021 at 2:00 pm
VISIT THE WEBSITE | WATCH THE TRAILER
ABOUT THE FILM
The journey will change you...
AMERICAN RIVER is a cinematic adventure about a 4-day, 80-mile kayak journey down one of the most beautiful and neglected rivers in the nation: New Jersey's Passaic River. The central character is Mary Bruno, who spent her childhood afraid of the polluted stretch of the Passaic near her home. Decades later, she returns to explore the river of her youth and tell its story.
AMERICAN RIVER follows Ms. Bruno and River Guide Carl Alderson as they kayak from the Passaic's pristine headwaters to its toxic mouth in Newark Bay. Along the way, candid conversations with residents, experts and advocates reveal the river's extraordinary history, geology and ecology: How did this powerful and once-celebrated river become one of the most contaminated in the nation? Can it be saved?
Three years in the making, the 86-minute documentary was directed by seasoned filmmaker Scott Morris and based on Mary Bruno's 2012 book, An American River; From Paradise to Superfund. The filmmaking team includes Producer Kelly Sheehan, Director of Photography Roger Grange, Consulting Editor Keith Reamer, Composer Ben Morris and Executive Producer S. Dillard Kirby.
Visit americanriver.film for detailed info about the film, cast and crew, press materials and screenings.
For tickets and additional information visit montclairfilm.org
VISIT THE WEBSITE | WATCH THE TRAILER
ABOUT THE FILM
The journey will change you...
AMERICAN RIVER is a cinematic adventure about a 4-day, 80-mile kayak journey down one of the most beautiful and neglected rivers in the nation: New Jersey's Passaic River. The central character is Mary Bruno, who spent her childhood afraid of the polluted stretch of the Passaic near her home. Decades later, she returns to explore the river of her youth and tell its story.
AMERICAN RIVER follows Ms. Bruno and River Guide Carl Alderson as they kayak from the Passaic's pristine headwaters to its toxic mouth in Newark Bay. Along the way, candid conversations with residents, experts and advocates reveal the river's extraordinary history, geology and ecology: How did this powerful and once-celebrated river become one of the most contaminated in the nation? Can it be saved?
Three years in the making, the 86-minute documentary was directed by seasoned filmmaker Scott Morris and based on Mary Bruno's 2012 book, An American River; From Paradise to Superfund. The filmmaking team includes Producer Kelly Sheehan, Director of Photography Roger Grange, Consulting Editor Keith Reamer, Composer Ben Morris and Executive Producer S. Dillard Kirby.
Visit americanriver.film for detailed info about the film, cast and crew, press materials and screenings.
For tickets and additional information visit montclairfilm.org
CHECK OUT THIS INTERESTING INTERVIEW WITH OUR OWN LIZ HOLLER
www.tapinto.net/towns/chatham/categories/press-releases/articles/weichert-realtors-john-tunny-and-mary-weichert-sit-down-with-chatham-historian-liz-holler
Many thanks to Mary Weichert and John Tunny for sharing a bit of Chatham’s past with the TapInto readers!
www.tapinto.net/towns/chatham/categories/press-releases/articles/weichert-realtors-john-tunny-and-mary-weichert-sit-down-with-chatham-historian-liz-holler
Many thanks to Mary Weichert and John Tunny for sharing a bit of Chatham’s past with the TapInto readers!
GETTING TO KNOW JIMMY LITTLEJOHN THROUGH DECADES OF DIARIES
Debbie Fabian first found out about the Littlejohn Diaries at a Chatham Historical Society event several years ago. Now she has spent six years reading and transcribing the diary collection written by James Robert Littlejohn spanning from 1887 to 1942. “I think I know him better than some of my relatives,” Debbie said about the eccentric, but active man.
In this diaries Littlejohn depicted his daily life as a rose grower in Chatham, his interactions with local residents and establishments, as well as his activities beyond his business. “This is a very dear town to live in,” he wrote in his diary on Aug. 9, 1936. Although Littlejohn showed little emotions throughout his daily journal entries Debbie noticed an occasional sense of frustration of what was happening in the world. “Times are getting worse all the time,” he wrote in 1939 as many of his fellow residents were unable to find work.
Littlejohn followed in his father’s footsteps as a rose grower. He purchased a property on South Passaic Avenue and build six greenhouses. He built a small hut adjacent to the greenhouses. The hut had no water or electricity, but Littlejohn lived in it until he sold the property in late 1930’s. Littlejohn would cultivate his roses and ship the “buds” - as he called them - to New York City on the train. He kept meticulous calculations of his modest earnings each year at the end of the diaries.
In his diaries Littlejohn describes meeting fellow Chatham residents at parks or restaurants. He was one of the librarians of the Village Library as well as a writer and editor for the Chatham edition of Herald. He was also a cartographer who drew maps of different towns. He was an avid reader who enjoyed plays and movies in the Newark and Madison theaters. He also enjoyed baseball games between Madison and Chatham.
When he wasn’t tending his flowers, Littlejohn enjoyed riding his bike, which he always referred to as the “wheel”. Sometimes his road trips took days to complete. He was one of the founding members of the Chatham Wheelmen, a bicycle club for young men. “Went to Center Moriches on Long Island on wheel got there about 6 oclock It was good riding,” he wrote on August 5, 1896 with his typical short sentences void of punctuation.
The outdoorsy man also kept records of the weather and temperature each day. He marked the moon cycles and sometimes used colored pencils to make a point with pictures. He recorded the Feb. 17, 1902 blizzard which resulted in a “good sleighing” opportunity for Chatham residents. The spring must have come early that same year, since Littlejohn recorded “frogs and lizards singing” on March 16. “He was very much in tune with nature noticing when the birds would start singing in the spring and would announce when the different flowers would start growing,” Debbie explained.
In his later years Debbie detected a changed man as his business dwindled. “Rose business is dead,” he wrote and lamented the cost of labor at 30-40 cents per hour. Eventually Littlejohn sold the property housing the greenhouses, but did not stop working. He worked for other local gardeners and continued to look for work at age 83. Littlejohn passed away at the age of 90 on April 23, 1943.
The Littlejohn diary series consist of 48 diaries with some missing years. Now in the possession of the Chatham Historical Society they are preserved individually in an archival paper wrap. “They are certainly a treasure for Chatham to have such a comprehensive look at one person's life,” Debbie said.
Debbie Fabian first found out about the Littlejohn Diaries at a Chatham Historical Society event several years ago. Now she has spent six years reading and transcribing the diary collection written by James Robert Littlejohn spanning from 1887 to 1942. “I think I know him better than some of my relatives,” Debbie said about the eccentric, but active man.
In this diaries Littlejohn depicted his daily life as a rose grower in Chatham, his interactions with local residents and establishments, as well as his activities beyond his business. “This is a very dear town to live in,” he wrote in his diary on Aug. 9, 1936. Although Littlejohn showed little emotions throughout his daily journal entries Debbie noticed an occasional sense of frustration of what was happening in the world. “Times are getting worse all the time,” he wrote in 1939 as many of his fellow residents were unable to find work.
Littlejohn followed in his father’s footsteps as a rose grower. He purchased a property on South Passaic Avenue and build six greenhouses. He built a small hut adjacent to the greenhouses. The hut had no water or electricity, but Littlejohn lived in it until he sold the property in late 1930’s. Littlejohn would cultivate his roses and ship the “buds” - as he called them - to New York City on the train. He kept meticulous calculations of his modest earnings each year at the end of the diaries.
In his diaries Littlejohn describes meeting fellow Chatham residents at parks or restaurants. He was one of the librarians of the Village Library as well as a writer and editor for the Chatham edition of Herald. He was also a cartographer who drew maps of different towns. He was an avid reader who enjoyed plays and movies in the Newark and Madison theaters. He also enjoyed baseball games between Madison and Chatham.
When he wasn’t tending his flowers, Littlejohn enjoyed riding his bike, which he always referred to as the “wheel”. Sometimes his road trips took days to complete. He was one of the founding members of the Chatham Wheelmen, a bicycle club for young men. “Went to Center Moriches on Long Island on wheel got there about 6 oclock It was good riding,” he wrote on August 5, 1896 with his typical short sentences void of punctuation.
The outdoorsy man also kept records of the weather and temperature each day. He marked the moon cycles and sometimes used colored pencils to make a point with pictures. He recorded the Feb. 17, 1902 blizzard which resulted in a “good sleighing” opportunity for Chatham residents. The spring must have come early that same year, since Littlejohn recorded “frogs and lizards singing” on March 16. “He was very much in tune with nature noticing when the birds would start singing in the spring and would announce when the different flowers would start growing,” Debbie explained.
In his later years Debbie detected a changed man as his business dwindled. “Rose business is dead,” he wrote and lamented the cost of labor at 30-40 cents per hour. Eventually Littlejohn sold the property housing the greenhouses, but did not stop working. He worked for other local gardeners and continued to look for work at age 83. Littlejohn passed away at the age of 90 on April 23, 1943.
The Littlejohn diary series consist of 48 diaries with some missing years. Now in the possession of the Chatham Historical Society they are preserved individually in an archival paper wrap. “They are certainly a treasure for Chatham to have such a comprehensive look at one person's life,” Debbie said.
ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY - 2019
Bruce and Kristin Torkelson graciously opened-up their home for our annual holiday party in December. The perfect start to the holiday season, members enjoyed festive food and libations at the Torkelson’s beautifully restored Tudor Revival home. Completed in 1908, this home was designed in the Tudor Revival style of architecture. Popular in America from about 1880 to 1940, this style was loosely based on architecture developed in England under the reign of the Tudors (1485-1558).
Many elements of this tradition are showcased here: a brick first story with decorative half-timbering above; tall, multi-paned casement windows grouped in threes; a massive chimney; and a pitched slate roof.
Recently renovated, this Fairmount Avenue home has white painted half-timbers for a more contemporary look. Aside for the paint palette, the rest of the home remains true to the original design. We love to see so many historical borough homes maintained and restored for future generations to enjoy.
Bruce and Kristin Torkelson graciously opened-up their home for our annual holiday party in December. The perfect start to the holiday season, members enjoyed festive food and libations at the Torkelson’s beautifully restored Tudor Revival home. Completed in 1908, this home was designed in the Tudor Revival style of architecture. Popular in America from about 1880 to 1940, this style was loosely based on architecture developed in England under the reign of the Tudors (1485-1558).
Many elements of this tradition are showcased here: a brick first story with decorative half-timbering above; tall, multi-paned casement windows grouped in threes; a massive chimney; and a pitched slate roof.
Recently renovated, this Fairmount Avenue home has white painted half-timbers for a more contemporary look. Aside for the paint palette, the rest of the home remains true to the original design. We love to see so many historical borough homes maintained and restored for future generations to enjoy.
SOME HISTORY, MOSTLY HOPS The Chatham Historical Society’s 4th Annual History & Hops event held on Friday, October 25, 2019 turned out to be a delightful evening with over 160 attendees. The focus of the evening was to celebrate Chatham’s Main Street and its past and present business establishments which all help to maintain the health and vibrancy of the downtown area.
Along with vintage Chatham photos and historic information about Main Street, delicious food, wine and, of course, beer, both imported and local, including beer from Chatham’s Twin Elephant Brewing Company, were served. Live entertainment was provided by “Unplugged,” – the band of Chatham’s own Mike McLaughlin, Sal Arnuk, and Chris Tomaino.
The Historical Society would like to thank all the people who attended our History & Hops event. There were old friends and new, council members and Main Street proprietors. The theme was historic Main Street. A number of Main Street business contributed door prizes which helped to make the event extra special. Among the Chatham businesses that contributed to the successful soiree were Chatham Bagel, Sorriso, Purple Aadvark, Village Paint and Hardware, as well as 233 Main and Catering.
It was a fun evening and we look forward to seeing everyone at the 5th Annual History & Hops next year and encourage everyone to shop locally.
Along with vintage Chatham photos and historic information about Main Street, delicious food, wine and, of course, beer, both imported and local, including beer from Chatham’s Twin Elephant Brewing Company, were served. Live entertainment was provided by “Unplugged,” – the band of Chatham’s own Mike McLaughlin, Sal Arnuk, and Chris Tomaino.
The Historical Society would like to thank all the people who attended our History & Hops event. There were old friends and new, council members and Main Street proprietors. The theme was historic Main Street. A number of Main Street business contributed door prizes which helped to make the event extra special. Among the Chatham businesses that contributed to the successful soiree were Chatham Bagel, Sorriso, Purple Aadvark, Village Paint and Hardware, as well as 233 Main and Catering.
It was a fun evening and we look forward to seeing everyone at the 5th Annual History & Hops next year and encourage everyone to shop locally.
2019 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER The 2019 Chatham Historical Society Margaret Keisler Scholarship was awarded to Jane Bissett at the commencement exercises of Chatham High School held on June 20, 2019 at Mennen Arena in Morristown.
This $1500 scholarship is named in memory of the dedicated educator, town historian and lifelong resident, Peg Keisler. It is made possible through the generosity of members and friends of the Society.
The history of our town is made up of individual and distinctive stories. Students are asked to share their stories about growing up in Chatham. This year 22 essays were submitted. The first paragraph of Jane’s essay is a unique spin on one of the most treasured memories of living in Chatham. Enjoy reading it at the end of this article.
Jane lives on Parrott Mill Road with her parents and a college age brother. She will attend Penn State University where she plans to major in elementary education. Her experience as an assistant at Washington Avenue School’s after school enrichment program helped her realize that she would like to become a teacher. We congratulate Jane and wish her continued success in reaching her goal. Click here to read the essay.
This $1500 scholarship is named in memory of the dedicated educator, town historian and lifelong resident, Peg Keisler. It is made possible through the generosity of members and friends of the Society.
The history of our town is made up of individual and distinctive stories. Students are asked to share their stories about growing up in Chatham. This year 22 essays were submitted. The first paragraph of Jane’s essay is a unique spin on one of the most treasured memories of living in Chatham. Enjoy reading it at the end of this article.
Jane lives on Parrott Mill Road with her parents and a college age brother. She will attend Penn State University where she plans to major in elementary education. Her experience as an assistant at Washington Avenue School’s after school enrichment program helped her realize that she would like to become a teacher. We congratulate Jane and wish her continued success in reaching her goal. Click here to read the essay.
WOMEN VOTERS CELEBRATED The Chatham Historical Society has sponsored events at the annual Fishawack Festival since 2014. This year, on June 8, a long-time volunteer for the Chatham Historical Society, Jackie Pindak, provided a presentation on women voters in New Jersey and in Chatham.
“This year marks the anniversary of an important event in history. One hundred years ago in 1919 Congress passed the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote,” Pindak said. “It wasn’t an easy battle to win,” she added.
Pindak explained that in New Jersey women had the right to vote as early as 1776. The first constitution of New Jersey gave all inhabitants in the colony who were of full age, who owned 50 pounds and who had resided in the country for 12 months the right to vote. However, only single women could vote because married women could not own property and therefore did not have 50 pounds. In 1807, however, the law was changed allowing only taxpaying white males to vote. The law stayed that way for 113 years until 1919 when the 19th Amendment was passed and ratified the following year.
In the 1920 elections, when women could first vote, 1400 Chathamites registered, 700 more than the in the previous election. “We can only assume that most of those 700 were women,” Pindak said.
“The first woman to be elected in the office in New Jersey was Mary Teresa Norton. She served in the House of Representatives for 26 years, from 1925 to 1951. She was a Democrat from Jersey City who fought for the working class.” This year a record number of women are serving in the House of Representatives, 102 out of 435. That is almost 25 percent of all voting members of the House of Representatives. One of them is our own Representative - Mickey Sherrill. However, only five percent of senators are women. “Exciting news, but it has taken 100 years for this to happen,” Pindak stated.
In Chatham it took 50 years before a woman was elected to the Borough Council. In 1969 Liana Brown became the first woman council member. Three years later, in 1972, she became the first woman in New Jersey to win a seat on the State Assembly. In 1983 she was the first woman to be elected a State Senator. Chathamites had to wait for another 15 years before a woman mayor was elected. Jackie Marvin had been a council member and in 1984 became a mayor, Pindak said.
“Today, after 100 years the Borough Council is evenly divided – three male and three female council members plus a mayor. The 2018 elections, both locally and nationally, was a call to women to get out and vote, and it worked. The most women ever are now serving in Congress and in our Borough Council. The right to vote must never be taken for granted, whether you are a male or a female. It is the essence of our liberty,” Pindak pointed out. “What will the next 100 years bring? Will Congress ever truly represent the diverse population of our country? Big questions! Only the candidates and you, the voters, hold the answers,” Pindak concluded.
Pindak has been involved with the Historical Society for over 35 years, serving on the board in several capacities, as well as an officer, including several years as president. Her passion for researching and sharing the history of the borough is evident in the many programs, books and walking tours she had a part in creating. She received the Chatham Borough Community Volunteer Award in 2018.
“This year marks the anniversary of an important event in history. One hundred years ago in 1919 Congress passed the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote,” Pindak said. “It wasn’t an easy battle to win,” she added.
Pindak explained that in New Jersey women had the right to vote as early as 1776. The first constitution of New Jersey gave all inhabitants in the colony who were of full age, who owned 50 pounds and who had resided in the country for 12 months the right to vote. However, only single women could vote because married women could not own property and therefore did not have 50 pounds. In 1807, however, the law was changed allowing only taxpaying white males to vote. The law stayed that way for 113 years until 1919 when the 19th Amendment was passed and ratified the following year.
In the 1920 elections, when women could first vote, 1400 Chathamites registered, 700 more than the in the previous election. “We can only assume that most of those 700 were women,” Pindak said.
“The first woman to be elected in the office in New Jersey was Mary Teresa Norton. She served in the House of Representatives for 26 years, from 1925 to 1951. She was a Democrat from Jersey City who fought for the working class.” This year a record number of women are serving in the House of Representatives, 102 out of 435. That is almost 25 percent of all voting members of the House of Representatives. One of them is our own Representative - Mickey Sherrill. However, only five percent of senators are women. “Exciting news, but it has taken 100 years for this to happen,” Pindak stated.
In Chatham it took 50 years before a woman was elected to the Borough Council. In 1969 Liana Brown became the first woman council member. Three years later, in 1972, she became the first woman in New Jersey to win a seat on the State Assembly. In 1983 she was the first woman to be elected a State Senator. Chathamites had to wait for another 15 years before a woman mayor was elected. Jackie Marvin had been a council member and in 1984 became a mayor, Pindak said.
“Today, after 100 years the Borough Council is evenly divided – three male and three female council members plus a mayor. The 2018 elections, both locally and nationally, was a call to women to get out and vote, and it worked. The most women ever are now serving in Congress and in our Borough Council. The right to vote must never be taken for granted, whether you are a male or a female. It is the essence of our liberty,” Pindak pointed out. “What will the next 100 years bring? Will Congress ever truly represent the diverse population of our country? Big questions! Only the candidates and you, the voters, hold the answers,” Pindak concluded.
Pindak has been involved with the Historical Society for over 35 years, serving on the board in several capacities, as well as an officer, including several years as president. Her passion for researching and sharing the history of the borough is evident in the many programs, books and walking tours she had a part in creating. She received the Chatham Borough Community Volunteer Award in 2018.
GROCERIES ON MAIN by Liz Holler Picture late afternoon in the 1960s, when the sidewalks of Chatham Main Street were alive with homemakers shopping for last minute items and bargains for the perfect dinner. During that decade, Chatham’s downtown had a number of smaller food stores. The Good Deal and the Acme on the western side of Main Street were going full steam. However, there were smaller, colorful markets with their own following.
Falls & Cahalan, Inc., a small butcher store, began business in July 1965 at 231 Main Street. Leo Cahalan was a quiet but very friendly and helpful storekeeper. Pictures of clipper ships adorned the walls of his store. At times, Mr. Cahalan would employ high school boys to help at the counter. “Mr. Cahalan’s meats were simply delicious, of excellent quality,” recalled former Mayor Nelson Vaughan.
Another butcher store was the Cedar Post Market at 255 Main Street. Two brothers, Herb and Al Wetter, ran the Cedar Post, which opened in 1955. This meat store had its origins in Madison, New Jersey. An actual cedar post, to hitch up the horses, had been installed near the earlier Madison butcher store. Originally focusing on retail trade, the Chatham Cedar Post Market branched into wholesale trade in the late 1960s on into the 1970s.
One early December morning in 1965, Herb Wetter and his assistant, Mike, were alone in the store, preparing for a hectic day of holiday shoppers. A silent customer entered from the store’s rear door. Glancing up, Mr. Wetter observed a tall, dark, mustached man placing a six-inch barrel revolver on the counter with an empty bag. Following the man’s instructions, Mr. Wetter emptied the contents of his cash register into the bag, totaling $1,364.06 as well as a package of cold cuts, chicken, and pork chops. He ordered Mr. Wetter and his assistant to stay in the store’s walk-in cooler for three minutes or else they would be shot. As a final blow, the intruder helped himself to a loaf of fruitcake before leaving. After waiting the allotted time in the cooler, Mr. Wetter and Mike ran out of the store and flagged down Patrolman Bill Waller. Unfortunately, the thief made a well-planned escape. The money, the meat, and the fruitcake were never recovered.
Some Chathamites remember the A&P at 275 Main Street. The A&P’s double front doors still exist. The store maintained an old country store atmosphere with worn, wooden floors, ceiling fans, and a large coffee grinder at the checkout counter. Dating from the 1920s, the A&P closed in the mid-1970s. Wearing the official A&P aprons, employees would stock the canned goods, replenish fresh produce, and stack liquor bottles. There was no telephone in the store. The phone at the store next door had to be used.
There were other fine food stores during that decade: The Food Manor Market at 434 Main Street, the Chatham Delicatessen at 253 Main Street, and The Chatham Bake Shop at 234 Main Street. All these stores are gone but not forgotten.
Falls & Cahalan, Inc., a small butcher store, began business in July 1965 at 231 Main Street. Leo Cahalan was a quiet but very friendly and helpful storekeeper. Pictures of clipper ships adorned the walls of his store. At times, Mr. Cahalan would employ high school boys to help at the counter. “Mr. Cahalan’s meats were simply delicious, of excellent quality,” recalled former Mayor Nelson Vaughan.
Another butcher store was the Cedar Post Market at 255 Main Street. Two brothers, Herb and Al Wetter, ran the Cedar Post, which opened in 1955. This meat store had its origins in Madison, New Jersey. An actual cedar post, to hitch up the horses, had been installed near the earlier Madison butcher store. Originally focusing on retail trade, the Chatham Cedar Post Market branched into wholesale trade in the late 1960s on into the 1970s.
One early December morning in 1965, Herb Wetter and his assistant, Mike, were alone in the store, preparing for a hectic day of holiday shoppers. A silent customer entered from the store’s rear door. Glancing up, Mr. Wetter observed a tall, dark, mustached man placing a six-inch barrel revolver on the counter with an empty bag. Following the man’s instructions, Mr. Wetter emptied the contents of his cash register into the bag, totaling $1,364.06 as well as a package of cold cuts, chicken, and pork chops. He ordered Mr. Wetter and his assistant to stay in the store’s walk-in cooler for three minutes or else they would be shot. As a final blow, the intruder helped himself to a loaf of fruitcake before leaving. After waiting the allotted time in the cooler, Mr. Wetter and Mike ran out of the store and flagged down Patrolman Bill Waller. Unfortunately, the thief made a well-planned escape. The money, the meat, and the fruitcake were never recovered.
Some Chathamites remember the A&P at 275 Main Street. The A&P’s double front doors still exist. The store maintained an old country store atmosphere with worn, wooden floors, ceiling fans, and a large coffee grinder at the checkout counter. Dating from the 1920s, the A&P closed in the mid-1970s. Wearing the official A&P aprons, employees would stock the canned goods, replenish fresh produce, and stack liquor bottles. There was no telephone in the store. The phone at the store next door had to be used.
There were other fine food stores during that decade: The Food Manor Market at 434 Main Street, the Chatham Delicatessen at 253 Main Street, and The Chatham Bake Shop at 234 Main Street. All these stores are gone but not forgotten.
BUMP THE BUMPS by Jessica Crandall The house that stood at 100 Fairmount Avenue, now the site of the Stanley Church School, was originally owned by town councilman Frederick Boyle, who made his mark on the early development of the town of Chatham in many ways.
Most notably, Councilman Boyle was a sponsor of the “Bump the Bumps” legislation, which provided funds for the construction of speed bumps on various local roads within the town.
The legislation was proposed in 1906, after townspeople began to complain about visitors speeding on local roads. These visitors were dubbed “scorchers,” and they drove at 30 to 40 miles an hour, despite the 10 mile an hour speed limit that was enforced on local roads. These scorchers represented a disturbance to the peace of the locals, as well as a danger to the community, which was home to many families with small children.
Councilman Boyle proposed the installment of speed bumps as a response to these local concerns, which attracted a lot of attention. The speed bumps where not the invention of Councilman Doyle, nor were they original to the town of Chatham, but when installed here they gathered unprecedented global attention.
The bumps were first installed on Main Street, and generated a great deal of buzz. Crowds gathered and New York Times reporters were on hand to witness the first trial runs. Everyone cheered and applauded as cars jumped into the air upon hitting the bumps.
After the Times article was printed, Chatham’s then mayor, Frank Kelly, received inquiries from politicians all across the United States, and even as far as England, who were curious about the installment of these new inventions.
However, the “Bump the Bumps” legislation was short lived for many reasons, not the least of which being that it slowed down the response time of emergency vehicles responding to calls. While the enactment of the legislation was brief, its effects on town history and lore are long-standing.
Chatham resident, Jessica Crandall is a senior at the University of Notre Dame studying English and film. Thank you, Jessica!
Most notably, Councilman Boyle was a sponsor of the “Bump the Bumps” legislation, which provided funds for the construction of speed bumps on various local roads within the town.
The legislation was proposed in 1906, after townspeople began to complain about visitors speeding on local roads. These visitors were dubbed “scorchers,” and they drove at 30 to 40 miles an hour, despite the 10 mile an hour speed limit that was enforced on local roads. These scorchers represented a disturbance to the peace of the locals, as well as a danger to the community, which was home to many families with small children.
Councilman Boyle proposed the installment of speed bumps as a response to these local concerns, which attracted a lot of attention. The speed bumps where not the invention of Councilman Doyle, nor were they original to the town of Chatham, but when installed here they gathered unprecedented global attention.
The bumps were first installed on Main Street, and generated a great deal of buzz. Crowds gathered and New York Times reporters were on hand to witness the first trial runs. Everyone cheered and applauded as cars jumped into the air upon hitting the bumps.
After the Times article was printed, Chatham’s then mayor, Frank Kelly, received inquiries from politicians all across the United States, and even as far as England, who were curious about the installment of these new inventions.
However, the “Bump the Bumps” legislation was short lived for many reasons, not the least of which being that it slowed down the response time of emergency vehicles responding to calls. While the enactment of the legislation was brief, its effects on town history and lore are long-standing.
Chatham resident, Jessica Crandall is a senior at the University of Notre Dame studying English and film. Thank you, Jessica!
2018 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER Mila Cloidt is the 2018 recipient of the Chatham Historical Society Margaret Keisler Scholarship.
The scholarship is named after a lifelong Chathamite who was an educator and town historian. It was presented at the Chatham High School commencement held on June 19, 2018 at Mennen Arena in Morris Township. The $1500 award is made possible by the generosity of members and friends of the Society.
To be considered for the scholarship, students are asked to write an essay in response to this prompt: Chatham: My Town by a River. The history of our town is made up of individual unique stories. Please share your own distinctive story about growing up in Chatham. Mila moved to Chatham when she was in second grade. Her story is about coming to know her grandfather, whom she never met, through interactions with people in Chatham. Joe Cloidt was a gym teacher and coach for many years and people she met would share their stories about him. As she says in her essay, “ It was through these anecdotes that made me feel closer to the grandfather who I didn’t get to meet in person but who I got to meet through stories.” Mila’s essay can be found at the end of this article. She reminds us how special it is to live in a close knit community.
Mila is an artist. She was a member of the National Art Honors Society and the Senior Mural Committee. She was a designer every year for the high school Catwalk Fashion Design competition and won her sophomore year. She received Honorable mention at the CCM Teen Arts Festival. She was also president of the Yoga Club.
Mila plans to attend the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University where she will pursue her interest in 2D art. She says that it was through working on Catwalk that she realized how much she enjoyed drawing models and garments and pattern design for fabrics. Catwalk gave her the skill set to hand paint customized jackets for friends and family fusing the graphic design along with the 3D fabric component. Once she graduates, she plans to do freelance designing or working in advertising.
We wish Mila success in her artistic endeavors and a happy journey through life.
The scholarship is named after a lifelong Chathamite who was an educator and town historian. It was presented at the Chatham High School commencement held on June 19, 2018 at Mennen Arena in Morris Township. The $1500 award is made possible by the generosity of members and friends of the Society.
To be considered for the scholarship, students are asked to write an essay in response to this prompt: Chatham: My Town by a River. The history of our town is made up of individual unique stories. Please share your own distinctive story about growing up in Chatham. Mila moved to Chatham when she was in second grade. Her story is about coming to know her grandfather, whom she never met, through interactions with people in Chatham. Joe Cloidt was a gym teacher and coach for many years and people she met would share their stories about him. As she says in her essay, “ It was through these anecdotes that made me feel closer to the grandfather who I didn’t get to meet in person but who I got to meet through stories.” Mila’s essay can be found at the end of this article. She reminds us how special it is to live in a close knit community.
Mila is an artist. She was a member of the National Art Honors Society and the Senior Mural Committee. She was a designer every year for the high school Catwalk Fashion Design competition and won her sophomore year. She received Honorable mention at the CCM Teen Arts Festival. She was also president of the Yoga Club.
Mila plans to attend the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University where she will pursue her interest in 2D art. She says that it was through working on Catwalk that she realized how much she enjoyed drawing models and garments and pattern design for fabrics. Catwalk gave her the skill set to hand paint customized jackets for friends and family fusing the graphic design along with the 3D fabric component. Once she graduates, she plans to do freelance designing or working in advertising.
We wish Mila success in her artistic endeavors and a happy journey through life.
LONG-TIME VOLUNTEER RECOGNIZED Volunteers help make a community like Chatham a special place. On Saturday, June 9, Jackie Pindak, a long-time and dedicated volunteer, received the Community Volunteer Award and Commendation from Mayor A. Bruce Harris.
The Volunteer Recognition Ceremony was held during the Fishawack Festival on the front lawn of Borough Hall. Jackie said she was “totally surprised and honored to receive the award.”
Jackie has been involved with the Historical Society for over 35 years, serving on the board in several capacities, as well as an officer, including several years as president. Her passion for researching and sharing the history of the borough is evident in the many programs, books and walking tours she had a part in creating.
Now serving as a valued trustee of the Society, she continues to have a presence in the community. She leads walking tours for school children and bus tours for seniors, as well as serving on many committees to showcase our history. Her hard work and skills have helped in preserving and documenting many events, people and places which were instrumental in developing Chatham into the community we know today.
In conjunction with the recognition ceremony, the Chatham Historical Society unveiled its newest commemorative plaque. The plaque celebrates historic Borough Hall and its original purpose as Public School #1, the first accredited high school in Chatham. Mayor Harris gave a personal reflection on the importance of education followed by Jackie’s insightful speech about the history of the building.
A special thank you to Mayor Harris, the Chatham Borough Council and all the borough officials and employees who support the goals of the Society. It is their love of Chatham and continual encouragement and enthusiasm for the Society’s projects that help make them a reality. Our partnership is invaluable.
The Volunteer Recognition Ceremony was held during the Fishawack Festival on the front lawn of Borough Hall. Jackie said she was “totally surprised and honored to receive the award.”
Jackie has been involved with the Historical Society for over 35 years, serving on the board in several capacities, as well as an officer, including several years as president. Her passion for researching and sharing the history of the borough is evident in the many programs, books and walking tours she had a part in creating.
Now serving as a valued trustee of the Society, she continues to have a presence in the community. She leads walking tours for school children and bus tours for seniors, as well as serving on many committees to showcase our history. Her hard work and skills have helped in preserving and documenting many events, people and places which were instrumental in developing Chatham into the community we know today.
In conjunction with the recognition ceremony, the Chatham Historical Society unveiled its newest commemorative plaque. The plaque celebrates historic Borough Hall and its original purpose as Public School #1, the first accredited high school in Chatham. Mayor Harris gave a personal reflection on the importance of education followed by Jackie’s insightful speech about the history of the building.
A special thank you to Mayor Harris, the Chatham Borough Council and all the borough officials and employees who support the goals of the Society. It is their love of Chatham and continual encouragement and enthusiasm for the Society’s projects that help make them a reality. Our partnership is invaluable.
CHATHAMS FIRST BOROUGH HALL by Jessica Crandall In mid-1906, the citizens of Chatham were asked to consider the local government proposal to erect a new municipal building on Fairmount Avenue in close proximity to the center of the borough. The prospect of a new municipal building came to the forefront of local government’s attention when in January of 1906, the mayor and Chatham Borough Council were asked to vacate their office space due to the expiration of their lease. The mayor and council discussed the construction of a new municipal building, which would feature a council chamber, office for the borough clerk, a suitable home for the fire department, a free public library, as well as lock up cells.
The mayor assembled a committee of five prominent Chatham residents to review the proposal, which met and, in April of 1906, decided that a sturdy brick and stone municipal building could be constructed for a sum not exceeding $11,000. Local government was then free to put forth their proposal of the new municipal building to the residents of Chatham for a vote. Voters were asked to consider the necessity of a tax increase as a result of the building’s construction, whether the building itself was a necessity, what the costs of building and maintenance of the building ought to be, and what the relative benefits of the new municipal building would be.
The borough council made many appeals to voters explaining the necessity of the new municipal building as well as the future fiscal benefits it would provide. They lamented the present condition of the volunteer fire department headquarters, which were damp and confined, and delineated the insurance and safety benefits for Chatham residents of having an up to date home for the fire department. The council also outlined the importance of having an actual office space for the borough clerk and a permanent meeting place for the borough council as well as the benefits of a free public library and jail holding cells. The proposal included detailed accounting records for the presumed cost of building and maintenance of the new municipal building, which included heating and janitorial expenses.
A special vote was held in June of 1906, the proposal passed by a nine vote margin, and the construction of a new municipal building and firehouse were approved. The committee appointed a local contractor, Thomas Joyce, who was able to complete the building in March of 1907, for a total flat rate of $10,100. The town was able to accommodate construction of the building without an increase in taxes for residents, which was considered a great legislative victory. In the initial approval of the municipal building, the proposed free public library was defeated, however the borough council held a special vote for the inclusion of the library soon after, which was then passed.
The town council had its first meeting in the new municipal building in April of 1907, and discussed pertinent town ordinances such as the construction of new sidewalks on Fairmount Avenue, as well as an ordinance to do away with the nuisance created by unleashed dogs. The borough council and the other local civic bodies were then able to operate out of this new state-of-the-art facility, which marked great progress in many of the local organizations which Chatham residents continue to benefit from.
Chatham resident, Jessica Crandall is a 2016 graduate of Oak Knoll School in Summit. She is currently studying English and film at the University of Notre Dame. Thank you, Jessica!
The mayor assembled a committee of five prominent Chatham residents to review the proposal, which met and, in April of 1906, decided that a sturdy brick and stone municipal building could be constructed for a sum not exceeding $11,000. Local government was then free to put forth their proposal of the new municipal building to the residents of Chatham for a vote. Voters were asked to consider the necessity of a tax increase as a result of the building’s construction, whether the building itself was a necessity, what the costs of building and maintenance of the building ought to be, and what the relative benefits of the new municipal building would be.
The borough council made many appeals to voters explaining the necessity of the new municipal building as well as the future fiscal benefits it would provide. They lamented the present condition of the volunteer fire department headquarters, which were damp and confined, and delineated the insurance and safety benefits for Chatham residents of having an up to date home for the fire department. The council also outlined the importance of having an actual office space for the borough clerk and a permanent meeting place for the borough council as well as the benefits of a free public library and jail holding cells. The proposal included detailed accounting records for the presumed cost of building and maintenance of the new municipal building, which included heating and janitorial expenses.
A special vote was held in June of 1906, the proposal passed by a nine vote margin, and the construction of a new municipal building and firehouse were approved. The committee appointed a local contractor, Thomas Joyce, who was able to complete the building in March of 1907, for a total flat rate of $10,100. The town was able to accommodate construction of the building without an increase in taxes for residents, which was considered a great legislative victory. In the initial approval of the municipal building, the proposed free public library was defeated, however the borough council held a special vote for the inclusion of the library soon after, which was then passed.
The town council had its first meeting in the new municipal building in April of 1907, and discussed pertinent town ordinances such as the construction of new sidewalks on Fairmount Avenue, as well as an ordinance to do away with the nuisance created by unleashed dogs. The borough council and the other local civic bodies were then able to operate out of this new state-of-the-art facility, which marked great progress in many of the local organizations which Chatham residents continue to benefit from.
Chatham resident, Jessica Crandall is a 2016 graduate of Oak Knoll School in Summit. She is currently studying English and film at the University of Notre Dame. Thank you, Jessica!
BRUCE BOHRMANN REMINISCES ABOUT THE CHATHAM PRESS It began with a simple email received by the Chatham Historical Society. I moved to Maine in 1969. I took my Dad's (Adolph) safe from the old Press office. I believe it dates back to the 1880's when he was a partner with J.Thomas Scott on Center St. If you are interested in having the safe, you can have it for just the shipping costs. I will wait until I hear from you before doing anything with it. Bruce Bohrmann
Would the Historical Society be interested? Certainly! The Chatham Press, now defunct, was the Chatham newspaper from 1891 to 1983. Mr. Bohrmann’s father, Adolph, began working with Mr. Scott in 1912, becoming a partner in 1920 and eventually buying the paper in 1949. He published and edited the paper until 1965 when he sold it to Summit Publishing Company but he continued to operate the print shop. Today the shop at 12 Center Street is still there and houses Chatham Print & Design.
A response email was sent to Bruce Bohrmann about the Society’s interest in the safe and also asking if he had any stories he’d like to share about Chatham. Indeed, he did! On a beautiful fall day Mr. Bohrmann and his son Andy drove down from their home in Yarmouth Maine to share some of those stories.
Bruce Bohrmann is a charming man, who like his father, has a great love of Chatham. He was excited to be back in town and to reminiscence about growing up here. Arriving with six Maine lobsters and an artifact from the print shop, Bruce met with Helen Ann Rosenfeld and Jackie Pindak. The afternoon flew by. Bruce was articulate, funny, thoughtful and engaging, as was his son. Together they painted a warm and loving picture of their family and the town.
The patriarch, Adolph Bohrmann, was born in Hoboken. He was self-educated and had a love of history. He and his wife, Helen, had two boys, Ralph (Bub) and Bruce and lived in a house that Adolph built at 43 Washington Avenue. The print shop on Center Street was a gathering place for multi generations of Chathamites. Even though the presses were noisy and dangerous, people enjoyed stopping by to share local gossip, ask advice or help with the printing of the newspaper. Adolph was generous and hardworking but was outspoken about his views. It was because of his opposition to parking meters that there are none in town. He was involved in all aspects of the town and was never shy about sharing his thoughts. He died in 1973 in his print shop. His obituary states that, “Adolph was one of Chatham’s greatest fans. The Chatham that exists today remains the greatest most lasting tribute.”
Born in 1928, Bruce remembers his childhood as idyllic. There was so much to explore and the freedom to do it. He had fun with his friends and his older brother. His father, however, could be a taskmaster: "True to the German tradition of learning a trade, my brother, Ralph (Bub) and I had to begin working in our early teens. I remember one night setting type while trying to study for a Spanish test. Had to reset an entire column."
While visiting a friend in New Hampshire, Bruce met Judy Mack of Short Hills who became his wife in 1956. They lived in an apartment on Passaic Avenue before buying a house in New Vernon where they raised five children, four boys and one girl. In 1968, Bruce decided to change careers. He and his family moved to Maine and he became a craftsman of wooden handled steel knives. Bruce says that without the support of his wife this would have been impossible. His knives can now be found in 35 states and several European countries. Bruce followed his dream but a part of Chatham has always remained in his heart.
Would the Historical Society be interested? Certainly! The Chatham Press, now defunct, was the Chatham newspaper from 1891 to 1983. Mr. Bohrmann’s father, Adolph, began working with Mr. Scott in 1912, becoming a partner in 1920 and eventually buying the paper in 1949. He published and edited the paper until 1965 when he sold it to Summit Publishing Company but he continued to operate the print shop. Today the shop at 12 Center Street is still there and houses Chatham Print & Design.
A response email was sent to Bruce Bohrmann about the Society’s interest in the safe and also asking if he had any stories he’d like to share about Chatham. Indeed, he did! On a beautiful fall day Mr. Bohrmann and his son Andy drove down from their home in Yarmouth Maine to share some of those stories.
Bruce Bohrmann is a charming man, who like his father, has a great love of Chatham. He was excited to be back in town and to reminiscence about growing up here. Arriving with six Maine lobsters and an artifact from the print shop, Bruce met with Helen Ann Rosenfeld and Jackie Pindak. The afternoon flew by. Bruce was articulate, funny, thoughtful and engaging, as was his son. Together they painted a warm and loving picture of their family and the town.
The patriarch, Adolph Bohrmann, was born in Hoboken. He was self-educated and had a love of history. He and his wife, Helen, had two boys, Ralph (Bub) and Bruce and lived in a house that Adolph built at 43 Washington Avenue. The print shop on Center Street was a gathering place for multi generations of Chathamites. Even though the presses were noisy and dangerous, people enjoyed stopping by to share local gossip, ask advice or help with the printing of the newspaper. Adolph was generous and hardworking but was outspoken about his views. It was because of his opposition to parking meters that there are none in town. He was involved in all aspects of the town and was never shy about sharing his thoughts. He died in 1973 in his print shop. His obituary states that, “Adolph was one of Chatham’s greatest fans. The Chatham that exists today remains the greatest most lasting tribute.”
Born in 1928, Bruce remembers his childhood as idyllic. There was so much to explore and the freedom to do it. He had fun with his friends and his older brother. His father, however, could be a taskmaster: "True to the German tradition of learning a trade, my brother, Ralph (Bub) and I had to begin working in our early teens. I remember one night setting type while trying to study for a Spanish test. Had to reset an entire column."
While visiting a friend in New Hampshire, Bruce met Judy Mack of Short Hills who became his wife in 1956. They lived in an apartment on Passaic Avenue before buying a house in New Vernon where they raised five children, four boys and one girl. In 1968, Bruce decided to change careers. He and his family moved to Maine and he became a craftsman of wooden handled steel knives. Bruce says that without the support of his wife this would have been impossible. His knives can now be found in 35 states and several European countries. Bruce followed his dream but a part of Chatham has always remained in his heart.
THE MORRIS COUNTY TRACTION LINE IN CHATHAM It is probably safe to say that any resident of Chatham today will be familiar with the electric trains of New Jersey Transit that speed commuters to and from the city every day. Many Borough residents may not be aware that Chatham was at one time served by another form of electric railway - a trolley line that arrived, thrived, and died before the first electric train on the Morris & Essex Lines even ran.
The Morris County Traction Company was chartered in 1899 and showed an early interest in Chatham. Its Route 1 was proposed to run between Chatham and Stanhope. Construction began on the west end of the system in 1903 and the first cars ran in Dover in 1904. Progress was slow and the first cars did not run in Morristown until August 27, 1909.
Eager to speed progress, the Traction Company began construction on the eastern end of the system with the first cars running between Summit and Union in 1906. Closing the gap between the two isolated segments of trolley line would be slow. A franchise allowing streetcar operation in the streets of Chatham was not granted until 1910. Strong local opposition further slowed progress. The first street car didn’t reach the Borough until 1912 when the bridge across the Passaic River between Chatham and Summit was opened and service began to the east. The final track gaps between Chatham and Morristown were closed and service on the entire system from Dover to Union began in 1914, where a connection with the cars of the Public Service trolley system was made.
Chatham was also the site of a powerhouse for the southern end of the Morris County Traction system. The powerhouse was located near the river south of Summit Ave, and received coal deliveries from the DL&W RR. The powerhouse did not remain for long. By 1920, the MCT Company was purchasing all of its electricity from commercial utilities.
The streetcar era in Morris County was to be short lived. By the late teens, improved roads and the presence of jitneys (small, initially unregulated motor vehicle operations that ran just ahead of the trolley cars and charged a lower fare) began to take their toll. Increased use of personal automobiles further eroded ridership and in 1927 the decision was made to convert to a bus operation. February 1928 marked the end of the trolley routes.
Even after almost 90 years, a remnant of the Morris County Traction System still exists in Chatham. The concrete piers that supported the trolley bridge to Summit remain in place, just up river from Shepard Kollock Park.
The Morris County Traction Company was chartered in 1899 and showed an early interest in Chatham. Its Route 1 was proposed to run between Chatham and Stanhope. Construction began on the west end of the system in 1903 and the first cars ran in Dover in 1904. Progress was slow and the first cars did not run in Morristown until August 27, 1909.
Eager to speed progress, the Traction Company began construction on the eastern end of the system with the first cars running between Summit and Union in 1906. Closing the gap between the two isolated segments of trolley line would be slow. A franchise allowing streetcar operation in the streets of Chatham was not granted until 1910. Strong local opposition further slowed progress. The first street car didn’t reach the Borough until 1912 when the bridge across the Passaic River between Chatham and Summit was opened and service began to the east. The final track gaps between Chatham and Morristown were closed and service on the entire system from Dover to Union began in 1914, where a connection with the cars of the Public Service trolley system was made.
Chatham was also the site of a powerhouse for the southern end of the Morris County Traction system. The powerhouse was located near the river south of Summit Ave, and received coal deliveries from the DL&W RR. The powerhouse did not remain for long. By 1920, the MCT Company was purchasing all of its electricity from commercial utilities.
The streetcar era in Morris County was to be short lived. By the late teens, improved roads and the presence of jitneys (small, initially unregulated motor vehicle operations that ran just ahead of the trolley cars and charged a lower fare) began to take their toll. Increased use of personal automobiles further eroded ridership and in 1927 the decision was made to convert to a bus operation. February 1928 marked the end of the trolley routes.
Even after almost 90 years, a remnant of the Morris County Traction System still exists in Chatham. The concrete piers that supported the trolley bridge to Summit remain in place, just up river from Shepard Kollock Park.
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Chatham Historical Society | PO Box 682 | Chatham, NJ 07928 | [email protected]