When in doubt go the the library!

Need more information on Mountainside and local history? Perhaps you are working on a research paper for school, or are simply interested in learning more about Mountainside’s history. The Mountainside Public Library offers an on-line history collection that includes maps, brochures, original written histories and more. Additional information can be obtained at the library in hard copy form. Visit the Local History box below to see what the library has to offer.

Read about your town

Anyone interested in learning more about the fascinating history of Mountainside should certainly pick up a copy of Connie McNamara’s book “A History of Mountainside, 1947-2007: It was Only Yesterday”. A lifelong resident of Union County, and living in Mountainside since 1974, Connie is an accomplished writer who has published numerous books and is currently a freelance writer. Published by Arcadia Publishing and The History Press, an except of of the books description is as follows:

“Bordered by the Watchung ridges, Mountainside's picturesque four square miles afford a parklike setting in the midst of exurban activity. Author Connie McNamara provides a comprehensive look at this tight-knit community that prides itself on its bucolic surroundings and its caring and cohesiveness. She recounts anecdotes, passed on by town elders, of Mountainside's prestigious historic architecture, the establishment of the nationally renowned Children's Specialized Hospital and the Badgley House, where Revolutionary residents concealed their valuables from the British. Longtime Mountainsiders candidly recall the 1987 tornado, the 1995 centennial celebration and the galvanizing day in 1985 when the historic Hetfield House was moved down Route 22. Produced in collaboration with the Mountainside Historic Preservation Committee, A History of Mountainside unveils the extraordinary character of this beloved New Jersey town.”

Copies of Connie’s book are available for purchase at the Mountainside Public Library, the Deacon Andrew Hetfield and Levi Cory houses and cost $19.99. For further information call (908) 789-9420.

Visiting Mountainside?

Click the LEARN MORE button visit the Mountainside Borough homepage and read about other community organizations and things to do while in town.

Early 1900’s Buildings & Streets of Mountainside

Explore photos of Route 22 in the 1940’s or the Mountainside Post Office in 1913. Did you know that a Blacksmith Shop once stood on what is now a parking lot behind the Mountainside Deli? Check out these amazing photos to see what other surprises history holds.

NHPA of 1965

What is Historic Preservation? What is the National Historic Preservation Act of 1965? What is the Register of Historic Places? Visit the National Park Services or the National Historic Preservation Act boxes below to answer these questions and read about the first national policy put in place governing preservation that has shaped many historic and cultural sites for the past 60 years.

The Annual Newsletter

Missed the annual update from The Mountainside Restoration Committee? Look no further! You can download and read any newsletter since 2005. The annual “from the Hetfield & Levi Cory houses” newsletter is a great way to read about all of the educational and social activities the committee hosted throughout the year. Updates on restoration projects are provided, including grants awarded to the committee. Finally, the recipient of the annual Arthur J. Brahm Scholarship Award, given each year to a graduating Deerfield 8th grader, is highlighted in each newsletter. To view any of the newsletters, click on the Learn More box below, which will direct you back to the “Welcome” page. Scroll down to view the collection of newsletters. To subscribe, click on the Subscribe box in order to fill out an on-line email request.

Four Centuries in a Weekend

Explore historical sites in the state of New Jersey by visiting the webpage of the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs of Union County.

Historical Houses of Mountainside

Browse through a collection of photographs from 1790 through the 1950’s to see what once stood at some of our modern day locations, including Chrone’s Tavern. See how many locations you recognize!

Mountainside School & Club Photos

Wait - is that Grandma in that pic? Whether you are a first generation or fifth generation “Mountainsider” (or just visiting), you might see someone you know in these historical school and club photos. Classes were smaller in size than they are today making it easy to spot a relative or friend who might have attended the Mountainside Public School system in the early to mid 1900’s. The Mountainside Restoration Committee maintains copies of old yearbooks on site for reference.