The Pathways of History

Postcard of Boonton Avenue (July 1910) heading northbound toward Butler showing the location where Boonton Township, Kinnelon and Montville Township

converge by Pyramid Mountain Park on the Boonton Reservoir.

From the personal collection of the late Jean Ricker.

The Pathways of HistoryThe Pathways of History

• Boonton Historical Society and Museum• Miller-Kingsland House• Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History• Butler Museum and Historical Committee• Denville Historical Society• Dover Area Historical Society• Glenburn, Riverdale• Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House• Jefferson Township Museum• L’Ecole Kinnelon Museum• Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum• Museum of Pequannock Township• Nicholas Vreeland Out Kitchen

Saturday, October 20, 2012 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMSunday, October 21, 2012 Noon – 4:00 PM

Call for information: 973-263-0907

A Museum Tour

Featuring:

While on the tour, kindly be guided by the following ...

Thank you

Remember that you will be visiting historic homes and museums. In order to make this day an enjoyable experience for everyone, please show your consideration by observing the following guidelines:

• Smoking is not permitted inside any location• No food or drink should be taken into any location• Please do not touch furniture or artifacts in any location• No photography inside any location without permission• Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult• No strollers inside any home• In the event of rain, we ask that you exercise special care in the removal of water from shoes and clothing• No usage of bathrooms inside any home or other building unless otherwise posted• No pets allowed in any of the historic buildings

AcknowledgementsPUBLICATION TEAM

Jennifer M. CoultasBoonton Historical Society

Gretchen LongoHistorical Society of Boonton Township

Donna WestJefferson Township Historical Society

DESIGN CONSULTATION

James KuhnertBoonton Historical Society

We would like to recognize our members, friends and the many volunteers who provided

refreshments, worked as docents and in so many ways loaned their talents and gave long hours

to support this event.

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NotesLocations and Events

Admission is free at all locations

Boonton Historical Society and Museum

210 Main Street, Boonton 07005GPS: 40° 54’ 10” N, 74° 24’ 28” W

• Memorial exhibit honoring landscape architect and pioneering environmentalist, Joan S. L. Greentree

Boonton – at the Miller-Kingsland House

445 Vreeland Avenue, Boonton 07005GPS: 40° 54’ 02” N, 74° 23’ 12” W

• 33rd Regiment New Jersey Volunteers Civil War encampment • The New England Players – Saturday 2:30 PM

Boonton TownshipOscar A. Kincaid Home of History

591 Powerville Road, Boonton Twp 07005GPS: 40° 57’ 17” N, 74° 24’ 35” W

• Tours of Kincaid farmhouse • A celebration marking the 175th anniversary of the enigmatic folk art face decoration • Fine arts and crafts at road stand •ART-IN artists painting on-site • Refreshments served in Mrs. Kincaid’s kitchen

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Butler Museum and Historical Committee

10 High Street, Butler 07405(Butler Police Department Community Room)GPS: 41° 00’ 04” N, 74° 20’ 23” W

• Slide presentation on the early glory days of Butler – Saturday and Sunday – 12:15 PM • Children’s coloring activities • Video and slides of the 1957 Pequanoc Rubber Company Fire available for viewing all day

Denville Historical Society and Museum

113 Diamond Spring Road, Denville 07834GPS: 40° 53’ 45” N, 74° 28’ 25” W

• Tours of Denville Museum – Saturday 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM

Dover Area Historical Society

55 West Blackwell Street, Dover 07801GPS: 40° 53’ 02” N, 74° 33’ 40” W

• Exhibit of local history • Continuous video presentations including: vaudeville theatres, the Morris Canal, Dover Speedway, early transportation and local industry

Glenburn, Riverdale

211 Hamburg Turnpike, Riverdale 07457GPS: 41° 00’ 04” N, 74° 18’ 55” W

• Continuous tours of this beautifully restored mansion

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This Weekend’s Events in Pequannock TownshipThe Museum will present a display representing veterans of the Civil War connected to old Pequannock Township that are buried in the cemetery of the First Reformed Church of Pompton Plains. Information about their life in the military, their units and their life after the War will be included. This presenta-tion represents the ongoing remembrance during the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, and the impact of the War and its aftermath on life in Pequannock.

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The Museum of Pequannock Township opened to the public in June, 2006. The Museum is housed in the former Pompton Plains Railroad Station which was restored in 2010. Located at the corner of Evans Place and Jackson Avenue, the Museum is owned by the Township of Pequannock. The Pompton Plains Railroad Station was built in 1872 and added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 5, 2008. James R. Evans was the station agent from the 1870’s until the turn of the 20th century. Regular passenger train service for the train station ended in 1963 although shuttles from Mountain View remained until 1966. Freight service to the station continued into the 1980’s. The Museum staff educates the public about the history of the Township and is active in local historical preservation projects including material for the Township’s Museum. These materials include preparation of an historical walking tour guidebook and working toward the reprint of George Parr’s 1990 book, History of Pequannock Township.

In addition, the Museum presents physical artifacts, pictures and other items displaying the rich history of the Township. The Museum is open the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month from 12:00 – 3:00 PM. It is also open by appointment and for special events. For an appointment to tour the museum at another day or time, or if you have something to donate or discuss, please feel free to contact the Historic District Commission at [email protected]

Donations of original or copies of material relating to the history of Pequannock are always appreciated. Historians and those working on family genealogy are welcome to contact us with questions. If you are interested in volunteering to help staff the twice monthly openings of the Museum, please contact us. Check out the Friends of Pequannock History on Facebook.

Museum of Pequannock Township

33 Evans Place at Jackson AvenuePompton Plains 07444 201-919-1128

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Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House

490 Main Road (US 202) Towaco 07082(Park in Sea Breeze Parking Lot across the street from the house)GPS: 40° 55’ 05” N, 74° 21’ 15” W

• Spinning and weaving demonstrations and soldiers in musket drills • Live period music with fiddler and accompanist • Antique quilt display with quilters on hand • Continuous tours of site and Dutch architecture • 18th century antiques on display • Document display of George Washington’s letters and expense account

Jefferson Township Museum

315 Dover-Milton RoadJefferson Township 07438GPS: 41° 01’ 12” N, 74° 31’ 40” W

• House tours • Quilters • 1880’s woodworking tools • Gift Shoppe

L’Ecole Kinnelon Museum

25 Kiel Avenue, Kinnelon 07405GPS: 41° 00’ 07” N, 74° 21’ 41” W

• PowerPoint presentation about Dr. Helen L. Miller – Saturday and Sunday at 1:00 PM • Lecture by Russell Hannah on the Newark Watershed – Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 PM • Local artisans: wood crafts; botanical ceramics; etchings and watercolors

Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum

9 Lakeside Boulevard, Hopatcong 07843(at Hopatcong State Park, Landing 07850)GPS: 40° 54’ 57” N, 74° 39’ 56” W

• An entertaining and enlightening look at the history of New Jersey’s largest lake will include a special salute to Bertrand Island Park


34 Evans Place, Pompton Plains 07444GPS: 40° 58’ 14” N, 74° 17’ 36” W

• A display representing veterans of the Civil War connected to old Pequannock Township

Nicholas Vreeland Out Kitchen

52 Jacksonville Road, Towaco 07082GPS: 40° 55’ 59” N, 74° 20’ 33” W

• Hearthside food practices and receipts (recipes) • Continuous tours and architectural discussion

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Hopatcong State ParkLanding 07850 973-398-2616

Located in a rustic 19th century build-ing which served as a lock tender’s house on the Morris Canal, the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum offers an entertaining and enlightening look at the history of New Jersey’s largest

lake. Step back to a time when the Lake was actually two bodies of water and the Lenape lived along its shores. Learn of the building of the famous Morris Canal and the forming of modern day Lake Hopatcong, its main source of water. Travel back to the era when the Lake was a tourist mecca and some 40 hotels and rooming houses graced its shores. Relive the days when thousands flocked to Bertrand Island Amusement Park for dancing and “nickel nights.”

In an age before jets, air conditioning and super highways, Lake Hopatcong was a major northeast resort. Within easy reach of large cities to the east, the Lake’s size and setting at over 900 feet above sea level made it a perfect resort. Trains from urban centers carried vacationers to the Lake where they would board steamboats to their final destination. From the 1880’s through the 1930’s the Lake welcomed thousands each year, including leaders in government, industry and entertainment.

Recognized as one of the finest small museums in New Jersey, the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum displays an extensive collection of memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts relating to the Lake’s grand history. The Museum is located on the grounds of Hopatcong State Park in Landing, under two miles off Route I-80 at Exit 28. Admission is free. Check http://www.lakehopatconghistory.com for further information.


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This Weekend’s Events in KinnelonDr. Helen L. Miller

Saturday and Sunday 1:00 PM – Dr. Helen L. Miller was a 20th century doctor who brought modern medicine to the Borough of Kinnelon. The 1:00 PM presentation at L’Ecole will focus on the life and work of the accomplished and generous Dr. Miller.

The Newark Watershed

Saturday and Sunday 2:00 PM – The Newark Pequannock Watershed is a natural resource which encompasses 35,000 acres, includes five reservoirs, and is in portions of six municipalities, one of which is the Borough of Kinnelon. The 2:00 PM lecture will be on the history of the Newark Pequannock Watershed with guest lecturer Russell Hannah.

Local Artisans

Both days local artisans will display and offer for sale a selection of their creations which will include woodworking, ceramics, watercolors, and etchings.

Refreshments

Enjoy some refreshments in the main meeting room at L’Ecole before continuing on the museum tour.

This building was originally a private home built for Dr. John Taylor and his wife, Adelaide T. Kanouse. John L. Kanouse gave his daughter and her husband this lot as a Christmas gift in 1897. Most likely, it was an enticement to get his family to move closer to him, because they had been living in Succasunna and Mount Arlington where Dr. Taylor had practiced medicine for 15 years. The

Taylors returned to Boonton and had this brick house built. Dr. Taylor continued his medical practice here.

In 1901, Adelaide’s parents came to live with them until her father died in 1905 and her mother in 1908. John L. Kanouse was one of Boonton’s most promi-nent citizens. In addition to being a successful businessman, he was elected Superintendent of Public Schools and held the office for twenty years. He was instrumental in establishing the first free school in Morris County located here in Boonton. He served in the State Legislature and Board of Chosen Freeholders and as Associate Judge of Morris County and Tax Collector of Boonton.

Dr. Ellery Peck worked with Dr. Taylor in this building as an associate for seven years. Then in 1917 Dr. Peck went to serve in WWI and Dr. Taylor moved to Chula Vista, CA. After the war, the returning soldiers formed American Legion Post #124. Subsequently, the Mayor and Aldermen purchased the building from the Post and dedicated it as a permanent memorial to veterans and a home for Post #124. The Legion also offered space to the Boonton Historical Society. On November 11, 1980, the Society opened its museum on the second floor. Ten years later, the building was closed to the public and extensive restoration work was performed by both professional tradesmen and some tireless volunteers. The building reopened in 1997.

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210 Main Street, Boonton 07005 973-402-8840


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Miller-Kingsland House445 Vreeland AvenueBoonton 07005

This property was originally part of a tract of 231 acres purchased in 1728 for £85. It sits on a 2.5-acre wooded lot and includes an historic frame house dating from 1740, and a barn. It is the oldest recorded house in Boonton and is listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places.

The property sits on a beautiful wooded landscape with a stream flowing through it. Only three families have owned this house, each of whom added to the struc-ture. The original one-room Dutch Wing purchased by Johannes Miller in 1740; a federal addition with gambrel roof by Isaac Kingsland c1798, and the latest addition by Mae and Alex Fowler who purchased the house in 1938. Much of the original home still exists including the Dutch architecture, which is very rare in the northeastern United States; a large cooking fireplace and beehive oven, with date stone; the original crane and fire back in the living room fireplace; and an original staircase railing, wood trim, and wide plank floors.

In an effort to preserve this property, the Town of Boonton was successful in securing a grant for $1 million from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund and a further $300,000 in Green Acres Funding.

The original owners and their descendents are recorded by Alex Fowler in his book Splinters from the Past. Although this fascinating book of local architecture is out of print, the Historical Society has several copies for sale.

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25 Kiel Avenue, Kinnelon 07405 973-838-0185

The first Meadtown School was built in 1839 in the fields below Wilton Mead’s house. It served the commu-nity until 1873 when a larger, more modern school was built on the property now known as L’Ecole

Kinnelon Museum. This new school’s single room held approximately 40 to 50 pupils. The Meadtown School served the children of the community until 1925, when a new, two-room school built of native stone was constructed. The Meadtown School was also used as a meeting place, including the first organi-zational meeting of the Borough of Kinnelon. Sunday school classes were also held there.

Around 1930, the little schoolhouse caught the eye of a young medical doctor from New York City, Doctor Helen Miller. Dr. Miller affectionately called the place L’Ecole, the French word for school. At first, Dr. Miller visited L’Ecole as a retreat from her busy practice and clinical work in New York City. By the late 1930’s, her visits became more frequent and she began additions that would turn L’Ecole into her primary residence. As local residents got to know and respect Dr. Miller, they began to appear at her doorstep with their medical problems. As time went by, more and more residents began to see Dr. Miller. She was now convinced that it was time to establish part of her practice in Kinnelon.

In 1954, Dr. Miller added two examination rooms and an office to her home at L’Ecole to keep up with her growing practice. In 1963, she constructed a medical building on adjacent property and encouraged other New York City physicians to practice in this area. Upon her death in 1990, Dr. Miller bequeathed L’Ecole to the Borough of Kinnelon. It was Dr. Miller’s wish that the old schoolhouse would benefit the community that had come to mean so much to her. From pupils to politicians to patients, L’Ecole has met the needs of local citizens for well over a century. Today, L’Ecole continues to serve the community as a museum chronicling and celebrating our local history and traditions. The Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 – 4:00 PM.

continued on next page


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Jefferson Township Museum(The George Chamberlain House)315 Dover-Milton RoadJefferson Township 07438973-697-0258

In the 1870’s, Amos Chamberlain, a resident of Milton Village, built another home on his property for his son George and his bride-to-be, Ruth Elizabeth Speaker. After their marriage in 1874, they moved into the new house on Dover-Milton Road and soon purchased it from Amos. Two children, Raymond and Archie, were raised in the home and attended school locally. The family remained in residence into the early 1900’s. In later decades, the house was rented to various families in the extended Chamberlain family.

In 1960, the house was purchased by the Friends of the Library, and after refur-bishing it for public usage, it functioned as the Violet Riker Library for 19 years. When the new Jefferson Township Library was built, the Township acquired the house and the Historical Society, known as the “Jefferson Township Committee for ‘76”, established it as the Township Museum. In its current form, it is a repre-sentation of life in Jefferson Township in the last quarter of the 19th century. Furnishings, artifacts, garments, and interior decor reflect the style of the times. Tours are often conducted by costumed docents.

The lower level is the kitchen of the home and is the site of Miss Elizabeth’s Shoppe, selling unique gifts, local provisions, antiques, and homemade goods. The gardens surrounding the house also reflect the style of the Victorian period, and are beautifully maintained by the Museum Garden Club of Jefferson. The museum is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

This Weekend’s Events in Jefferson TownshipYour Pathways visit will find us nestled among vibrant autumn foliage alongside a gently flowing stream. Piece Partners Quilters of Milton will be plying their needles and a local craftsman will demonstrate how woodworking tools of the late 1880’s were used. Our refreshments will add to the feeling of a step back in time. Costumed docents will explain the heritage of the home, as our antique harmoni-um adds a warm note of Victorian organ music. We look forward to greeting you.

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This Weekend’s Events in BoontonMusic at the Miller-Kingsland House

Saturday 2:30 PM – “A Garland of Summer Music” performed on recorders by the New England Players, Gill Otto (Soprano), Barbara Busch (Alto).

Civil War Re-enactors at the Miller-Kingsland House

We are pleased to welcome members of the 33rd Regiment New Jersey Volunteer Infantry. In addition to civilian and military camp life, visitors will witness march-ing and drill as well as musket firing demonstrations. A bugling presentation with original instruments will be performed by 33rd musician Doug Grunn, who is also a member of Buglers Across America.

Special guest, author and historian, Robert Jones, will display items from his extensive Civil War artifacts collection, and will discuss and sign copies of his books.

Walking Tour of Boonton’s Historic Residential District

Saturday 10:00 AM – The Boonton Historical Society will present a walking tour of the Historic Residential District. In 1830 the first skilled ironworkers came from England to work in the Boonton Iron Works. They were guaranteed free passage to America, generous wages and new homes for their families. This tour includes an external look at some of these homes and a visit to two of the churches they subsequently built. The tour begins outside the Post Office at 501 Main Street, and is conducted by Harold Johnson, retired pastor of the First Presbyterian Church. In addition to the First Presbyterian Church being open for this tour, St. John’s Episcopal Church will also be visited. St. John’s boasts some magnificent windows by Tiffany as well as a centennial window, fabricated in England, which depicts the economic life and history of the Town of Boonton.

There is a $5 suggested donation for non-members taking this 2-hour tour. Tour participants will receive a 15% discount coupon, valid Saturday only, which can be used at many of the Main Street restaurants and other vendors between 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The Museum and Gift Shop at 210 Main Street will be open Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and Sunday 12:00 – 4:00 PM.

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In 1785 Adam Miller, Jr. and his wife Anna DeMouth Miller built the earliest section of the dwelling which stands today as the second oldest frame building indigenous to Boonton Township. The little house did not face the road, because at that early date there was no designated road to the property.

John Decker, Oscar Kincaid Jr.’s great-great-grandfather, purchased the home and forge site in 1833 from then owner William Scott. Forge man and farmer, John Decker became a man of substance, adding extensive acreage to his origi-nal purchase. His forge iron came from the Hibernia mines, and the shipments from his forge to New York were made via the Morris Canal.

John Decker enlarged the small, original house in 1837 when the side hall, main block was added. The addition’s most remarkable feature is the ingenuous and idiosyncratic portrait created in spiteful retaliation by a dismissed contractor. This “decoration” is now considered a unique example of naïve and whimsical folk art. Amazingly, throughout the past 175 years of the home’s existence and occupation, the hallway decoration was never painted over and lost.

The little ice cream stand, built by Oscar A. Kincaid, Sr., in the mid-1920’s, is thought to be one of the oldest continually running country stands in New Jersey. In 1938 Oscar Kincaid, Sr. entered the dairy business and added a room and large walk-in cooler to the small road stand to house his new endeavor. By 1944, the Kincaid’s had reverted to general farming and adopted the name “Valley Farm” by which the house and property are still recognized today. In 1980 it received the prestigious Century Farm Award given by the New Jersey Agricultural Society, the oldest farm organization in the country.


Listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places

Headquarters: Historical Society of Boonton Township591 Powerville RoadBoonton Township 07005973-263-0907

Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History

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This Weekend’s Events in Montville TownshipCome visit where history walked in Montville Township. General George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and 2,000 soldiers stayed at the Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House in June 1780 for 2 ½ days. The Continental soldiers stayed at the Doremus Tavern across the street and camped on the grounds of the farm and tavern. In 1781, General Rochambeau and 5,000 soldiers rested on the grounds on their way south to what became the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Come experience 1760 and early 1800’s Dutch family life and Dutch architecture; see how the Dutch built their homes utilizing techniques unique to the Dutch and how our early settlers lived and coped with the Revolutionary War.


• Continuous tour of this historic site by guides in period dress. The home is furnished based on period inventory of the Doremus family, which includes a display of 18th century antiques, and an Historic Document Collection including General George Washington’s letters written from the Henry Doremus House (one penned by Alexander Hamilton), letters received, and General George Washington’s payment to Mrs. Doremus for staying in the house and Doremus Tavern. This display also includes historic photos of the Henry Doremus House and Doremus Tavern.

• Enjoy continuous period music played by our fiddler and accompanist

• Spinning and weaving demonstrations and soldiers in musket drills

• An antique quilt display, with experienced quilters on hand as guides

Come join us for this unique opportunity to step back in history.

Nicholas Vreeland Dutch Stone Out Kitchen

Built circa 1780, this site is unique as it is believed to be the last detached Dutch stone out kitchen in Morris County. This weekend is an opportunity to review hearthside food practices and receipts (recipes) which you can try at home. In addition, continuous tours will illustrate Dutch architecture and how this out kitchen was built with a modified jambless fireplace and why.

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The site was once part of a 180-acre working farm, purchased by Nicholas Vreeland and his wife, Catrina Van Duyne in March 1775, where the out kitchen, house, cemetery, saw mill and other out buildings were located.

Out kitchens were built to lessen fire hazards and, in the summer, to avoid cooking odors and heat in the main house. Built circa 1780, the site is unique as it is believed to be the last detached Dutch stone out kitchen in Morris County. The out kitchen is unaltered, retains significant original architectural fabric and has not been modernized, attached or incorporated into the house as many out kitchens have been. The out kitchen retains its original hardware, door, beehive oven, and four-foot cooking crane.

The Nicholas Vreeland Dutch Stone Out Kitchen was restored in 2007 with grants from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund. The out kitchen was documented by HABS (Historic American Building Survey) in 1938. The property is listed on the Township local historic register and is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places. It is also located within the Crossroads of American Revolution Greenway.


52 Jacksonville Road, Towaco 07082973-394-0554

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Oscar A. Kincaid, Jr., a well loved mayor of Boonton Township, died in November 2000. The Historical Society of Boonton Township, with the enthusiastic support of members, friends and neighbors, purchased the house and road stand in March 2003. Under its stewardship, three phases of restoration have been completed at the house. Used for local history programs and exhibitions, it is also a popular venue for community events, fundraisers and art exhibits. The Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History welcomes visitors by appointment. Please call Marilyn Terhune at 973-627-2430 or Gretchen Longo at 973-334-9563.

This Weekend’s Events in Boonton TownshipTour the Kincaid Farmhouse

The Historical Society of Boonton Township invites you to visit the Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History, Boonton Township’s second oldest indigenous frame building dating to 1785. Under the stewardship of the Society, the heritage house has been undergoing meticulous restoration. An exhibition by Kinnelon High School’s Advanced Placement Photography Class will present a unique and artistic photographic view of the nooks and crannies of this antique house.

A celebration is planned to honor the 1837 enigmatic folk art face in the front stair hall as “he” marks his 175th year. Come learn the intriguing story behind this mysterious silent witness to history. If walls could talk, what stories he could tell!

The Kincaid Fine Crafts and Art Shoppe

The road stand will house a distinctive selection of original artwork, ceramics, and other finely crafted eclectic items. Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the little building and do some shopping too!

Refreshments will be served in Mrs. Kincaid’s Country Kitchen

Visitors are encouraged to stay for refreshments and are invited to enjoy the rural scene from Oscar’s rocking chair porch before heading to the next museum stop.

Artists On-Site

The ART-IN Group, an eclectic assemblage of artists from Morris County and beyond, will be on-site painting views of Valley Farm and the surrounding pasto-ral scene. Their en plein air paintings will be available for purchase.

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973-838-7222

Listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places, the New York Susquehanna & Western Railroad station in Butler was built between 1888 and 1889. The freight station was added in 1907. The railroad, serving both passenger traffic and freight deliveries, spurred the economic growth of the community, bring-ing in raw materials to the American Hard Rubber mill and leaving with finished products heading to world markets.

The station has been owned and supported by the Borough of Butler since the early 1970’s when the museum was established as part of the 1976 National Bicentennial celebrations. Contained in the museum are exhibits that illustrate the social, political, educational, fraternal and business life of the community and its surroundings from the late 1800’s to the present day.

Among the exhibits unique to the Butler Museum are the artifacts that pertain to the Statue of Liberty. Frederic August Bartholdi, the French sculptor who designed and built the Statue, and Richard Butler, for whom this town was named, were close friends. Mr. Butler was an integral part of the committee that raised the necessary funds to construct the pedestal on which the statue stands.

The Butler Museum remains closed for major renovations. The Morris County Historic Preservation Trust has awarded funds for the Phase 1 construction work and the Borough of Butler has supplemented the award with Borough funding. We hope to begin Phase II work later this year and look forward to planning a grand reopening in the Fall of 2013 when the station celebrates its 125th year.

New York, Susquehanna and Western Railroad Station: Borough of Butler

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June 25 through 27, 1780, General George Washington occupied the lower room on the west end of the house (left side, viewed from the front of the house). General Washington was accompanied

by 40 aides (including Alexander Hamilton, Tench Tilghman and Robert Hanson Harrison) and 2,000 soldiers while retreating after the Battle of Springfield. The visit is documented by a $40 payment to Mrs. Doremus entered in General Washington’s expense account. Washington issued three letters from the house (Alexander Hamilton wrote one) and received nine letters during his stay. Continental soldiers stayed in the Doremus Tavern across the road and camped on the farm.

General Rochambeau and his troops of 5,000 marched south in 1781 for what would become the last major battle of the American Revolution; his troops rested in the orchard of this house. These buildings were eye witnesses to all military traffic in the area during the Revolutionary War!

The Henry Doremus Dutch Stone Farmhouse was built circa 1760. Its addition was built circa 1780. The house was never plumbed, wired, electrified or heated. The site retains significant original architectural fabric. This house is a superb example of Dutch American architecture illustrating how the Dutch built houses. These Dutch Stone Houses were only built in three states (New Jersey, New York and Delaware). While the house contains a very significant Dutch architectural feature – the jambless fireplace – it also has very significant double front entry doors on the exterior.

The Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House was restored in 2009 with grants from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund and the NJ Historic Trust. The site was recorded by HABS (Historic American Building Survey) in 1938. The property is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places individually and as a Dutch Stone Farmhouses thematic district. It is historically designated in Montville Township and included in the Crossroads of American Revolution Greenway. Restoration of the house won the 2009 New Jersey State Historic Preservation award for preservation and restoration.

490 Main Road (Route 202)Towaco 07082 973-394-0554

Henry DoremusDutch Stone House

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In 1695, Arent Schuyler made a series of land purchases from local Native Americans and East Jersey Proprietors. In 1710 and 1717, Schuyler sold a 300-acre parcel to Simon Van Ness. This parcel remained in the Van Ness family for five generations and with each passing was divided into smaller and smaller farms. This land eventually became the 5.5-acre tract we know today as Glenburn.

Simon H. Van Ness (born in 1780) built the first house on the Glenburn property for his family around 1816, although there may have been a mill on the tract prior to this date. This original house was a three-bay, side hall plan with 2 ½ stories and remains as the eastern three bays of the current house. Future generations of the Van Ness family occupied the property until Martin Van Ness and his wife, Sarah Lavina Ryerson, sold the land in 1868 to George Linen. George Linen was born in Scotland in 1802 and his artistic talent brought him to the Royal Scottish Academy in Edinburgh. Linen moved to England, Toronto and then to New York with his wife, Sarah Davies. He opened a studio in New York and became renowned for his portraiture. Linen painted the portraits of several statesmen, including Daniel Webster and Henry Clay.

After purchasing the Riverdale property, Linen named it “Glenburn” after a place he loved in his native Scotland. Linen spent the rest of his life at the Glenburn Estate and listed himself as “farmer” in the 1880 census. After his death in 1888, the property passed to his wife and then to their daughter, Georgiana Ryerson.

Maud Patterson owned Glenburn from 1912-1940, and created much of the Colonial Revival interior that remains today. Virginia and Guido Montrastelle purchased Glenburn in 1940 and remodeled sections of the exterior, including the southern porch and concrete paths. Bay windows were added to the first floor and additional bathrooms installed on the second floor.

The last private owner of Glenburn, Mary Greco, made additional upgrades to the western section. She enclosed the western porch, enlarging the kitchen and glassed in the southern porch

The Borough of Riverdale together with the Riverdale Land Conservancy, Inc., is overseeing the rehabilitation of the house, barn and outbuildings and the preser-vation of the land itself for the enjoyment of future generations.

Glenburn211 Hamburg Turnpike, Riverdale 07457973-216-3107

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In order to continue as an active partici-pant in The Pathways of History Tour while the museum building is closed, the volunteers of the Butler Museum will be using the Butler Police Station Community Room as an exhibit area.

The community room was once the Council Chambers for the Borough of Butler and the building itself began as the Borough Hall and the Fire Department headquarters in 1903. In the late 1980’s, a new fire house was dedicated. This building was renovated and the Police Department moved into its new headquarters in 1998.

On display will be a variety of the hard rubber industry products and the history of several of the community’s major industries; photo, print and slide presentations on the largest industrial fire in the United States in 1957 which destroyed the Pequanoc Rubber Company; and photos and hands-on artifacts of the Statue of Liberty.

You can step back in time while reading Butler High School yearbooks from 1918 and viewing vintage postcards and photos from the 1890’s to the 1940’s. Learn about the history of the Butler Borough Park and the fire house built in 1903. Where is our famous “Wooden Fireman?” We’ll tell you about him and where you can find him.

Butler Police Department Community Room

10 High Street, Butler 07405973-838-7222


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1913 – Denville Centennial – 2013

The Denville Historical Society kicks off the Denville Township Centennial Celebration this Fall with activities through the end of 2013.

The Historical Society has played a very active role in gathering and preserving the historical knowledge and legacy of Denville. The Society has been chartered since 1971 through the efforts of the P.R.I.D.E. committee of Denville. In 1979, the Denville Historical Society purchased the landmark Charter Savings and Loan building. In 1981 the landmark building was moved to its present location on Diamond Spring Road and became the permanent home of the Society and Museum.

Seeking to create an awareness of the past and to preserve it for the future, the Society offers an Antique & Collectables Flea Market in the spring and a holiday concert in December. The Denville Museum features the “Garden of Thyme and Roses,” and a permanent exhibit on Denville’s history spanning three centuries. The museum also offers a significant research library, and several special collec-tions including an extensive photograph collection.

The Denville Museum is open Saturdays 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM and by appoint-ment. The Historical Society also provides tours of the 1860 one-room Union Schoolhouse; and walking tours of Denville, including Haunted Denville and Downtown Denville Walking Tours which will be held during the Fall, 2012. Speakers and presentations on Denville’s history are also available with sufficient notice. Groups are welcome; disabled accessible. For more information call the Museum at 973-625-1165.

This Weekend’s Events in DenvilleEnjoy tours of the Museum on Saturday at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, and Sunday at 1:00 PM. During your visit, you are also invited to view the “Garden of Thyme and Roses” at your leisure.

113 Diamond Spring RoadDenville 07834 973-625-1165

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The Dover Area Historical Society had its origin on May 4, 1966 when Mr. Willy Penderson called a special meeting at town hall for any citizens interested in local history. Fifteen people were at the first meeting and from this nucleus the Society was born. The Society was incorporated as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization named the Dover Historical Association. The name was changed to the Dover Area Historical Society in 1967.

Our first home, the Bonnieview Mansion, was built in 1876 for Alpheus Beemer and his wife Margaret. Mr. Beemer established a silk mill and Hurd Park, and was the founder of the Nation Union Bank of Dover. Upon his death, the widow sold the property in 1885 to Edwin Ross, a descendant of Betsy Ross, designer of the American Flag.

In the early part of the 20th century, Bonnieview became the popular Pine Terrace Inn, a gracious country retreat visited by such notables as President Grover Cleveland, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks and well known personalities of the day. With the onset of Prohibition, the estate was sold to Harry Schwarz who later sold it to Dover General Hospital. The Historical Society moved into the mansion house on June 18, 1970 with a 10-year lease with the hospital. Just one year into the lease and after over $30,000 in repairs and renovations, the hospital termi-nated the agreement and ordered the building be vacated in three months. For the next 27 years, the Historical Society would remain homeless, hosting its monthly meetings in various churches and meeting halls around town.

In 2004, the First Presbyterian Church of Dover was trying to decide the fate of the old doctor’s house, known as the “church house” at 55 W. Blackwell Street. Knowing the Historical Society had been actively seeking a museum, the Church offered the site to the organization for a 25-year period provided the group pay for all expenses of operating the house, and perform repairs and renovations bringing the house up to town standards.

Today, the Historical Society meets at the museum house the 3rd Tuesday of each month and offers the house for public view every Sunday 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Anyone wishing to become a member or wants further information can call the Society at 973-361-3525.

Dover Area Historical Society55 West Blackwell Street, Dover 07801973-361-3525


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1913 – Denville Centennial – 2013

The Denville Historical Society kicks off the Denville Township Centennial Celebration this Fall with activities through the end of 2013.

The Historical Society has played a very active role in gathering and preserving the historical knowledge and legacy of Denville. The Society has been chartered since 1971 through the efforts of the P.R.I.D.E. committee of Denville. In 1979, the Denville Historical Society purchased the landmark Charter Savings and Loan building. In 1981 the landmark building was moved to its present location on Diamond Spring Road and became the permanent home of the Society and Museum.

Seeking to create an awareness of the past and to preserve it for the future, the Society offers an Antique & Collectables Flea Market in the spring and a holiday concert in December. The Denville Museum features the “Garden of Thyme and Roses,” and a permanent exhibit on Denville’s history spanning three centuries. The museum also offers a significant research library, and several special collec-tions including an extensive photograph collection.

The Denville Museum is open Saturdays 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM and by appoint-ment. The Historical Society also provides tours of the 1860 one-room Union Schoolhouse; and walking tours of Denville, including Haunted Denville and Downtown Denville Walking Tours which will be held during the Fall, 2012. Speakers and presentations on Denville’s history are also available with sufficient notice. Groups are welcome; disabled accessible. For more information call the Museum at 973-625-1165.

This Weekend’s Events in DenvilleEnjoy tours of the Museum on Saturday at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, and Sunday at 1:00 PM. During your visit, you are also invited to view the “Garden of Thyme and Roses” at your leisure.

113 Diamond Spring RoadDenville 07834 973-625-1165

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The Dover Area Historical Society had its origin on May 4, 1966 when Mr. Willy Penderson called a special meeting at town hall for any citizens interested in local history. Fifteen people were at the first meeting and from this nucleus the Society was born. The Society was incorporated as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization named the Dover Historical Association. The name was changed to the Dover Area Historical Society in 1967.

Our first home, the Bonnieview Mansion, was built in 1876 for Alpheus Beemer and his wife Margaret. Mr. Beemer established a silk mill and Hurd Park, and was the founder of the Nation Union Bank of Dover. Upon his death, the widow sold the property in 1885 to Edwin Ross, a descendant of Betsy Ross, designer of the American Flag.

In the early part of the 20th century, Bonnieview became the popular Pine Terrace Inn, a gracious country retreat visited by such notables as President Grover Cleveland, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks and well known personalities of the day. With the onset of Prohibition, the estate was sold to Harry Schwarz who later sold it to Dover General Hospital. The Historical Society moved into the mansion house on June 18, 1970 with a 10-year lease with the hospital. Just one year into the lease and after over $30,000 in repairs and renovations, the hospital termi-nated the agreement and ordered the building be vacated in three months. For the next 27 years, the Historical Society would remain homeless, hosting its monthly meetings in various churches and meeting halls around town.

In 2004, the First Presbyterian Church of Dover was trying to decide the fate of the old doctor’s house, known as the “church house” at 55 W. Blackwell Street. Knowing the Historical Society had been actively seeking a museum, the Church offered the site to the organization for a 25-year period provided the group pay for all expenses of operating the house, and perform repairs and renovations bringing the house up to town standards.

Today, the Historical Society meets at the museum house the 3rd Tuesday of each month and offers the house for public view every Sunday 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Anyone wishing to become a member or wants further information can call the Society at 973-361-3525.

Dover Area Historical Society55 West Blackwell Street, Dover 07801973-361-3525

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In 1695, Arent Schuyler made a series of land purchases from local Native Americans and East Jersey Proprietors. In 1710 and 1717, Schuyler sold a 300-acre parcel to Simon Van Ness. This parcel remained in the Van Ness family for five generations and with each passing was divided into smaller and smaller farms. This land eventually became the 5.5-acre tract we know today as Glenburn.

Simon H. Van Ness (born in 1780) built the first house on the Glenburn property for his family around 1816, although there may have been a mill on the tract prior to this date. This original house was a three-bay, side hall plan with 2 ½ stories and remains as the eastern three bays of the current house. Future generations of the Van Ness family occupied the property until Martin Van Ness and his wife, Sarah Lavina Ryerson, sold the land in 1868 to George Linen. George Linen was born in Scotland in 1802 and his artistic talent brought him to the Royal Scottish Academy in Edinburgh. Linen moved to England, Toronto and then to New York with his wife, Sarah Davies. He opened a studio in New York and became renowned for his portraiture. Linen painted the portraits of several statesmen, including Daniel Webster and Henry Clay.

After purchasing the Riverdale property, Linen named it “Glenburn” after a place he loved in his native Scotland. Linen spent the rest of his life at the Glenburn Estate and listed himself as “farmer” in the 1880 census. After his death in 1888, the property passed to his wife and then to their daughter, Georgiana Ryerson.

Maud Patterson owned Glenburn from 1912-1940, and created much of the Colonial Revival interior that remains today. Virginia and Guido Montrastelle purchased Glenburn in 1940 and remodeled sections of the exterior, including the southern porch and concrete paths. Bay windows were added to the first floor and additional bathrooms installed on the second floor.

The last private owner of Glenburn, Mary Greco, made additional upgrades to the western section. She enclosed the western porch, enlarging the kitchen and glassed in the southern porch

The Borough of Riverdale together with the Riverdale Land Conservancy, Inc., is overseeing the rehabilitation of the house, barn and outbuildings and the preser-vation of the land itself for the enjoyment of future generations.

Glenburn211 Hamburg Turnpike, Riverdale 07457973-216-3107

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In order to continue as an active partici-pant in The Pathways of History Tour while the museum building is closed, the volunteers of the Butler Museum will be using the Butler Police Station Community Room as an exhibit area.

The community room was once the Council Chambers for the Borough of Butler and the building itself began as the Borough Hall and the Fire Department headquarters in 1903. In the late 1980’s, a new fire house was dedicated. This building was renovated and the Police Department moved into its new headquarters in 1998.

On display will be a variety of the hard rubber industry products and the history of several of the community’s major industries; photo, print and slide presentations on the largest industrial fire in the United States in 1957 which destroyed the Pequanoc Rubber Company; and photos and hands-on artifacts of the Statue of Liberty.

You can step back in time while reading Butler High School yearbooks from 1918 and viewing vintage postcards and photos from the 1890’s to the 1940’s. Learn about the history of the Butler Borough Park and the fire house built in 1903. Where is our famous “Wooden Fireman?” We’ll tell you about him and where you can find him.

Butler Police Department Community Room

10 High Street, Butler 07405973-838-7222

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973-838-7222

Listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places, the New York Susquehanna & Western Railroad station in Butler was built between 1888 and 1889. The freight station was added in 1907. The railroad, serving both passenger traffic and freight deliveries, spurred the economic growth of the community, bring-ing in raw materials to the American Hard Rubber mill and leaving with finished products heading to world markets.

The station has been owned and supported by the Borough of Butler since the early 1970’s when the museum was established as part of the 1976 National Bicentennial celebrations. Contained in the museum are exhibits that illustrate the social, political, educational, fraternal and business life of the community and its surroundings from the late 1800’s to the present day.

Among the exhibits unique to the Butler Museum are the artifacts that pertain to the Statue of Liberty. Frederic August Bartholdi, the French sculptor who designed and built the Statue, and Richard Butler, for whom this town was named, were close friends. Mr. Butler was an integral part of the committee that raised the necessary funds to construct the pedestal on which the statue stands.

The Butler Museum remains closed for major renovations. The Morris County Historic Preservation Trust has awarded funds for the Phase 1 construction work and the Borough of Butler has supplemented the award with Borough funding. We hope to begin Phase II work later this year and look forward to planning a grand reopening in the Fall of 2013 when the station celebrates its 125th year.

New York, Susquehanna and Western Railroad Station: Borough of Butler

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June 25 through 27, 1780, General George Washington occupied the lower room on the west end of the house (left side, viewed from the front of the house). General Washington was accompanied

by 40 aides (including Alexander Hamilton, Tench Tilghman and Robert Hanson Harrison) and 2,000 soldiers while retreating after the Battle of Springfield. The visit is documented by a $40 payment to Mrs. Doremus entered in General Washington’s expense account. Washington issued three letters from the house (Alexander Hamilton wrote one) and received nine letters during his stay. Continental soldiers stayed in the Doremus Tavern across the road and camped on the farm.

General Rochambeau and his troops of 5,000 marched south in 1781 for what would become the last major battle of the American Revolution; his troops rested in the orchard of this house. These buildings were eye witnesses to all military traffic in the area during the Revolutionary War!

The Henry Doremus Dutch Stone Farmhouse was built circa 1760. Its addition was built circa 1780. The house was never plumbed, wired, electrified or heated. The site retains significant original architectural fabric. This house is a superb example of Dutch American architecture illustrating how the Dutch built houses. These Dutch Stone Houses were only built in three states (New Jersey, New York and Delaware). While the house contains a very significant Dutch architectural feature – the jambless fireplace – it also has very significant double front entry doors on the exterior.

The Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House was restored in 2009 with grants from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund and the NJ Historic Trust. The site was recorded by HABS (Historic American Building Survey) in 1938. The property is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places individually and as a Dutch Stone Farmhouses thematic district. It is historically designated in Montville Township and included in the Crossroads of American Revolution Greenway. Restoration of the house won the 2009 New Jersey State Historic Preservation award for preservation and restoration.

490 Main Road (Route 202)Towaco 07082 973-394-0554

Henry DoremusDutch Stone House

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The site was once part of a 180-acre working farm, purchased by Nicholas Vreeland and his wife, Catrina Van Duyne in March 1775, where the out kitchen, house, cemetery, saw mill and other out buildings were located.

Out kitchens were built to lessen fire hazards and, in the summer, to avoid cooking odors and heat in the main house. Built circa 1780, the site is unique as it is believed to be the last detached Dutch stone out kitchen in Morris County. The out kitchen is unaltered, retains significant original architectural fabric and has not been modernized, attached or incorporated into the house as many out kitchens have been. The out kitchen retains its original hardware, door, beehive oven, and four-foot cooking crane.

The Nicholas Vreeland Dutch Stone Out Kitchen was restored in 2007 with grants from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund. The out kitchen was documented by HABS (Historic American Building Survey) in 1938. The property is listed on the Township local historic register and is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places. It is also located within the Crossroads of American Revolution Greenway.


52 Jacksonville Road, Towaco 07082973-394-0554

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Oscar A. Kincaid, Jr., a well loved mayor of Boonton Township, died in November 2000. The Historical Society of Boonton Township, with the enthusiastic support of members, friends and neighbors, purchased the house and road stand in March 2003. Under its stewardship, three phases of restoration have been completed at the house. Used for local history programs and exhibitions, it is also a popular venue for community events, fundraisers and art exhibits. The Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History welcomes visitors by appointment. Please call Marilyn Terhune at 973-627-2430 or Gretchen Longo at 973-334-9563.

This Weekend’s Events in Boonton TownshipTour the Kincaid Farmhouse

The Historical Society of Boonton Township invites you to visit the Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History, Boonton Township’s second oldest indigenous frame building dating to 1785. Under the stewardship of the Society, the heritage house has been undergoing meticulous restoration. An exhibition by Kinnelon High School’s Advanced Placement Photography Class will present a unique and artistic photographic view of the nooks and crannies of this antique house.

A celebration is planned to honor the 1837 enigmatic folk art face in the front stair hall as “he” marks his 175th year. Come learn the intriguing story behind this mysterious silent witness to history. If walls could talk, what stories he could tell!

The Kincaid Fine Crafts and Art Shoppe

The road stand will house a distinctive selection of original artwork, ceramics, and other finely crafted eclectic items. Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the little building and do some shopping too!

Refreshments will be served in Mrs. Kincaid’s Country Kitchen

Visitors are encouraged to stay for refreshments and are invited to enjoy the rural scene from Oscar’s rocking chair porch before heading to the next museum stop.

Artists On-Site

The ART-IN Group, an eclectic assemblage of artists from Morris County and beyond, will be on-site painting views of Valley Farm and the surrounding pasto-ral scene. Their en plein air paintings will be available for purchase.

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In 1785 Adam Miller, Jr. and his wife Anna DeMouth Miller built the earliest section of the dwelling which stands today as the second oldest frame building indigenous to Boonton Township. The little house did not face the road, because at that early date there was no designated road to the property.

John Decker, Oscar Kincaid Jr.’s great-great-grandfather, purchased the home and forge site in 1833 from then owner William Scott. Forge man and farmer, John Decker became a man of substance, adding extensive acreage to his origi-nal purchase. His forge iron came from the Hibernia mines, and the shipments from his forge to New York were made via the Morris Canal.

John Decker enlarged the small, original house in 1837 when the side hall, main block was added. The addition’s most remarkable feature is the ingenuous and idiosyncratic portrait created in spiteful retaliation by a dismissed contractor. This “decoration” is now considered a unique example of naïve and whimsical folk art. Amazingly, throughout the past 175 years of the home’s existence and occupation, the hallway decoration was never painted over and lost.

The little ice cream stand, built by Oscar A. Kincaid, Sr., in the mid-1920’s, is thought to be one of the oldest continually running country stands in New Jersey. In 1938 Oscar Kincaid, Sr. entered the dairy business and added a room and large walk-in cooler to the small road stand to house his new endeavor. By 1944, the Kincaid’s had reverted to general farming and adopted the name “Valley Farm” by which the house and property are still recognized today. In 1980 it received the prestigious Century Farm Award given by the New Jersey Agricultural Society, the oldest farm organization in the country.


Listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places

Headquarters: Historical Society of Boonton Township591 Powerville RoadBoonton Township 07005973-263-0907

Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History

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This Weekend’s Events in Montville TownshipCome visit where history walked in Montville Township. General George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and 2,000 soldiers stayed at the Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House in June 1780 for 2 ½ days. The Continental soldiers stayed at the Doremus Tavern across the street and camped on the grounds of the farm and tavern. In 1781, General Rochambeau and 5,000 soldiers rested on the grounds on their way south to what became the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Come experience 1760 and early 1800’s Dutch family life and Dutch architecture; see how the Dutch built their homes utilizing techniques unique to the Dutch and how our early settlers lived and coped with the Revolutionary War.


• Continuous tour of this historic site by guides in period dress. The home is furnished based on period inventory of the Doremus family, which includes a display of 18th century antiques, and an Historic Document Collection including General George Washington’s letters written from the Henry Doremus House (one penned by Alexander Hamilton), letters received, and General George Washington’s payment to Mrs. Doremus for staying in the house and Doremus Tavern. This display also includes historic photos of the Henry Doremus House and Doremus Tavern.

• Enjoy continuous period music played by our fiddler and accompanist

• Spinning and weaving demonstrations and soldiers in musket drills

• An antique quilt display, with experienced quilters on hand as guides

Come join us for this unique opportunity to step back in history.


Built circa 1780, this site is unique as it is believed to be the last detached Dutch stone out kitchen in Morris County. This weekend is an opportunity to review hearthside food practices and receipts (recipes) which you can try at home. In addition, continuous tours will illustrate Dutch architecture and how this out kitchen was built with a modified jambless fireplace and why.

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Jefferson Township Museum(The George Chamberlain House)315 Dover-Milton RoadJefferson Township 07438973-697-0258

In the 1870’s, Amos Chamberlain, a resident of Milton Village, built another home on his property for his son George and his bride-to-be, Ruth Elizabeth Speaker. After their marriage in 1874, they moved into the new house on Dover-Milton Road and soon purchased it from Amos. Two children, Raymond and Archie, were raised in the home and attended school locally. The family remained in residence into the early 1900’s. In later decades, the house was rented to various families in the extended Chamberlain family.

In 1960, the house was purchased by the Friends of the Library, and after refur-bishing it for public usage, it functioned as the Violet Riker Library for 19 years. When the new Jefferson Township Library was built, the Township acquired the house and the Historical Society, known as the “Jefferson Township Committee for ‘76”, established it as the Township Museum. In its current form, it is a repre-sentation of life in Jefferson Township in the last quarter of the 19th century. Furnishings, artifacts, garments, and interior decor reflect the style of the times. Tours are often conducted by costumed docents.

The lower level is the kitchen of the home and is the site of Miss Elizabeth’s Shoppe, selling unique gifts, local provisions, antiques, and homemade goods. The gardens surrounding the house also reflect the style of the Victorian period, and are beautifully maintained by the Museum Garden Club of Jefferson. The museum is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

This Weekend’s Events in Jefferson TownshipYour Pathways visit will find us nestled among vibrant autumn foliage alongside a gently flowing stream. Piece Partners Quilters of Milton will be plying their needles and a local craftsman will demonstrate how woodworking tools of the late 1880’s were used. Our refreshments will add to the feeling of a step back in time. Costumed docents will explain the heritage of the home, as our antique harmoni-um adds a warm note of Victorian organ music. We look forward to greeting you.

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This Weekend’s Events in BoontonMusic at the Miller-Kingsland House

Saturday 2:30 PM – “A Garland of Summer Music” performed on recorders by the New England Players, Gill Otto (Soprano), Barbara Busch (Alto).

Civil War Re-enactors at the Miller-Kingsland House

We are pleased to welcome members of the 33rd Regiment New Jersey Volunteer Infantry. In addition to civilian and military camp life, visitors will witness march-ing and drill as well as musket firing demonstrations. A bugling presentation with original instruments will be performed by 33rd musician Doug Grunn, who is also a member of Buglers Across America.

Special guest, author and historian, Robert Jones, will display items from his extensive Civil War artifacts collection, and will discuss and sign copies of his books.

Walking Tour of Boonton’s Historic Residential District

Saturday 10:00 AM – The Boonton Historical Society will present a walking tour of the Historic Residential District. In 1830 the first skilled ironworkers came from England to work in the Boonton Iron Works. They were guaranteed free passage to America, generous wages and new homes for their families. This tour includes an external look at some of these homes and a visit to two of the churches they subsequently built. The tour begins outside the Post Office at 501 Main Street, and is conducted by Harold Johnson, retired pastor of the First Presbyterian Church. In addition to the First Presbyterian Church being open for this tour, St. John’s Episcopal Church will also be visited. St. John’s boasts some magnificent windows by Tiffany as well as a centennial window, fabricated in England, which depicts the economic life and history of the Town of Boonton.

There is a $5 suggested donation for non-members taking this 2-hour tour. Tour participants will receive a 15% discount coupon, valid Saturday only, which can be used at many of the Main Street restaurants and other vendors between 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The Museum and Gift Shop at 210 Main Street will be open Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and Sunday 12:00 – 4:00 PM.

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Miller-Kingsland House445 Vreeland AvenueBoonton 07005

This property was originally part of a tract of 231 acres purchased in 1728 for £85. It sits on a 2.5-acre wooded lot and includes an historic frame house dating from 1740, and a barn. It is the oldest recorded house in Boonton and is listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places.

The property sits on a beautiful wooded landscape with a stream flowing through it. Only three families have owned this house, each of whom added to the struc-ture. The original one-room Dutch Wing purchased by Johannes Miller in 1740; a federal addition with gambrel roof by Isaac Kingsland c1798, and the latest addition by Mae and Alex Fowler who purchased the house in 1938. Much of the original home still exists including the Dutch architecture, which is very rare in the northeastern United States; a large cooking fireplace and beehive oven, with date stone; the original crane and fire back in the living room fireplace; and an original staircase railing, wood trim, and wide plank floors.

In an effort to preserve this property, the Town of Boonton was successful in securing a grant for $1 million from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund and a further $300,000 in Green Acres Funding.

The original owners and their descendents are recorded by Alex Fowler in his book Splinters from the Past. Although this fascinating book of local architecture is out of print, the Historical Society has several copies for sale.

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25 Kiel Avenue, Kinnelon 07405 973-838-0185

The first Meadtown School was built in 1839 in the fields below Wilton Mead’s house. It served the commu-nity until 1873 when a larger, more modern school was built on the property now known as L’Ecole

Kinnelon Museum. This new school’s single room held approximately 40 to 50 pupils. The Meadtown School served the children of the community until 1925, when a new, two-room school built of native stone was constructed. The Meadtown School was also used as a meeting place, including the first organi-zational meeting of the Borough of Kinnelon. Sunday school classes were also held there.

Around 1930, the little schoolhouse caught the eye of a young medical doctor from New York City, Doctor Helen Miller. Dr. Miller affectionately called the place L’Ecole, the French word for school. At first, Dr. Miller visited L’Ecole as a retreat from her busy practice and clinical work in New York City. By the late 1930’s, her visits became more frequent and she began additions that would turn L’Ecole into her primary residence. As local residents got to know and respect Dr. Miller, they began to appear at her doorstep with their medical problems. As time went by, more and more residents began to see Dr. Miller. She was now convinced that it was time to establish part of her practice in Kinnelon.

In 1954, Dr. Miller added two examination rooms and an office to her home at L’Ecole to keep up with her growing practice. In 1963, she constructed a medical building on adjacent property and encouraged other New York City physicians to practice in this area. Upon her death in 1990, Dr. Miller bequeathed L’Ecole to the Borough of Kinnelon. It was Dr. Miller’s wish that the old schoolhouse would benefit the community that had come to mean so much to her. From pupils to politicians to patients, L’Ecole has met the needs of local citizens for well over a century. Today, L’Ecole continues to serve the community as a museum chronicling and celebrating our local history and traditions. The Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 – 4:00 PM.



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This Weekend’s Events in KinnelonDr. Helen L. Miller

Saturday and Sunday 1:00 PM – Dr. Helen L. Miller was a 20th century doctor who brought modern medicine to the Borough of Kinnelon. The 1:00 PM presentation at L’Ecole will focus on the life and work of the accomplished and generous Dr. Miller.

The Newark Watershed

Saturday and Sunday 2:00 PM – The Newark Pequannock Watershed is a natural resource which encompasses 35,000 acres, includes five reservoirs, and is in portions of six municipalities, one of which is the Borough of Kinnelon. The 2:00 PM lecture will be on the history of the Newark Pequannock Watershed with guest lecturer Russell Hannah.

Local Artisans

Both days local artisans will display and offer for sale a selection of their creations which will include woodworking, ceramics, watercolors, and etchings.

Refreshments

Enjoy some refreshments in the main meeting room at L’Ecole before continuing on the museum tour.

This building was originally a private home built for Dr. John Taylor and his wife, Adelaide T. Kanouse. John L. Kanouse gave his daughter and her husband this lot as a Christmas gift in 1897. Most likely, it was an enticement to get his family to move closer to him, because they had been living in Succasunna and Mount Arlington where Dr. Taylor had practiced medicine for 15 years. The

Taylors returned to Boonton and had this brick house built. Dr. Taylor continued his medical practice here.

In 1901, Adelaide’s parents came to live with them until her father died in 1905 and her mother in 1908. John L. Kanouse was one of Boonton’s most promi-nent citizens. In addition to being a successful businessman, he was elected Superintendent of Public Schools and held the office for twenty years. He was instrumental in establishing the first free school in Morris County located here in Boonton. He served in the State Legislature and Board of Chosen Freeholders and as Associate Judge of Morris County and Tax Collector of Boonton.

Dr. Ellery Peck worked with Dr. Taylor in this building as an associate for seven years. Then in 1917 Dr. Peck went to serve in WWI and Dr. Taylor moved to Chula Vista, CA. After the war, the returning soldiers formed American Legion Post #124. Subsequently, the Mayor and Aldermen purchased the building from the Post and dedicated it as a permanent memorial to veterans and a home for Post #124. The Legion also offered space to the Boonton Historical Society. On November 11, 1980, the Society opened its museum on the second floor. Ten years later, the building was closed to the public and extensive restoration work was performed by both professional tradesmen and some tireless volunteers. The building reopened in 1997.

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210 Main Street, Boonton 07005 973-402-8840



9 Lakeside Boulevard, Hopatcong 07843(at Hopatcong State Park, Landing 07850)GPS: 40° 54’ 57” N, 74° 39’ 56” W

• An entertaining and enlightening look at the history of New Jersey’s largest lake will include a special salute to Bertrand Island Park


34 Evans Place, Pompton Plains 07444GPS: 40° 58’ 14” N, 74° 17’ 36” W

• A display representing veterans of the Civil War connected to old Pequannock Township

Nicholas Vreeland Out Kitchen

52 Jacksonville Road, Towaco 07082GPS: 40° 55’ 59” N, 74° 20’ 33” W

• Hearthside food practices and receipts (recipes) • Continuous tours and architectural discussion

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Hopatcong State ParkLanding 07850 973-398-2616

Located in a rustic 19th century build-ing which served as a lock tender’s house on the Morris Canal, the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum offers an entertaining and enlightening look at the history of New Jersey’s largest

lake. Step back to a time when the Lake was actually two bodies of water and the Lenape lived along its shores. Learn of the building of the famous Morris Canal and the forming of modern day Lake Hopatcong, its main source of water. Travel back to the era when the Lake was a tourist mecca and some 40 hotels and rooming houses graced its shores. Relive the days when thousands flocked to Bertrand Island Amusement Park for dancing and “nickel nights.”

In an age before jets, air conditioning and super highways, Lake Hopatcong was a major northeast resort. Within easy reach of large cities to the east, the Lake’s size and setting at over 900 feet above sea level made it a perfect resort. Trains from urban centers carried vacationers to the Lake where they would board steamboats to their final destination. From the 1880’s through the 1930’s the Lake welcomed thousands each year, including leaders in government, industry and entertainment.

Recognized as one of the finest small museums in New Jersey, the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum displays an extensive collection of memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts relating to the Lake’s grand history. The Museum is located on the grounds of Hopatcong State Park in Landing, under two miles off Route I-80 at Exit 28. Admission is free. Check http://www.lakehopatconghistory.com for further information.


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The Museum of Pequannock Township opened to the public in June, 2006. The Museum is housed in the former Pompton Plains Railroad Station which was restored in 2010. Located at the corner of Evans Place and Jackson Avenue, the Museum is owned by the Township of Pequannock. The Pompton Plains Railroad Station was built in 1872 and added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 5, 2008. James R. Evans was the station agent from the 1870’s until the turn of the 20th century. Regular passenger train service for the train station ended in 1963 although shuttles from Mountain View remained until 1966. Freight service to the station continued into the 1980’s. The Museum staff educates the public about the history of the Township and is active in local historical preservation projects including material for the Township’s Museum. These materials include preparation of an historical walking tour guidebook and working toward the reprint of George Parr’s 1990 book, History of Pequannock Township.

In addition, the Museum presents physical artifacts, pictures and other items displaying the rich history of the Township. The Museum is open the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month from 12:00 – 3:00 PM. It is also open by appointment and for special events. For an appointment to tour the museum at another day or time, or if you have something to donate or discuss, please feel free to contact the Historic District Commission at [email protected]

Donations of original or copies of material relating to the history of Pequannock are always appreciated. Historians and those working on family genealogy are welcome to contact us with questions. If you are interested in volunteering to help staff the twice monthly openings of the Museum, please contact us. Check out the Friends of Pequannock History on Facebook.


33 Evans Place at Jackson AvenuePompton Plains 07444 201-919-1128

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490 Main Road (US 202) Towaco 07082(Park in Sea Breeze Parking Lot across the street from the house)GPS: 40° 55’ 05” N, 74° 21’ 15” W

• Spinning and weaving demonstrations and soldiers in musket drills • Live period music with fiddler and accompanist • Antique quilt display with quilters on hand • Continuous tours of site and Dutch architecture • 18th century antiques on display • Document display of George Washington’s letters and expense account

Jefferson Township Museum

315 Dover-Milton RoadJefferson Township 07438GPS: 41° 01’ 12” N, 74° 31’ 40” W

• House tours • Quilters • 1880’s woodworking tools • Gift Shoppe


25 Kiel Avenue, Kinnelon 07405GPS: 41° 00’ 07” N, 74° 21’ 41” W

• PowerPoint presentation about Dr. Helen L. Miller – Saturday and Sunday at 1:00 PM • Lecture by Russell Hannah on the Newark Watershed – Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 PM • Local artisans: wood crafts; botanical ceramics; etchings and watercolors

Butler Museum and Historical Committee

10 High Street, Butler 07405(Butler Police Department Community Room)GPS: 41° 00’ 04” N, 74° 20’ 23” W

• Slide presentation on the early glory days of Butler – Saturday and Sunday – 12:15 PM • Children’s coloring activities • Video and slides of the 1957 Pequanoc Rubber Company Fire available for viewing all day


113 Diamond Spring Road, Denville 07834GPS: 40° 53’ 45” N, 74° 28’ 25” W

• Tours of Denville Museum – Saturday 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM

Dover Area Historical Society

55 West Blackwell Street, Dover 07801GPS: 40° 53’ 02” N, 74° 33’ 40” W

• Exhibit of local history • Continuous video presentations including: vaudeville theatres, the Morris Canal, Dover Speedway, early transportation and local industry

Glenburn, Riverdale

211 Hamburg Turnpike, Riverdale 07457GPS: 41° 00’ 04” N, 74° 18’ 55” W

• Continuous tours of this beautifully restored mansion

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This Weekend’s Events in Pequannock TownshipThe Museum will present a display representing veterans of the Civil War connected to old Pequannock Township that are buried in the cemetery of the First Reformed Church of Pompton Plains. Information about their life in the military, their units and their life after the War will be included. This presenta-tion represents the ongoing remembrance during the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, and the impact of the War and its aftermath on life in Pequannock.

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NotesLocations and Events

Admission is free at all locations


210 Main Street, Boonton 07005GPS: 40° 54’ 10” N, 74° 24’ 28” W

• Memorial exhibit honoring landscape architect and pioneering environmentalist, Joan S. L. Greentree

Boonton – at the Miller-Kingsland House

445 Vreeland Avenue, Boonton 07005GPS: 40° 54’ 02” N, 74° 23’ 12” W

• 33rd Regiment New Jersey Volunteers Civil War encampment • The New England Players – Saturday 2:30 PM

Boonton TownshipOscar A. Kincaid Home of History

591 Powerville Road, Boonton Twp 07005GPS: 40° 57’ 17” N, 74° 24’ 35” W

• Tours of Kincaid farmhouse • A celebration marking the 175th anniversary of the enigmatic folk art face decoration • Fine arts and crafts at road stand •ART-IN artists painting on-site • Refreshments served in Mrs. Kincaid’s kitchen

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While on the tour, kindly be guided by the following ...

Thank you

Remember that you will be visiting historic homes and museums. In order to make this day an enjoyable experience for everyone, please show your consideration by observing the following guidelines:

• Smoking is not permitted inside any location• No food or drink should be taken into any location• Please do not touch furniture or artifacts in any location• No photography inside any location without permission• Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult• No strollers inside any home• In the event of rain, we ask that you exercise special care in the removal of water from shoes and clothing• No usage of bathrooms inside any home or other building unless otherwise posted• No pets allowed in any of the historic buildings

AcknowledgementsPUBLICATION TEAM

Jennifer M. CoultasBoonton Historical Society

Gretchen LongoHistorical Society of Boonton Township

Donna WestJefferson Township Historical Society

DESIGN CONSULTATION

James KuhnertBoonton Historical Society

We would like to recognize our members, friends and the many volunteers who provided

refreshments, worked as docents and in so many ways loaned their talents and gave long hours

to support this event.

Postcard of Boonton Avenue (July 1910) heading northbound toward Butler showing the location where Boonton Township, Kinnelon and Montville Township

converge by Pyramid Mountain Park on the Boonton Reservoir.

From the personal collection of the late Jean Ricker.

The Pathways of HistoryThe Pathways of History

• Boonton Historical Society and Museum• Miller-Kingsland House• Oscar A. Kincaid Home of History• Butler Museum and Historical Committee• Denville Historical Society• Dover Area Historical Society• Glenburn, Riverdale• Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House• Jefferson Township Museum• L’Ecole Kinnelon Museum• Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum• Museum of Pequannock Township• Nicholas Vreeland Out Kitchen

Saturday, October 20, 2012 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMSunday, October 21, 2012 Noon – 4:00 PM

Call for information: 973-263-0907

A Museum Tour

Featuring:

Documents

The Pathways of History