IDGEWOOD PAST and PRESENT 1866 1916 Upper — Center of Ridgewood, 1876 Center — 10, 20 and 25 mile radius of Ridgewood Lower — Village and Township of Ridgewood, 1916 LAjiy- RIDGEWOOD BERGEN COUNTY NEW JERSEY PAST and PRESENT PUBLISHED BY CITIZENS SEMI'CENTENNIAL ASSOCIATION RIDGEWOOD. N. ]. DECEMBERS!, 1916 i,;_ COPYRIGHT BY CITIZENS SEMI-CENTENNIAL ASSOCIATION y 1- /^f JUL 30 1917 ©CIA470471 ^' FOREWORD DURING the early part of 1916 a number of citizens recognizing the historic importance of the year in connection with the life of Ridgewood, brought to the attention of the Village authorities and the Independence Day Association, the idea of including in the usual celebration on Independence Day, the formal opening of the new station improvements and the Fiftieth Anniversary of the adoption of the name — Ridgewood. The Independence Day Association, therefore, called a meeting of the citizens, which developed the fact that the station improvements would not be completed by Independence Day. As a result, the Citizens Semi-Centennial Association was incor- porated to arrange for a proper celebration during the fall of the year. Committees were formed and plans developed to make the affair an epoch in the history of the community. On account of the prevalence of infantile paralysis in the adjacent communities and the danger of its being brought into the Village, it was necessary to abandon the plans. The Association felt, however, that the event should not pass with- out some recognition of a permanent character and, as a result, it was decided to enlarge upon the plans previously contemplated for a souvenir booklet of the occasion, with a consequent increase in the labor and time required in its preparation. This book is dedicated, therefore, to the present and future residents of our community in commemoration of the Fiftieth Anniversary of the adoption of the name Ridgewood, and is intended not only for the citizen who would know something of Ridgewood 's past, but also for those who are interested in its present life and welfare. The Association is indebted to the Historical Committee for the story of our community's life which it contains, to the Publicity Committee for the fitting manner in which it is published, and to its members, who through their generosity have made the publication possible. Citizens Semi-Centennial Association. Note. — For list of ollicers and members of association, see Appendix. PREFACE AS directed by the general committee of the Citizens' Semi-Centen- nial Association, the Historical and Publicity Committees herein present the story of Ridgewood's past and present life. The history of many communities of our present day discloses the story of a development that would not be complete without recording therein the place taken by each section — some older, others younger — which now compose their component parts, including those also which, due to governmental changes, no longer form a part of a particular territory. While this is also true of the present municipality of Ridgewood, Bergen County, N. J., in a book of this kind it is impracticable to tell in detail the story of each section, although, in the pages which follow, their relationship from the earliest times of the community will be found interwoven with its history. Our object has been to show not only a record, as complete as pos- sible, of Ridgewood's past, but also its present life, and in a manner that besides being of historical interest will be of practical value to those of the present and future who are interested in our community. With this object in view, the Historical Committee has spared no effort in seeking out and obtaining the necessary facts, including the solicitation of contributed articles from those of our citizens who are active in a particular phase of our community life. These articles, some of which appear practically as contributed, while others have been modified only as necessity demanded to adapt them to the general plan and scope of the booklet, were furnished by the following persons : Berier, Mrs. de L. Milliken, F. W. De Yoe, J. Willard Moloney, M. J. Dimock, F. A. Ockford, Dr. George M. Doremus, Judge Cornelius Parsons, J. B. Drinker, W. W. Rouclere, Harry Graydon, Samuel D. Sowter, E. T. Haight, W. H. Vail, C. Waldemar Hopper, Dr. .John B. Van Neste, Rev. J. A. Howland. Miss Caroline E. Vroom, Dr. W. L. Kevser, F. L. Watson, Frederick V. Le Roy, Howard R. White, E. T. Maier, William H. White, Hon. George U. Marinus, John A. Willard, Dr. H. S, To these and to F. H. Bogert, Miss Florence De L. Bunce, H. J. Carroll, Mrs. Jos. W. Edwards, J. R. Eschelman, T. J. Foster, Hon. D. A. Garber, Robert Groves, Dr. A. G. Hopper, A. T. Hubschmitt, I. E. Hutton, Miss Irene C. Kelly, D. W. La Fetra, T. W. McMullen, Wilbur Morris, H. S. Patten, H. C. Pennal, Peter Pulis, A. B. Stearns, T. V. Terhune, H. A. Tice, Dr. W. A. Tracy, Carl M. Vail, W. W. Wilsey and Geo. R. Young, as well as the citizens in general who have aided, in the work, the Historical Committee takes this opportunity of acknowledging its indebtedness and expressing its api)reciation of the assistance re- ceived. To the following publications and articles and to others less exten- sively consulted, the Historical Committee also wishes to acknowledge its indebtedness as sources of information relating to the various periods, subjects and phases of its work: Address by Rev. William H. V^room, D.D. — Dedication of Tablet, Reformed Church of Paranuis, July 4, 1914. Addresses of Judge David D. Zabriskie relating to the history of Ridgewood and vicinity. All the Days of My Life. — An Autobiography by Amelia E. Barr. Annual Reports of the Village of Ridgewood. Appraisal of the property of the Bergen Aqueduct Company and Bergen Water Company, by E. D. Winters, 1915. Archives of the State of New Jersey. Atlas of Bergen County, N. J., by A. H. Walker and C. C. Pease, 1876. Between the Ocean and The Lakes, The Story of the Erie, by E. H. Mott, 1899. Genealogical Historv of Hudson and Bergen Counties, N. J., by C. B. Harvey, 1900. Historic Houses of Bergen County, by B. G. Allbee. History of Bergen and Passaic Counties, N. J., by W. W. Clayton, 1882. History of Bergen County, N. J., by J. M. Van Valen, 1900. History of the Classis of Paramus of the Reformed Church in America, 1902. History of the County of Hudson, New Jersey, by C. H. Winfield, 1874. History of Ridgewood, by George Edgar Knowlton. Itinerary of General Washington, by W. S. Baker. Official Programs. — Independence Day Association of Ridgewood. Papers and Proceedings, The Bergen County Historical Society. Program. — 250th Anniversary of the Founding of the Village of Bergen, 1660. Public Papers of George Clinton, First Governor of New York. Ridgewood, New Jersey, by C. H. Dunn, 1898. Ridgewood, N. J., by Henry P. Phelps, 1912. Ridgewood Guide, by Baxter and Breusch, 1896. Ridgewood of Yesteryear, by Judge Cornelius Doremus. Ridgewood 's History, by Harold A. Cheel. The Architectural Record. The Citizens' Book, Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce, 1916. The Improvement of Ridgewood, N. J. Report by Chas. M. Robin- son to Board of Trade, 1908. The Pageant of Ridgewood, N. J., June 19, 1915. The Ridgewood Herald. The Ridgewood News. If the results of our efforts furnish a source of information of value to those who seek it and also stimulate a devotion to our community's welfare, we will feel our mission has been fulfilled. Historical Committee Richard T. ^^'ILSO^', Chainnaii Frank A. Baxter Rebecca W. Hawes Ira W. Travell .Idliii II. Ward Judge David D. Zabriskie Everett L. Zabriskie Publicity Committee H. ^V. Casler, Chairman W. F. ScinriDT, Y ice-Chairman V. A. Diiiiock B. G. Smith C. C. ]SIiles W. S. :\Ioore C. H. Green D. R. Dusenborrv A. H. Gamble W. \A'. ^Vil'!ev E. B. Lilly B. D. Hilton H. R. LeRoy Ridgewood, Bergen County, N. J., December 31, 1916. CONTENTS PAGE FOREWORD V PREFACE vii CHAPTER I— GENERAL HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT 1 Indian Occupation 1 Early Settlers 2 Colonial Period 3 Revolutionary War 4 1782 to 180.5 9 Civil War 12 Birth of Ridgevvood 16 CHAPTER II— GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND NATURAL FEATURES . . 18 Name 18 Location 18 Appearance 18 Soil 19 Climatic Conditions 19 Road.s and Highways 19 Plant Life 22 Trees of Ridgewood 27 Bird Life of Ridgewood 31 CHAPTER III— CIVIL ORGANIZATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS 37 Political Divisions 37 Relation Between Village, County and State 38 Ridgewood's Form of Government 41 Township Committee 41 Village Trustees 42 Village Commissioners 44 The Mayor 46 Department of Public Affairs and Public Safety 46 Police Department 46 Fire Department 48 Board of Health 52 Shade Tree Commission 55 Building Committee 58 Department of Revenue and Finance 58 Department of Public Improvements, Parks and Public Property .... 59 Advisory Board 61 xi CON TEN T S Administration of Justice Court of Common Pleas District Court Recorder's Court . Bar of Ridgewood PAGE 62 62 63 65 65 CHAPTER IV— EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND THE PUBLIC LIBRARY 67 Public Schools 67 Private Schools 74 Public Library 77 CHAPTER V— RELIGIOUS INTERESTS 78 Reformed Church of Paramus 78 Christ Episcopal Church 80 The Kenilworth Collegiate Presbyterian Church {Christian Reformed) ... 81 First Reformed Church 81 African M. E. Zion Church (Colored) 82 Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel 83 Emmanuel Baptist Church 84 Methodist Episcopal Church 84 Unitarian Society 85 First Church of Christ, Scientist 86 Bethlehem Lutheran Church 86 Mount Bethel Baptist Church (Colored) 86 West Side Collegiate Presbyterian Church 87 Upper Ridgewood Religious Societies 88 CHAPTER VI— BUSINESS INTERESTS 89 Real Estate Development 89 Mercantile and Industrial Enterprises 91 Financial Institutions 96 Medical and Dental Professions 97 Publications 101 Hotels, Inns, and Taverns 103 Public Utilities 105 Express Service 105 Gas and Electric Systems 105 Post Office 107 Erie Railroad 108 Rapid Transit 115 Telephone and Telegraph Facilities 115 Water Supply 118 CHAPTER VII— RESIDENCES— PRESENT, EARLY, HISTORICAL— AND COMMUNITY CENTERS 121 Homes of Ridgewood 121 Early Dutch Homes 121 Houses of Historical Interest 125 Community Centers 126 Pearsall's Grove 126 Opera House 126 CON TEN T S PAGE Play House 128 Municipal Building VZS Halls and Club Rotinis 1^8 Speedway 131 Ho-Ho-Kus Driving Club Park 131 Bergen County Fair Association 131 Community Christmas Tree Festival 133 CHAPTER VIII— CIVIC AND COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATIONS .... 134 Clubs 134 Patriotic 141 Political 145 Fraternal 147 Musical 150 Welfare ' 151 School 155 Anti-Liquor 156 Medical 157 For Young Men 158 Commercial 161 CHAPTER IX— BURIAL PLACES 162 CHAPTER X— SUMMARIZED FACTS, STATISTICS AND CHRONOLOGY . 163 APPENDIX : Semi-Centennial Association 170 Officers 170 Committees 170 Members and Contributors ^ 172 The Semi-Centennial Songs of Ridgewood 173 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS PAGE Map of Ridgewood and Vicinity Frontispiece The " Old Elm " in Ho-Ho-Kus 5 The Development of West Ridgewood Avenue 17 Pearsall's Grove — East Ridgewood Avenue — In the Early DO's. 28 Ruins of Fire, March 9, 1881 49 High School — Beech Street 68 The Reformed Church of Paramus 79 Station and Plaza — Before Improvements 110 Station and Plaza — After Improvements Ill The Old Aycrigg House 123 The Town Club 132 The Ridgewood Country Club 136 Ridgewood Y. M. C. A 159 Ridgewood: Past and Present CHAPTER I GENERAL HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT IN an analysis of the history of a community it will be found that the greatest influences in determining its character have been the ideals and endeavors of its inhabitants. A narrative, therefore, of the history of Ridgewood is really one of the life of its people. While the development of particular phases of its life will be found elsewhere in this book, the general historical development of the community may well be divided into the following periods: INDIAN OCCUPATION Before the appearance of Europeans on this continent it is well known that nations of men speaking widely different languages, and commonly called Indians, existed here. The nation inhabiting the greater part of New Jersey was called the Delawares or Lenni Lenape, signifying, in their tongue, "The original people." Several sub-divisions of the Delawares have been made by writers. The tribes who occupied and roamed over the counties of Bergen and Passaic were those of the Unalachtgo or Turkey, and the Minsi or Wolf. A further division has also been made into sub-tribes known as Hacken- sacks, Acquakanonks, Pomptons, Tappans and Haverstraws, all sug- gestive of well-known districts. In 1643 the earliest white explorers into the region of the Hacken- sack and Passaic valleys found scattered villages, embraced under the name of Hackensacks, and varying in size from one to four or five houses, distributed over an area now bounded by points located approxi- matel.y near Jersey City, Staten Island, Newark, Passaic, and the upper waters of the Hackensack, Passaic and Saddle Rivers. Investigators have found actual evidence of Indian occupation in many places along the streams and creeks of the Bergen County water- shed. The vicinity of Ridgewood, the banks of the Saddle River, and of the Ho-Ho-Kus and Sprout Brooks, have proven to be most promising localities for these researches. As a result of plowed fields and washouts, evidences have been traced of primitive settlements in many places along the Saddle River and its branches. One branch in particular, Sprout Brook, below Areola, has yielded a considerable quantity of material at three dif- ferent points on its banks, all within a radius of a mile. At one point on the farm of Mr. Koch, where the brook crosses the Paramus Road, a quantity of implements and pottery was taken from the former site of a small village. Further down on Sprout Brook, back of the Board farm, is the site of what was presumably a large palisaded grass house ; while one of the best preserved sites of occupation, in fact the most RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY typical, has been found on a high bank of the Saddle River, just below the point where it is crossed by the trolley. Within the pi'csent limits of Ridgewood and also covering an area Avith a radius of from ten to twelve miles f]'om the village, during the past fifteen years explorations have been carried on by one of its citizens, ]\Ir. J. R. Esehelman, that have brought to light a most valu- able collection (still in the possession of Mr. Esehelman) of approxi- mately two thousand pieces of Indian objects, consisting of arrow-heads, spear-heads, axes, fish spears, skin scrapers, knives, shaft polishers, hand hammers, a granite mortar, ]>estles, celts (chisels), hoes, winged objects, luna (half-moon) knives, and others unclassified. These relics have been found along the Indian trails, usually on the high side of a running stream or at some spring. In Ridgewood and its immediate vicinity the localities which have produced the best results are the shores of the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, along the Mastin and Graydon fields and continuing above Harrison Avenue, opposite the home of E. L. Zabriskie ; the grounds around the Board springs at Paramus Road and Duncker Hook (Dark Corner) ; and the fields be- yond the Valleau Cemetery and along the Diamond Brook at the sites of its various springs to its junction with the Passaic River. Formerly within the limits of Ridgewood Township, but now within the Borough of Glen Rock, a great block of stone stands on Rock Avenue near the Main Line Station of the Erie Railroad. Tradition says that this rock w^as a meeting place for the Indians, who called it Pamacka- puka. It was also known by the early settlers as the Big Rock at Small Lots. It Avas mentioned as a landmark in 1687, Avhen a Patent Avas granted for 5,320 acres of land upon the second attempt to settle lands Avest of the Saddle River. In 1710 a tract of land containing 42,500 acres, called the ''Ramapo Patent," including most of the northAvestern portion of Bergen County, Avas surveyed, beginning at the "Big Rock, four or five miles north- AA'est of Paterson." A copper pin, placed by the surveying party at this time on the highest point of the rock, is still in evidence. Since the early times, many of the land records of this Adcinity refer to the stone as one of the points in determining the location of the property they cover. On August 26, 1912, as a result of the efforts of a number of citizens Avho appreciated its historical value, a deed was executed transferring the site of the rock, from the South Ridgc- Avood Improvement Company and from Mr. and Mrs. John F. Walter, to the Borough of Glen Rock. Since that date the rock has been surrounded by a concrete Avalk and has been placed in a condition that guarantees its preservation for many years to come. EARLY SETTLERS The first i^ermaneiit Dutch settlement in Ncav Jersey Avas called Bergen and Avas made during the year 1660 on tlie site noAv knoAvn as Bergen Square, Avithin the present corporate limits of Jersey City. From that point a gradual colonization Avas extended into the more remote districts, mainly along the AvaterAA'ays, folloAving the lines of least resistance. PAST AND PRESENT In 1662, Albert Zaborowski, a young man of twenty years, came from Poland in the Dutch sailing ship Deb Ves ("The Fox"). He married a Miss Van Der Linde and settled in the little trading post called Ackensack, where he became the possessor of a large landed interest. Of the children born to them five were sons. The oldest, Jacob, when a small boy, was stolen and carried off into the forests by the Indians. After a period of about fifteen years, Jacob was returned to his people by the Indians, who claimed they had taken him to teach him their language so that he could act as an interpreter between them and the settlers. As a result of this incident, Jacob's father obtained from the Indians a tract of land containing approxi- mately two thousand acres and known as the "New Paramus Patent" or "Wcarimus Tract." The greater portion of the Paramus Patent lay in the northwestern part of the present Midland Township, while a section extended across the Saddle River into what is now Ridgewood Township. The tract extended in general from the Peter Board homestead on the south, about four miles north to the Stephen S. Berdan residence, and from the Saddle River on the west one and one-half miles east to the Sprout Brook. The name "Paramus" is said to be derived from the Indian "Pere- messing," descriptive of the fact that the country abounded in wild turkey. The first white settlers called it "Peremesse," from which the transition was gradually made to the present form, Paramus. On this tract, in 1713, Jacob Zaborowski built a home located on the present Paramus Road, just north of what is now Blauvelt's Mill. This was the first house to be built in this section of the country. A stone which bears the name Zaborowski, and the year 1713, and which had been placed in its doorway, is now in the possession of Everett L. Zabriskie, of Ridgewood. Ridgewood is built upon the tract w^est of the Zaborowski lands and is part of a grant of five hundred acres made by Lord Carteret to Samuel Kingsland in 1687. The land was sold to Peter Johnson for the sum of thirty-two pounds and ten shillings, and in 1698 became the property of Johann Van Emburgh, who built the first house in 1700 in what is now Ridgewood proper. Other Dutch families, such as the Ackerman, Banta, Bogert, De Baun, Hopper, Marinus, Terhune, Van Der Beck, Van Dien, Van Houten. Westervelt and Zabriskie families, shortly afterwards settled in this locality, purchasing their land from the Van Emburgh estate. Many of these families are still represented by tlieir descendants, wliile the property of others has been disposed of to city purchasers in search of suburban homes. COLONIAL PERIOD During the Colonial period and for many years afterwards, the people devoted their time almost entirely to agricultural pursuits. The farms each contained a large number of acres, and were scattered over 80 extensive an area that in consequence a slow development of the community resulted. RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY The homes generally were of stone with a southern or eastern ex- posure and with old-fashioned flower gardens in the front. Since the early settlers had come from Holland, they naturally for many years spoke their mother tongue, which in later years became known as "Jersey Dutch." Following the teachings of their early youth, the Dutch settlers were not long in establishing a house of Avorship. In 1725 they or- ganized the "Peremus Kirk," and in 1735 erected the first Church building on ground furnished by Peter Fauconier. Here for many years the services were conducted in the Dutch language. This church is now called the congregation of the Reformed Church of Paramus and is located in the northeastern part of Ridgewood. For many years, until the organization of other churches, the Paramus Church served a territory of about fifteen square miles, and was the central gathering place for the neighboring country for all purposes related to the community interests. THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR The excitement which the tyranny of the British Government aroused in the colonies was felt throughout the present Bergen County, and on the 12th day of May, 1775, a Committee of Safety was organized with John Fell of Paramus as chairman. Party feeling ran high and many and bitter were the feuds among the people, although historians state that the Patriots were greatly superior in number to the Tories. The proximity of the Bergen district to New York made it important territory during the Revolutionary War. It was the gate to New Jersey and the West. Recognizing its importance, each party sought to fortify and to hold it in possession. Wliile no battles of importance were fought within the limits of the present county, its soil became a highway for the tread of marching armies, and its cultivated farms often attracted raiding and foraging parties of the enemy from New York City. Its people gave their sons to the cause, and provided supplies to the several American camps within their boundaries. Among the names of such camp-grounds that of "Paramus" takes a prominent place. Tradition states that it was just south of the Paramus Church. The poet Barlow, who wrote the old-fashioned poem "Hasty Pudding," was at one time a cliaplain in the army and he wrote to friends one evening that he had been all day making the rounds of his camp and that it extended from Paramus four miles toward Hackensack. Tradition also states that the Commissary Department of the Ameri- can forces occupied about ten acres of land now the site of the Valleau Cemetery opposite the old church. The church edifice existing at that time was used by the American forces at various times as a prison and for other j)urposes, and was so greatlj' damaged that in 1785 it was necessary to make extensive repairs. Tlie graveyard connected with the church contains the remains of many patriots and British soldiers who died while their armies were in this vicinity. Washington and his army were at Paramus several times. Many Cuurltsy C. H. L. Mitchell The "Old Elm" in Ho-Ho-Kus RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY important papers were sent from here, but all trace of Washington's headquarters seems to have been lost. It was here, after his great con- tlict at Monmouth, that Washington established his headquarters from July 11 to July 15, 1778. Here, on Sunday, July 12, he wrote to the President of Congress in response to the vote of thanks which had been passed by Congress for the important victory he had gained at Monmouth. At this time, also, he received advice of the arrival of the French fleet under Count d'Estaing. He was at Paramus December r)th to 8th of the same year, and on July 30 and October 7, 1780. The following references also indicate that some soldiers must have been stationed at Paramus nearly all the time : General Clinton was informed of clothing for troops to be sent to Paranuis, November 2, 1776 ; General Clinton was informed of return of Deputy Treasurer from Paramus, November 27, 1776 ; General Clinton was at Paramus December 17, 20 and 21, 1776, and January 7 and 13, 1777 ; General Heath was at Paramus, December 19, 1776 ; General Clinton sent scouting parties from Ramapo as far as Par- amus December 23 and 29, 1776 ; Colonel McClaughey's regiment w^as at Paramus, January 1, 1777; Stores at Paramus were under guard of eighty or one hundred men, May 9, 1777; Tea stored at Paramus w^as stolen, June 17, 1777 ; Washington's army was cantoned from P^ort Defiance to Paramus, August 9, 1779; Headquarters of Major Henry Lee were located here, August 22, 1779, and September 4, 1779; Headquarters of Lord Stii'ling were located here, on October 8, 1780. On September 8, 1780, occurred the death of General Enoch Poor at Kinderhamack, a few miles east of Paramus. His body was brought to Paramus and on September 10th he was buried in the graveyard of the First Reformed Dutch Church in Hackensack. For a long time a branch of Washington's army was stationed in the Ramapo Valley along the section now the Havemeyer estate, and from there small detachments were thrown out across the country. Paramus, lying between this station and the Hudson River, was subject to the march and countermarches of troops belonging to both parties. At the time the American Army was retreating across New Jersey, and before it was half-way to Trenton, General Heath came down from his station in the highlands of the Hudson River and by the way of Paramus made an attack upon the British and Tories at Tappan, New York. It was on the route of the American Army as it moved from Newark to King's Ferry, July 5, 1778; while one division of the French, in the march of the allies to Yorktown, passed through Paramus to the north. Under the "Old Elm," located in Ho-Ho-Kus on Franklin Turn- PAST AND PRESENT pike (which starts near the Paramus Church), a granite marker was placed on May 30, 1914, by tlie Kainapo Valley Chapter, Daughters of the Kevolution, as marking the route of General Washington and his troops from Fort Lee to Ramapaugh during the Revolutionary War, 1776-1781. When Aaron Burr was api)ointed in 1777 a Lieutenant-Colonel in the American Army, he Joined his regiment at Ramapo, where it was then stationed. At Paramus resided Mrs. Provost, the widow of Colonel Provost, of the British Army. It is stated that while Burr commanded the American lines at Fort Washington, he frequently came over to Fort Lee, obtained a horse, and rode to visit the widow at Paramus, returning to his headquarters before daylight. Mrs. Provost afterwards became the wife of Burr and according to tradition was married to him in the old Paramus Church. It was while stationed here that Burr achieved his first military success. His regiment had encamped at Ramapo, in September, 1777, Avhen intelligence was brought that the enemy was in Hackensack in great force and advancing into the country. Colonel Burr immediately marched with all effective men, except a guard to take care of the camp, and arrived at Paramus, a distance of sixteen miles, before sun- set, where he found considerable bodies of militia in great alarm and disorder. Colonel Burr set some of the militia to repairing fences which had been destroyed by them in their endeavor to mobilize. Having taken measures to secure the troops from surprise and also to provide pro- tection for the corn fields, he marched immediately with about thirty of the most active of the regiment and a few militia to ascertain the position and numbers of the enemy. About ten o'clock at night, when wdthin three miles of Hackensack, Burr, receiving Avord that he was within a mile of the picket guard of the enemy, led his men into a wood, ordered them to sleep until he awakened them, and went alone to discover the enemy's position. Returning about half an hour later, he awakened his men and ordered them to follow, forbidding any man to speak or fire under pain of death. Thus ])roceeding, they came shortly within a few yards of the picket guard before their approach was suspected. Burr then gave the word and his men rushed upon the enemy before they had time to secure their arms. The greater part of the enemy were killed, a few taken prisoners, and some accoutrements brought off without the loss of a man. An express was immediately sent to Paramus by Burr to order all the troops to move and to rally the country. His success had so encouraged the inhabitants that they turned out with great alacrity and put themselves under his command. The enemy, however, probably alarmed by these threatening appearances, retreated the next day, leav- ing behind them the greater part of the plunder Avhich they had taken. One of the detachments thrown out by the patriot army stationed in the Ramapo Valley, was located at Hoppertown, now Ho-Ho-Kus, and operated as a sub-base for smaller parties. The presence of this force at Ho-Ho-Kus, together with the larger encampments at Ramapo RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY and at Paramus, subjected the country to the depredations of the British and Tories in their numerous attempts to reach the American stations and to destroy the possible sources of supplies. Some of these sorties were as follows: About January 1, 1776, shortly after General Clinton had garri- soned his troops at Ramapo, the British, numbering between five and eight hundred troops, arrived at Haekensack. After imprisoning a numljer of the citizens in sympathy with the American cause, they marched on to Paramus, where they plundered some of the inhabitants of that neighborhood^ afterwards returning to Haekensack with citizens of Paramus, whom they also confined in tlie Haekensack jail. On the night of December 27, 1776, several families at Paramus were plundered in a raid and several friends of the American cause were taken away as prisoners. During the night of April 21, 1779, the Tories under John Van De Roder took possession of the mill belonging to Jonathan Hopper, a captain of the militia. Hopper was born and raised at Hoppertown, but was then running a grist and saw mill at Wagaraw, on the present site of Alyea's Ice House, where Maple Avenue crosses the Passaic River to Paterson. Hopper's wife, hearing the noise, awoke her hus- band, and told him that some persons were in the mill. He arose, went to the door and, demanding to know who was there, Avas shot through the hand. The Tories then rushed into the house, seized him, and forced his wife to hold a light w^hile they ran him through nineteen times with bayonets and killed him. On March 23, 1780, two parties, each consisting of about three hundred British and Hessian soldiers, landed, the one at Closter, several miles above Fort Lee, and the other at \Yeehawken, the former force to penetrate the country northward to Hoppertown and to attack the cantonment at that place, and the other to surprise the town of Haeken- sack and to push on and then attack the front of the American forces at Paramus. The Court House and several dwellings in Haekensack were burned and the entire route marked by devastation. At the Par- amus Church, wliere the two invading forces joined, they met the militia and citizens of the community, with the Continental troops sta- tioned there, and were driven back. They succeeded in taking with them, however, about fifty prisoners, mostly citizens and members of the militia, who were thrown in the Old Sugar House Prison, many never to return. Leaving New York City on April 15, 1780, a body of the British forces, consisting of two hundred horse and three hundred foot, landed in New Jersey at several points. Forming a junction near tlie English neighborhood, the whole detachment proceeded to the New Bridge on the Haekensack, Avhere they arrived early in the morning of the 16th. After a skirmish with tlie American forces at that place, they continued their march to Paramus, coming in sight of the church a little after day-break. Finding the American forces had fallen back to Hopper- town. they proceeded until discovered by a picket at the bridge upon the Saddle River. Although tlie small American force under INIajor Byles was taken by surprise, it heroically attempted to defend its posi- PAST AND PRESENT tion. During the engagement, however, Major Byles was mortally wounded, and his lieutenant killed. Overwhelmed by numbers, the Americans were compelled to surrender. The American losses by death, wounded, and those taken prisoner, were one Major, two Captains, four Lieutenants, and about forty rank and file, while the British lost seven rank and file killed, two Sergeants, and twenty-nine rank and file wounded. After the encounter the British burned the house of Garret Hopper, who had bravely seconded the endeavors of the party to defend it, and wlio was ])adly wounded in the fray. They also burnt hi« mill and his hrotlier's house. In commemoration of the events connected with the community's history during tlie War of the American Revolution, the New Jersey Society, of the Sons of the American Revolution, in conjunction with Paramus Chapter No. 6, on July 4, 1914, placed and dedicated the following bronze tablet upon the Paramus Church building: NISI DOMINUS rRUSTR\ NEAR THIS HOUSE OF GOD ENCAMPED GENERAL WASHINGTON AND HIS ARMY IN 1778 IN GRATEFUL TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY OF THE PATRIOTS WHO SLEEP Ii\ THE ADJACENT CHURCHY'ABD AND TO THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THIS COMMUNITY WHO ASSISTED SO VALIANTLY IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE THIS TABLET IS PLACED BY THE NEW JERSEY SOCIETY OF THE SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION JULY 4th, 1914 Paramus, as seen by an of^cer while in encampment here in 1778, is described as follows : ' ' This town is chiefly inhabited by Dutch people. Their church and dwelling houses are built of rough stone, one story high. There is a peculiar neatness in the appearance of their dwellings, having an airy piazza supported by pillars in front, and their kitcliens connected at the ends in the form of wings. The land is remarkably level and the soil fertile, and being generally advantageously cultivated, the people appear to enjoy ease and a happy competency. The furniture in their homes is of the most ordinary kind, such as might be supposed to accord with the fashion of the days of Queen Anne. They despise the superfluities of life and are ambitious to appear always neat and cleanly and never to complain of an empty purse." 1782-1865 After the Revolutionary War, the agreeable climate and the fertility of the soil attracted new settlers, who soon became established in the community. Tlie growth of the community, however, was slow, owing to the fact that the people were widely scattered upon farms, and means of communication and of transportation were meagre and unsatisfactory. The earliest settlements were near the Paramus Church, but soon 9 niDGKWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY after the year 1800, a large area of country was developed, extending from the present site of Wortendyke to Lydceker's Mills (now Midland Park). This region was named Newtown by Cornelius Wortendyke. Lydeeker's Mill, which was located a few rods below the present stone mill (occupied today by H. J. Wostbrock engaged in the manu- facture of flannels), was a flour mill to which the farmers for many miles around brought their grain. The stone mill was built by Abra- ham Van Riper about the year 1826, and Midland Park was then known as Van Riper 's Mill. Other mills in operation in this neighbor- hood were early known as Baldwin's Mill, the Quackenbush or Post Mill, and the Turning Mill. The Stone Mill, about the year 1829, Avas used by Messrs. Van Winkle and Park for the manufacture of cotton yarn and warps. When they later sold out to Messrs. Munn and Whitehead, this mill and the other three were operated in the manufacture of cotton yarn, and the old Lj'decker IVIill was converted into rooms for making and sizing cotton warps. Ira Munn, who was related to Abraham Godwin of Revolutionary memory, in his honor about this time gave to this part of Newtown the name Godwinville — a name it retained for nearly forty-five years. Abraham Godwin, when a lad of from twelve to fifteen years of age, enlisted with his two brothers under Colonel Lewis Du Bois in the Fifth Regiment, New York State Line. He served from January 1, 1777, to January, 1782, reaching the grade of Fife-Major. One brother, Henry, became Captain of the Seventh Company of the Fifth Regiment, while the other brother, David, served as a drummer in Henry's Company. After the war, and until his death on October 6, 1835, in the seventy-fourth year of his life, Abraham Godwin was the proprietor of the Passaic Hotel in Paterson. The settlement of Godwinville progressed and soon covered the terri- tory between Paramus and Newtown (Wortendyke) and included within its boundaries the present municipalities of Ridge wood. Glen Rock, and Midland Park. The centre of the present site of Ridgewood in the early forties had only one house, a small stone building, located south of the Play House on the summit of the rise just west of the Erie Railroad tracks. The house was owned by a man named McSweeney and afterwards was occupied by a Danish family named Thompson. This old stone house finally did service as Ridgewood 's first lockup for lawbreakers. The next house on the west side of the tracks was on Godwin Avenue and was the home of David D. Ackerman, the grandfather of the present Ackerman Brothers, the grocers. Further west on Godwin Avenue, on the rise just beyond the hollow at Garfield Place, stood a house then occupied by James Jenkins and now occupied by William Runk. Next came a house, used as a tavern bv James Blauvelt, situated on the present Martin property, at the head of Cherry Lane (Lincoln Avenue). On this same site Garrett I. Hopper afterwards had his home. On the northwest corner of Cherry Lane and Godwin Avenue 10 PAST AND PRESENT a blacksmith and wheelwright shop was erected and kept at one time by Mose Decker. In front of this shop a public whipping-post, not an uncommon object in that period, had been set up in a triangle formed by the turning of Cherry Lane in both directions into Godwin Avenue. At the junction of Ackerman and Doremus Avenues stood the stone portion of the house now occupied by Garrett G. Ackerman. East of the railroad tracks other houses of that period were as follows : On the site of the present Opera House stood an old stone farm- house, said to be owned by a family named Archabald. The barn was k)cated on the east side of Oak Street. Near it was the well, which still remains and which is now covered by a large flat stone. Few who pass the stone realize that it marks the site of the well whose water for many years slaked the thirst of many of the former inhabitants. The stone portion of the house, noAV the office of Dr. W. L. Vroom, on West Eidgewood Avenue, Avas built and occupied by Peter J. Hopper, the father of Albert P. Hopper. The next house on Ridgewood Avenue was on the Wesley Van Em- burgli place and was owned and occupied by Samuel Hopper. On the west side of iMaple Avenue, on the property now owned by Samuel D. Graydon and near the gate to its entrance, stood an old stone house with its end to the road. This was originally owned by Peter Van Emburgh. It was demolished in 1864 and its stones were used for the facing of a fence which has likewise disappeared. Where the Cameron property is now located stood a stone house which was remodeled in 1850 by its owner, a Mr. White, from whom Mr. Cameron purchased the property. At the corner of Maple Avenue and Cameron Lane stood the stone liouse owned and occupied by Cornelius Zabriskie, who carried on a bhicksmith business at the northeast corner of Maple and Harrison Avenues. His shop w^as built about 1800 and demolished in 1850. Just north of the Cornelius Zabriskie house and on the present site of the residence of E. L. Zabriskie, stood an old stone house with its end to the road. This house was standing in 1811 when the property was purchased by Mr. Zabriskie 's great-grandfather. It was torn doAvn in 1850 and in that year the present Zabriskie house (recently remodeled) was built by A. J. Zabriskie. Near the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, a little south of Ridgewood Avenue and on the right-of-way of tlie present trolley line, stood the home of Garret A. Hopper, a brother of Samuel. On the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Paramus Road stood a grist and saAvmill, built and operated by General Andrew H. Hopper, and destroyed by fire in 1860. A second mill Avas put up by a Mr. Jaroleman in 1861 and conducted as a cider, grist and saAvmill until it burned a few years later. The residence of Henry Van Emburgh was located on the east side of Maple Avenue, northeast of the present Ridgewood Commercial Com- I^aiiy's garage. It was afterwards occupied by his son, George Van 11 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Emburgh, and later purchased by Captain Samuel Dayton and used as his homestead, finally being destroyed by fire. The house located at the northwest junction of Prospect Street and Maple Avenue, and still occupied, was formerly the homestead of Har- manus Van Derbeek, and was built over one hundred years ago. An- other house dating back a hundred years is the old Van Dien House, situated on Grove Street near Pleasant Avenue. These houses, together with the old stone houses on the Paramus Road, referred to in that part of this book which describes the "Early Dutch Homes," comprised the nucleus of what is now Kidgewood. At that time the centre of the Village was considered, geographically, as covering the twelve or fifteen acres of land included between Prospect Street on the East, a line about one hundred and fifty feet West of the Erie tracks on the West, Ridgewood Avenue on the North, and a line passing near the Broad Street Colored Church on the South. The opening about the jeav 1848 of the Paterson and Ramapo Rail- road, which connected with the Erie at Suifern, and with the Paterson and Hudson River Railroad at Paterson, gave a new impulse of growth to the little settlement, which at that time consisted practically of two or three intersecting roads and scattered farms. The nearest station on the new railroad was located at Ho-Ho-Kus. When the manufacturers at Godwinville, with their Paramus neighbors, asked for a station nearer by, they were refused, and it was only after a controversy of three years that they secured a station at the Godwinville Road Crossing (the present junction of Ridgewood, Frank- lin and Godwin Avenues). At first only freight trains stopped. It was two years more before the place w^as made a stop for passenger trains and a platform built. In 1853 several New Yorkers, settling in the village, started the erection of homes in the vicinity of the station. In 1859 a depot was erected by the residents, commutation to New York City having started a year earlier. THE CIVIL WAR The excitement in Bergen County, when the news of the attack upon Fort Sumter was received, was equal in intensity to that in any section of the country. War measures were spoken of and flags were displayed on many buildings. As in the Revolutionary times, the people were divided in sentiment, some feeling that the war was unrighteous and unnecessary. The people of this community, however, although differ- ing strenuously in political views on questions of governmental policy, were for the most part loyal to the Union. Their enthusiasm was suffi- cient to secure the erection of two spacious buildings for drilling military recruits. From these drill halls, representing as they did two opposing political parties, many young men went forth to do or die for their country. One of these buildings was called Union Hall, and was built by the Republicans. The first speech made within its walls was delivered by Horace Greeley. The building has for many years been a chapel connected with the Parannis Church. The otlier, demolished a few years ago, was a clapboard building located east of Ho-Ho-Kus on the property of John Quackenbush. It was built by the Society for Pro- 12 PAST AND PRESENT mulgation of Education in Bergen County, and was used as the drill room of the National Guard of Ho-Ho-Kus, of which Abram Van Em- burgh was Captain. When this company enlisted in the Civil War, it became part of the Twenty-second Regiment, of which Captain Van Emburgh was made Lieutenant-Colonel on February 20, 1863. The morning after Fort Sumter was fired upon. Rev. E. T. Corwin, then pastor of the Paramus Church (he died in 1914 and is buried in Valleau Cemetery), fastened a flag to a pole and thrust it out of the belfry of the old church. When the congregation came to church the following Sunday they found "Old Glory" waving in the breeze above them. Some of the members objected, telling the pastor it was not right to have the flag there inasmuch as there was a division of opinion in tlie congregation. They insisted that the flag must come down. Two patriotic members, William Ranlett and John Jacob Za- briskie, approved of the pastor's action and declared that they would protect him in keeping the flag on the steeple. During the week a committee of the objectors called on Mr. Corwin and demanded the removal of the flag before the next Sabbath's service. Mr. Ranlett, on tlie other hand, immediately armed and equipped twenty-five men at his own expense. On the following Sunday morning, after the congregation had assembled on tlie church grounds, the committee approached the pastor and informed him that, as they had stated before, the flag must come down, and come down at once. As they started toward the belfry, the pastor halted them and said: "I told you our flag should wave above us until the war is over. I have twenty-five men who will help me protect it. The first man who touches that flag to tear it down will be shot!" In the midst of the excitement, tlie committee and their sympathizers gathered their families and left the scene, many never to return again to worsliip in the Paramus Church. The flag lasted half a year and was replaced by others until the close of the war. The majority of the citizens of this vicinity, responding to their country's call, were enlisted in Companies B and D of the Twenty- second Regiment, New Jersey Infantry, which was known as the Bergen Countv Regiit'ent. Before departing to join their regiment, they assembled in the Guard Room. Rev. Mr. Corwin, after preaching a farewell sermon, gave each man a copy of the Holy Bible to take Avith him. These companies were originally made up of the following oi^ccrs and men; and those of this vicinity as recalled at the present time are indicated by stars as follows : * Ridgewood. ** Ho-Ho-Kus. •** Glen Rock. COMPANY B **(^>ptain Aliraliam Van Embnr<>]i **First Lieutenant Jacob Z. Van Blaroom **2n(l Lieutenant Benjamin Z. Van Eniburrjli 13 RIDGE WOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY **2nd **3rd **4th *5th -"'*lst **2ud *3rd 4th 5th **6th **7th *8th Sergeant Andrew Van Emburgh Sergeant Charles Van Riper Sergeant Thomas Eckerson Sergeant James A. Osborne Sergeant Theodore V. Terhune Corporal Aaron Van Derbeck Corporal Abraham H. Hopper Corporal Cornelius D. Ackerman Corporal Daniel Van Blarcom Corporal Stephen D. Bartholf Corporal Theodore Bamper Corporal John Acker Corporal Walter S. Terhune Abrams, Elias Abrams, Henry Ackerman, Peter Allen, Henry T. '* Banta, Thomas T. Bertholf, Peter Brower, Kobert ]). Cap, (leorge Conklin. John E. Cooley, Edward De Baiin, Isaac V. B. Doremus, William Doty, Thomas E. Durling, John Edwards, James W. English, William Finch, Isaac P. Finch, John Finch, Joseph Harrop, John Hennion, Andrew Hennion, Garret O. Hopper, Albert G. Hopper, David Hopper, Garret U. Hopper, Henry L. Hopper, John A. Hopper, Joseph B. PRIVATES Howard, Cornelius Jeuks, John G. Kent, Cornelius C. Lake, John Lenox, George '■ Lutkins, John H. Lutkins, Ricliard '' Mabey, Frederick B. ^ Magroff, Martin '' Marinus, Christian ]\Iarsh, George W. ' Masker, Lewis May, John J. Meeker, William D. Messenger, Philip Miller, William H. G. ' Myers. John J. Myers, Martin J. Osborne, William A. ■ Perry, James Peterson, Barney Pulis, Jacob Ryan. Patrick Ryerson, Albert B. Schmide, Simon Stiui, Daniel Stun, Isaac Terliune. Alexander Terhune, Andrew A. Terhune, Henry H. Terhune, James E. Terhune, Joseph F. Terwilliger, James II. ■ Thompson, Ackerson Thom])son, James, Jr. '" Thompson, John H. Tliompson, John J ■ I'hompson, William H. Tinker, James ■ Thurston, Anthony Trumper, Harnian ■ Turse, Jacob Y. Van Horn, William Van Riper, Peter Van Vorst, Henry Waldron, John L. Wanamaker, Josiah Ward, Peter West, Charles Whitmore, James Whitmore. Wm. IT. ^^'inters, William Wykoff, Samuel B. Yeomans. .losiah Ycomans, Myndert Yeomans. Samuel .1. COMPANY D Captain John C. Westerv(>1t First Lieutenant \Valter H. Rnmscy 2nd Lieutenant Xicliolas Collingnon 1st Sergeant Abraham C. Herring 2nd Sergeant Thomas Demarest **3rd Sergeant John A. Marinus 4th Sergeant Nicholas Ottignon 5th Sergeant Jasper J. Westervelt Isti Corporal Isaac D. Bogert 2nd Corporal Genest M. Ottignon *3rd Corporal James B. Westervelt 4th Corporal Charles T\l. Westervelt 5th Corporal James A. Ottignon fith Corporal John F. Herring 7th Corporal Henry Swin 8th Corporal Henry Clay Humphrey 14 PAST AND PRESENT ** Ackerman, Abraham R. ** Ackerman, Garret " Ackerman, George W. Ackerman, James P. Ackerman, James W. Aekerson. John C. Baker, George * Banner, James Banta, Aaron V. Banta, Abraham P. Bartow, James Blauvelt, Abraham Blauvelt, Abraham D. Blanvelt, Abraham J. Blauvelt, John J. Blauvelt, Lucas C. Blauvelt. William Bogert. Abraham B. Bogert, Cornelius J. Bogert, James M. Bradley, Joseph A. Cole, Isaac Collingnon. Angus. ]\I. Cook, Francis Cosker, Felix A. M. * Crouter, Cornelius P. Crouter, James Demarest, Cornelius E. PRIVATES Demarest, John Demarest, John J. Demarest, Peter J. Dow, John Earl, Daniel Eckerson, David D., Jr. Eckerson, Edward T. Eckerson, Jacob B. Eckerson, John C. Everson, Benjamin Flood, James Gurnee, David Herring, Abraham P. Herring, Daniel Herring, John P. Hill, Thomas E. Hopper, Abraham A. Jersey, John J. Jones, Joseph E. Kent, Cornelius J. Kingsland, Theodore Kitchel, Isaac M. Lockwood, David Monroe, David ilonroe, Stephen Mowerson, .John Jacob Naugle, John D. Ottignon. John C. Perry, .John H. Post, John J. Post, Robert J. Pulis, Peter D. Raulet, C. Louis Riker, Abraham A. Rumsey, Owen I. Schilte, jMarinus Smith, Daniel W. Stalter, Samuel Storms, Abraham C. Straut, Richard Terhune, Albert J., Jr. Townsend, .John Ulmer, Frederick Van Buskirk, Benj. Van Buskirk, Chas. E. Van Derlinder, Jacob Van Dien, John Van Orden. ^\'illianl Van Riper, Fred. A. Van Saun, Isaac Wanamaker, .John H. Waring, Peter P. Westervelt. Henry P. Williams, .John Wood, Abraham Wortendvke, Abraham The foregoing is not a complete list of all enlistments from this vicinitj'. Others, whose records are not available at this time, were associated with regiments other than the 22nd New Jersey. One of our oldest citizens, Benjamin Eglin, served first in Company A, Twenty- second Regiment, and later in the Third New Jersey Cavalry. The Twenty-second Infantry Regiment was organized under the pro- visions of an Act of Congress, approved July 22, 18G1, and mustered into the United States service for nine months, September 22, 1862. The regiment w^as made up chiefly from the bone and sinew of Bergen County's agricultural population, the total number of officers and men being nine hundred and thirty-nine. It left the State for Washington, D. C, on September 29, 1862. Upon arrival at its destination it was ordered into camp, called Camp Fornett. ten miles west of George- town, D. C, .iust south of what is now Cabin John's Bridge, having been assigned to a provisional brigade, Casey's Division, defences of Washington. It remained in this position until about the first of December, when it proceeded to Aquia Creek, Virginia, and was assigned to Provost Duty, guarding the railroad, transferring wounded prisoners, etc. In January, 1863, the regiment was assigned to the First Army Corps and joined the Army of tlie Potomac. It continued its organization and remained in active service until the expiration of its term, Avhen it was ordered to return to New Jersey for its discharge and was nnistercd out of service at Trenton. June 25, 1863. The regiment was first attached to Casey's Division, defences of 15 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, N E M^ JERSEY Washington, then to Patrick's Brigade, Provost Guard, Army of the Potomac, and then to the Third Brigade, First Division, First Army Corps. The only important engagement it took part in was the movement on Chancellorsville, Virginia, May 2 and 3, 1863. THE BIRTH OF RIDGEWOOD The factors responsible for the establishment of the community of Ricjgewood were the early Dutch, who settled in Paramus and its vicinity and engaged in agricultural pursuits, and the manufacturing interests that located in the hamlet of Godwinville (now ]\Iidland Park). Through the joint efforts of these people, a station, situated between the two settlements and serving both, was established on the railroad, which followed a route suggested by General George Clinton during the Revo- lutionary War as a natural thoroughfare. This railroad station became the center of activities for the territory it served. Business enterprises located near it, and people who moved here from New York City built homes Avithin easy walking distance of it. The influence of the ideas of the new residential element, in con- junction with the precedents set by the practical and thrifty earlier settlers, laid the foundations for a new and a better community. Many improvements were made. New houses were erected and were provided with greater conveniences than the older buildings ; roads were bettered ; and with the passing of the year 1865 the general spirit of advance- ment of a fair-sized progi-essive village was plainly evident. It was at this point in the history of the community that its name was changed from Godwinville to Ridgewood. This Avas done in 1866, following several years of agitation on the part of the citizens. While the action at that time may have been considered as one of change of name only, it really had a greater significance in that it marked the birth of Ridgewood, a truly residential community with a character and an individuality of its own. IG Aljian Studio The Development of West Ridgcwood Avenue, Looking from Waller Building to Station Upper— 1876 Center— 1896 Lower— 1910 CHAPTER II GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND NATURAL FEATURES NAME THE name now applied to the Village and Township — Ridgewood — was adopted during the year 1866 at the suggestion of Mrs. Cor- nelia Dayton, wife of William Dayton, because of its appropriateness — the Ridge of Woods on the Heights. Previous to this the settlement had been known as Godwinville, and had then included a portion of the tract called the Paramus Plains, Glen Rock, formerly known as Small Lots, and Midland Park, formerly called Ly decker's Mills. LOCATION Ridgewood is located on the Main Line of the Erie Railroad, five miles beyond Paterson and twenty-one miles from New York City. Situated in the western part of Bergen County, it is bounded on the north by Ho-Ho-Kus Township, on the south by the Borough of Glen Rock and by Saddle River Township, on the east by the Saddle River, and on the west by the Borough of Midland Park, by Franklin Township, and by Passaic County. APPEARANCE The Village lies in the foothills of the Watchung and the Ramapo Mountains, at an elevation at some points of three hundred feet. This environment is responsible for its remarkable diversity of scenery and the great natural beauty of its rolling surface and wooded heights, while the lack of factories and a universal plan of building homes on grounds of ample dimensions further enhances its attractiveness. The land dips and curves — here only a gentle eminence, there a commanding, tree-crowned height overlooking almost the entire county, from whence on clear days are visible the spires of half a dozen cities, and at night the myriad lights of New York. Less than half a mile east of the railroad station tbe land for quite a distance is apparently almost level. Elsewhere there are shady dells and sheltered nooks. The clear- watered brook Ho-Ho-Kus meanders through the Village not far from its center, and, further on along its eastern boundary, there flows the larger stream which gives to this part of the country the name of Saddle River Valley. Each of tliese streams adds to the dominant and distinctive characteristic of Ridgewood — varied pictur- esqueness. The Village is l)uilt up on botli sides of the tracks of the main line of the Erie Railroad. The principal business section, however, is on the east side within two blocks of the railroad station, and the majority of the churches and of the schools are also on that side. This inequality in the distribution of activities is due to an earlier and greater development of real estate on the one side of the Village. Dur- 18 PAST AND PRESENT ing the past two years, however, the growth has been quite equally divided between the east and west sides. SOIL The soil of Ridgewood and of its vicinity is in general porous, and has always been known as exceedingly fertile and susceptible of a high degree of cultivation. In some localities clay of a heavy nature pre- dominates, while in others sand abounds. Very little gravel is found. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS One of the greatest factors contributing to Ridgewood 's develop- ment is the salubrity of its climate. The breezes which sweep over the Paramus Highlands and across the Paramus Plains, as two sections of the community were called of old, have long been known to be dry and bracing and free from the harshness and humidity of salt air common to localities near the sea-coast. Also during the summer months the breezes from the Passaic Valley, on the south and southwest of the Village, are particularly cool and refreshing. ROADS AND HIGHWAYS The roads passing through Ridgewood, before its existence as a community, formed a part of the main arteries of travel in this section of the country. As they hold the same relative positions at the present time, it is felt that a better understanding of their situation and development will l)e obtained if tliey are considered and described not purely from a local standpoint but rather in connection with the routes of which they were or are a part, with mention of such subsequent changes as resulted when these highways passed through the confines of the locality. HohoJien-GosJien Stage Route Starting at Areola, running parallel with the eastern boundary line of Ridgewood Township, curving to the west as it enters the north- eastern portion of Ridgewood, and ending at the Paramus Chiirch, the Paramus Road formed a part of the old stage route between Hoboken and Goshen. Upon leaving the Paramus Church, the driver had the choice either of continuing along the West Saddle River Road and then turning west, going over the old road along the race-track to Ho-Ho-Kus, or of passing through Harrison Avenue, formerly called Libby Lane, to Maple Avenue and thence to Ho-Ho-Kus. The stage route was marked by brown stones set a mile apart, each one giving the number of miles from Hoboken. One of these stones formerly indicating the regular route now stands in front of the resi- dence of George Berdan on Harrison Avenue ; while two are still stand- ing on Paramus Road, one on the cast side of the road near the barn on the farm of Alctta Van Dien, occupied by Mr. Paxton, and the other on the same side of the road in front of the Pell farm, now owned by Mr. Charles S. Chapman. 19 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Pompton-Hohoken Highway Starting at Pompton and entering Ridgewood on the west side, this highway made a detour to the north and then to the east across the township until it intersected the Paramus Road, down which the route to Hoboken Avas continued. This road was associated with historic events in the days of the Revolution. This thoroughfare is also referred to as the road from Newtown (Wortendyke) to Paramus, the road from Godwinville to Paramus, and the road from Ly decker's Mills to Paramus, and was commonly called Godwinville Road. At the present time, within the limits of Ridge- wood, it is known as Godwin Avenue and West and East Ridgewood Avenues. Hoppert own-Pat evfion Turnpike In the early days the traveler was forced to take a roundabout way to reach Paterson, using what was known as the Hoppertown- Paterson Turnpike. Leaving Hoppertown (now Ho-Ho-Kus), the route followed the high- way now known as Maple Avenue as far as the present Ridgewood Avenue. Continuing along West Ridgewood and Godwin Avenues to the beginning of Lincoln Avenue (then called Cherry Lane, from the fact that both sides of the road was lined with wild cherry trees), it followed this road in a southerly coui-sc through the southwestern portion of the Village to its intersection with the old Wagaraw Road at the Passaic River, where Moffat's Bridge is now located. It then turned westward to Mori'ow's Mills (now Hawtliorne Mills) at the head of the Gofflc Road and thence through North Main Street into Paterson. During the forties, efforts were made to shorten the distance nearly one-half by straightening the road from Hoppertown and by carrying it across Ridgewood Avenue, where the Rouclere House now stands, to follow the present general course of Maple Avenue into Paterson. The petitioners for this improvement were successful, however, in establishing only the present lines of the road as far as the Harris- town Road below Ferndale. The route then followed the road to Lin- coln Avenue just south of the Diamond Bridge, continuing as before by way of Morrow's Mills into Paterson. In the summertime and at low water, it was possible for a traveler to shorten his route somewhat by fording the Passaic River at the foot of Lincoln Avenue, a little east of Moffat's Bridge. The present route was finally established after repeated efforts made during the fifties, and the Wagaraw Bridge was constructed over the Passaic River at Alyea's INIill, connecting the road with River Street in Paterson. The latest improvement to this thoroughfare, consisting of an amasite pavement from curb to curb, twenty-five feet wide, from the southern boundai\v line of the Yillaare at Glen Rock to Meadow Brook Avenue, and twenty-eight feet wide from that point north to the Ho-Ho-Kus line, Avas completed dui-ing 1015 as the result of continued efforts on the part of former Freeholder Isaac E. Hutton, former Com- 20 PAST AND PRESENT missioner Frederick Pfeiffer, County Engineer Ralph D. Earle, Jr., and the present Commissioner, Dr. J. B. Hopper. The efforts of these officials were ably seconded by the property owners along its route, who with few exceptions agreed to pay the extra cost of widening the road from twenty-five to twenty-eight feet Avhei-e necessary and to place curbs where the properties were without them. Gofjh Road The Goffle Road, separating the southwestern part of Ridgewood from Franklin Township, takes its name from the Dutch "de Gaffel," which in that language meant "The Fork" and refers to the fork where the ancient Indian trails separated about two miles northeast of Paterson, one continuing along the present Goffle Road and the other following the route of the old Wagaraw Road. Originally this road followed a course starting at the termination of North Main Street, Paterson, and continuing along the northern bank of the Passaic River until its intersection with the old Wagaraw Road. Here it turned, following a course tlirough the northern por- tion of IManchester Township, Passaic County, until it reached the place called Van Winkle. There it intersected a road leading to Pomp- ton. At the present time it continues from that point, following a course parallel to the Goffle Brook until it reaches its termination at Godwin Avenue in Midland Park, just outside the boundary of Ridge- wood. Godwinville-Hackensack Road Starting on the south side of Godwin Avenue, this highway in Ridgewood is now known as Ackerman Avenue. Following along the west side of the Saddle River, in the earlier days, it gave the residents on that side of the river a direct route to Hackensack. Later a bridge was constructed over the Saddle River at Areola (formerly Red Mills), thereby enabling the traveler, by crossing the river at that point, to continue to Hackensack along the route of the old Hoboken-Goshen Stage Line. FranMin Turnpike Established during the sixties and starting near the Paramus Church, this road continues towards Ho-Ho-Kus until it meets and joins the old road running along the race-track into Ho-Ho-Kus. After passing through that village it follows nearly the course of the Erie Railroad through Allendale, east of Ramsey and Mahwah, to Suffern. Small Lots Road Prospect Street, south of Maple Avenue, was formerly known as the highway leading to Small Lots (Glen Rock). Rock Road Forming a part of its southei-n l)oundary near the grounds of the Ridgewood Country Club, this road is one of the oldest in the vicinity of the Village of Ridgewood. 21 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Starting at the Goffle Road and extending through the Borough of Glen Rock, it passes the great rock of stone located in that municipality, from which it derives its name, and joins the old Godwinville-Hacken- sack Road (Ackerman Avenue). It was first used as a connecting link by the Indians in their trails leading from the Ponds (Pompton) and the Ramapos to Areola and Hackensack. PLANT LIFE The variety of wild flowers and plant life which abound in Ridge- wood and its vicinity is remarkable. Yet, strange to say, few are sufficiently interested to look up the names of the wild flowers and to note their wonderful adaptability to their surroundings. To them the gate of nature's garden is closed. They miss the fascination of color and grace of form, the schemes of this plant for cross fertiliza- tion purposes or the indolence of that and its consequent downward trend in the scale of plant life. Who would think of looking for wild flowers in the middle of February? Yet within two miles of the station may be found the spathe of the Skunk Cabbage exquisitely blotched with shades of crim- son and purple on a cream ground, possibly pushing its way up through the snow. Within (juite recent years on the embankment near the sta- tion the delicate, modest Hepatica might be found in early spring, in shades I'unning from deep blue to almost white; and the Wild Gera- nium, Claytonia or Spring Beauty, Adder's Tongue, and the quaint little Dutchman's Breeches abound in our woods and by the wayside. Those who know where to look may yet find the wax-like flower of the Trailing Arbutus with its exotic perfume, or may explore the rocky and wooded haunts where the rather rare orchid known as Lady 's Slipper luxuriates, raising its head of exquisite form and shaded coloring to the wonder- ing eyes of the finder. There are localities, too, within easy walking distance, Avhere the burnished gold of the Marsh Marigold in its favorite swamp makes such places in the early May morning look auriferous, as if the sun were drawing the precious metal already refined from the recesses of the earth. A little later in the month the eye is delighted with a profusion of Wild Azalea in shades of vivid pink, and near it is found the Mountain Laurel, its cup-like blossoms more delicately tinted than Dresden China, the stamen caught back until by a quick release the pollen is scattered for fertilization. In the low-lying sedgy ground of many a meadow, the flowering grasses make a carpet, with golden buttercups and the gracefully-sway- ing Purple Iris marking a pattern. One need not wait long in such a place to see the flash of the red-Avinged blackbird or to hear his familiar call. Later will be found on similar ground Blue Lobelia, Tall Meadow Rue, Grass of Parnassus, the carnivorous Pitcher Plant, and Indian Paint Brush, the vermillion paint still on it. The thrill in finding the Yellow Oi'chid or its sister, the Purple Orchid, is quite worth the patient hunt for them. That orange mass of tangle in the bush is Angel's Hair or Dodder, a parasite deprived by nature of its leaves as punishment for its degenerate mode of life. PAST AND PRESENT Among other parasites frequenting this section may be mentioned Broom-rape, the charming Pink Gerardia, Avhich has not gone far on the downward path, and Indian Pipe or Ghost-flower, a hardened sinner, colorless yet beautiful in its degradation. The exquisite Jewel- weed, its orange flowers suspended horizontally, haunts a running brook, and in the nearby marsh may be found the beautiful spikes of Pickerel-weed. The very showy orange Butterfly- weed and its more common cousin, purple Milkweed, are by no means strangers, the pods of the latter with their silky seed-tufts making a charming house decoration in the Fall. As summer wanes, come the purple Iron-weed, the magenta Joe-Pye weed tOAvering six to eight feet high, the Goldenrods in endless variety, and, one of the last yet one of the most beautiful, the Fringed Gentian, with its flowers — "Blue — blue — asi if that sky let fall A flower from its cerulean Avail." It is not possible in a book of this nature to describe even super- ficially the beauty of form and color, the modest grace or brazen effrontery and, above all, the ingenuity displayed in self-perpetuation of our neighbors, the wild flowers. It is hoped that the appended list will perhaps give the incentive to anyone enthusiastic enough to take a tramp at the right seasons and in the right direction to cultivate the friendship of these charming fellow-residents. Ferns of many beautiful varieties are to be found in great abun- dance in the woods or damp places, while for those interested in Fungi, Ridgewood provides a fruitful field for research. There is another phase of plant life to which Ridgewood is admir- ably adapted both by the nature of its soil and by its location ; namely, horticulture. The wave of enthusiasm for garden work which has in recent years spread over the country has left its deep impression here. The climatic conditions, save in an exceptional year, are favorable for even semi-hardy plants. From early spring when Pansies, Tulips, Hyacinths and Narcissuses brighten our gardens with splashes of color, until the autumn frosts cut down the Dahlias, Cosmos, and Chrysan- themums, we have a long succession of esthetic beauty most pleasing to the eye. Of utilitarian value are the early lettuce, peas and beans; indeed many of our gardens yield enough vegetables for the household during the whole summer, to say nothing of gifts to neighbors or stores laid by for the winter. There is no corn so sweet as that which you have planted and hoed yourself. The Garden Club is demonstrating this fact to a remarkable degree, both in theory and in practice. Men need only to be told that the early morning when the air is fresh and sweet and full of the songs of birds is the time to rest one's nerves and exercise one's muscles in the garden, Avhen many of them try it out and become converted. The semi-annual exhibitions given by the Club increasingly demonstrate the degree of success Avhich an amateur may attain, even though he spends his days in the city. Our soil is well suited for both Roses and Dahlias and produces some wonderful flowers in these two varieties. ]\Iore beautiful flowers are seldom seen than the Roses and Dahlias at the spring and fall 23 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY exhibitions of the Ridgewood Garden Club. These exhibitions provide the requisite incentive for producing the best that can be grown and afford opportunity for the interchange by members of ideas and infor- mation of much value, as evidenced by the improvement in numerous gardens in the village. The Garden Club does not forget the sick. Regularly during the season a committee appointed for the purpose collects and distributes to the nearby hospitals such flowers as are obtainable. It has further adopted the plan of offering a prize for children at its Flower Show for the best bouquet of wild flowers, and has thereby created considerable interest among the young people. To enumerate the flowers, shrubs and vegetables which can be grown here would mean almost a recapitulation of any complete catalog. It will be of interest to many, however, to know what wild flowers may be found in the vicinity. The following list, not fully complete, is accordingly given: Agrimony (Agrimonia hirsuta) Alum Root (Heucheia Americana) American Brooklime (Veronica Ameri- cana) American Pennyroyal (Hedeoma pulegi- oides) Anemone, Rue (Syndesmon tlialictroides) Anemone, Wood (Anemone quinquefolia) Arbutus, Trailing (Epigaa Repens) Arrow-arum, Green (Peltandra Vir- ginica) Arrow-head (Sagittaria latifolia) Arrow Wood (Viburnum pubescens) Azalea, Pink (Azalea nudiflora) Azalea, White Swamp (Azalea viscosa) Aster, Blue (Aster cordifolius) Aster, Pointed-leaved (Aster acuminatus) Aster, Purple (Aster patens) Aster, Stiff-leaved (lonactis Vinarii- f olius ) Aster, White Heath (Aster ericoides) Aster, Wood (Aster divaricatus) Baneberry, White (Actaea Alba) Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) Basil (Calamintha Clinopodium) Beard-tongue, Foxglove (Pentstemon digitalis) Beechdrops, False (Hypopitis Hypopitis) Bellwort (Uvularia Perfoliata) Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) Blackberry, High (Rubus villosus) Blackberry, Running Swamp (Rubus hispidus) Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) Black Haw (Viburnum prunifolium) Bloodroot (Sanguinaria Canadensis) Blueberry (Vaccinium Pennsylvanicum) Blueberry, Swamp (Vaccinium corym- bosum ) Bluets (Houstonia coerulea) Blue-eyed Crass (Sisyrinchium angusti- folium) Blue Linaria (Linaria Canadensis) Blueweed (Echium vulgare) Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) Bouncing Bet (Saponaria officinalis) Broom-rape (Ihalesia unillora) Buckbean (Menyanthes trifoliata) Buckwheat, Climbing False (Polygonum scandens) Burdock (Arctium minus) Bur-marigold (Bidens frondosa) Bur-marigold, larger (Bidens lievis) Buttercups in variety (Ranunculus) Butterfly-weed (Asclepias tuberosa) Button-bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) Campion, Bladder (Silene vulgaris) Campion, Starry (Silene Stellata) Cancer-root, one-flowered (Aphyllon Unl- ttoruni ) Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) Carrion Flower (Smilax herbacea) Catnip (Nepeta cataria) Celandine (Chelidonium majus) Chamomile (Anthemis cotula) Chicory (Chicorium Intybus) Chickweed (Alsine media) Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) Choke-cherry (Prunus Virginiana) Cinquefoil, Common (Potentilla Cana- densis) Cinquefoil, Shrubby (Potentilla fructi- cosa) Citronella (Collinsonia Canadensis) Cleavers (Galium Aparine) Clematis (Clematis Virginiana) Clover, Rabbit's-foot (Trifolium arvense) Clover, Red (Trifoliiun pratense) Clover, W'hite (Trifolium repens) Clover, White Sweet (Melilotus alba) Clover, Yellow (Trifolium agrarium) Clover, Yellow Sweet (Melilotus offici- nalis) Cockspur Thorn (Crataegus Crus-Galli) Columbine (Aquilegia Canadensis) 24 PAST AND PRESENT Coral-root (Corallorhiza nmltiflora) Corn-cockle ( Agrostemma Githago) Cranberry (Oxycoccus Macrocarpus) Crinkleroot (Dentaria Dipliylla) Culvers Root (Leptandra \'irginica) Daisy, Field (Clirvsniitlioimiin J^ciican- thenium ) Daisy Fleabanc (Erigeroii aiiims) Dandelion {Taraxacum 'J'aiaxacuni) Daj'-Flower (Coniinelina ^'irginica) Deer-grass (Rliexia Virgiiiica) Dewberry (Rnbus Canadensis) Dodder (Cnscnta Gronovii) Dogbane, Spreading (Apocynuni andro- scemifolium) Dogwood, Flowering (Cornus florida) Dogwood, Panicled (Cornus candidis- sinia) Dogwood, Red Osier (Cornus Stolonifera) Dutchman's Breeches (Bicuculla Cucul- laria) Flder (Sambucus Canadensis) Kvening Primrose (Onagrabiennis) Everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea) Fire-weed ( Chamaenerion angustifoliinii ) Flag (Iris versicolor) Max (T/inuni usitatissinunn ) l"orget-me-not (Myosotis palustris) l-'oxglove, Smooth P'alse (Dasystoma llava) Frost-weed (Helianthemum Canadense) Gentian, Closed (Gentiana Andrewsii) (ientian, Fringed (Gentiana crinita) (leranium, Wild (Geranrmn maculatum) Gerardia (Gerardia purpurea) (iill-over-the-Ground (Glecoma hedera- cea) Ginger, Wild (Asarum Canadense) Ginseng. Dwarf (Panax trifolium) Golden Corydalis (Capnoides aureum) Golden Ragwort (Senecio aureus) (iolden-rod in variety (Solidago) Grape, Fox (Vitis Labrusca) Grape, Frost or Chicken (Vitis Cordi- folia) Grass of Parnassus (Parnassia Caro- liniana) fJreat Burnet (Potelium Canadense) Ground Clierry (Physalis Virginiana) Ground-nut ( A])ios Apios) Hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiaeum) Hellebore, American White (Veratrum viride) Hepatica (ITepatica Hepatica) Honeysuckle, Bush (Diervilla Diervilla) Honeysuckle, Common (Lonicera Capri- folium ) Honeysiickle, Trumpet (Lonicera semper- virens) Huckleberry, Black (Gaylussacia Resi- nosa) Huckleberry, Squaw (Vaccinium stami- neum ) Indian Cucumber-root (Medeola Virgi- niana) Indian-Paintbrush (Castilleja Coccinea ) Indian-Pipe (Monotropa uniflora) Indian-Tobacco (Lobelia inflata) Indigo, Wild (Baptisia tinctoria) Iron-weed ( Vernonia Noveboracensis) Ivy, Poison (Rhus radicans) Jack-in-tlu'-Pulpit (Arisanna triphyllum) Jewel-weed (Impatiens bi flora) .Toe-Pye ^\'eed ( Eupatorium purpureum ) Knotweed ( Polygoiuun Pennsylvanicuni ) Ladies' Tresses (Gyrostachys cernua) Lady's Slii)per (Cypripedium acaule) Laurel, Mountain (Kalmia latifolia) Laurel, Sheep (Kalmia angustifolia) Lettuce, Wild (Lactuca Canadensis) Li ly-of-tne- Valley, False (Unifolium Canadense) Lily, orange (Hemerocallis fulva) Lily, Turk's Cap (Lilium superbum) Lily, Trout (Erythronium Americanum ) Lily, White Pond (Castalia odorata) Lily, Wooil (Lilium Philadelphicum) Lily. Yellow (Lilium Canadense) Lily. Yellow Pond (Nymphrea advena) Lion's-f(K)t (Nabalus albus) Live- forever (Sedum Telephium) Lobelia, Great (Lobelia syphilitica) Loosestrife, Whorled (Lysimachia quadri- folia) Loosestrife, Yellow (Lysimachia terre- stris) Lupine, Wild (Lupinus perennis) Marsh-Marigold (Caltha palustris) May Apple (Podophyllum peltatum) ^leadow-rue, Tall (Thalictrum poly- ganmn ) Meadow-sweet (Spiraea salicifolia) Milkweed, in variety (Asclepias) Milkwort, Common (Polygala virides- cens) Milkwort, Fringed (Polygala paucifolia) Milkwort, Racemed (Polygala poly gama) Mint (Mentha Canadensis) Milrewort. False (Tiarella cordifolia) Monkey-flower (Mimulus ringens) Moonseed (Menispermum Canadense) INlorning-Glory, White (Ipomcea pan- durata) Morning- Glory, Wild (Convolvulus^ sepium) Motherwort (Leonurus Cardiaca) Mullein, Giant (Verbascum Thapsus) Mullein. Moth (Verbascum Blattaria) Mustard (Brassica nigra) New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus Americanus) Nightshade (Solanum Dulcamara) Ivinible-Kate (Sicyos angulatus) Orange Grass (Hypericum nudicaule) Orchis. Purple (Habenaria peramoena) Orcliis, Purple Fringed (Habenaria psy- codes) 25 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Orchis, Yellow (Haljenaria ciliaris) Parsnip, Wild (Pastinaca sativa) Partridge Vine (Mitchclla ropens) Peanut, Hog (Falcata eoniosa) Pepperbush, Sweet (Clethra alnifolia) Peppermint (Mentha ])iporita) Pickerel-weed (Pontedoria cordata) Pink, Oeptford (Dianthus Arnioria) Pink, Grass (Limodoruni tuberosum) Pink, Wild (Silene C'aroliniana) Pipsissewa (Chimaphila umbellata) Pipsissewa, Spotted (Chimaphila macu- lata) Pitcher-plant (Sarracenea purpurea) Pogonia, Rose (Pogonia ophioglossoides) Pokeweed (Phytolacca decandra) Prickly Pear (Opuntia Opuntia) Qvieen Anne's Lace (Daucus Carota) Raspberry, Purple Flowering (Rubus odoratus) Rattle-box (Crotalaria Sagittalis) I'attlesnake Plantain (Peramium repens) Khodora (Rhodora Canadensis) llobin's Plantain (Erigeron j)ulchellus) Hose, Swamj) (Rosa Carolina) Pose, Wild (Rosa humilis) Saint .lohn's-wort (Hypericum perfora tum ) Sarsaparilla, Wild (Aralia nudicaulis) Saxifrage (Saxifraga Virginiensis) Saxifrage Swamp (Saxifraga Pennsyl- vanica ) Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris) Sensitive Pea (Cassia nictitans) Service-Berry (Amelanchier Canadensis) Shad-Bush ( Amelanchier Botryapium ) Shin-leaf (Pyrola elliptica) Silver-rod (Solidago bicolor) Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) Skunk Cabbage (Spathyema ftetida) Snakeroot, White (Eupatorium agera- toides) Sneezewood (Helenium autumnale) Solomon's Seal, False (Vagnera race- mosa ) Solomon's Seal, True (Polygonatum biflorum) Spearmint (Mentha Spicata) Speedwell, Common (Veronica officinalis) Speedwell, Thyme-leaved (Veronica ser- pylli folia) Spice-Bush (Benzoin Benzoin) Spikenard (Aralia racemosa) Spring Beauty (Claytonia Virginica) Spurge (Euphorbia corollata) Steeplebush (Spira'a tomentosa) Strawberry, Wild (Fragaria Virginiana) Strawberry. Barren (Waldsteinia fra- garioides) Sumach, Poison (Rhus Vernix) Sumach, Staghorn (Rhus hirta) Sundew (Drosera) Sundew, Round-leaved (Drosera rotundi- folia ) Sundrops (Kneiffia fructicosa) Sunflower, Wild (Helianthus giganteus) Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) Tear-tlivnnb, Arrow-leaved (Polygonum sagittatum) Tear-tluunb, Halberd-leaved ( Polygoiuim Arifolium) Tliistles in variety (Carduus) Thorn Apple (Datura Stramonium) Tick-trefoil (^leibomia Canadensis) Toad-flax (Linaria Linaria) Trillium, Nodding (Trilliiun cernuum) Trumpet-flower (Tecoma radicans) Turtle-head (Chelone glabra) Venus' Looking-glass (Legouzia per- foliata) Vervain, Blue (Verbena hastata) Vervain, European (Verbena officinalis) Vetch, Purple (Vicia Cracca) Viburnum, Maple-leaved (Viburnum Ace- ri folium) Violet. Blue (Vista) Violet, White (Viola Blanda) N'iolet, White-Lance Leafed (Viola Lan- ceolata) Violet, Yellow (Viola Pupesceus) Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quin- (]uefolia) Virgin's Bower (Atragene Americana) Wandering Jew (Tradescantia Virgini- ana) Watercress (Cardamine bulbosa) Water Plantain (Alisma Plantago- aquatica) Winterberry (Ilex verticillata) Wintergreen (Pyrola rotundifolia) Witch-Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) Wood Betony (Pedicularis Canadensis) Wood-sorrel. Yellow (Oxalis strieta) Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) Yellow-Avens (Geum strictum) Yellow Star-Grass (Hypoxis hirsuta) FERNS ^faidenhair (Adiantum pedatnm) Christmas Fern (Aspidium acrosticho- ides) Kbony Spleenwort (Asplenium ebeneum) Lady Fern (Asplenium Filix-f(emina) New York Fern (Aspidium Novebora- cense) Spiniilose Wood Fern (Aspidium Spinu- losum var. intermedium) Evergreen Wood Fern (Aspidium mar- ginale) !\Iarsh Fern (Aspidium Thelypteris) Rattlesnake Fern (Botrychium Virgini- anum) Ternate Grape Fern (Botrychium dis- sectum ) 26 PAST ANP PRE HEN T llay-scented Fern (Dicksonia pilosins- LYCOPODIUMS cula) (Ground Pine) Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) l^veopodium lucidulum Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda einnanionoa) LVcopodium abscurum Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis) L'vcopodiuin clavatum Interrupted Fern (Osnumda C'laytoni- lAcopodium complanatum ana) Broad Beeeli Fern (Phegopteris Hexa- IIORSP^-TAIL gonoptera) Dutch Rushes, Scouring Rush (Equise- Polypody (Polypodium vulgare) turn Hyemale) Brake or Eagle Fern (Pteris aquilina) (ommon Horse-tail (Equisetum arvense) TREES OF RIDGEWOOD No other two syllable word or two-word combination could so fit- tingly describe the physical characteristics of this village as the name "Ridgewood. " Most of our citizens in deciding to make their homes here have been influenced, consciously or unconsciously, by the wooded or tree-covered ridges. Trees are more indispensable to the beautifying of a city than architecture of the most aesthetic design. Washington, one of the most conspicuous examples of the city beautiful in America, would not be half so beautiful without its trees. And the trees of this village are one of tiie first of its features to impress the stranger with the desir- ability of Ridgewood as a place of residence. The healthfulness of Ridgewood, also, which is widely known and which has been generally credited to the porous nature of the soil and substrata, is in as large a measure due to the influence of the trees. It is claimed by the New York County Medical Society that "an adequate number of trees in the streets is one of the most effective means for mitigating the intense heat of the summer months and diminishing the death-rate among children"; and the Newark Shade Commission maintains that — "The large percentage of ozone in forest air and the scarcity of it in the treeless streets where crowded dwellings abound demonstrates that this tonic and recuperative element of the air is due to the presence of trees and the lack of it to their absence. The air in the vicinity of trees contains less bacteria and dust particles than does the air outside of tree influence, which again demonstrates that the presence of trees decreases the total atmos- pheric impurities." The site of Ridgewood at the time of the coming of the white man was, no doubt, a dense forest of evergreens and deciduous trees. At the present time acres of forest land of a later tree growth, with here and there a specimen tree of the virgin forest, still remain within the village limits and only a few minutes' walk from the railroad station. To one viewing Ridgewood from the crest of some of its hills, it appears as though the Village were built in a forest; and this is actually the case with some of the newer sections. Following is a list naming the forest trees of Ridgewood and vicinity and also, as far as known, the shade and ornamental trees of the o o b/3 f5 p w.l^ PAST AND PRESENT Village. Those marked with an asterisk are exotic to this immediate locality. The others are indigenous or naturalized. Conifers Family i Genus or Common Name Scientific Name Ginkgo * Maidenhair Tree Salisburia adiantifolia Pines White Pine Pinus stro])US .fersev or Scrub Pine Virginiana Pitch' Pine rigid a ■•■ Austrian Pine Austriaca * Scotch Pine * Swiss Pine sylvestris cerabra * IMvigho Pine Montana * Himalayan Pine excelsa Laich Tamarack r^arix Americana Spruce "■' Norway Spruce Picea excelsa ■'■ Colorado Blue Spruce pungens glauca '"' White Spruce alba Firs "' Nordmann's Fir Abies Nordmanniana Hemlock Hemlock Spruce Tsuga Canadensis Arborvitae * Common American Arborvitae, and varieties Thuya occidentalis Retinospora ^- Japanese Cedars or Japanese tv- jiress in variety Chamaecyparis Junipers Bed Cedar, and many exotics Juniperus Virginiana BROAD LEAVED TREES ^^'a]nllts r.lack Walnut Juglans nigra Butlenuit Cinerea '■ Jiipaiiese Walnut Siebohliana Hickories Pignut or \\ liite Hickory Ilicoria glalira Shagbark orata Bitternut minima i'dplars * Carolina I'opbir I'opulus Carolinensis Aspen trenuiloides Large-toothed aspen " Balm of Gilead grandidentata balsamifera * Abele or White Poplar alba Willows ■"" ]..onibardy Black Willow nigra Salix nigra Yellow Willow blanda Pussy Willow discolor " Wee})ing Willow Babylonica Ibjnibcanis Ho]) Hornbeam, Ironwood Ostrya Vii-giniana American Hornbeam, Blue Beech Carpinus Caroliniana Birches American \Vliite Birch Betula populifolia Yellow Birch lutea Reerry " Burning Bush Red or Swamp Maple Silver or Soft Maple Sugar, Rock or Hard Maple ■"■ Striped staple or ^Moosewood ^ Box Elder or Ash-leaved Maple "' Norway Maple * Japanese Maples 30 Scientific Name Queicus platanoides prinus prinoides palustris rubra coccinia velutina nana phellos robur concordia Llmus Amei'icana fulva campestris Morus celtidifolia Toxylon pomiferum Magnolia glauca acuminata Sassafras sassafras Hamamelis Virginiana Liquidambar styraciflua Plantanus occidentalis orientalis Plains coronaria Sorbus Americana aucuparia Amelanchier Canadensis obovalis Crataegus Crus-galli Pruiius Americana PruiiuR serotina Virginiana Avium Cerasus Japonica var. Rosea Pendula. Cladrastis lutea Cercis Canadensis Gleditsia triacanthos Gymnocladus dioicus Robinia pseudacacia viscosa Sophora Japonica Ailantbus glandulosa Rhus Hirta Copallina vernis glabra cotinus Americana Ilex verticillata hevigata Euonymous atropuijnueus Acer rubrum saccharinum saccharum Pennsylvanicum negiuido ])latanoides Japonicvun in variety PAST AND PRESENT Family or Genus Coiiiuion Name Scientific Name .Ksc'uhis * Wliite-Flowerinor. Horse Chestnut .Esculus Hippocastanum •• lled-Floweriiig, Horse Chestnut Carnea l.iiidens American Linden, Baaswood Tilia Americana * European Linden Europea * Crimean Linden dasystyla Silver Linden tomentosa Alalia •■■'• Hercules Club Aralia spinosa Nyssa 'iuiielo. Black Gum or Pepperidge Xyssa sylvatica Dogwoods Flowering DogAvood Cornus Florida Porsimnioii ■ Persimmon Diospyros Virginiana Ash \Vhite Ash Fraxinus Americana Black Ash nigra Chionantlms * White Fringe Tree Chionanthus Virginica Catalpa " Indian Bean Catalpa Bignonioides " Chinese Catalpa Bungei * ^^'estern Catalpa speciosa ^'ibul•mIln Black Haw Viburnum prunifolium * Exotic. ■■•'■•■ Naturalized. BIRD LIFE OF RIDGEWOOD As might be expected from its beautiful location and surroundings, Ridgewood is very rich in bird life; and the birds will be found very interesting and appreciative by any one who attempts to study and attract them. Bird life varies with the seasons even more than flowers and foliage. In considering the "Bird Life of Ridgewood," it may be well to divide them into four main classes — Permanent Residents, Summer Residents, Winter Residents, and Transients. There is another class known as Occasional Visitants, but its name will immediately eliminate it from consideration in this publication. By far the largest and best known group is that of the Summer Residents. Few there are of the more observant people who do not recognize the song and chipping sparrows, the house wren, the swallows, the catbird, the bluebird, the robin, and perhaps one or two of the other thrushes. Tlie interest in birds, and consequently the knowledge of them, is becoming so much more general that there are probably many Ridgewoodites who know a great many more than these. One resident in particular, the late Henry Hales, took an enthusiastic interest in bird life. He made a most valuable collection of birds, particularly those of this locality. Tlirough his many articles on bird life written for scientific papers, lie became a recognized authority on the subject. Many persons liave sliown their love for our feathered friends by plac- ing bird liouses on tlieir grounds. The practice of erecting bird houses and maintaining feeding stations for birds is commended to any one who wishes to benefit Ins own home and the village at large, and who would enjoy many liappy hours in observation and study of these shy yet friendly-disposed neiglibors. The house wren and the ])lue bird are undoubtedly the species most easily attracted by tlie nesting ])ox, if we except always the English sparrow, which Avill quite unceremoniously make himself comfortable 31 RIBGEWOOB, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY in any available place, whether his presence is desired or not. Robins take kindly to shallow boxes or shelves placed in sheltered spots and, if they are not disturbed, will often become tame enough to nest under the eaves of the piazza roof. Chipping sparrows are very fond of close privet hedges, grape vines and low bushes. Sometimes a song sparrow will be found Avho has the temerity to make a home in shrubbery not far from the house. Those who live on the outskirts of the village and have barns with haylofts will have no trouble in attracting barn swallows, if there are ventilators or other openings through which the birds may pass in going to and from their nests. One may find, in wandering afield, that the possibilities are almost unlimited for the careful student who is able to recognize all the species of the Summer Residents he sees. He will probably first be attracted by the birds of the air — barn and tree swallows, chimney swifts, and perhaps crows and blue jays, the two latter being Permanent Residents. Down by Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, or in similar places, he may see water thrushes stepping quietly along over the pebbles on the shore. In the bushes nearby may be found many other kinds of warblers, notably black and white, yellow and black throated, blue, Maryland yelloAv-throats, and American redstarts. In the adjacent thickets the loud crescendo chant, "Teacher, teacher, teacher, teacher, teacher," reveals the modest ovenbird. Red-eyed vireos keep up a continual chatter in the trees overhead, and from the thickets where the Mary- land yellow-throats flit to and fro, may be heard the harsh call notes of the catbird. Back in the more obscure places the Wood and Wilson thrushes hold forth with their liquid notes, particularly toward even- ing, and poui- fortli music well worth the attention of the passerby. Here, or in still more secluded nooks, the bird lover may hear the quiet chuckle of the black-billed cuckoo or "raincrow," but it will take careful stalking and diligent search if he is actually to catch a glimpse of the author of the notes. At a wide spot in the brook or over some ice pond he may see a kingfisher poised for a sudden dive as an un- suspecting "sunny" comes to the surface within the scope of his keen vision ; or he may hear him clatter noisily as he flies overhead to seek new pools for investigation, the bright blue and white flashing bril- liantly against the darker foliage. Out in the open fields a medley made up of many voices will fall upon the listener's ears. A little practice, however, will enable him to distinguish the whistle of the meadowlark, the similar and yet dif- ferent thrills of the chipping and field sparrows, the "cherink" of the chewink or towhee, and many other cliaracteristic bird calls and songs. Perhaps in the top of a tree in the middle of the field will be a brown thrasher pouring forth a varied, but far from unpleasant, jumble of notes. If it is well on toward midsummer, he may catch the flash of yellow and black as a goldfinch, or more often a flock of them, passes over with a jerky and undulating flight. If, as frequently is the case, the field slopes down to a marshy spot, with wild flags, arrowhead and cat-tails, he will find any quantity of red-winged blackbirds flying back and forth or circling overhead, utter- ing their distinctive " conk-err-ee-e. " Here also he may find the less PAST AND PRESENT conspicuous rusty blackbird or the larger and more highly tinted purple grackle, although these two are more often found in drier locations. At any time on an open country road the wayfarer may start up inconspicuous birds that Hy ahead along the fences and disclose white outer tail feathers, the characteristic mark of the vesper sparrow. In the trees along the roadside a flash of black and orange Avill betray the Baltimoi'c oriole, whose nest is suspended from the very tip of one of the branches. Flying over the road to his hole in a telegraph pole or hollow tree in an orchard may be seen the flicker or golden- winged woodpecker, easily to be distinguished by its graceful undu- lating flight and the flash of yellow as the sunlight strikes the lower surface of his wings. Another Avoodpecker, which is a Permanent Resi- dent and may be encountered almost anywhere, is the downy, or more particularly the northern downy; for there is a slightly smaller variety which is common in the South. A bird more thoroughly at home in the orchard, but frequently seen on the telephone or telegraph wires along the roadside, is the kingbird, easily recognized by the head-crest and the white tip to each tail feather, making the tail appear to have a white border. Even more conmion in orchards, and frequently found nesting under old bridges, is the phoebe, known to almost every one. Quiet and unassuming as the phoebe is, it is particularly industrious in consuming large numbers of harmful insects. Another Permanent Resident not seen quite so much in Summer perhaps as in Winter, is the Avell-known black-capped chickadee. In New England this bird has been reported as nesting in artificial houses. A bird more common than ordinarily supposed, but one frequently overlooked on account of its small size and lightning-like movements, is the brilliant little ruby-throated hummingbird, which darts here and there among the flowers, poising himself occasionally before one of them to take honey on tlie wing, only to be off again in a flash to a flower in another section of the garden. Probably many whose interest is greater than their knowledge have wondered what bird is responsible for the queer antics and nasal "peent" that they have observed toward dusk. This is none other than the nighthawk, which is much more common around Ridgewood than the whip-poor-will, from which it may be distinguished by the white markings on the wings and by the forked tail. The fall migration affords the bird-lover an opportunity to see species which are not here at any other time except during the coi're- sponding period in the reverse migration in the spring. By far the most numerous migrants in point of variety are the warblers, and most prominent among these is the myrtle warbler, which comes early and stays late. It is very difficult to distinguish the warblers in the fall of the year, as the male, female and young all take on dull plumage, whicli makes them look practically alike and \'ery similar to tlie other war])lers. The yellow-])alm is another fairly common migrant wliicli may })e distinguished from other warblers by the cliestnut crown and side spots and the white ])atc]ies on the outer tail feathers. It may be found in open woods and along roadsides, but it more often frequents the neighborhood of a brook. 33 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY At least two sparrows are fairly common during migration; the Fox — known by its large size and fox-like color — and the white-throated — identified by its striped crown, white throat and faint wing bars. Spring is, of course, the ideal time to see birds in greatest variety. At tliat time they all wear their fresh spring plumage and bridal colors. Fifty varieties of birds is a reasonable number to be identified on almost any day of the first two weeks of May. To make this record, however, one must be able to recognize a bird quickly and accurately, and should visit the highland and the lowland, the open field and the shady wood. Only the bird lover knows how very favorable a time is the winter for bird study. At this season a blanket of snow often conceals the natural sources of bird food. One who at this time provides a bird feeding shelf at a sheltered window and watches the various species that avail themselves of his fare, will be surprised and delighted at the variety and friendliness of his bird guests. Chickadees, downy woodpeckers, and white-breasted nuthatches will visit the feeding shelf quite regularly, and juncos, bluejays, goldfinches, and redpolls are pretty sure to appear occasionally. English sparrows will need no urging to attend the feast. Indeed there may be difficulty in keeping them from becoming so numerous that they drive away the other birds. Tree sparrows, winter wrens, and crows spend the winter with us; but they are inclined to be shy and it is not likely that any of them would patronize the window-shelf lunch counter. Nearly every variety of bird visiting this section of the country is found in Ridgewood. The following list shows those which have been seen and identified by its residents : Blackliird. Eod-winoed (Agelaiiis phoeni- ceiis ) Blackbird, Ivusty (Euphagus carolimis) Blueliird (Sialia sialis) Bluejay (Cyaiioeitta cristata) Bobolink (Doliclionyx oryzivorus) Bunting, Indigo (Passerina cyanea) Catbird (Dunietella carolinensis) Chickadee. Black-capped (Penthestes atricapilhis) Cowhird (Molotlirus ater) Croopt'r. Brown (Ccrtliia faniiliaris Americana) Crossbill, American (Loxia curvirosta minor) Crow, Ameiican (Corvns bracliyrhyn- chos) Cuckoo. Black-billed (Coccyzns erythrop- tlialmus) Cuckoo, Yellow-billed (Coccyzns Ameri- canus) Fincli, Pine or Siskin (Spinus piniis) Finch, Pui-nle (Cai'podacus ])urpnrens) Flickei- or TTigh Hole (Colaptes auratus) I'Mycatcher, Crested ( iVfyiarchiis crinitus) Flycatcher, Least (Empidonax minimus) Flycatcher, Yellow-bellied (Empidonax flaviventris) Goldfinch, American ( Astragalinus tris- tis) Crackle, Purple or Crow Blackbird (Quiscalus quiscula) Grosl>eak, Pine (Pinicola enucleator leu- cura ) Grosbeak, Eose-breasted ( Zamelodia ludoviciana) Hawk, Cooper (Accipiter cooperi) Hawk, Marsh (Circus hudsonius) Hawk, Red-sliouldered (Buteo lineatus) TFawk, Sparrow (Falco sparverius) IFeron, Green ( Butorides virescens) Hummingbird, Ruby-throated (Arcliilo- chus colubris) •Tunco, Slate-colored (Junco hyemalis) Kingbird (Tyrannus tyrannus) Kingfisher, Belted (Ceryle alcyon) Kinglet, Golden-crowned ( R e g u I u s satrapa ) Meadowlark (Sturnella magna) Xutiiateh, Red-breast€d (Sitta canaden- sis) Nuthatch, ^^'hite-breasted (Sitia caro linensis) Xighthawk (Chordeiles virginianus) Oriole, Baltimore (Icterus galbula ) Oriole, Orchard (Icterus spurius) 34 PAST AND PRESENT Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus) Warbler, Bay-breasted (Deiidroiea cas- Owl, Screech (Otus osio) tanea) Pewee, Wood (Myiochanes virens) Warbler, Blackburniaii (Dendroica rhu'be (Sayornis phoebe) fiisca) Pipit, American, or 'I'itlark ( Antluis Warbler, Black Poll (Dendroica striata) rnbescens) Warbler, Black-tliroatvd Bine (Dendroica Redpoll (Acanthis linaria) csfrulescens) Redstart, American (Retophaga ruti- Warbler, Black and White Creeping cilia) (]\rniotilta varia) Robin, American (Planesticns migia- \Varbler, Black-throated Green (Den- torins) droica virens) 8parrow, C]iip])ing (Spizella passerina ) ^\ arbler, Blue-\vinges gramineus) nolia) Sparrow, White-crowned (Zonotrichia Warbler, Myrtle (Dendroica coronata) leucophrys) Warbler, Parula (Compsothlypis ameri- Sparrow, White-throated (Zonotrichia cana) albicollis) Warbler, Northern Parula (Conipsoth- Starling (Stnrnus vulgaris) lypis usnea) Swallow, Bank (Riparia riparia) Warbler, Tennessee (Vermivora pere- Swallow, Barn (Hirundo erythrogastra) grina) Swallow, Tree (Iridoprocne bicolor) Warbler, Worm-eating (Helmintherog Swift, Chimney ( Choetura pelagica ) vermivora) Tanager, Scarlet (Piranga erythromelas) Warlder. Yellow (Dendroica sestiva) 1 liiaslier. Brown (Toxostoma rufum) ^^ arl)ler. Yellow-Palm (Dendroica pal- Thrush, Hermit (Hylocichla guttata marum hypochrysea) pallasii) Wax Wing, Cedar (Bombycilla cedro- Thrush, Water (Seirus noveboracensis) rum) Thrush, Wilson, or Veery (Hylocichla Whip-Poor-Will ( Antrostomus vociferus) fuscescens) \Voodpecker. Downy (Dryobates pubes- Thrush, Wood (Hylocichla mustelina) cens medianus) Towhee or Chewink (Pipilo erythroph- Woodpecker, Hairy (Dryobates villosus) thalmus) Woodpecker, Red-Headed (Melanerpeg Titmouse, Tufted (Boeolophus bicolor) erythrocephalus) ^'ireo, Red-eyed (Vireosylva olivacea) \^'l■en, House (Troglodytes redon) Vireo. White-eyed (Vireo grisens) Wren, Winter (Nannus hiemalis) Vireo, Yellow-throated (Lanivereo flavi- Yellow-throat, Maryland (Geothlypis frons) trichas) A bird census, taken on Chi'istmas Day, 1915, at a feeding station on the grounds of Carl ]\r. Vail, Ridgewood, N. J., witli sky oveirast, ground snow-covered, light south-west winds, temperature 40 degrees to 45 degrees, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. shows the following hirds: Hairy Woodpecker 1 Blue Jay Several Purple Finch 2 (Male and Female) American Goldfinoli 1 English Sparrow Many Chipping Sparrow 1 Tree Sparrow I White-breasted Nutliateh Several Golden-crowned Kinglet 2 Downy Woodpecker Several Starling Manv Redpoll 4 Pine Finch Several 35 ,„ ^ ' "-, I RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY White-throated Sparrow 2 Slate-colored Junco Many Titlark Several Black-capped Chickadee Many Hermit Thrush 1 Total — Eighteen species; individuals too numerous to count. 36 CHAPTER III CIVIL ORGANIZATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS POLITICAL DIVISIONS ON March 12, 1663, Charles II. granted to James, Duke of York, a large tract, including the present State of New Jersey. In 1664, on the 24th day of June, the Duke of York made a con- veyance to John Berkely and George Carteret of the entire Province of New Jersey. This instrument was the first wherein the boundaries of the present State were defined. The consideration for the convey- ance was ten shillings. The conveyance defined the property as being all that tract of land adjacent to New England and lying and being to the westward of Long Island and Manhattan Island: bounded on the east, part by the main sea and part by the Hudson River; and hath upon the west, Delaware Bay or River and extcndcth southward to the main ocean as far as Cape JNIay at the mouth of Delaware Bay; and to the northward as far as the northermost branch of said bay or river of Delaware, which is forty-one degrees and forty minutes of latitude, and worketh over thence in a straight line to Hudson's River; which said tract of land is hereafter to be called by the name or names of "Nova Cesarea" or New Jersey. In 1675, John Berkely offered his half interest in the Province of New Jersey for sale and the same was purchased by John Fenwick, in trust for Edward Byllinge, for one thousand pounds. The title of the whole of New Jersey was thus vested in George Carteret and Edward Byllinge. They agreed upon a partition of it, July the first, 1676. The trustees of Byllinge conveyed to Cartaret tlieir interest in all the land lying east of a line drawn "from the East side of Little Egg Harbor, straight North through the Country, to the utmost branch of the Delaware River ; thus dividing the Province into two parts, known as East and West Jersey." Carteret by this conveyance became the sole owner of East Jersey. Carteret died in 1679 and left a will, dated December 5, 1678, whereby he ordered that the Province of East Jersey should be sold to pay his debts. This conveyance Avas made by his widow and execu- tors, February 1, 1682, to twelve individuals styled as the Twelve Proprietors. Subsequently during the same year the Twelve Proprie- tors each took a partner and conveyances were made vesting the title in them common with the original twelve. These with the other twelve were tlie TAventy-four Proprietors, or the Proprietors or OA\Tiers of East Jersey. The Province of East Jersey was divided into four counties, March 7, 1682, viz. : Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, and Monmouth. Bergen County at this time extended from the Hudson River to the Hackensack River, and the ToAvn of Bergen, noAV a part of Hudson County and situated in the vicinity of the Dutch Reformed Church of Bergen on Bergen Avenue, was the seat of government. 37 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY The division of counties in 1682 caused great dissatisfaction among the people. They comphiined that the counties were too large, that the distances between their homes and the county seat were too great, and that traveling such long distances over bad roads in all sorts of weather interfered wdth their pursuits and subjected them to great expense and bodily discomfort. They petitioned the legislature from time to time for relief, and on January 21, 1709, the legislature passed an act entitled "An Act for dividing and ascertaining the boundaries of all the Counties in the Province." The bounds of Bergen County in this act wxre descriljed as follows : "That in the eastern division, the County of Bergen shall begin at Constable's Hook and so run up along the Bay and Hudson's River to the partition point between New Jersey and Province of New York; and so run along the partition line between the provinces, and the division line of the eastern and western division of this Province to Pequaneck River, and so to run down to the Pequaneck and Pessaick River to the Sound, and so to follow the Sound to Constable's Hook Avhere it began." By this act the entire section of the county west of the Hackensack River, which had been previously a part of Essex County, including the Village of Ridgewood, became a part of Bergen County. The county at this time Avas divided into two townships : Hackensack Town- ship, including the portion of the county between the Hudson and Hackensack Rivers, and New Barbadoes Township, the balance of the county, including the Village of Ridgewood. Franklin Township was formed from New Barbadoes about the year 1767. Ridgewood Township was formed from Franklin Township on March 30, 1876. It then covered an area of three square miles, the population of which was about twelve hundred. In 1894 the Village of Ridgewood was incorporated. At the same time the municipalities of Midland Park and Glen Rock were formed into boroughs, thereby making the village and township lines of Ridge- wood coextensive. Effective July 1, 1902, a part of Orvil Township was added to tlie northeastern portion of Ridgewood, while in 1915 a portion of the northwestern territory of Ridgewood towards Waldwiek Avas annexed to Orvil Township. RELATION BETWEEN VILLAGE, COUNTY AND STATE When we say that we live in the Village of Ridgew^ood, County of Bergen, and State of New Jersey, the statement includes more than a designation of the place where we reside. It also means that the municipal or local government under which we live is that of a village, that the corporation having charge of the county affairs is the Board of Chosen Freeholders of the County of Bergen, and that our state government is that of the State of New Jersey. The State is supreme, and the powers of the legislature are limited only by the Constitution of the State and the Constitution of the United States. Its legislature at its pleasure can, by the enactment of laws, create 38 PAST AND PRESENT or destroy counties and municipalities and change and alter their boundaries and the powers of their governing bodies. Villages are now formed by the passing of a special act of the legislature, designating the name of the village and describing the boundaries of the territory of which it is to be composed. This char- acter of legislation requires public notice prior to the enactment. Upon the passage of such an act the laws relating to the government of villages apply to the territory affected. The governing body of the village has no power except such as is authorized by laws enacted by the legislature. In the matter of raising the revenues of the state, the village is l)otli directly and indii'ectly affected. The revenues of the state are dei'ived largely from taxes ui)on corporations, railroads, franchises, and decedents' estates, income from riparian lands, and automobile licenses. Whether any of these taxes affect the residents of the village depends upon their interest in the subject matter of such taxation. A portion of the state school tax is raised by a direct tax on all the taxable property in the state and, therefore, affects every owner of taxable property in the village. The village receives in return from the states its portion of the state school moneys, which are derived by the state from railroad tax, rentals of riparian lands, the income from moneys derived from the sale of riparian lands, and the state school tax. The state distributes these moneys through the county col- lectors of the several counties to the custodian of the school moneys of the several municipalities in the county. The Custodian of the School Funds in the Village of Ridgewood is the village Collector. The apportionment of the state school moneys is based on attendance at the public schools. The business of our county is transacted by a Board called "The Board of Chosen Freeholders of the County of Bergen," which is a corporation of the county. It was formerly composed of members elected by the cities and townships of the county, the boroughs and villages joining in the election with the township from which the larger part of such boroughs or villages were formed. Since January 1, 191G, the Board has been composed of seven members elected by the voters of the county at large. The principal officers of the Board of Chosen Freeholders are Director, Clerk, County Collector, Counsel, County Engineer, and County Road Supervisor. The Sheriff, County Clerk, and Surrogate are county officers independent of the Board of Chosen Freeholders, but accountable to the Board for all moneys or propertj^ coming into their hands or custody and belonging to the county. The members of the Board of Chosen Freeholders act as the directors of a corporation in the management of the county affairs. The powers of the Board are ministerial. It is the custodian of the property of the county. It is charged with the management of the Poor House, Jail, and Court House, and with the construction and maintenance of bridges and culverts. It has power to require all public officers of the county to account for the moneys and property belonging to the county and entrusted to such officers. These powers and duties have .39 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY been commonly held and exercised by the Board of Chosen Freeholders from its earliest existence. Until about 1890 the roads were maintained by the inhabitants of the several municipalities. Many of these roads were main thorough- fares through the county and state and were of more importance for travel to the county or state at large than to the inhabitants of the particular municipalities. About this time the state began to realize that the burden of constructing and maintaining these main thorough- fares belonged more properly to the county and state, and in 1891 the legislature authorized the Boards of Chosen Freeholders of the several counties to adopt county roads and to improve the same witli state aid. About the same time laws were passed authorizing the Board of Freeholders to adopt county roads and to improve them with- out state aid. The state and counties are now bearing a large part of the burden of the construction and maintenance of public roads. The Board of Chosen Freeholders of the County of Bergen was slow in adopting county roads. The first road improved by the Board with state aid in this county was the Paterson Plank Road, in the year 1909. Since that time, and especially about the beginning of the year 1912, the Board of Chosen Freeholders adopted a large number of county roads and improved the same, some Avith and others without state aid. In our village two of the main thoroughfares. Maple Avenue and Paramus Road, were improved by the county Board without state aid and, between the boundaries of the curb lines, are now county roads, under the jurisdiction of the Board of Chosen Freeholders. Nearly all the revenues of the county are derived from direct taxa- tion. The Board of Chosen Freeholders is required not later than the first Tuesday of August in each year to make out a budget of the moneys which have been appropriated and which are to be raised by taxes for county purposes. This budget is sent to the County Board of Taxation before the second Tuesday in August in each year. The County Board apportions the taxes among the taxing districts of the county. Other moneys received by the Board of Chosen Freeholders of the county are the fees collected by the Surrogate and County Clerk, and fines and penalties collected by the Sheriff. In addition to this, a portion of the automobile license money collected by the state is given to the Board for repair of county roads. The management of county affairs is closely related to the welfare of each municipality. Economy and efficiency are shown by a com- parison of the amount of taxes raised with the improvements made by the Board. In every direction the activities of the village are inter- woven with those of the county. The Assessor of the village assesses the property for the state and county taxes as well as for the taxes of the village. The Collector of the village collects the state school and comity taxes as well as the taxes for village purposes. The village government fixes the amount of the village taxes. The first two are determined respectively by the state- legislature and by the Board of Chosen Freeholders. The Overseer of the Poor, a village officer, fur- nishes temporary relief for the poor of the village. Permanent relief 40 PAST AND PRESENT is provided by the county. The insane, tubercular, and criminal de- pendents are provided for by tlie state and county through the Board of Chosen Freeholders. The bridges and culverts on all of the public roads in the village are constructed and cared for by the same Board. County roads through the villages also are maintained by them. The state, county, and village are so closely related in the manage- ment of the business relating to the public welfare that every citizen should take an active interest in the manner in which such business is conducted by the state and county, as well as by the village. ridgewood's form of government Toicnsliip Committee In 1876, when the Township of Ridgewood was set oft' from Franklin Township, Bergen County was composed largely of farming communi- ties. The nearness of its fertile acres to the cities of New York, Jersey City, Newark and Paterson made farming the chief pursuit of its citizens. There were no cities and the local governments were townships. The original township government in this state was elementary in form and adapted to rural connnunities. The most important political event in the township government was the town meeting, Avhich Avas held annually on the second IMonday of April. Between the hours of eleven and twelve of that day the electors assembled and chose some person to preside at the meeting. His duty was to conduct the business thereof in a regular and orderly manner and in case of dispute to determine who had the right to vote. The law directed that if any person should behave in a disorderly manner or interrupt the person speaking by unnecessary noise or con- versation, and if such person should, after notice from the presiding offif-er, persist in disorderly behavior, then it Avas the duty of the l»i'esiding officer to direct that such disorderly person withdraw from the meeting and forfeit one dollar for such offense. If he refused or neglected to withdraw from the meeting, the constables of the town- sliip were directed by the chairman of the meeting to put such person in a place of confinement where he would be detained until the meet- ing was ended. Prior to 1841 the vote at the town meeting was taken by the rais- ing of hands, separating the voters, or viva voce. In that year the legislature directed, by special act, that the voting in Franklin Town- ship should be by ballot. The principal objects for which money Avas ordered raised by the voters at the tOAvn meeting AA'ere for the support of the poor, the building and repairing of pounds, the destruction of noxious AA'ild animals and birds, the opening, making, AA^orking and repairing of I'oads, and prosecuting and defending the common rights of the toAA^n- ship. The qualified voters of the toAvn meeting made and ordered such }-egulations and by-laAvs as a majority of them so assembled might think proper for the improving of their common land in tillage, pastur- age or in any other way, and directed the use, management and times 41 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY of using their coiniuon lands, and elected five '"Judicious Freeholders" (property owners of judgment) as the township committee, which upon the first election (1876) consisted of Cornelius J. Bogert, N. R. Bunce, Peter G. Hopper, Albert P. Hopper and Thomas Terhune. The other original officers elected were Township Clerk, N. R. Bunce; Assessor, John A. Marinus; Collector, James Zabriskie; Chosen Freeholder, G. G. Van Dien; two Surveyors of the Highway, Overseers of the Poor, Constables, three judicious Freeholders of good character as Commis- sioners of Appeal in matters of taxation, and one reputable Free- holder as Judge of Election. In some townships the Overseers of the Highway were elected at the town meeting and in other townshii)s l)y the several road districts. The Township Committee was the governing body of the township. Its members were required to be property owners and their duties were largely ministerial. They examined, inspected and reported at the town meetings the accounts and vouchers of township officers, superintended the expending of moneys raised by taxation for the use of the township, read at the town meeting the statement of the accounts of the money expended in the township by the county Board of Chosen Freeholders, and settled disputes in reference to partition fences. The duties of the Assessor and of the Collector w^ere practically the same as today. The Assessor was a member of the county Board of Assessors, and as such adjusted the assessment between the various municipalities and fixed the tax rate for county and state taxes. These duties of the Assessor have in recent years been taken over by the county Board of Taxation. The roads at this time were laid out or altered by surveyors of liighways. On application to the Court of Common Pleas of ten or more freeholders, the Court appointed six surveyors of highways. These surveyors or a majority of them met and determined upon the necessity of the road and assessed the damages or benefits resulting from the laying out or altering of the road, and directed the time when the road should be opened or altered. Roads were opened and repaired by the Overseers of the Highways. The Township Committee assigned and appointed in writing to the Overseers of the Highway their several limits and division of the highways within the township for opening, working and repairing. Every person assessed for the raising of money to open or repair the highways could work out his tax or any part of it on giving notice to the Overseers within whose limits or division he resided. The powers and duties of the township officers were such as the government of a farming community would require. Village Trustees The development of railroads changed the character of these com- munities in Bergen County from farming to suburban, from sparsely settled districts to thickly settled communities. These changes brought with them many and dilificult municipal problems for solution, among which were street improvements, water supply, sewerage, police and fire protection. Although the township laws were amended from time 42 PAST AND PRESENT to time, the methods of township government were unsatisfactory and were not suited to these changed conditions and not adapted to the solution of these problems. Prior to the new state constitution of 1875, special charters were granted to cities and many other munici- palities. After that date the Legislature sought by general statute to provide for the government of municipalities. In 1878 the Legislature provided for the formation, in a township or part of a township, of boroughs not exceeding four square miles each; in 1891 it provided for the organization from a township or part of a township of villages whose population should be at least 300 inhabitants for each square mile. These municipalities were created after an election held to determine whether the territorj^ described in the application should be incorpoi-ated as a borough or a village. Orig- inally both the borough and the village remained a part of the town- ship for certain purposes, notably for the election of a county Free- holder. The villages voted with the township in the election of the Collector and the Assessor. A short time prior to the year 1893 boroughs were permitted to include within their limits a portion of one or more townships. In the last mentioned year the Legislature provided that unless a borough contained a portion of two municipalities, it could not have a Chosen Freeholder. A large number of boroughs were then formed in Bergen County, caching taking a portion of two or more townships in order to have a representative in the Board of Chosen Freeholders. The boroughs of Midland Park and Glen Rock each had included within their territories a portion of the Township of Ridgewood. In order to prevent further reduction in the territory and to provide a more suitable government, on the twenty-seventh day of September, 1894, a petition was presented to Judge Van Valen, Law Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Bergen, to fix a time and place for an election, to submit to the voters the question of incorporating the remaining portion of the township into a village. The election was held Noveml)er 15, 1895, and resulted in a vote of 277 for the incorporation and 62 against it. The township at that time was composed of about 5i/^ square miles, with an assessed valua- tion of real estate of al)out $1,000,000 and a population of about 2,200. The new governing body of the village was a Board of Trustees of five members, Milton T. Richardson, H. E. Hopper, Joseph W. Ed- wards, Dr. Geo. M. Ockford, and W. J. Fullerton, who served without compensation. The Board elected Mr. Richardson President and Mr. Fullerton Treasurer, who thus became respectively the President and Treasurer of the village. The other officers of the village. Village Clerk, Village Counsel, Street Superintendent, and Policemen, were appointed by the Board of Trustees and held office at the pleasure of the Board. The village Trustees had exclusive jurisdiction over the streets within the limits of the village and had power to lay out, widen, and vacate streets and provide for their lighting; to create a police and fire department; to construct sewers and drains and other street improvements; to license and regulate public hacks, peddlers and hucksters; and to cause to be raised by taxation every year such sums 43 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY of money as they deemed expedient for the current expenses of the village. Their important legislative power in the village was exercised in drawing up, considering, and passing of ordinances. The Assessor, Collector and Chosen Freeholder of the township still continued to act for the village, and the Township Committee performed certain formal duties within the village. In the year 1896 the legislature abolished the Township Committee for the Township and Village of Ridgewood, vesting the powers of the Committee in the Board of Trustees. In 1912 the offices of township Clerk, Assessor and Collector were abolished and the governing body was authorized to appoint a Collector and an Assessor for the village. The Village of Ridgewood was governed by a Board of Trustees for seventeen years. During this time many municipal propositions for the improvement and development of the village were acted upon by the Trustees. A system of sewers Avas constructed, public franchises for water, gas and telephone were granted, and many street improve- ments were made. The last Board of Trustees consisted of Frederick H. Bogert, President ; George F. Braekett, Jolui J. Lannuier, Joseph H. Martin, and James H. Snyder. Village Commissioners The endeavor to secure greater efficiency in the administration of municipal affairs in this state resulted in the passing by the legislature of 1911 of what is known as the Walsh or Commission Form of Gov- ernment Act. Consideration of the adoption of the commission form of govern- ment is left to the voters of any community at an election called for that purpose. The Village of Ridgewood was among the first to adopt the new act. The petition for an election was presented to the village Clerk, and an election was held on the second day of September, 1911. This election resulted in the adoption of the new form of government. On the seventh day of November, 1911, Daniel A. Garber, George U. White, and Frederick Pfeifer were elected Commissioners of the Village of Ridgewood, and on the fourteenth day of November, 1911, the new government was organized. While the Village still continues to be governed by the laws relating to a village, the methods of administration of Village affairs was changed by the adoption of the commission form of government. The number of Commissioners is determined by the population. Municipalities hav- ing a population of 10,000 or over have five Commissioners; under 10,000, such as Ridgewood, the number of Commissioners is three. The powers of the Commissioners are determined by the village act. The method of procedure remains the same as under the Board of Village Trustees except as modified by the law relating to commission govern- ments. Some of the distinctive provisions of the new form of gov- ernment are as follows: (1) A special day is appointed for the election of Commissioners other than the general election day ; preferential ballot is used and party politics practically is eliminated from the election. 44 PAST AND PRESENT (2) The Commissioners are elected for a term of four years; the terms of all Commissioners to expire at the same time. All other officers are appointed by the Commissioners. (3) The right of Recall is exercised by the voters, who possess the right by petition to require any Commissioner, if he desires to continue as Commissioner, to run again for the office at a special election called for that purpose. (4) The legal voters possess the right of Initiative. By petition they may require any ordinance to be passed, amended, or repealed by the Commissioners, or else to be submitted to the voters for their action. (5) The legal voters possess the right of Referendum. By petition they may require any ordinance passed by the Commissioners to be repealed or else to be submitted to the vote of the people. In order to safeguard this right of Referendum, no ordinance takes effect until ten days after its final passage, unless it is an ordinance for the immediate preservation of tlie public peace, health, or safety. (6) Each member of the Board has particular work to perform. Upon its organization, one member is elected mayor, and he there- upon becomes the presiding officer. The Mayor ex-offieio is director of the department of public affairs and public safety. By a majority vote of the Board, one of the remaining members is appointed director of the department of revenue and finance. Upon him falls, in addition to the duties of his department, the duty of acting as presiding officer in the absence of the mayor. The other member is appointed director of the department of streets and public improve- ments, parks and public pi'operty. (7) In transacting the business of the municipality, every resolu- tion or ordinance must be reduced to writing and read before the vote is taken. The yea and nay vote must be recorded and the resolutions and ordinances signed by a majority of the members of the Board. Resolutions and ordinances providing for the appropriation of money for street improvements, and for granting franchises are re- quired before final passage to remain on file with the clerk for two weeks for public inspection. No franchise is granted except by ordi- nance which must be publislied before final passage and receive the api)roval of a majority of all members. (8) The mayor receives a salary of one thousand dollars and the other commissioners salaries of seven hundred fifty dollars each. (9) The Board is required to hold regular meetings at least once each week. These meetings and the record of their proceedings are open to the public. The Board of Commissioners appoint the subordinate officers and boards for the Village. The most important of the present village officials are : Village Clerk and Collector, Wilbur Morris ; Assessor, Louis IT. Kroder; Engineer, F. W. Simonds; Recorder, P. V. Watson ; Cinm- sel, J. W. De Yoe. Tlie names of other officers, such as the Superin- tendent of Streets, Superintendent of Police and members of that de- partment. Chief of Fire Department and members of that department, Board of Health and Shade Tree Commission, are sliown in the chapter 45 HIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY of this book which relates to the particular department or commission. Each officer, department, and board has specific duties to perform in the successful working of the local self-government. The commission form of government has succeeded to a large degree in eliminating partisan politics from public affairs in the municipalities which have adopted it. It is particularly successful in bringing about ]irompt and efficient action in the jniblic business of the community. THE MAYOR Upon the adoption of the commission form of government by the Village and the election of Commissioners in 1911, D. A. Garber, who received the largest number of votes for Commissioner, was elected by the other Commissioners at their oi'ganization meeting as Mayor of the Village. Upon his re-election as Commissioner in 1915 he was again chosen as Mayor. The Mayor is the chief Executive officer of the Village and it is his dut}^ to see that the ordinances of the Village are properly enforced. He is also the chief guardian of the peace of the Village. He has power to suppress riots and when necessary may call upon the county or state authorities for aid. As the titular head of the Village, the Mayor represents the numici- pality on public occasions. Because of his position the people look to him not only to safeguard the community's present interests, but also to plan and to suggest such changes and improvements as will provide for their future civic welfare. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND PUBLIC SAFETY Under the direction of the Mayor, this department protects the lives and the property of the citizens against vice, crime, and destruction. In performing its functions, it is divided into the following sub-depart- ments: Police, Fire, Board of Health, Shade Tree Commission, and Building Committee. THE POLICE DEPARTMENT The functions of the police force arc mainly, the enforcement of law, preservation of the peace, protection of life and property, tlie arrest of all violators of the law, and the prevention and detection of crime. Other duties are incidental ; but all must be performed with energy, discretion, promptness, and fidelity. It is the duty of the Police Department and every member of the force, at all times of the day or night, especially to preserve the peace, to prevent crime, and to detect and arrest offenders ; to suppress riots, mobs, and insurrections ; to disperse unlawful or dangerous assemblages and crowds Avhich obstruct the free passage of public streets, sidewalks, parks, or other places; to protect the rights of persons and property; to safeguard the public health; to preserve order at all meetings and assemblages; and to regulate and control the movements of all vehicles in the streets and public ]ilaces. It is their duty also to remove all nuisances in the public streets, parks 40 PAST AND PRESENT and highways; to arrest all mendicants and beggars; to provide proper police regulation at fires ; to assist, advise, and protect strangers and travelers on the public highways and at all railroad stations ; carefully to observe and to inspect all places of public amusement and places of l)usiness having licenses to carry on a particular business; to repress and restrain all unlawful and disorderly conduct or practices; to enforce the observance of all Village laws and ordinances; and for these pur- poses to arrest all persons guilty of violating any existing law or ordi- nance for the suppression or punishment of crimes or offences. During the early ninety's the citizens of Ridgewood were without adequate police protection and suffered to such an extent from robberies that in consequence a number of citizens, headed by Joseph W. Edwards, formed an organization called the Village Protective Association. This Association held monthly meetings. Its members furnished not only tlie funds necessary to hire at first one man to do police patrol work and later others, but they were subject to call for purposes of protection when need arose. The first real police force was organized in 1892 and continued under the direction of the Village Protective Association until the Vil- lage Trustees took over their work. Peter Pulis was sworn in as a special officer on July 1, 1897. At that time the force included James E. Houlihan and James Ham- mond. On October 1, 1897, Mr. Pulis was appointed Chief of Police, and on October 31st the other two men were relieved from service. Ohief Pulis continued as the only member of the force until ]\Iarch 1, 1903, when two additional men were placed under his authority. Since til at time the force has been gradually increased to a present member- ship of ten men, including a Police Clerk, first appointed on June 1, 1909. During the lattei' ])art of 191;"), the Commissioners, deeming it wise to place tlie dei)artment under a Superintendent of Police, selected for tliis office Robert Groves, for over thirty-two years a member of the Police Department of the City of New York and appointed him to the position to take office on January 1, 1916. Chief Pulis resigned his position on February 1, 1916. The force at present consists of a Supei'intendent of Police, one Sei'geant, seven pati'olmen, a clerk and a German slie])herd ])olice dog. Police dogs Avere first used in Ridgewood in 1913. Ridgewood 's fii-st lock-u]) for law-breakers was in an old stone lumse located on the summit of tlie rise on the west side of the railroad tracks and south of the present Play House. Later a small wooden shack on Rock Avenue (now Broad Street) was erected and used for this purpose. In 1898, The Village Improvement Association, as a result of complaints regarding the conditions existing in the jail, Avhich, when unoccupied, was used as a shelter for stray dogs, aroused the citizens to provide a new building which was erected just back of the present Municipal Building. This building was e(|uip])ed under the supervision of the Humane Committee of tlie Association. Wlien the Municipal Building Avas built, rooms Avere provided in it for police headquarters and for the lock-up. 47 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DUTIES The chief duty of the Fire Department is to extinguish fires. A very important secondary duty is the prevention of fires. Fire pre- vention is made effective in a variety of ways. A building code specifies certain principles of construction to which all new buildings must conform. Inspection of all buildings in process of construction insures observance of the building code regulations. Fire zone restrictions limit the use of wooden construction in the more thickly built up sections of the community. Periodic inspection is made of the buildings used for public gatherings with the result that the fire hazards are greatly re- duced. Further service is rendered by the Department by the assign- ment of firemen in uniform to attend public gatherings so that any emergency of fire or panic may be promptly and effectively handled. EARLY FIRES The history of the Fire Department of Ridgewood, like that of other departments of tlie community, is the story of a gradual development as the needs of the community have demanded increased service. Ridgewood in its existence as a municipality has suffered from only five serious fires. All occurred before the department was placed upon an efficient basis. The first fire of importance was the destruction in 1876 of the Ridge- wood Avenue Hotel, which stood on the site of the Rouclere House. On March 9, 1881, a fire, starting in a barn used l)y J. J. Bogert for the storage of hay and located just northwest of the present IMunicipal Building, destroyed the adjacent Franklin Hotel facing on Ridgewood Avenue. Sweeping west on Ridgewood Avenue, it also destroyed a blacksmith and wheelwright shop on the site of the present Ryerson Building. Continuing southward on Broad Street, it destroyed several small out-buildings and Whritnour and Colfax's store located on the site now occupied by the feed and grain building of E. B. Van Horn. The Masonic Hall of those days occupied the upper floor of Whritnour and Colfax's building. The next fire occurred in April, 1889. It started in a small building in the rear of the Shuart Building, now the site of the Hutton Building. After destroying the Shuart Building, it consumed Crouter's Meat Market, adjoining, and two feed stores on Broad Street at the rear of the Zabriskie (now Moore) Building, which was also slightly damaged. A row of one-story stores, commencing at the present site of the Post Office on Prospect Street and continuing to the corner of Hudson Street, was destroyed by fire on March 11, 1899. The last fire of serious consequences occuri-ed on March 21, 1900. It originated in a coal cellar in the rear of Tice's Drug Store located in tlie Pioneer Building (a three-story bi'ick building) at the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Chestnut Street. It destroyed the Pioneer Building and the next two on Ridgewood Avenue, a three-story and a one-story frame structure. 48 'X) 00 K RIBGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT The fire of 1881, followed by the one in 1889, aroused the citizens to discuss the need of better protection against fire. The only method of combating fire in vogue at that time was the volunteer bucket brigade. Some years later a meeting, on the evening of March 3, 1896, fruit- ful of results, was held in the Opera House. The meeting was attended by George R. Young, J. H. Christopher, I. E. Hutton, R. M. Bridgeman, Frank Baxter, Dr. G. Oekford, J. I. Bogert, E. A. Breusch, George Blauvelt, J. Houlihan and W. H. La Fetra. Committees were appointed to plan the organization of a fire department and to examine apparatus wdth a view to its purchase. Subsequent meetings were held and on March 25th an ordinance organizing a fire department w^as presented to the village trustees and was adopted by that body on May 13th. An appropriation of two thousand dollars was authorized at a General Election of the citizens held in April for the purchase of fire-fighting apparatus. The first Chief of the Department, Dr. Walter Van Emburgh, was appointed on October 7, 1896. The Department was formally organized during the early part of January, 1897, as Protection Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, with sixty-eight members enrolled. In 1905, the word "Protection" was dropped from its name and it has since been known as Hook and Ladder Company No. 1. Following the organization of the company, i>lans were discussed for a building properly to house the a])paratus and to serve also as a meeting-place for the members. A contract for a two-story building on the present site of the Municipal Building on Hudson Street was awarded on July 12, 1897, to George E. Ferg^uson. Its cost was twelve hundred and forty-six dollars. This building, when completed, served as the home of the company until the erection of the present Municipal Building, when quarters were provided for the company on the ground floor. During the following August, the first fire fighting apparatus was received. It consisted of a hand-drawn hook and ladder truck equipped with ladders, buckets, and small tools. The water supply throughout the Village at that time was obtained from private wells. "When a fire occurred, water was obtained from the nearby wells or streams. The first fire to whicli the department responded was in a barn in Glen Rock, owned by J. W. Edw^ards. The first fire attended by the department within the Village was in a house on Irving Street occupied by a Mr. Lawrence. Despite the efforts of the firemen, the house was destroyed. A second piece of apparatus, a hand-drawn Chemical Engine, was placed in commission by the Village on March 11, 1899. It is now held in j'eserve at the headquarters in case the present automobile ap- paratus is out of commission or a fire occurs which requires additional apparatus. A hand-pull fire alarm bell was purchased in the early part of 1898 and installed in the Fire House on Hudson Street. It remained in 50 PAST AND PRESENT use there until superseded by the present Gamewell Alarm System. It was then moved to the quarters of Hose Company No. 1, and placed on a tower in the yard of C. A. Swarn, Kenilworth Place. Later the bell was moved to the Circle Avenue home of Hose Company No. 1, and afterwards equipped with an electric striker. The Gamewell bell was at first mounted in the tower of the Opera House (Town Hall) but was transferred to the roof of the Municipal Building when the latter was erected. Eagle Hose Company No. 1, was organized in January, 1900, as the result of agitation on the part of residents east of the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. The first apparatus of this Company consisted of a carpenter's wagon filled with ladders, buckets and other fire-fighting tools. This company later dropped the word "Eagle" from its name and has since been known as Hose Company No. 1. The apparatus of both companies in the early days was drawn to fires by hand or by teams that happened to be in the neighborhood of the fire stations when an alarm was sounded. Arrangements were made on March 20, 1900, with E. B. Van Horn to furnish a team on alarm for the use of Hook and Ladder Company No. 1. This arrangement continued until the Village purchased its own team to be used both by the Fire Department and by the Department of Streets. Hose Company No. 1 continued to use such teams as might be available for some time thereafter. Finally the Village furnished them with a team wliich was also used by the Department of Streets. The installation of the Gamewell Fire Alarm System in July, 1900 (the first alarm during its test being sent from Box 14), and the con- struction throughout the Village of a modern water-supply system (which W71S officially tested by the Fire Department for fire protection purposes on December 29, 1900) placed the Fire Department for the first time in a position where it could effectively combat the dangers of a serious conflagration. The department has since this time been able to confine all fires to the buildings in which they started. The officials of the department and of the Village have endeavored to keep the department equipped with modern apparatus. In 1908 the present Hook and Ladder Truck of Company No. 1 was purchased and put into commission, and the original truck was sold. The present Automo))ile Combination Chemical and Hose Car was purchased in 1912. The department, consisting entirely of volunteers, has always been known throughout the community for its efficiency and the high char- acter of its membership. Succeeding the first Cliicf of the Department, Dr. AValter Van Em- burgh, and in the order of their tenure of office, the Chiefs of the depart- ment have been: J. Calvin Bogert, Edwin Nickerson, D. J. O'Neill, Dr. J. B. Hopper, George W. Courter, and the present incumbent, H. A. Tice, who was appointed on March 2, 1915. PRESENT ORGANIZATION AND EQUIPMENT The department now consists of a Chief, H. A. Tice, two assistants, Wm. Van Dien and Jesse Van Wagenen, a Superintendent of Fire 51 BIDGEWOOI), BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Alarm Telegraph, two Captains, tAvo Lieutenants, and twenty-four men. The department headquarters and Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, are located on Hudson Street in the Municipal Building; while Hose Company No. 1 is located on Circle Avenue. The equipment of the department consists of one Locomobile, single tank combination chemical and hose automobile ; one double tank horse- di'aAvn chemical engine ; one horse-drawn hook and ladder truck ; two hose wagons and four horses ; and the necessary working equipment. The fire alarm system is under the supervision of Frank A. Harrison, Superintendent of Fire Alarm Telegraph, and consists of twenty-eight fire alarm street boxes, five special boxes located in schools, twenty-two miles of hard-drawn copper wire, one two-thousand pound bell in the Municipal Building, and one one-thousand pound bell in the Circle Avenue house, with automatic strike attachments, indicators, and tappers where required. There are one hundred and thirty-six public hydrants and five private hydrants in use for fire purposes. THE BOARD OF HEALTH The Board of Health is charged with the responsibility of protecting the health of the citizens, and is empowered to make rules and regula- tions, such as do not conflict with tliose of the State Board of Health, to prevent the spread of contagious diseases, and to take such other steps as may be deemed necessary to protect and conserve the health of the community. The records show that a Board of Health was established by the Village Trustees on Jul}'' 15, 1895, though its members were not at once appointed. As a matter of fact, safeguarding the health of our Village was considered within the province of duties of the Board of Trustees, who thus coiistituted themselves a Board of Health. The history of the Board of Health, therefore, is the history of the Village Ti'ustees until February 1, 1906, when the first recorded meeting of a separate body was held for the purpose of organization. During this time, however. The Village Improvement Association, through its Sanitary Committee, investigated complaints regarding the sanitary conditions of the Village and became active in related duties. This committee was notably successful in ending the practice of dump- ing garbage, ashes, and other refuse indiscriminately, and, in 1897, it established a regular service for the collection of garbage and ashes, the supervision of which was assumed by the Village officials in 1903. Through the efforts of The Village Improvement Association, in 1897, an unsanitary open ditch, which ran between Kidgewood and Franklin Avenues from a ])()int near Broad Street to the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, was filled in. In 1900 it established the practice of placing signs upon all homes which held cases of infectious disease. The first Board of Health consisted of the following members : President, Frederick W. Gardner ; Secretarv, Dr. John T. Hanks ; Dv. H. A. Willard, Dr. John B. Hopper, and Win. H. Moore. Dr. C. A. DeMund was appointed Health Officer, Wm. II. Moore, Plumbing In- 52 PAST AND PRESENT spcctor, and J. Blauvelt Hopper, Registrar of Vital Statistics. These officials met once a month in the old Fire House until the following flune, when the Board began holding two, and sometimes more, meet- ings a month. By-laws wei'c adopted Februaiy (i, 1906, wlien J. Blau- velt lIoi)per was appointed Clerk. On ^larch (itli of the same year, Judge David D. Zabriskie was made Counsel to the Board; in August, C!eo]'ge 11. Soult took the oHice of Phunbing Inspector, in place of Mr. Moore; and in October, Dr. II. H. Pettit became Health Officer, superseding Dr. DeMund. John B. Zabriskie was appointed Counsel in January, 1907, succeeding Judge David D. Zabriskie. On May 7, 1907, owing to the death of Mr. Gardner, Edward T. White was appointed a member of the Board, and Dr. Hopper was elected Presi- dent. On January 5, 1910, Mr. White became President. The first garbage and ash collector was J. I. Van Blarcom, who was appointed in February, 1906. Dr. Hopper superseded him in June, 1907, and upon his retirement in November of the same year, tlie Faber brothers, who operated the Ridgewood Disposal Works, were granted a license to carry on the garbage and ash collection work. The Board moved into the old Wilsey Building in November, 1908. In Fel)ruary, 1909, Mr. Soult became Registrar of Vital Statistics, succeeding Mr. Hopper. On March 16, 1910, Doctors W. L. V^room and C. A. DeMund were appointed members of the Board, taking the places of Doctors Hopper and AVillard, while Clarence A. Demarest was appointed Clerk. Tlie first ordinance passed by this Board June 27, 1906, was that relating to nuisances, privy vaults, and cesspools ; scavengers, conta- gious diseases, burials, etc. This ordinance is still in force, with an added amendment regarding scavengers, made effective in 1908. Before this, however, in March, 1904, the Village Trustees enacted Ordinance No. 54. This dealt with rules and regulations relating to plumbing, water supply, and ventilation of buildings. It was superseded in June of last year, however, by the present Plumbing Code. In 1907, the Board passed an ordinance dealing with proper sewer connections of houses and other buildings ; and in 1908, an ordinance was passed I'cgulating the handling and sale of milk. This was supplemented in 1910 by a provision for the licensing of persons, corporations, or asso- ciations of persons to deal in milk. In 1909, the Board enacted an ordinance directing the elimination of breeding-places of mosquitoes ; and in 1911 one regulating proper care and cleaning of stables and the disposition of manure. In 1909, with the financial help of a few public-spirited citizens, tlic services of a visiting nurse were secured for a short period, in a laudable effort to foster, by instruction in improved methods of house care, better living conditions in certain of our homes. The formation of the Ridgewood Relief Society was a direct result of this effort. In the Spring of 1910, a plan for the regular inspection of dairy ])remises was adopted with the set purpose of inculcating and enforc- ing among the dairymen modern and efficient dairy methods in the production of high-grade milk. From time to time, samples of milk from the local dealers have been procured by the Board for analyses. 53 RTDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY This requirement has had a salutary effect, and consequently high standards have been ensured and maintained. It is satisfactory to report that in a recent statement issued by the Division of Creameries and Dairies of the State Board, the condition of the Ridgewood dairies was declared as the best in the State. In addition to the supervisions of the local Board, a plan was arranged in 1913 with the State Board to have its inspectors make occasional visits to Ridgewood. The Board has always kept in close touch with the Village water conditions. One of its accomplishments has been the installation of a regular system of tests. The work of exterminating the mosquito has been carried on in a vigorous manner for several years. Oil has been spread on all stagnant water and in the lowlands, while many breeding places have been drained and filled. During the past year the work has been supplemented by the Bergen County Mosquito Extermination Com- mission, the representatives of which, in addition to much valuable work, have inspected and charted every foot of ground in the Village. In May, 1910, the Board moved into the Trust Company Building, but later, in June, 1911, was installed in its present office in the Municipal Building. On August 9, 1911, George B. Richardson was appointed Sanitary Inspector in the place of Mr. Soult. Mr. Moore, however, temporarily acted in this capacity for a short season. With the change in Village Government, in December, 1911, the entire Board automatically went out of office, and the Commissioners appointed a new Board naming Edward T. White as President, Dr. W. L. Vroom as Secretary-Treasurer, the other members being Edward S. Brower, John Harmon, and Robert W. Muns. These, with Health Officer Pettit, Inspector Murphy, Clerk Demarest, and Registrar Morris, constitute the present Village Health organization. Until the appoint- ment of John J. Murphy, Frank Stevens acted as Registrar of Vital Statistics. When Wilbur Morris was appointed Village Clerk in Feb- ruary, 1912, he also assumed the title and duties of Registrar. Mr. Richardson, owing to the provisions of the Walsh Act, could not legally serve as Inspector and was made Deputy Health Officer, his duties combining that of Inspector. Subsequently, Inspector Robert B. Murphy, the present incumbent, was appointed and took office Jan- uary 2, 1912. In 1912, Joseph Houlihan was appointed Deputy Inspector for several weeks to examine conditions in the Village pertaining to out- houses, stables, sewer connections, breeding-places for mosquitoes, etc. He reported 72 outside privies and 73 violations of the manure ordinance. Consideration of the control of contagious diseases in the schools and churches was jointly taken up by the School Board and the Ridge- wood Medical Society in 1912, and, after numerous conferences, rules and regulations were formulated which greatly improved the quarantine system. During 1913, the Board instituted inspections of all local ice-cream factories and noted the sanitary conditions of the Village stores. Licensed vendors were also placed under inspection. 54 PAST ANT) PRESENT 111 1914, the new State Law restrictions required an examination for glanders of all horses removing into New York State. To comply with this regulation, over 200 horses were examined, but no trace of the disease was found. In April, 1915, what might have proved a severe epidemic of scarlet fever was checked by the prompt action of the Board in closing certain of the public schools, Sunday-schools, and other places Avhere children congregated. In May of the same year the Board, with the aid of the Women's Club and the Boy Scouts, inaugurated a vigorous anti-fly campaign. Mr. J. E. Coyle, of the Boy Scouts, was appointed a temporary Special Inspector, with the boys as his active assistants. Early in the present year an epidemic of measles broke out which became a cause of considerable concern on the part of the Board. A rigid enforcement of the quarantine, however, proved effective in holding it within bounds. Owing to the inconveniences and possible distress imposed on families of patients by long periods of quarantine, and to accord with the custom adopted in other representative muni- cipalities, the exclusion period from school was reduced to fourteen days. On July 8, 1916, a special meeting was held to devise methods to prevent the spread to Ridgewood of the infantile-paralysis epidemic then raging in New York. As a means to this end the Sunday-schools, the Y. M. C. A., and Play House were closed to children under sixteen, and numerous other measures were taken, which proved effective. Since then a joint meeting has been held in Ridgewood of the Boards of Health of Ridgewood, Glen Rock, Ho-ho-kus, and Midland Park, to discuss ways and means of preventing a spread of the disease. As a result all visiting children were detained, while those from infected districts were quarantined for observation for a period of two weeks. A discussion of the County Isolation Hospital followed, and a joint resolution was submitted to the Freeholders urging its early comple- tion. It is hoped that the hospital, as well as the proposed co-oper- ative laboratory, will become acquisitions of the very near future. THE SHADE TREE COMMISSION The first shade trees that were planted along the highways in Ridgewood are located on Maple Avenue and extend north about one- half mile from Ridgewood Avenue. They were set out during the early sixties along their properties on both sides of the street by Captain Samuel Dayton, Samuel Graydon, B. F. Robinson, A. J. Cameron, A. J. Zabriskie and Richard Van Dien, A large number of trees were given to the Village in 1880 by I. W. England and were set out under the direction of J. W. Ed- wards and B. F. Robinson. The first organized effort for the improvement of the public grounds was made in 1897, when The Village Improvement Association caused the grounds surrounding the Opera House to be plowed, grass-seed sowed, and a number of bushes planted. The association continued to care for the grounds for a number of years. Through their efforts 55 RIDGE WOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY the Erie Railroad officials in 1901 gave flowers for beds and placed benches near the station. It was due to their efforts also that in 1897 all signs and advertisements were removed from trees and rocks in conspicuous places throughout the Village. As the resvTlt of further efforts of The Village Improvement Association, individual pro})ei'ty owners in 1!)01 furnislicd approxi- mately two hundred trees and set out the present silver maple trees on Godwin Avenue as far as IMelrose Place, on Franklin Avenue from Monroe Street to the railroad tracks, and along Ridgewood Avenue from the railroad tracks to North Pleasant Avenue. Until the establishment of the first Shade Tree Commission no further organized effort was made by the citizens, although numerous trees were set out from time to time by individual property owners. THE COMMISSION New Jersey, as well as Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and other States has, by statute, made In-oad provisions for the care and plant- ing of shade trees on the liighways. Under tliese laws, in January, 1909, Ridgewood 's fii-st Shade Tree Commission was apjioiiited. Its members were 1. E. llutton, Chairman, Maurice Eornachon and T. .). Foster. F. R. Meier was made Secretary. Soon after its organization, Mr. Fornachon removed from the Village and was succeeded l)y George H. Stevens. The present Commission consists of W. H. Maier, Chairman, Louis Chable, Secretary, and A. C. Brooks. Samuel D. Graydon is Super- intendent. Mr. Graydon has also served as a member of the Com- mission, having been appointed to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of the former Commissioner J. H. Birch. The Commission has followed a systematic plan of planting trees along all our streets; of caring properly for the thousands of street and park trees that beautify the Village; and of removing dead and undesirable trees. STATUTE To the jurisdiction of the Shade Tree Commission is committed by statute the planting, setting out, maintenance, protection, and care of the shade ti-ees in the public highways of the Village; and also the management, maintenance, improvement, repair, and control of tlie ])u])lic parks ])cloiiging to the Village. STREET WORK In the discharge of their duties the Shade Tree Commissioners may tentatively decide to plant trees along certain streets or parts of streets. The statute requires that notice of such intention to plant be advertised once in a village newspaper at least twenty days before a public hearing at which the final decision is made; or at least ten days before the hearing such notice may be served personally upon any owner of real estate in front of whose property it is proposed to plant or remove a tree. This advertisement or notice announces the intention to plant, and gives the date and hour of the meeting PAST AND PRESENT at which final decision is to be made. At this meeting a careful hear- ing is given to all suggestions and objections, and such changes as then seem advisable are made in the proposed plan, rr.ANTING During tJie past four years there wei'c set out by and under the autliority of the Commission the folhiwing trees, along about eight miles of streets : — Adrway iii;i|ilcs 802 lied Oi'iks 153 (hiontal planes 140 Pin oaks 92 Scarlet oaks 41 Crimean linden 35 Tnlip 35 European linden 18 Li(|uida]nl)ar 12 Ailantlnis 7 L()!nbai'(ly poplars 3 iSugar maples 2 1 ,430 Of these about 30 trees were replacements. The number of new trees planted by the Shade Tree Conmiission within these four years is therefore about 1400. The thoughtful citizen will realize and appreciate what an increas- ingly valuable asset these trees will become to the Village and how great a part they will play in making our "Ridgewood Beautiful". The cost of statutory planting (that is, planting done under the authority of the statute creating Shade Tree Commissions) is assessed against the properties benefited and is entered upon the tax bill. Once paid, such an assessment does not recur, as the cost of any replace- ments of these plantings is borne by the Commission. Tree planting done by request is charged for at the time of the planting. CARE The proper care of the trees is a matter of labor and of expense tliat is proportionately increased with each year's planting of addi- tional trees. The soil about the trees must be kept by cultivation or mulching in such condition as to conserve the moisture, to protect the roots and l)ase from winter's harmful effects, and to add plant food to the soil. In times of drought the trees must be watered. At regular intervals the trees must be sprayed. Defective or irregular branches must be pruned, cavities must be cleansed, and branches that grow so low as to interfere with pedes- trians on sidewalks or with vehicles on tlie streets must be removed. In zealously performing its duties, the Commission finds its reward in adding to the comfort of the public and in increasing the beauty of the Village. 57 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY PACKS The Commission has recently set out a number of trees in Linwood Park, established in 1910. It has also the care of the trees on the land acquired by the Village for a Parkway along the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. This Parkway was begun as the result of an investigation in 1908 by the civic improvement expert, Mr. Charles Mulford Rob- inson. When completed, it will be one of the most beautiful and attractive features of the Village. STATION PLAZA The Commission has recently been responsible, under an arrange- ment with the contractors, for the laying out and planting of the trees and shrubbery in the new station improvements. THE BUILDING COMMITTEE In order to safeguard the citizens against imperfect and unsafe building structures and to reduce to a minimum the fire hazards of the Village, the Board of Commissioners adopted, on the 25th of Feb- ruary, 1913, a building code which regulates and controls the con- struction, alteration, and repair of all buildings in the Village, and which provides for a Building Committee of not less than three, a Superintendent of Buildings, and an Inspector of Buildings, who are charged with the duty of seeing that the ordinances are strictly en- forced. The Building Committee consists of the three Village Commis- sioners. Mr. F. W. Simonds, the Village Engineer, is Superinten- dent and Inspector of Buildings. DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND FINANCE As its name implies, this department has to do with the entire handling of the receipts and expenditures of the municipality that has adopted the commission form of government. The laws of the State, however, particularly except the finances of the Board of Edu- cation from this control. Money for education is raised by taxation, like all the rest of the Village moneys, but it is paid over to the Board of Education for expenditure under their own control and accounting. In January of each year the Board of Commissioners prepare a budget of the money which in their judgment is required to run the Village. This budget is adopted finally in July. The Assessor is then given the amount required and it is then his business to raise by tax- ation the money asked for. The appropriations for the Board of Education in Ridgewood are voted by the taxpayers at a special elec- tion called for this purpose. The budget prepared by the Board of Commissioners is not submitted to the voters for their approval. The money required to run a municipality is spent before it is received; in other words, the revenue from taxes paid in December of each year is used to pay the expenses of that year : thus the Village is forced to borrow money in anticipation of taxes. 58 PAST AND PRESENT When Eidgewood adopted Coniinission Government, the department of revenue and finance established a proper system of booklceeping. Each year it is required to have a complete audit made of all books and vouchers. Mr. George U. White is the present Commissioner acting as the head of the department, a position Avhich he has held since its estab- lishment in 1911. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS, PARKS AND PUBLIC PROPERTY Physical Improvements The first sidewalk "laid" in Ridgewood was a substantial one of wood and was built by the firm of Zabriskie & Hawses in the early 70 's. This sidewalk ran from the corner of Ridgewood and Broad Streets, south on Broad Street and turning the corner of Dayton Street it continued to and across Prospect Street to the residence of Mr. Hawes, which w-as located in an open meadow and now stands on Dayton Street opposite the Reformed Church. The "tide of travel" quickly turned from Prospect Street to the station through the mud and the sidewalk w^as worn out by the general public or burned for kindling w^ood. Mr. Joseph W. Edwards and other residents at this time also laid wooden sidewalks along their properties whicli were all later superseded by stone walks. Up to about 1880 no organized attempt had been made to improve the sanitary conditions of the Village. About that time one of our citizens felt that conditions threatened a serious epidemic of typhoid fever. The section between Broad and Prospect Streets, composed of bog and thickets of brush, Avas like a swamp on a hill. The cesspools and the wells kept at about the same level. The danger of inter- communication was apparent. Then occurred the first concentrated effort to better the conditions. Two owners of considerable property in that section planned to improve its value. A drain about five feet deep had previously been run through Broad and Hudson Streets across Prospect Street and through the Opera House site to Ridge- wood Avenue and Oak Street, draining into a bog on the north side of Ridgewood Avenue to the region of the present Franklin Avenue and beyond, into an area afterwards occupied by the lumber yards of G. G. Van Dien. It was proposed to dig this drain to a depth of tw^elve or fifteen feet. This was done, and a cutting was made through the hard-pan that formed the bed and the rim of the basin of the swamp. Immediately the water in the wells dropped ten feet in level; its quality was changed and the danger that threatened the settlement was averted. Hundreds of cart-loads of dirt were afterwards dumped into the Ridgewood-Franklin Avenue bog until it disappeared. Attention began now to be given to a better organization of the work of maintenance and improvement of the roads. All road Avork had been handled Avithout any system. The "Path Master" might spend quite a sum of money on certain portions of the road, only to ha\'e his Avork undone by his successor, AA'ho had other ideas of im- 59 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY provenient. Under such a system, consistent progress was impossible. Following the efforts of John A. Marinus, however, a ]>lan was adopted of emj)loying an engineer who should direct all work to the accom- plishment of a fixed and unchanging purpose. Later, through the persistent efforts of Isaac E. Uutton, Ridge- wood Avenue was graded, Avith a cut of about ten feet at Irving Street, and with the consequent result that the surface water was drained naturally to the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. The people of the Village have made constant progress in improv- ing the roads and streets. In 1866 the first Village streets were laid out. In 1888 the principal streets were macadamized. As a pioneer of macadamized roads the Village made expenditure in 1892 of $30,000, and made its streets second to none in the State. The permanent improvement of Maple Avenue during 1915, and the laying of brick pavement in the streets about the railroad station in 1914 and 1916, are described elsewhere in this book. Establishment of Department Previous to the establishment of an organized dc])artment of the Village to care for such matters, The Village Improvement Associa- tion, through its Street Committee, in 1898, inaugurated the use of receptacles for the disposition of rubbish on the Village streets. Six receptacles w^ere placed on the street corners of the main thoroughfare. During the same year the association was instrumental in securing the passage of an ordinance preventing store sweepings from being emptied upon the sidewalks and into the streets. In 1901 the asso- ciation engaged a man to sweep the main street of the Village two days a week, and later started the street sprinkling system. With the adoption in 1911 of Commission Government, the Depart- ment of Public Improvements, Parks and Public Property was estab- lished, first under the direction of Commissioner Frederick Pfeift'er, and upon the expiration of his term of office in 1915, under the direc- tion of the new Commissioner, Dr. J. B. Hopper. Mr. F. W. Simonds is Village Engineer and Mr. J. D. Carlock is Superintendent of Streets and Sewers. This department is responsible for the maintenance of all Village streets, of storm and sanitary sewers and of the sewage pumping plants and disposal system. It plans and constructs all new streets, sewers, curbs, gutters and sidewalks, when laid out and built by the Village. It attends to the purchase of all supplies and materials used in its work. It controls the Village yard and railroad spur on Chestnut Street. It has a steam-roller and seven horses for use in its work, four of the horses being used also for hauling the fire appa- ratus when called to fires. An automobile is furnished the Superin- tendent of Streets for use in connection with his duties. The department is also responsible for the construction of all build- ings, in accordance with the provisions of the building code, and for the care of parks and public property other tlian that assigned to another particular department. 60 PAST AND PRESENT The Village Engineer The Village Engineer has active charge of the department and makes periodical reports to the Commissioner directing the depart- ment. He makes surveys and investigations; he designs all construc- tion work and draws the necessary specifications; he is responsible for all contract work done for the Village and keeps a record of ex- penditures of the department classified so as to show actual and unit costs for all work done by the Village. The Superintendent of Streets and Sewers The Superintendent of Streets and Sewers reports to the Village Engineer and acts as the immediate head of all employes in the de- partment. He is responsible for the carrying out of all work done by the Village in accordance with his specific instructions. Sewer System The department has in its care approximately nineteen miles of sewer pipe and two sewer plants, one located on the west side, which acts as a pumping station, and another on the east side, constructed in 1903, which contains a large septic tank to which the pipe system first conducts the sewage. Here the bulk of the organic matter is ])recipitated and retained. It is then subjected to a bacterial action, which disintegrates and consumes it. The overflow of water is con- ducted to filter beds of coke covered with crushed stone. It is there purified and is then discharged into a stream running from the Village. Sixty-one flush tanks have been installed at the dead ends of sewers. Once every twenty-four hours they automatically flush the sewer lines to which they are connected. The cost of maintaining the sewage system, including wages of two men on day and two on night duty, expenditure for electric power at the pumping station, and expenses of repairs and up-keep of both plants, amounts approximately to $1.00 per inhabitant per year. ADVISORY BOARD With the establishment of the Commission form of Government in 1911, the newly elected Commissioners deemed it to be in keeping with the spirit of that form of government to invite the formation of a body of citizens into an Advisory Board who would meet with the Commissioners from time to time for the discussion of problems of public interest and their best mode of solution. The present Board consists of George F. Brackett. De Witt Clinton, Jr., T. J. Foster, W. J. Fullerton, Bavlv Hipkins, Frederick Pfeiffer. Franz Schwartz, J. H. Snyder, S. S. Walstrum, II. G. White, and J. D. Van Emburgh. Wliile this Advisory Board has no legal standing in the government of the Village, the opinions and counsel of its members are of great value, not only to the Commissioners in deter- miniiig the policies to be ])ursued in public affairs, l)ut also to every citizen of Kidgewood, who ])rofi1s l)y a wise and efficient administra- tion of the public business. 61 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY ADMINISTRATION OP JUSTICE The administration of justice, through the courts of law, is one of the most solemn and important exercises of the powers of govern- ment. The government which we have adopted in this country by the free choice of the people is based upon the absolute independence of the judicial department. The courts stand for the protection of rights, for the redressing of wrongs, for the punishment of crime. They are the great safeguards of the freedom of the people; hence we clothe these institutions with dignity and invest them with im- pressive formalities that they may be duly granted the respect and obedience which are due their exalted prerogatives and powers. The judicial functions of the Village of Ridgewood are performed by three courts: The Court of Common Pleas, located in Hackensack and commonly known as the County Court; the District Court of Ridgewood, and the Recorders' Court. Court of Common Pleas Baron Van der Cappellen established a Court of Union Hill for the purpose of settling differences between the Indians and white set- tlers. The exact date of its institution has never been ascertained. In 1655 Adrian Post was appointed by Van der Cappellen as his deputy to "treat with the Hackensack Indians for the release of pris- oners"; later, in 1657, a treaty was made with the Indians, through another deputy, Van Dincklogen, which provided, among other things, for the "submission of disputed matters to the Courts of Justice at Hospating, near Hackensack." For nine years, from 1652 to 1661, and possibly longer, the Court of Burgomasters and Schepens exercised active operation. A local Court, consisting of a Schout (presiding judge) and three Schepens, or magistrates, was established at Bergen in September, 1661. This Court had civil and criminal jurisdiction, and any appeal from its decisions was made to the Director-General and Counsel at Manhattan. In 1683 the twenty- four proprietors responsible for "The Fun- damental Constitutions for the Province of East New Jersey in Amer- ica." decreed that neither "justice nor right should be bought or sold" and that "all tryals should be by twelve men, and, as near as it may be, peers and equals"; also that "in cases of life there shall be at first twenty- four returned by the sheriff* for a grand inquest". It thus appears that our present jury system (grand and petit) was securely established at that early period in the history of American jurisprudence. Indeed it has been practically maintained without serious change, notwithstanding the constantly changing influences affecting the life of the people. On Mav 14, 1688, an Act, passed by the General Assembly con- vened at Perth Amboy, provided for a "Court for Trial of Small Causes". This Court was to be held monthly at the house of Law- rence Andriss at New Hackensack, the name by which the settlement on the west side of the Hackensack River was tlien known, the terri- tory on the east side of the river being distinguished as "Old Hack- 62 PAST AND PRESENT cnsack". A similar Court convened at the house of Dr. Johannes, on the Haekensaek River. Prior to 1709 Bergen County did not include within its boundaries the territory west of the Haekensaek River. In that year the lines of the county were extended, and the county lying west of the Haek- ensaek River admitted. The Village of Haekensaek became the County seat, and there the first Court house was built. This edifice stood on "The Green", near Main Street. It was destroyed by the British in 1780. In 1704 the Supreme Court of this State was established by Lord Cornbury. The second Court house and a jail were built in Youghpough, in Franklin Township, during the Revolution. The third Court house of Bergen County, the first after the Rev- olution, was built at Haekensaek, near Main Street, on property which later belonged to Richard Paul Terhune. A clerk's office was built about 1812 on the west side of Main Street, north of the Susquehanna Railroad, and remained until 1853. In 1819 the fourth Court house was built on property deeded by Robert Campbell. It was enlarged several times, and in 1892 was reconstructed. On July 6, 1910, was laid the corner-stone of the present County Court House on Main Street, Haekensaek. The administrative system of Common Law reaching down to us from colonial times, had its origin in the Common Law of England. Though modifications in forms and in practice are made from time to time to meet the requirements of modern changing conditions, yet the fundamental principles of the law, founded as they are on inherent rights, continue substantially unchanged from generation to generation. The tendency of our day is toward simplification of pleadings and practice. In the place of the dozen judges formerly required as essen- tial to rule our County Court a single judge now presides with marked efficiency. In the earlier days most of the judges officiating in the Court of Common Pleas were not lawyers, but for many years it has been the invariable custom to select the presiding judge from the ranks of men who have taken their legal degree. Ridgcwood has had the honor of representation on the bench of this Court when Honorable David D. Zabriskie served as its judge from 1898 to 1908. District Court The District Court ranks as one of Ridgewood's most useful insti- tutions. It has jurisdiction over the whole of Bergen County and supersedes the "ancient and honorable" Court of Justice of the Peace. There are three District Courts for the County, and these have their court rooms located as follows: First District in the City of Englewood; Second District in the Borough of Rutherford; Third District in the villages of Haekensaek and Ridgewood. 63 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY The judges of these Courts frequently exchange courtesies by hold- ing court for one another. As the reader is, naturally, interested more particularly in what concerns Ridgewood, the Third District Court only will be referred to. This Court was created by an Act of the Legislature of this State entitled "An Act to incorporate the Third Judicial District of the County of Bergen". This was passed April 11, 1908, and took effect January 1, 1909. The territory assigned to the jurisdiction of this Court, as defined by the Act creating it, embraces that portion of Bergen County reach- ing from New York State line on the north to Garfield and Rutherford on the south, and from the Hackensack River on the east to the Passaic County line on the west. With a view of avoiding possible inconvenience and annoyance that the extensive population over this wide territory might be subjected to, the Legislature decreed that Court should be held in two different places in this District. Hackensack and Ridgewood were thus chosen. The Court has commodious court rooms in the County Court House at Hackensack and in the Trust Company Building at Ridgewood. At first the Ridgewood Court held its sessions in Prospect Hall but two years later moved to its present quarters. The regular Court days are : Tuesday in Ridgewood ; Friday in Hackensack. Special days for jury trials are set by the judge. Judge Cornelius Doremus was the first judge to hold this Court. He was appointed by Governor Fort on January 18, 1909, to serve for a term of five years. He occupied the bench for the full term, and was succeeded by Judge Peter W. Stagg, the present incumbent. The Court has civil jurisdiction only. Criminal cases are tried elsewhere. It is a busy Court ; each session lists a long calendar of landlord and tenant cases, actions for breacli of contract, accident suits, actions to enforce ordinances, and similar actions other than those involving offenses against criminal laws, and eqiiity cases. It is essentially what is popularly described as ''The People's Court". Its sessions con- tinue the year round and by its expeditious trial of cases at a mini- mum of cost to litigants, has well deserved its popular title. Its reputation and importance are further evidenced by the large volume of business brought to it. The majority of the cases are tried by the judge without a jury. The court opens promptly at 9 :30 in the forenoon and continues in session until all cases marked "ready" are disposed of. Frequently a court day lasts until six o'clock, often later. The Court officials consist of a judge, clerk, assistant clerk, ser- geant-at-arms, and stenographer. Judson B. Salisbury of Ridgewood has acted as clerk of the Court almost since its organization. The old saying, "The Law's Delay", has no application to this particular Court. Usually not more than two weeks are occupied from the presentation of a case to the rendering of a decision. There are sixteen fixed rules governing the Court's procedui-e, l)esides the "Gen- eral Rules of Practise" fixed by the statutes of the State. 64 PAST AND PRESENT During the first five years of the existence of the Court, upward of six thousand suits were introduced and disposed of in Hackensack and Ridgewood, and not one per cent of these were appealed to the Supreme Court. The Court is already well advanced in its second five-year term. "The Court of the People" is one of the institutions of which Ridge- wood is justly proud. Recorder's Court This Court was established by the Village Commissioners on April 28, 1914, under the authority conferred upon them by an act of the Legislature of the State of New Jersey entitled "A supplement to an act — An Act for the formation and government of Villages — approved February 23rd, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Ninety-one", ap- proved March 26, 1914. The act provides that "Such recorder shall have the same juris- diction, power, and authority in criminal matters, affiliation proceed- ings, relief, removal and settlement of the poor, breaches of the peace, vagrancy and disorderly conduct, and violation of the numicipal or- dinances, as are now conferred upon justices of peace in this State". On the date first mentioned the Village Commissioners appointed Frederick V. Watson, Counsellor-at-Law of the State of New Jersey, practising in this Village, as its recorder for a term of four years. Prior to the institution of this Court recorder's duties were exercised by justices of peace, who were elected by the people by popular vote. Dr. George M. Ockford, the present Village Postmaster, then a justice of peace, formerly acted in this capacity for this community. The Recorder's Court has jurisdiction in all matters specifically conferred by statute, other than the above mentioned, notably for violations of the laws applying to the use and operation of motor vehicles. The Recorder is also a peace officer. He has the power to commit to the county jail, to await the action of the prosecutor as to admission to bail or retention in such county jail, all persons charged with any serious violation of the criminal statutes of this State. Since persons charged can waive such hearing if they so desire and be committed forthwith, or they may make a statement, the recorder's duty requires him to investigate whether or not they have committed the breach of the criminal statute charged. Should he find reasonable grounds for assuming that they have committed such violation, it is his dutv to commit them forthwith, and rest the final outcome upon the decision of the prosecutor and the grand jury of the county. Bar of Ridgewood The stoi'y of the judicial institutions in which the citizens of Ridge- wood are interested would be incomnlete without at least some refer- ence to those of the legal profession who have, at various times, represented our residents in the Courts. As in other activities of the community, the legal business of the citi- zens was taken care of by lawyers having offices in nearby communities, 65 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY principally in Hackensack, where the County Court had been estab- lished and which offered an attractive sphere for their calling. The increase in population and the growth of the community in the last years have brought a number of the legal profession to the Village. While a few of these maintain offices in Hackensack and New York City, those who have offices in the Village at the present time, are the following. The year recorded after each name respec- tively indicates the time of establishing practice. Judge David D. Zabriskie 1884 Judge Cornelius Doremus 1887 John B. Zabriskie 1904 Frederick V. Watson 1907 George V. Halsey 1909 Grant C. Fox 1911 Lewis R. Conklin 1913 Clyde A. Bogert 1915 66 CHAPTER IV EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND THE PUBLIC LIBRARY PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO one who is interested in the present public school system of Ridgewood there is a certain fascination in tracing its growth from small beginnings. Today there are six different centers, where 64 teachers are engaged in the work of educating our 1,600 children. The system is administered by a Board of Education, elected by the citizens, the present personnel of which are : — Dr. H. S. Willard, President; E. B. Lilly, Vice-President; Hadley Ford, Clerk; A. Frank Halsted, E. M. Bull and D. R. Bacon. Standing on Harrison Avenue near the Paramus Church, a little, one-room churchlike structure, disused since the Kenilworth School was built, was for many years the place where the lamp of knowledge was kept aglow in the Paramus region by a long succession of school- masters and schoolmistresses. Four other schools had preceded the present building on approxi- mately the same site. The first, used in the year following the Treaty of Peace that established the independence of the United States, was formerly a dwelling-house. It was located about fifty feet southeast of the present Paramus Church building, a slight depression of the earth still marking the spot. This building was itself the successor of a still earlier schoolhouse built in that vicinity. In 1810 a change became necessary and a small stone house was erected for school purposes near the sexton's house of the Paramus Church. In 1820 a second stone school building was erected about two hundred feet east of the present structure. This, in 1845, gave place to a frame building near the same ground. It was used until 1871, when the present building was erected. It is interesting to note that the supervision of schools rested witli the church authorities until the civil powers took over their admin- istration. On Midland Avenue there is in present use an attractive school building the predecessor of which, a hundred years ago, stood on Paramus Road between Ridgewood Avenue and Grove Street. In these two schools, for generations, the little Dutch children from the scat- tered farms studied their A B C's and applied themselves to the mastery of the three R's. Several miles to the west of Paramus, beyond the fields and wood of the Van Emburgh farm, the little Village of Godwinville had come into existence a hundred yeai-s ago on the heights just beyond the western borders of the present Ridgewood. Here, on the Goffle Road between the present Midland Park Railroad station and the brook, stood a little brownstone school where Dutch and English were com- 67 PAST AND PRESENT monly spoken. Part of a blacksmith shop, still standing, is the only trace that remains of this old school. Children of a later day were provided with more modern accommodations and better instruction in the newer Midland Park Public School and in the Dutch Christian Private School. A part of a brick building, erected in 1770, just south of the resi- dence of Garret I. Hopper at the junction of Harristown Road and Rock Road (now used as a dwelling and within the present limits of Glen Rock), furnished a generation ago, a one-room school — the fourth. In this meagre building many of Ridgewood's citizens had their earliest schooling. It seems to have been attended mainly by the children living in that section extending from Harrison Avenue through the present center of the Village to Glen Rock, which it included. In 1872 the four schools mentioned proved too remote to be at- tended by many children in the homes which had sprung up. A new school district was then formed, and a wooden schoolhouse containing two rooms was built on the site of what is now the present Union Street School. When Ridgewood Township was set off from Franklin Township, four j'ears later, this remained the only schoolhouse in the Township, and here all the children of Ridgewood received their school- ing. Later, increasing attendants made it necessary to add two more rooms. The attic was converted for this purpose. Subsequently the basement of the Dutch Reformed Church was used as an annex to provide for the ever-increasing pupils. At this juncture public opinion ventured to assert itself. At a school meeting it was voted to buy the cornfield on the corner of Beech Street and Franklin Avenue and to build upon it a large wooden schoolhouse at a cost of $35,000. But public opinion had not fully expressed itself — the women had not yet spoken! On the fol- lowing day a petition was framed and put into circulation by the women asking the Trustees to call another meeting to reconsider the resolution and to ask for enough money to build a structure of brick, instead of frame. The Trustees complied, a meeting was called, and almost unanimously $47,000 was voted and a brick building ordered. This building, located on Beech Street, was completed and occupied about October 1, 1895. It is still, in certain respects, the best school building in the Village of Ridgewood. With eight good-sized class- rooms, seven small rooms, and an assembly hall on the third floor, the building afforded a welcome relief from the crowded conditions of the Union Street School. The use of the latter building was discontinued, and later it was torn down to make way for the present Union Street School building. When completed, the Beech Street School was deemed second to none of its size in the State. It was constructed during the adminis- tration of Mr. D. W. La Fetra as President of the Board of Educa- tion. This worthy citizen has always taken an active interest in public school work and, for many years, has been a telling influence in educational matters in the Village. It may be interesting to note that the idea of "The Graded School System" which was incorporated into a law by the State of New Jersey originated with Mr. La Fetra. 69 RIDGE WOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Though the plan was introduced in the State Legislature by Dr. Thomas G. Chattle of Long Branch, it was suggested by Mr. La Fetra to Dr. Chattle, while a teacher in the early fifties under the latter 's incumbency as School Superintendent of Ocean Township, New Jersey. The progressiveness of the Ridgewood of twenty odd years ago is indicated by the fact that in 1894 a kindergarten class under Miss Ivy W. Grreen was established in connection with its school. This was one of the first public kindergartens in New Jersey. In 1895 the nine years' elementary course was remodeled into an eight years' elementary course, followed by a three years' high-school course. That same year. Sewing, under Miss Sara Denison; Manual Training, under Mr. B. C. Wooster, and more advanced Art and Me- chanical Drawing, under Miss Maggie Vreeland, were made a part of the school curriculum. Those were pioneer days in the introduction of handwork in the public schools. Under the leadership of Mr. Wooster, Ridgewood became one of the pioneer school communities in industrial education. During the ten years from 1895 to 1905, the Beech Street School building housed all the Ridgewood school children. In 1905 Ridgewood met the increased needs of its school children by constructing three four-room school buildings: The Kenilworth Place, Union Street, and Monroe Street schools. During the year 1905-1906, under the superintendency of Dr. Wm. T. Whitney, the high-school course was extended to cover four years, and the work of extending and modernizing the school, which Mr. Wooster had begun, was greatly advanced. The high-school graduates of that year began to enter college and normal schools. Each succeed- ing year has seen their numbers increase. In 1906 four rooms were added to the Union Street School. The schools grew so steadily for the next five yfears that, in 1911, the pressure of need demanded the immediate erection of a new build- ing. The Harrison Avenue School w^as begun. At the same time work of extension was started upon the Kenilworth Place and Monroe Street buildings. To each of these buildings seven rooms and assembly hall, Avere added. In 1912 the growing educational needs of the section known as Upper Ridgewood prompted an appropriation for the purchase of a plot on Erie Avenue, corner of California Street, containing 2 acres, and for the erection thereon of a one-story portable building. In 1913 the High School grew almost to the limits of the capacity of the Beech Street building. Only one room remained unoccupied. To cope with other demands for space three portable schoolhouses were placed on the adjacent grounds to provide, temporarily, for three grammar grades. In the same year the citizens of Ridgewood voted to purchase as a site for a new" High School building and an athletic field the property of Captain John A. Edwards, situated on East Ridgewood Avenue, corner of Heermance Road, and the field fronting the same formerly known as the White Star Baseball Field. The hill on which it is proposed to erect the building comprises a 70 PAST AND PRESENT plot of 518 feet by 346 feet. With the athletic field it covers a total of approximately nine acres. The old Edwards house was removed, and the large barn was placed on the Athletic Field at the north end and has been renovated and put in first-class condition, making an attractive club house for the use of the High School athletes. Set in among fine old trees, it pre- sents an attractive appearance which is much enhanced by the large flagpole, erected on the ground adjoining, presented on July 4, 1915, to the school children by the Independence Day Association of Ridge- wood. A large American fiag, for use on this pole, was also presented on the same day, by Bergen Council, Junior Order of American Mechanics. The High School on this hill, where the building will be easily visible from a considerable distance, and the Athletic Field facing it, forming a natural amphitheatre, will together provide a site unsur- passed in the State and will, no doubt, stimulate emulation among school authorities in other communities. This property cost the town $28,500. Five thousand dollars has been expended since to raise the Athletic Field to a higher level. Earth from the Station Improvement was used for this purpose. The street passing through the property and marking the line between the school site and the Athletic Field has been gratuitously deeded by Mrs. Martha Edwards to the Board of Education. By 1914 the High School required and occupied the entire Beech Street edifice. It made use of every available nook and corner in the building. Two attic rooms were finished off to serve as cooking and sewing rooms. Three cellar rooms were put into use as a Manual Train- ing room and laboratories for Physics and Chemistry. Meanwhile the over-crowded conditions of the classes in the Beach-Union Primary and Grammar Schools caused the arranging of four of these classes on part time, despite the accommodations afforded temporarily by the three portable one-room buildings. In 1915 a four-room school building to cost $17,500 was authorized to replace the portable structure on the Upper Ridgewood School site. This building, since completed, has been in use since school opened in October, 1916. The design is of the mission type. It is one story in height, and contains four regulation size classrooms and teachers' room. It is furnished with the most modern of plumbing, heating and ven- tilating equipment. This school is the only example of its type any- where in the vicinity and, besides offering every advantage in lighting, good ventilation, and practicability from an administrative viewpoint, it is in proper harmony with the group of artistic homes surrounding it in that locality, and is as pleasing to the eye as one could desire. The building is constructed so that other similar units may be added as occasion may require. It is designed to provide for a full eighth grade and kindergarten grammar school, with a large assembly hall accessible from all corridors. Besides being in daily use for school purposes, the building has become the community centre for all forms of civic and social gatherings and has proved a most valuable adjunct to the community it serves. 71 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY During the same year (1915), a proposition to issue bonds to the extent of $150,000 for the purpose of erecting a unit, at least, of a new High School building was vetoed by the citizens, the time being considered as most inopportune for the expenditure of such a sum. After several months of agitation and efforts to educate the people in school requirements, an appropriation of $225,000 was voted, in Jan- uary, 1916, to build a modern High School building. The firm of Tracy & Swartwout, of New York City, was selected to design the new group, and contracts have been signed and work already started upon what bids fair to be the most beautiful as well as the most practicable series of buildings for educational purposes in the public school system of this or any neighboring State, The plans provide for a group arrangement of buildings. The ad- vantages of increased light and air and the unusual opportunities afforded by the natural contour of the site, make such a design prac- tical, pleasing to the eye, and economical in construction. The aim to conserve the beautiful grove of trees was another determining factor in the arrangement of this -architectural ensemble. According to the proper artistic standards a group of low buildings with exterior lines broken up and steep pitched roofs were essential to give the requisite picturesqueness. The lay-out of the buildings was so carefully planned that except for the removal of one useless hickory and a few apple trees, the stately elms, pines, birch, and other beautiful trees were preserved entire. Few public school sites offer such wonderful natural advantages. The finished structure provides for a capacity of one thousand pupils. The unit now under construction will accommodate between six and seven hundred. Expensive material will not be employed to produce the desired artistic effect. Construction will be fire-proof throughout; the exterior walls will be of reddish-colored brick trimmed with cast stone, wdiile the roofs are to be of slate. The main building will contain nineteen class and recitation rooms together with complete laboratory equipment for the sciences; ample space is provided for the manual training and domestic science de- partments, as well as for those of art, stenography, and bookkeeping; there are to be, in addition, a hospital and administrative room, while provision is also made for a lunch-room, and for storage facilities. In the basement will be placed the boiler plant, toilets, etc. The Auditorium, which is to be a separate building, will have seat- ing accommodation for one thousand persons. It will be connected with the main building and will serve also as an assembly room and study-hall. The interior of the Auditorium will be done in brick and plaster with an ornamental vaulted ceiling. The Gymnasium, located near the Athletic Field, will be provided with thoroughly modern equipment. The shower, locker rooms, etc., will occupy the basement. Later, it is intended that this building shall connect directly with the main building. The unit at present contracted for, it is hoped, will be ready early in 1918. Our school plant now consists of the following buildings and grounds: 1. Beech Street School, known as the High School, on plot of land 72 PAST AND PRESENT at corner of Beech Street and Franklin Avenue, containing fifteen rooms and assembly hall. Tiirce of these rooms are used for admin- istration purposes, 2. Harrison Avenue School, located at Harrison Avenue and Fair- view Place, containing seventeen rooms and assembly. 3. Kenilworth School, on Kenilworth Place between Ridgewood and Spring Avenues, containing twelve rooms and assembly. 4. Union Street School, containing ten rooms. 5. Monroe Street School, on Monroe Street between Franklin and Godwin Avenues, containing twelve rooms and assembly. 6. Upper Ridgewood School, a new and modern one-story struct- ure, containing four classrooms. The design of this school represents quite a radical departure from the other school buildings in this vicinity. 7. Four one-room portable buildings, upon the Beech Street plot. These were erected for the purpose of relieving congestion in the High School and to provide proper laboratory acconnnodations. The estimated value of land, buildings, and equipment of the above schools, together with tlie cost of the new High School site and present buildings thereon, amounts to $309,100. With the completion of the High School, the total will approximate $550,000. With the completion of the Athletic Field, an added stimulus will undoubtedly be given to the development of our high school athletics. This is a feature already well known, and not without reason is it considered as rating high in the neighboring communities. For a long time baseball, football, track athletics, and general physical training have been given a full share of attention in our school activities. The new facilities will add further opportunities for the physical better- ment of our youth ; and there is every reason to believe tliat our boys and girls will grasp the advantages of laying a healthful and strong physical foundation upon which to build the mental super-structure. The educational features have been notably progressive and fit in with the latest ideas of pedagogy. Yet with all the advanced methods of the present time, who shall say that the training of the child in the little country schoolhouses of one hundred or of fifty years ago was not as adequate to the needs of those times as of our own day? We must not forget that the men whose shrewdness and keen business judgment laid the foundation of Ridgewood — and laid it well — were indebted to those same little sclioolhouses for the early impulses which made possible their subsequent development and successes. Indeed, volumes could be written of the later achievements in the world of letters, business, and the professions of the children of our early rural schools. RIDGEWOOD — that is, the Ridgewood of to-day as we know it — made its educational debut in the little two-room Union Street School where, under the guidance of Mr. B. C. Wooster, now County Super- intendent of Bergen County, and those faithful workers who labored with him, the fame of Ridgewood 's superiority and progressiveness early began to attract attention. From that humble beginning to the present Ridgewood has continued, under the able management of Dr. W. T. Whitney and then Mr. I. W. Travell, our present Superinten- RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY dent, to forge steadily ahead until now the school system is proclaimed an achievement second to none in our State for thoroughness and efficiency. Our schools stand as a monument to the high character and generosity of the citizenship of our town. In its gift to its youth the latter quality has been expressed freely — almost lavishly — time after time. So important has been considered the preparation of the youth of Ridgewood for their ultimate entrance as men and women in the affairs of the world, it would appear to hold a pre-eminent thought in the minds of our citizens. A desire for such worthy associations has, no doubt, attracted many persons to settle in Ridgewood. PRIVATE SCHOOLS A history of education in Ridgewood which contains no reference to the private schools would be assuredly incomplete. In fact, our village would compare unfavorably with the best suburban life, if it had no private school system to record since the choicest suburban communities, generally, have well-established and well-authorized pri- vate schools. Private schools had their beginning in Ridgewood, in 1868, when Mr. Frederic Kidder opened the large house on North Van Dien Avenue, built by him the year before, as a boarding and day school. This house js now owned and occupied by Mr. M. T. Richardson. It is likely that the disappointment which may have attended the failure to secure a single boarding pupil was somewhat mitigated by the presence of a Mr. Jolly as principal of the few day pupils. For about three years, until the school closed, Principal Jolly, assisted by a Miss Smith, took care of the boys and girls in attendance. It is of interest to add that Judge Zabriskie, Mr. Edward Chapman, and his brother, Mr. Charles Chapman, were among those who attended the Kidder Academy, as it was called. In 1868, the well-known authoress, Amelia E. Barr, upon her arrival in New York City from Texas, after the death of her husband, came to Ridgewood as tutor to the three sons of William Libby, Esq., father of Professor William Libby of Princeton University. In the early part of 1869, the tutorial work developed into a school for boys and girls located in a house on North Van Dien Avenue, opposite Linwood Avenue. There weve six pupils in the beginning and the number varied, at times reaching ten or twelve. The school lasted for about a year and a half and was discontinued when Mr. Libby 's sons became students at Princeton. It is interesting to know that while conducting this short-lived school, Mrs. Barr was engaged in writing a novel, and that it was at Mr. Libby 's suggestion that she entered upon her literary work. Mrs. Barr's verbal description of incidents connected with her life in Texas had so impressed Mr. Libby that when she faced the problem of her future existence, after the discontinuance of her school, he induced her to write a description of one of the incidents, which he placed in the hands of a New York publishing house. The story was accepted and shortly afterward Mrs. Barr removed to New York City to continue 74 PAST AND PRESENT what was to be her life work. Before leaving Ridgewood she began her novel "Margaret Sinclaire's Silent Money". From the time Mrs. Barr's school closed until 1879, there seems to have been no private school in Ridgewood. Then Miss Rebecca W. Hawes of 36 Corsa Terrace- came to the relief and added to her very busy life as the village music teacher, the equally arduous work of conducting a school for young children. This school assembled in a room over the furniture store of Theodore V. Terhune, at the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and South Oak Street. Beginning in Marcli, 1871, and for about twenty years thereafter, Miss Hawes was the only music teacher in the district extending from Allendale to Hawthorne. She was engaged in this work for twenty-three years and during that time took part in the first public concert ever given in Ridgewood, as well as furnished the music for the first kindergarten class and the first dancing class. It is extremely interesting to hear Miss Hawes tell of her work in connection with the school held in that upi^er room. Often this busy, music-loving teacher, enlivened the routine of the school room by sing- ing, or reading aloud, or, on beautiful days by recess periods under the oak and hickory trees in the fields through which Oak Street was afterwards opened. Among those who were first taught to read and write and sew at Miss Hawes' school were John Hawes, Howard Maltbie, Edgar Wat- lington, Howard, Robert, and Willie Walton, Jos. Jefferson, Jr., Mary Dobbs, Elizabeth Hawes, Carrie Buck, and Louise Maltbie, all of whom were then less than ten years old. Two older boys who received special instruction, were George Totten, now a noted architect of Washington, D. C, and John Terhune (Harry Rouclere). Two years after the establishment of her school, Miss Hawes dis- posed of her good will to Mrs. John A. Marinus, who continued the school for several years at her home on East Ridgewood Avenue. During this period Mrs. Buck also opened a boarding and day school for children, on the property of B. F. Robinson, on Cottage Place. A small building was placed in the rear of the residence and used for the class work. Here were held the first kindergarten and the first danc- ing classes of the Village. Mrs. Buck was succeeded in the manage- ment of the school by her daughters — Miss Helen D. Buck and Miss Caroline Buck. Other educational ventures, of unquestionable worth to the com- munity but of short duration, were made by Miss Josephine Rowland about 1893, in a room in the rear of Tice's drug store, then on the corner opposite its present location ; by Miss Florence de Z. Patton in 1893 and 1895, at the corner of Spring and Maple Avenues; by Miss Ives, near the office of Dr. Vroom, Ridgewood Avenue ; and by Miss Martha E. Smith in 1897 on Franklin Avenue. A larger school, which included both primary and college prepara- tory courses, was established by Mr. James B. Parsons in 1902, on the large property on Ridgewood Avenue, familiarly known as Elmhurst. Mr. Parsons was encouraged to enter upon a project of this scope by 75 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY the patronage and influence of such men as E. LeB. Gardner, Charles H. Eddy, Duncan D. Chaplin, George E. Boreham, Charles A. De Shon and others who wished private school advantages for their children. As the years passed the venture prospered and former pupils of the Ridgewood Preparatory School can now be found among the graduates of various colleges and occupying responsible and useful positions in business and society. In 1912 it was decided to divide the property occupied by the school into building lots, Mr. Parsons, believing an elevated site in a quiet and beautiful residential section to be the best place for the development of boys and girls, secured property on Heights Road where a thoroughly modern school was built. With well-furnished rooms and library, with all conveniences and modern sanitation, it is doubtful if another suburban town has a private day school equal to that of Ridgewood. In this connection it may be said that Ridgewood 's private school system represents the highest development of this type of education. It is a system by no means rivaling that of the State, but rather deserving the reputation of being a faithful ally of the public school. The latter is unquestionably best fitted for children of some types, but its failure with others is due to what may be described as mechanical methods which permit of but slight discrimination on account of per- sonal temperament. Doubtless this is necessary in the handling of large numbers of pupils, but it is in this particular point that the chief merit of the private school lies. It provides a flexible system which is adapted to the individual boy or girl, helping them to flnd them- selves. Individual supervision in a co-operative environment is the key-note. The school, in short, must be fitted to the pupil, as well as the pupil to the school. The Victoria School for little children, opened October 5, 1916, is the latest addition to the educational institutions of Ridgewood and is named after the authoress, Metta Victoria Victor. Remembrance of her many years' association with the early historical and social development of Ridgewood was the incentive which prompted her daughter, Vivia Victor, its Principal, to name this school after her. The purpose of the Victoria School is the laying of a solid founda- tion for the child 's advancing experience in life ; the right environment, individual instruction along the best educational lines, and recognition of the special needs of little children. Centrally and very pleasantly located on West Ridgewood Avenue, this school expects to fill a need of the parents of Ridgewood and to exert an ever-increasing influence on the future development of the Village. The first sewing school in this vicinity Avas opened with five pupils in the Hawes homestead, Ho-Ho-Kus. After the establishment of an Episcopal Mission Sunday School in the first public school of Ho-Ho- Kus, the classes were held in that schoolroom on Saturday afternoons. There was always a large attendance, some of the pupils coming from Ridgewood. After the present W^aldwiek Public School was completed the meetings were held alternately in the two places, and still later a Saturday morning class was started where the older girls were taught 76 PAST AND PRESENT to cut and make their own dresses and children's garments. Direc- tions for work and a book of "Serving Songs" were obtained from New York and the classes continued for more than three years, the number of workers increasing to fifty. Two New Year's trees and one Christmas tree, filled witli gifts, were given by Ho-Ho-Kus friends and at the close of the work an exhibit of the handicraft was held in the Parish House of Waldwick Methodist Church, the older girls wearing dresses made by themselves. The teachers during this time were Mrs. and Miss R. W. Hawes and Miss Lucy Hawes. It was this work which later interested the citizens of Ho-Ho-Kus, Waldwick and Eidgewood in the petition for full school suffrage for women and brought a letter from the County Superintendent of Edu- cation thanking them for the "valuable work" they had done in the public schools in many ways. PUBLIC LIBRARY The Village Improvement Association was organized in 1897. and among its projects for promoting the best interests of Ridgewood was the establishment of a public library. Many of the residents of Ridgewood will remember the old Zabriskie Building, now remodelled and occupied as the real estate office of Messrs. Stevens and Tetor. The rent of this building was given for three years, and a "Book Shower" was held. The books received were of all kinds and condi- tions, but the committee of twenty selected a sufficient number to place on the shelves for circulation and subscribed for ten periodicals to be used in the reading room. Among the first books received — some of which are still in use — were a number which had been accumulated by the members of the "Tuesday Book Club", an organization of Avomen of the Village established a number of years before. At the end of three years, the room became too small for its purpose, and in 1900 the library was established in its present quarters over the First National Bank. To meet the increased expense, the room was sublet to various organizations and according to the law regarding libraries and free reading rooms, the Village trustees in 1903 appropriated $300.00. There are now on the shelves 4,800 volumes and 33 periodicals are to be found in the reading room. In the year ending October, 1916, there was a circulation of 20,000 books. Pn?LT.SHER's Note: Alflwugh announcerl after the date of the piihliratinn of this hook and during the earhi vart of 1911. the gift hy wiU of Mrs. Gertrude Pease Anderson of the siim of m 100.000 for the ereetion of a free lihrary in Ridgeirood. and also the sum of $50,000 hoth in trust for its maintenance, in lonina memory of her father. George L. Pease, to he ealled the "George L. Pea^laced by the Government in Ridgewood is on the bridge of the Erie Railroad over Cameron Lane and shows an elevation at that point of 153.97 feet. Some time prior to 1876, Whritnour & Colfax had a general mer- chandise store on the site of the present E. B. Van Horn livery, grain and feed business on Broad Street, the upper floor of the building being known as Wilson's Hall. This building was destroyed by fire in 1881. The building now occupied by Ackerman Bros., the grocer\Tnen, on the north side of Ridgewood Avenue, was put up by John B. Van Dien and was occupied by the firm then known as Edward Whritnour & Son, Mr. Colfax having previously died. Upon the death of Edward Whrit- nour, the business was continued by his son, Mathias (Tice) Whritnour, until succeeded by the present occupants. 92 PAST AND PRESENT After the destruction of the former store of AVhritnour & Colfax, the site remained unoccupied until the early part of 1898, when E. B. Van Horn erected the present building and established his livery, feed, and grain business. About 1876 Van Emburgh & Post operated a steam saw and planing mill on the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Broad Street, part of the building being used for the carpenter shop of C. D. Ackerman. This building was also destroyed in the tire of 1881. At that time it was being used as a blacksmith shop by Benjamin Eglin, who now conducts a similar business on Hudson Street, and as a wheelwright shop by John A. Marinus. In 1882, the present Ryerson building was erected upon the site. This building, besides providing for stores on the ground floor, had liv- ing rooms on the second floor, and a meeting room on the third floor which was, for a long period, the home of the Masons. The corner store now occupied by F. H. Adam, the grocer, was first occupied by John F. Cruse, also as a grocery store, and at one time con- tained the Village Post Office. The store now occupied by the restaurant of Caramella & Morbelli was used until 1899 by Mrs. Susan E. Ryerson and her sister. Miss Kate A. Bortic, as a dry-goods and notion store. The coal and wood business now conducted by George R. Young and Richard Bortic, the business office of which is located in the Ryerson building, was established in 1888 by E. F. Ryerson, who conducted the Imsiness in its present location until his death. It was taken over by the present firm during April, 1897. "When first established, the coal yards were located for a short time on the Broad Street property, later occupied by the feed and grain business of J. H. Blauvelt. About a year after its establishment, Mr. Ryerson moved the yards to their present location on Franklin Avenue, along the tracks of the Erie Railroad. Some years prior to 1876, G. J. Snyder constructed a small building on the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Prospect Street, the present site of the First National Bank building, where, for a number of years, he conducted a meat business. At about the same time he erected a larger building, with living rooms above, on Ridgewood Avenue, adja- cent to the corner building, the ground floor of which was used by J. Seiber as a bakery. When the First National Bank building was started, these buildings were removed to their present location on Prospect Street adjoining the present Post Office building and are now occupied, the smaller one by the Ridgewood Tire Company and the other by Koblintz, the tailor. The first plumbing and tinsmith business was established prior to 1876 by Bergman & Duffy in the store adjoining the old Van Dien building on the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Chestnut Street. The firm also carried a small line of hardware. The business was later con- tinued by M. C. Duffy. The earliest nursery in the vicinity of Ridgewood was started by Henry W. Hales in 1874. At first the business was conducted on a comparatively small scale, but it soon developed to a point where it not 93 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY only took care of the local trade but supplied cut flowers to the New York market as well. In 1876, the business interests located in what is now the center of Ridgewood consisted of three general stores, a plumbing shop, two blacksmiths, two wheelwrights, a periodical store, a butcher shop, a tailor, an apothecary, and a nursery. The Paramus section of the Village was in a modest way a business centre about 1870 and for some years thereafter. Jacob D. Van Emburgh established a grocery store on the property just west of the old Naugle Hotel. This was successfully conducted by Mr. Van Em- liurgh, his brother, Henry, John E. Zabriskie, John H. Snyder, and John J. Hopper, the latter a son-in-law of J. D. Van Emburgh. Mr. Hopper at a voluntary auction disposed of his stock. At about the same time, John J. Ackerman, later proprietor of the old Naugle Hotel, established a large business, building carriages, Avagons, and sleighs, as well as doing a general blacksmith, wheelwright, and carriage painting business and employing about half a dozen men. During the same period a harness maker and a shoemaker also estab- lished themselves in this section. The coal and grain business conducted for the past three years by S. Nagle, Jr., on the property of W. H. Moore on Broad Street, is on the premises occupied by the grain business conducted by J. H. Blauvelt for a j)eriod of eighteen years prior to the establishment of the present business. Since its early days the mercantile interests of the Village have de- veloped along natural and normal lines until today every line of activity required by the life of a modern suburban village is represented. Al- most all of the business interests are centered in the Village and the principal buildings erected for these purposes with the date of con- struction, are as follows : On the tvest side of the track: Wilsey Square from Franklin to Godwin Avenue, Osman, 1913; Play House, 1913; Van Orden's Garage, 1909; two-story store and apartment block, 1916. On Godwin Avenue, Morgan, 1903. On the east side of the track: Ridgewood Avenue, south side, from the tracks to Broad Street. Hutton, 1898; Moore (Crouter) prior to 1874, rebuilt, 1889; Moore (Zabriskie), prior to 1876. Broad to Prespect Streets, Ryerson, 1882; Hopper, 1908; Ridgewood News, 1900; Ridge- wood House-Hotel, 1870; Mead, 1903; and First National Bank, 1903. Prespect to Oak Streets, Ridgewood Trust Companv, 1910; Quackenbush, 1909; Green- law, 1909; Waller, 1915; and Thorton, 1912. 94 PAST AND PRESENT Ridgewood Avenue, north side from Broad to Chestnut Streets, Wilsey, 1914 ; Hennion, 1890 ; Van Dien Block, 1891 and 1893 ; Ackerman, 1882 ; Duffy, prior to 1876 ; and Van Dien, prior to 1868. Chestnut to Oak Streets, Pioneer, 1895, rebuilt 1900; Hennion, 1894; Hanks Block (be- tween 1893 to 1903) ; and on the opposite corner, Terhune, 1872. Prospect Street, west side, The Hegeman building, 1908; Post Office, 1912; and on the east side Prospect Hall Block, 1903. INDUSTRIES While Ridgewood is wholly residential in character, having no fac- tories or other industrial enterprises employing large numbers of opera- tives, it was at one time the home of the "Favorite Brand" rubber packing business. This was in a two-story brick building located on the east side of North Maple Avenue, opposite Park Court and at present used by the Packer Auto Company. The building was built by the heirs of John R. Terhune in 1873, near the site formerly occupied by three other factories within a period of twenty-one years. The first building was used as a grist mill for nearly half a century, and in February, 1853, was destroyed by fire. A new frame building was put up during the same year and leased to J. J. Zabriskie for use as a cotton mill. This also was burned in 1859. In 1866, ground was broken for a new frame structure which was leased to Edwin Taylor, of Kensico, N. Y., for manufacturing purposes. This building was burned in 1873 and, in the same year, the present building was erected and leased in 1879 to the Peerless Manufacturing Company for the manufacture of rubber goods. It was occupied by this company until about 1886 when, more space being needed on ac- count of the expansion of their business, their enterprise was removed to New Durham, N. J. The building was practically unused until re- cently when it was occupied by the Packer Auto Company. At one time Ridgewood also contained the woolen mills of G. Morrow & Son, which were established in 1853 and located at the southeast corner of the Village near the Susquehanna Railroad, just below what is now known as Van Emburgh's Pond. In the extreme northern portion of the Village, near Waldwick, Avas located the paper and twine manufactory of White Company, which was destroyed by fire about 1880. In the same locality, and on the road leading from Waldwick to Wyckoff, a factory for the manufacture of wax for artificial flowers and honeycomb was started in the early 70 's by A. H. Bender, who had pur- chased the privilege from Mrs. M. C. McCall, of Edinburgh, Scotland. He continued the business for about ten years during which time liis product received first prize at the Philadelphia Exposition in 1876, as did flowers made from it by ]\Iiss Emma Hopper, now Mrs. George W. Beckley, of Waldwick. 95 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Banks The first effort to estaljlish a banking institution in Ridgewood was made by The Village Improvement Association, when for a period of nearly tliree years prior to the organization of the First National Bank, a committee of this association had charge of the Ridgewood Branch of the Penny Provident Bank of New York, with a list of depositors approximating 100 children. Stamps representing cash were exchanged and redeemed when the amount reached $10.00. The First National Bank In 1899 The First National Bank of Ridgewood was organized, its first officers being : President Peter Ackerman, Vice-President H. S. Patterson, Cashier L. F. Spencer, Teller W. C. Banta. The business was at first conducted in a building on the site now occupied by Gordon's barber shop on West Ridgewood Avenue. This was destroyed by fire in March, 1900, and the bank was removed to temporary quarters in the Banta plumbing shop in the Hutton building near the railroad. At the end of four months it was again removed to the building on Prospect Street, now occupied by Max Koblintz, the tailor. The present quarters were constructed and occupied in 1903. Ridgewood Trust Company The Ridgewood Trust Company was organized in 1906, the first offi- cers being: President Judge Cornelius Doremus Tice-President James W. Pearsall, Treasurer W. J. Fullerton, Secretary . L. F. Spencer. Business was conducted for about six months in a portion of the First National Bank quarters, and later, in 1907, was moved to Avhat is now the Weber jewelry store, on West Ridgewood Avenue. In 1910 the present building was completed and occupied. Building and Loan Associations RidgCAvood has three building and loan associations, all of which have been managed wisely, economically, and satisfactorily. The busi- ness done is strictly local and hundreds of residents of the Village, who have taken advantage of the facilities aft'orded by the associations, are today owners of their own homes, or are in a fair way to be so. With a lot paid for, a building and loan association is usually willing to ad- vance 80% of the actual cost of building a house. This 80% is returned to the association in monthly payments for a period extending over approximately 130 months. If members do not build, the associations 96 PAST AND PRESENT provide a means of saving, with the privilege of withdi'awal or of bor- rowing at any time. The Ridge wood Building and Loan Association The Ridgewood Building and Loan Association was organized in 1885 and is the oldest organization of its character in the Village. The first officers were: I'rcsideiit James N. Norris, Vice-President E. F. Ryersox, Secretary G. 8. Wiutty, Treasurer C. P. Croutek. The Co-operative Building and Loan Association The Co-operative Building and Loan Association was organized on February 1, 1891, with the following officers: President Joseph W. Edwards. y ice-Preside ni Chas. W. Low, Secretary Isaac ]\I. Wall. Treasurer Hiosox Campbell. The Glen Rock Building and Loan Association The Glen Rock Building and Loan Association was incorporated March 25, 1907, with the primary object of furnishing an association for the residents of Glen Rock. The office is located in Ridgewood, as a majority of its members are residents of that Village. The first officers were : President X. S. Cubberly, Vice-President James B. Chblstopher, Secretary G. T. Hopper. Treasurer John A. Marixus. MEDICAL AND DENTAL PROFESSIONS The Medical Profession In the early history of many of the colonies, the art of healing was practiced chiefly by the clergy. The care of the sick came naturally within the sphere of their parochial duties, and many of them were distinguished for their knowledge of medicine and were authors of some of the earliest medical papers printed in America. In some instances the schoolmaster was the physician and surgeon of the neighborhood. New Jersey had among its early medical men a few who had received their training in the schools of Europe. By far the greater number, however, having no liberal education, had lived a year or two with a practitioner of some sort, read the few availal)le books on medicine and then, assuming the title of doctor, offered themselves to the people as competent to cure disease. They relied much upon the use of herbs and roots. Every neighborhood seems to have had some one who could bleed and extract teeth. Occasionally a handy man would straighten a cracked 97 RIDGEWOOB, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY bone, and be given great credit and the title of doctor for doing so. In nearly all cases of sickness the remedies employed were the growth of the soil, very little medicine, as it is known today, being used. Among the Hollanders of Bergen County, there was little need of physicians for many years after the first settlement began. The climate was healtliy and the settlers were of a hardy and enduring type. Malaria was comparatively unknown. All of the early writers and correspondents who have described the condition of the country, cither in books or in letters to their friends abroad, united in pronouncing East Jersey a very healthy country. Aside from this, the scarcity of early physicians in Bergen County is accounted for by the fact that the more wealthy of the citizens were in the habit of obtaining their medical attention from other places, such as New York, Elizabethtown, and Newark. Holland seems to have sent forth no properly qualified physicians, although her university at Leyden was among the most renowned in Europe for chemistry and kindred sciences. The science of medicine was in its infancy all over the civilized world. What is now understood by that term has been the growth of the last 125 years. There was nothing approximating a school of medicine in America; not even a course of lectures, until the middle of the eighteenth century, when tlie first medical school in the country was founded in Philadelphia in 1765. Two years later New York established her first school of medicine in connection with King's College, ^.New York City. The year 1688 is the first in which we hear of any doctor in what is now Bergen County. Dr. Johannes, the man referred to, lived in wliat is now Hackensack (in the then County of Essex, which extended only as far west as the Hackensack River), Bergen County. Dr. Van Emburgh must have practiced in or about Hackensack be- fore 1709, as a deed was filed that year to his widow. The next one of whom any account is found is Dr. Abraham Van Buskirk, who lived at Paramus, and was surgeon in the First Militia of Bergen County, February 17, 1776. In July of that year the Provin- cial Congress ordered that the treasurer pay to Dr. Van Buskirk and two others the sum of 335 pounds, 10 shillings, being the amount due for 79 stands of arms at 4 pounds, 10 shillings apiece. Before the year was out he had gone over to the British, family and all. He was leader of many Tory raids in Bergen County ; one raid through Closter in 1779. Joseph Sackett, Jr., who practiced in Paramus was one of the seven- teen who signed the Instruments of Association and Constitution of the Medical Society of New Jersey in 1766, which society this year cele- bi'ated its 160th Anniversary, being the oldest medical society in this country. Many of the early physicians covered large circuits, often being away from home for several days at a time. They rendered efficient service to the public in the days of stage coaches, spinning wheels and tallow dips. While much of their system of medication today is obso- lete, it served nevertheless as a stepping-stone to modern practice, and it would be unjust to decry tlieir methods. At one period the country was overrun with itinerant doctors, 98 PAST AND PRESENT natural bonesetters and othors of like character. Many clergymen took up the study of medicine which they practiced along with their ministry. On the tombstone of the Rev. Robert McKean, of Perth Amboy, who was also the first president of the New Jersey Medical Society, is in- scribed: "An unshaken friend, an agreeable companion, a rational divine, a skilful physician, and in every relation in life a truly benevo- lent and honest man." Dr. Elijah Rosencrantz, graduated from Rutgers College in 1791, studied theology for a period of sixteen months with the Rev. Peter Studdiford, whereupon he was granted a license to preach. After preaching one sermon he decided that he was not fitted for the ministry. He took up the study of medicine and in 1799 received from two judges of the State Supreme Court a license to practice as a physician and surgeon in the State of New Jersey. In 1800 he purchased the Hermi- tage, formerly the home of Madam Provost, now the Rosencrantz home- stead, wdiere he began practice. He held the appointment of surgeon to the Second Regiment, Bergen County Brigade of Militia. He died in 1832. Dr. Garret D. Banta, born in 1792, practiced in Paramus and it is interesting to note that his wife was in the habit of accompanying him on his rounds and aiding in his professional work. Dr. W. L. Vroom has now in his possession the old mortar and pestle with which Dr. Banta compounded his prescriptions. The eagle over the pulpit of the old Paramus Church was jjresented by Dr. Banta in 1800. Dr. Henry G. Banta, son of Dr. Garret D. Banta, born in 1815, fol- lowed his father in the practice of medicine and also located in Paramus. He died in 1876. It is mentioned that his rounds often recjuired two or three days before returning home and that wherever meal time found him he would make himself welcome. Frequently, upon leaving a pa- tient, he would take along a sack of oats or corn for his horses, this often constituting the only compensation for medical services. Dr. DuBois Hash rook, a cousin of Charles Ilasbrook of Hackensack, was located on the Paramus Road, at the old Lane place, about 1854. Dr. 0. Blenis, located on the Paramus Road, now the Vermilye home- stead, previous to 1864 and later moved to Saddle River. Dr. John T. De Mund, born in 1840, was assistant surgeon of the 58th Regiment, Pennsylvania Infantry, in 1863, and began the practice of medicine in Paramus in 1864. He came to Ridgewood in 1878 and continued practice until 1914, when he retired. Upon locating in Ridge- wood his of^ce was in a small building adjacent to the site of the Wilsey Building. In 1888 the building was removed to its present site at the entrance to the grounds of his residence on Ridgewood Avenue. Dr. George B. Parker, a surgeon of the Civil War, came to Ridge- wood about 1876. He was the founder of City Point Hospital. It is related that President Gi-ant said to him: "Dr. Pai'ker, if there is any position you wish, I would be glad to make the appointment." The doctor in his characteristic way answered : ' ' Thank you, Mr. President, I am a Democi'at. " Dr. Parker long treasured an axe with which, at the earnest solicitation of a number of officers. President Lincoln split 99 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY a rail in his tent one night, to demonstrate that lie had not lost his ability in that line. Dr. William Francis, born in England, resided in what is now the Terhune house on Ridgewood Avenue, and practiced in Ridgewood for a number of years. He died in 1888. The doctor, accompanied by a huge mastiff in his Avalks about town was for years a familiar figure. Dr. Wm. L. Vroom came to Ridgewood in 1888, taking up the prac- tice of Dr. Francis. In 1893 Dr. Vroom took possession of the old stone house on Ridgewood Avenue, which is one of Ridgewood 's landmarks, being the second oldest residence. The deed embracing this property, given by the "Lords Proprietors of the Province of East Jersey" and dated 1698, is still well preserved. It is elaborately engrossed on sheepskin. Dr. George M. Ockford was next to estal)lish himself in Ridgewood, coming from Lexington, Ky., in 1891. He has the honor of being the present Postmaster of the Village. Next in order are : Dr. Charles W. Harreys, who began practice in this Village in 1898. Dr. Harry S. Willard, who began practice in 1898, soon giving up general practice to devote himself to the speciality of the eye. Dr. Cornelius A. De Mund, son of Dr. J. T. De Mund, began practice in 1900, following his father, whose practice he has now taken up. Dr. Harry H. Pettit reached Ridgewood in 1906 and located on Franklin Avenue. Dr. H. A. Bonvnge, located on Prospect Sti-eet, began practice in 1907. Dr. William C. Craig, who associated himself with Dr. Win. L. Vroom, began practice in 1909. Dr. F. W. Gilbart was next in order and located on West Ridgewood Avenue in 1912. Dr. Wm. Tomkins located in L"^pper Ridgewood in 1912. Dr. Walter F. Keating located on Franklin Avenue in 1915. The Ridgewood ]\Iedical Society, consisting of the resident physi- cians and those of the immediate vicinity, was organized in 1911, the object being the promotion of scientific discussion and social welfai-e. The Ridgewood Hospital was incorporated in 1911 with the follow- ing Board of Directors : W. L. Vroom, M.D., F. von Moschzisker, W. C. Craig, M.D., Judge Cornelius Doremus, and James M. Craig. The hospital is located on West Ridgewood Avenue, adjoining the office of Dr. Vroom, and is conducted for the physicians of Ridgewood and vicinity in order that they may properly care for their patients who require hospital treatment. Tlie Dental Profession The science of dentistry embraces the treatment of diseases and lesions of the teeth and the supplying of substitutes for such of these organs as are lost. As in the early days of the Medical Profession, dentistry was practiced to a large extent by persons engaged in other pursuits and without any professional education. This was due pri- marily to the fact that mere tooth-drawing constituted the surgical 100 PAST AND PRESENT dentistry of the times and the operation demanded muscular strength and manual dexterity rather than anatomical knowledge or surgical skill. The very ap})arent need of educating individuals for the profession resulted in the esta1)lishment of courses of studies in various colleges and institutions throughout the country. Now, under the laws of the various states, only those who can produce a certificate that the required course has been completed may take the examination for a license to ])ractice. In the early days of Ridgewood, dentists wdio had located in the neighl)oring municipalities of Haekensack, Paterson, and New York, cared for the needs of the villagers. The first dentist to establish in the Village was Dr. Walter Van Emburgh, who began practice January 1, 1894, and continued until June 10, 1914, when he retired. The next to open an office was Dr. Harold J. White, who began practice on September 10, 1903. Shortly afterward Dr. Russell Sufi'ern opened an office, but only remained in the Village about three months. In the spring of 1909, Dr. G. W. La Liberte began to practice and in the summer of 1911 removed to Orange, N. J. During September, 1910, offices were opened by Dr. Walter A. Tracey and Dr. Angelo Zabriskie. In October of the same year. Dr. G. A. Wessner established an office, and Dr. W. S. H. Martin began to practice here during the early part of 1913. PUBLICATIONS Ridgewood has two Aveekly newspapers, one bi-monthly publication and one magazine issued every othei' week. The community's first news- paper was established in 1889 by William J. Tonkin and was issued monthly under the name of "The Ridgewood News." The Ridgewood News This paper was for some time printed in New York and its edi- torials and news articles were prepared by Mr. Tonkin as he traveled ])etween the Village and the City. Six months after its establishment, the News" became a semi-monthly. At the end of the year, Mr. Tonkin decided to discontinue his work as a publisher and sold his paper to Leonard N. Taft, who was then station agent at Ridgewood for the Erie Railroad. The purchase price was $1.00. Mr. Taft innnediately in- stalled printing presses, type and other necessary materials in a room over Eglin's blacksmith shop and published The News as a weekly. About a year later John A. Ackerman became owner of the paper and published it until 1892 when he re-sold it to i\Ir. Taft. On September 15, 1894, Frank A. Baxter and Joseph Babcock be- came proprietors of the paper. Several years later Mr. Baxter pur- chased his partner's interest in the paper and continued to publish it until June 1, 1916, when he retired from journalistic work, disposing of his interests to Franklin Fishier, the present proprietoi-. 101 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY The News was at first non-partisan in its polities, but in recent years has been consistently Democratic. The Ridgcwood Record In 1898 Mr. Leonard N. Taft, formerly owner of The Ridgewood News, re-entered the newspaper business and established The Ridgewood Record, a weekly. After a brief period, he sold the paper to Eugene Ferrell, who published it until a fire put him out of business. Mr. Taft bought what remained of the plant at public sale and installed it in the carriage house in the rear of his residence at 76 Woodside Avenue. He then began the pul)lication of a paper called The Ridgewood Herald. The Ridgewood Herald This paper w^as published by Mr. Taft until August 15, 1905, when Brainard G. Smith secured possession. Mr. Smith brought to the Herald a ripe experience in newspaper work gained through fifteen years' service on the staff of the New York Sun. The editorial and news columns of the Herald since Mr. Smith's ownership have reflected the journalistic atmosphere which made the New York Sun, during Charles Dana's regime, so justly famous. The Herald has been consistently Republican in politics and has been invaluable to the party in Bergen County. It owns its home, a sub- stantial structure of concrete block, at Hudson and Broad Streets, which was completed in August, 1912, and has a well-equipped modern print- ing plant. The Ridgewood Times The Ridgewood Times was started in 1916 by J. Douglas Gessford, who sought to establish an independent weekly newspaper of rather ambitious ideals. The first issue appeared February 19, 1916, as a four page, eight column paper. It was continued weekly until July 8, 1916, when it was permanentl}' discontinued because the editor and his entire staff: had joined the colors on the Mexican border as members of Com- pany L, Fifth New Jersey Infantry. The Arrow The Arrow is the publication of the Ridgewood High School and is devoted to dissemination of Ridgewood school news and the publication of meritorious articles, stories, jioems, and papers written by students in the High School. It was the conception of the Class of 1908 and appeared originally as the year book of the class. The first issue was published under the editorial direction of Miss Nell Doremus, who had associated with her Mildred Hiler, Florence Kemp, Helen Van Buren, Lindley de Garmo, and AVilliam Ransome, the cover being designed by Edgar G. Wandless of the Class of 1910. This publication aroused so much interest that three issues were published in 1912 and 1913. In 1914, under the editorship of Olive Graham, The Arrow became a quar- 102 PAST AND PRESENT terly and the following year was issued bi-monthly and has so continued since. Tlie Arrow presents many items of pertinent school interest which escape the attention of the newspapers of tlie Village. Its staff consists of twelve students of the High School with two meinl)crs of the Faculty' as advisors. The Editor The Editor, a publication accurately described by its sub-title, which is "The Journal of Information for Literary Workers," was founded 111 January, 1895, by James Knapp Reeve, at Franklin, Ohio. Mr. Reeve published the magazine for ten years and then, having become associated with the Outing Publishing Company, turned the active man- agement of The Editor over to Leslie W. Quirk, who continued the work until 1909, when Mr. Reeve resumed the management of the periodical and moved the plant to Ridgewood, locating in the Pioneer Building. In 1911 William R. Kane acquired the controlling interest in the maga- zine. In 1913 it was published as a bi-monthly and later in the same 3^ear began to appear every other week. In 1914 the plant was removed to Glen Rock, but in December, 1916, it w^as again located in Ridgewood and is now established at 2-4 Godwin Avenue as the Station Place Press. A few months prior to this change, Mr. Arthur Tomalin, of Allendale, became associated with Mr. Kane as publisher. The paper now has nearly 9,000 subscribers. The Editor Company also published The Threshold, a magazine of new names and things in literature, The Editor Quarterly, which con- sists of reprints of articles ai)pearing oi'iginally in The Editor, books of value to writers, and maintains a Literary Bureau to assist writers, by criticism and advice. HOTELS, INNS, AND TAVERNS The old David Naugle Tavern, located about 500 feet north of Lin- wood Avenue, on the west side of the Paramus Road, was built about 1790, by John A. Zabriskie, originally a residence. Mr. Zabriskie later turned the house into a tavern, which was one of the stopping places on the old Hoboken-Goshen stage route. After the Revolutionary War and during the early part of the Nineteenth Century, in accordance with the custom of that time, the house was the headquarters of the citizens of the community when engaged in general military training under General Andrew H. Hopper, on what were known as "General Ti-aining Days". In 1809 the property, including 100 acres of land, was conveyed by Christian De Peyster to John A. Zabriskie. About 1849 it came into the possession of David B. Naugle, who conducted the premises as a hotel during the Civil War. On May 23, 1905, F. H. Bogert bought the property, at a partition sale in the Sheriff's office at Ilackensack. At that time it was and for more than twenty years had been conducted as the Ackcrman Hotel by John J. Ackerman, as lessee of the David B. Naugle P]state. Mr. Ackerman was permitted by the new owner to continue in possession until his death in the spring of 1913. His widow continued the business until 103 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY the expiration of her license on September 1st of that year. Although a new license was granted by the court and Mr. Bogert was offered an increased rental for the property for hotel purposes, he declined the offer and thus terminated a hotel business long conducted on the site. The building was never again occupied and soon after the property passed out of the hands of Mr. Bogert, in 1915, it was torn down, the cellar at present marking its site. Henry Van Emburgh conducted a hotel in the building now known as "Maple Homestead", located about 1,000 feet north of the old Naugle Hotel on the Paramus Road. This business was discontinued at about the time Mr. Naugle took possession of his place. A number of years after the Revolutionary War, a hotel was built by a man named Bogert, on the present site of the Martin property, on the north side of Godwin Avenue opposite Lincoln Avenue. During the early 40 's, the place was conducted as a tavern by James Blauvelt, who was noted throughout the country-side for his efforts to discover ihe secret of perpetual motion, and his place was a center for the people of the neighborhood. About 1870, J. W. Halstead built the present Ridgewood House on West Ridgewood Avenue. At that time the Village was a mere hamlet and the hotel was looked upon as a very large affair. About two years later Abram G. Hopper opened the Franklin House, on the present site of the Ridgewood New^s Office, and continued it until a fire swept that block. In 1885 Mr. Hopper purchased the Ridgewood House and con- ducted it until his death. His family carried on the business for a short time and in 1906 its present occupant, Henry Zellweger, took possession. In 1870, Abram Terhune conducted a grocery and meat business at the corner of Maple and Ridgewood Avenues. In 1874 he obtained a license and opened a hotel known as the Ridgewood Avenue House, Avhich burned in 1876. It was re-built at once and continued as an inn and tavern until its present proprietor, Harry Rouclere, took pos- session in 1893. He remodelled and refurnished it, added two stories, put in baths, toilets, and all improvements, changed the name to the Rouclere House and it soon became the best known hotel in Northern Jersey. It was a mecca for all bicycle parties and as the wheelmen at that time were numerous, the reputation of the house grew rapidly and as many as 400 dinners were often served in a daj^ Mr. Rouclere, tiring of the hotel business, leased the house to Mr. Zellweger and returned to the theatrical business. Later he again leased it to Emil Meyers and at the expiration of the latter 's term, returned and once more remodelled and refurnislied the entire place, adding sev- eral private baths, a new grill, and a separate dining-room, which at the present time can seat more than 100 diners. About 1891, H. A. Herbert erected a building on Maple and Spring Avenues called the Herbert House and ran it for several j'ears. It was afterward leased to Miller & Mj'crs and later to S. J. Topping. Subsequently it was taken over by Van Nortwick & Gillfillen and the name was changed to the Village Inn. It is still under this pro- prietorship. 104 PAST AND PRESENT The first license granted in Ridgcwood was issued to Casper Van Dien and Albert S. Hopper, who had a grocery store on the site of the present Hiitton building, and conducted the liquor business in a small building in the rear of tlie store. Public Utilities express service Wclls-Fargo Compan 1/ About 1888 the AVells-Fargo Express Company succeeded in extend- ing its service from Chicago to New York over the Erie Railroad. Pre- vious to that time all express matter entering Ridgewood was carried by the United States Express Company. Gradual improvements have been made, from time to time, and to- day Ridgewood is enjoying an efficient service with two deliveries daily covering the entire Village. GAS AND ELECTRIC SYSTEMS Gas The Ridgewood Gas Company was incorporated on April 24, 1900, the first directors being: D. W. La Fetra, William R. Boyce, J. W. Pear- sail, B. C. Wooster, Theodore Victor, August P. Crouter, Lucius S. Willard, H. S. Willard, M.D., Arthur J. Hopper, Joseph P. Walker, S. W. N. Walker, AV. W. Breakenridge, and F. A. Mallalieu. Of these directors the first nine w^ere residents of Ridgewood and they elected as the first oificers of the company: President D. W. La Fetra, Secretary Arthur J. Hopper, Treasurer August P. Crouter. Soon after the company was incorporated, work was begun on the plant located on Ackerman Avenue near the intersection of Doremus Avenue. Construction delays interfered with the completion of the plant until the following year, when it was placed in service. During 1903 the Board of Directors ]'e-organized. D. W. La Fetra remained as President for two or three years longer, when he was suc- ceeded by J. W. Pearsall. Later A. C. Brooks served until the affairs of the company were taken over by the Public Service Gas Company in July, 1910. The first price of gas as established by the comj^any in 1900 was $1.50 per 1,000 cubic feet. Prior to the taking over of the company by the Public Service Gas Company, the rate was reduced to .$1.15 per 1,000 cubic feet. Before this there was a cooking rate of 80 cents and a consuming rate of $1.25. When the Public Service Gas Company assumed the affairs of the company, all rates were changed to $1.15. In 1912 they were reduced to $1.10, and on May 1, 1913, tlirough an order of the Public Utilities Commission of New Jerse.v, the.y were further reduced to 90 cents, which I rate is still in effect. in,5 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY In 1910 the Ridgewood Gas Company served 864 consumers, includ- ing 200 in Glen Rock and 70 in Ho-Ho-Kus. At present the Ridgewood District of the Public Service Gas Company supplies 1,950 consumers. The original works of the Ridgewood Gas Company are still in use as a storage plant of the Public Service Gas Company, the manufactur- ing of the product having been discontinued about 1907. Gas is now supplied from Paterson under high pressure, with high pressure mains encircling the Ridgewood District to maintain a pi-oper pressure for all domestic purposes. Electricity Kerosene oil lamps for street lighting purposes were introduced by the individual property owners in the early 70 's and continued in use until the Ridgewood Electric Light & Power Company, through the efforts of E. H. Watlington, began supplying consumers between the months of October and December, 1893. The original officers of the company were :■ President J. F. Carrigan, Treasurer Paul Walton, Secretary K. H. Watlington. At the time the plant was constructed on the present site of the Public Service Company's station, a 40-kilowatt alternator for house lights and a 40-arc direct current generator for street lighting were installed. The street lighting system was arranged on what was known as the "moonlight schedule", while the current for house lighting was started at 5 P.M., and discontinued at 1 A.M. each day. Originally a flat rate of $5.00 per month was charged for current with an additional charge of 40 cents for each electric bulb furnished. On account of increased business, meters were installed in 1894, at which time bills to consumers were rendered on the basis of one cent per burning hour for 15-candle power lamps, with a step rate discount. In 1897 arc lamps were supplied to commercial consumers at .$5.00 per month with a 5 per cent, discount. In 1899 the Gas & Electric Company of Bergen County leased the Ridgewood Electric Light & Power Company, and changed the rate to 25 cents per 1,000 watts, supplying an all-night service. The street arc lights were changed to 32-candle power lamps and a scale of discounts for prompt payments was made as follows: 20 per cent, on bills up to $10.00, 25 per cent, on bills from $10.00 to $20.00, 30 per cent, on bills from $20.00 to $30.00, 35 per cent, on bills from $30.00 to $40.00, and 40 per cent, on bills of $40.00 and over. In 1900 the rates were changed to 20 cents per kilo- watt with a discount of 15 per cent. This rate prevailed until April, 1906, when it was changed to 15 cents straight. The Public Service Electric Company assumed the affairs of the Bergen County Electric Light & Power Companj^ during April, 1905, and continued their lease of the Ridgewood Electric Light & Power Company plant. In January, 1908, the rate w^as changed to 12 cents and in January, 1910, to 10 cents, which rate now prevails without discounts for light- 106 PAST AND PRESENT ing rates but with a sliding scale for eonsumptioii of over 50 kilowatt hours, as per the existing contract. During the year 1910 the old plant of the Ridgewood Electric Light & Power Company was taken down and on its site a modern and up- to-date sub-station was erected by the Public Service Electric Company. This sub-station contains motor volt regulators and is connected with the company's central stations at Newark, Paterson, and Marion, which are of sufficient capacity to carry whatever load the business may place upon them, thus assuring the consumers of Ridgewood a continuous service. The Public Service Gas Company and the Public Service Electric Company also have a commercial office on Prospect Street where busi- ness matters between the companies and their consumers are conducted. Here demonstrations of the practical uses of their products are main- tained and arrangements may be made at any time to visit and inspect the equipment used by the companies in rendering their service to the public. THE POST OFFICE When a post office was first established in this vicinity it was nat- urally near the business center, then the manufacturing establishments in the Midland Park section of Godwinville. For a long time the mail was thrown off at Ho-Ho-Kus and carried on horseback to the post office. In 1859, however, a depot was erected near where the present depot stands and the mail for Godwinville was thrown off here. With the coming of numerous New York families to Ridgewood in 1860 and succeeding years, it was found that the location of the post office was inconvenient and an effort was made to secure one more satisfactory. After a number of months of strenuous labor, the postal authorities consented to the establishment of the Ridgewood post office. This was in 1865 and the mail was marked "Ridgewood" although the railroad company did not consent to the change in name from Godwinville until 1866. The most persistent workers for the post office were E. A. Walton and Benjamin F. Robinson, and when the post office was established, Mr. Robinson was asked to act as postmaster. He accepted the position but proved to be ineligible as he held a position in the Internal Revenue Service and the federal law would not permit him to hold both offices. He resigned the postmastership and Garret G. Van Dien, who kept a general store on the site where the S. S. Walstrum-Gordon & Forman real estate office is located in the Wilsey Building, was appointed to succeed him. Mr. Van Dien continued in the office until his death on November 1, 1884. His widow then became postmistress and held office until succeeded by John F. Cruse, in the following year. The office was removed by Mr. Cruse to the store now occupied by Mr. Adam. After Mr. Cruse had held office for four years, Mr. Adolph Huttemyer was appointed. At that time Mr. Huttemyer was running a coal yard which was removed to make way for the Plaza. Mr. Huttemyer removed the office to his coal office. He served for four years when Mr. Cruse was again appointed and moved the office to its former location. 107 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Mr. Cruse was succeeded in November, 1897, by Roger M. Bridgman, who removed the office to the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Chestnut Street. After the First National Bank was built, the post office was again removed across the street. These quarters soon Ijecame too small and in 1912 the office was removed to its ])i-csent location on Prospect Street adjoining the First National Bank Building. The post office at first was a small affair, the work being done by tlie postmaster, with the occasional help of an assistant. The nearest money-order office was at Paterson. The hard times of the years 1873 to 1878 interfered materially with the growth of the town and the de- velopment of its postal facilities. The first domestic money-order was issued from the Ridgewood office on August. 1, 1889, and the money- order business grew slowly. The office frequently does more business in one day now than it did in montlis after its introduction. The office was designated as an international money-order office in 1900. In 1901 two rural carriers were appointed and in 1903 three carriers were ap- pointed to serve the Village. This force was increased from time to time until now there are eight regular carriers, two of whom were added since Dr. Geo. M. Ockford, the present postmaster, succeeded Mr. Bridgman on April 1, 1914. In 1911 the office was designated to receive postal savings. The parcel post system was installed in 1913 and made necessary the employment of additional help. This work is now done by auxiliary carriers. They carry parcel post and cover the routes of absent carriers. The business of the post office has kept pace with the growth of Ridgewood and the force to-day comprises 22 per- sons. The quantity of parcel post continually increases and the office is in a flourishing condition. THE ERIE RAILROAD The story of the Erie Railroad, now operating through Ridgewood, starts indirectly with the war of the Revolution. In 1779 American troops, under Generals Clinton and Sullivan, in- vaded the country of the confederated Indian tribes of New York State. This invasion, provoked by the Wyoming Massacre of the previous year, led the troops through the valleys of the Susquehanna and Chemung. This region was tlien unbroken wilderness, but General Clinton realized the importance of the valleys to the development of New York State and the influence they were to exert on the westward spread of civil- ization. He conceived the idea of connecting the seaboard with the Great Lakes by a thoroughfare which should pass through the southerly tier of New York counties, and among the earliest petitions to the newly organized Federal Congress was that of Generals Clinton and Sullivan for authority and an appropriation to construct a road to be known as the "Appian Way", from the Hudson River through the valleys of the Delaware, the Susquehanna, and the Alleghany, to Lake Erie. No such appropriation was made by Congress but Clinton throughout his life continued to advocate the project and after his death his son, DeW^itt Clinton, kept up the agitation for this thorough- fare, although along different lines. When he came into power the 108 PAST AND PRESENT northern and central tiers of New York counties had gained predomi- nance, commercially and politically, and in 1S17 DeWitt Clinton, as Governor, brought before the Legislature a plan to construct a canal from Lake Erie to the Hudson lliver. This canal was completed and opened in 1825 and is known as the Erie Canal. DeWitt Clinton had not, however, abandoned faith in his father's project, nor the interests of the southern tier, and during the year prior to the oi)ening of the canal, lie brought before the Legislature the subject of a state road through the Delaware, Sus(juehanna and Alleghany valleys. A survey was authorized and made, Init the route was so influenced by political considerations tluit the project came to nothing. , . Five years before I)eWitt , Clinton 's advocac.y of the Erie Canal, Colonel John M. I^fevens pf New Jersey offered to undertake the build- ing of a steam railway in place of the pi'oposed Erie Canal, but his offer was rejected Avith ridicule. A project for a canal through the southern tier was taken under consideration after the abandonment of tlie highway plan, but this; in turn, was abandoned upon an adverse report of Benjamin Wright, the engineer of the Erie Canal, who hinted in the same report at the practicabilitv of a railroad. In 1829 William G. Redfield, of New York City, issued a pamphlet entitled "A Sketch of the Geographical Route of a Great Railway, by which it is proposed to connect the canals and navigable waters of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, IMichigan, JMissouri, and the adjacent States and Territories", commencing at the Hudson River near New York City and ending at Lake Eric. His pamphlet found wide circulation and in 1831 the National Government author- ized Colonel DeWitt Clinton, a son of tlie now deceased Governor and a member of the United States Army Engineer Corps, to make a recon- naissance of the route. This reconnaissance showed the project to be practicable. It is remarkable that, upon the report of a grandson of General Clinton, a railway was projected and ultimately built along the "Appian Way"; for, pursuant to a resolution of a convention of the southern tier counties, held in Owego in 1831, a charter was granted by the Legislature in 1832 for the consti'uction of a railroad between Lake P]rie and the Hudson River. After various vicissitudes, political and financial, this railway was consti'ucted between Dunkirk and Lake Erie and Piermont on the Hudson River. A portion between Piermont and Goshen was completed in 1841. The whole road was completed and opened for traffic in 1851, and the opening was a National cere- monial. It Avas attended by President Fillmore, Daniel Webster, Sec- retary of State; John J. Crittenden, Attorney General; W. C. Graliam, Secretary of the Navy ; W. K. Hall, Postmaster Gencral^t tlie Govei'iior and Lieutenant Governor of New York State, and nialiy othei' promi- nent men, all of whom traversed the entire length of tlie railroad on the initial trip, traveling from New York City to Piermont l)y l)(»at for the start. The nearest station on this railroad to Godwiiiville, now Ridgewood, was Suffern, but, as the natural terminus foi- a railroad was op])osite New York City, and the natural route lay through the Paramus Valley lot) a p .2 C/2 RIDGEWOOD, BETiGEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY to Paterson and thence to Jersey City, there was no question but that Ridgewood would ultimately be on the Erie map. There w^ere men in New Jersey who held this belief and who were far-seeing enough to obtain charters for two railroads; one, the Ramapo and Paterson Rail- road from Paterson to the State line at Suffern; the other, the Paterson and Hudson River Railroad from Jersey City to Paterson. The latter was built and opened in 1836. Tlie former was not built until it be- came evident that the New York and Erie Railroad (now Erie) was to be completed. The Ramapo and Paterson Railroad was built and put in operation in 1848 as a single track road. Its terminus was only a short distance from the New York and Erie Railroad at Suffern. The charter of the New York and Erie Railroad did not permit it to connect with a railroad running into any other State, and for more than a year it ignored the existence of the New Jersey lines. It could not prevent its passengers, however, from detraining at Suffern and taking the shorter route to New York City, but it could and did dis- criminate against the New Jersey route by making the fare to and from Suffern the same as the fare to and from New York. Even after the passage of a bill by the New York Legislature requiring all railroads to provide proper facilities for connecting railroads, this discrimina- tion continued. ITnder the new law the Union Railroad Company was formed and a railroad was built from the Erie Station at Suffern to the terminus of the Ramapo and Paterson. The New York and Erie increased the speed of its trains and boats in the hope of competing with this new connection, but ultimately gave in and in 1851 leased each of the Jersey companies during the continuance of their charters. Rockland County interests in New York State fought against this diver- sion of trat¥ic from Piermont but were not successful. The terminus of the Paterson and Hudson River Railroad in Jersey City was just north of the present Pennsylvania Station, the route to the terminus being .along the westerly side of the Palisades and through the Pennsylvania Railroad cut into the city. Not until 1862 did it run througli the tunnel to the present Erie Terminus in Jersey City. Between the opening of the Paterson and Hudson Railroad in 1830 and the Ramapo and Paterson Railroad in 1848, the residents of Ridge- wood and vicinity, when traveling to New York City, generally drove to Paterson and took a train from the terminus of the Paterson and Hudson River Railroad, then located at the corner of Grand and Main Streets. The locomotives during the early days were not allowed within the city limits and the trains were taken out to the city line by horses. The second track through Ridgewood was laid in 1865 and the third and fourth tracks in 1902 and 1903. With the opening of the Paterson and Ramapo Railroad, two stop- ping places were established in the vicinity of Ridgewood, one at Ho- Ho-Kus and the other at Rock Road (Glen Rock). These were not convenient, however, to the people of the vicinity, including their Para- mus and Godwinville neighbors, and soon after the trains began stopping at the Godwinville road crossing. The station was called Godwinville after the nearest hamlet. Cornelius Shuart was appointed station agent 112 PAST AND PRESENT and served for a number of years. The present agent is Charles F. Bechtlofft, who has served since March 11, 1896. The first accommodation for the passengers at the new station was an old car from the Paterson and Hudson River Railroad, Avith seats cross-wise like a Concord coach and Avith doors on the side. Later the property south of Ridgewood Avenue came into the pos- session of Cornelius IMabe.v, Avho built a house in the rear of where the Hutton Building now stands. For a number of years one room of this house was used as a waiting-room by the patrons of the railroad, a few household chairs being used as seats. In 1859, however, these primitive accommodations were abandoned for a station built by the residents. In 1866 there were three stopping places in this vicinity, Ho-Ho-Kus, Godwinville (Ridgewood) and Rock Road. The station at Rock Road was a two-story building, the upper story being occupied as a residence by the station agent, and was located on the north side of Rock Road adjoining the tracks. The road at this time and for many years after- wards Avas a broad gauge railroad. The cars Avere lighted by candles and the conductors carried lanterns at night to enable them to see the tickets. Occasionally commuters Avho rode Avitli a conductor Avith Avhom they Avere especially pleased, Avould contribute to a fund to purchase a sih^er-plated lantern Avhich Avould be presented to the popular official with impressive ceremony. Commuters Avere fcAv in number and the train service was very limited. About 1868 the first train for Ncav York Avas at 6:39 A.M., the second at 7:39, the third at about 8:12 and the fourth at 9 o'clock. If a person did not take the 9 o'clock train it Avas necessary to Avait until three o'clock, except in summer AA'hen there Avas a train at 11 A.M. Commutation tickets Avere sold only in Ncav York. There Avere no block signals and no air brakes. When approaching a station, the engineer blcAV tAvo AA^histles and the brakeman Avent to the platform and applied the brakes by hand. Richard W. HaAves commuted on the Erie Railroad since he entered its service on May 1, 1870, until he retired from busi- ness on January 1, 1911, Avith only three intervals of three Avinter months each Avhile in the West and in Ncav York City. C. M. Keyser has also been a continuous commuter since 1880, Avhile P. W. Van Dien, Avho died in 1916, commuted since 1878, AAdth the exception of tAvo years. There has existed betAveen the officials of the Erie Railroad and the Village of RidgCAVood during the last tAventy years an almost continual agitation over crossing eliminations. Various schemes Avere presented and discussed at different times for the elimination of the crossings at GodAvin and Ridgewood Aa^cuucs, but the question of contingent dam- ages and the unsightliness of the proposed eliminations have ahvays defeated the plans. In 1903 an undercrossing at East Franklin AA-enue along the lines of. but less elaborate than, the existing undercrossing Avas proposed Ijut met Avith no favor. In 1909 an elimination at RidgCAVood and GodAvin Avenues Avas formally agreed to by the railroad company but no time was set. As the elimination was merely part of a general scheme for a loAv grade freight line from the »Tersey Meadows to Suffern, AAdiich involved an immense expenditure and Avould elevate the tracks through 113 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Ridgewood, it was never carried out. In 1915, however, as the result of negotiations between Village Commissioners D. A. Garber, G. U. White, Frederick Pfeiffer and F. D. Underwood, President of the Erie Railroad, and G. N. Orcutt, his assistant, and in accordance with a verbal understanding between the Village officials and Mr. Underwood, during a luncheon given by Mr. Orcutt at the Ridgewood Country Club, that the Village would bear one-half of the cost, a contract was entered into covering the elimination of the Franklin, Godwin and Ridgewood Avenues grade crossings and the construction of the present undercross- ings, a new station and the plaza. The improvements were designed by W. W. Drinker, Principal Assistant Engineer of the Erie Railroad Company, and Frank A. Howard, its Engineer of Bridges and Build- ings, both residents of Ridgewood. The work under their plans, as approved by the Village Commissioners, has been done without any material variations although the total estimated cost of $160,000 will probably be exceeded by $20,000 on account of the increased cost of labor and material not embraced in main contracts. In addition to its proportion of the cost, the Erie Railroad has dedi- cated to the Village of Ridgewood, for street and park purposes, 101.500 square feet of land west of the tracks and north of West Franklin Avenue, and 8,640 square feet west of the tracks and south of West Franklin Avenue. The total cost of this land was $43,529. The Rail- road Company reserved the right, however, to lay two additional tracks on the westerly side of the present tracks in case traffic should ever demand it. The following is of interest in connection with the improvements: Work started August, 1915. Undercrossing opened September 1, 1916. Station opened September 23, 1916. Pedestrian subway opened November 28, 1916. Earth Excavation, 56,333 cubic yards. Concrete curb, 6.244 lineal feet. Concrete sub-base for pavement, 17,550 square yards. Catch basins, 22. Man-holes, 8. Vitrified tile drain. 3,073 lineal feet. Concrete sidewalk, 15,243 square feet. Paving brick, 17,550 square yards. Ridgewood is the western terminus of the Bergen County Railroad, acquired by the Erie in 1881, which leaves the main line at Rutherford, and avoiding the cities of Passaic and Paterson, materially shortens the distance. The chief advantage to Ridgewood is that it gives four tracks to Jersey City and betters the train service materially, express trains making the trip in thirty-four minutes. The schedule time of trains over the Main Line of the Erie between Ridgewood and Jersey City is from forty to fifty minutes. In addition to the Ridgewood Station, the Ho-Ho-Kus Station on the Main Line of the Erie, two stations in Glen Rock, one on the Bergen County Branch and the other on the Main Line of the Erie; together with the Midland Park Station of the New York, Susquehanna & West- 114 PAST AND PRESENT ern Railroad furnishes every section of the Village with frequent and convenient train service. RAPID TRANSIT Public Service Railway Company About 1899, an effort was made to secure a trolley franchise between Ridgewood and Paterson. A citizen of this community, Preston Steven- son, organized the Paterson & State Line Traction Company, securing a number of right-of-way coiicessions which eventually became the prop- erty of the PuIdHc Service Railway. Work was finally commenced on the line under a franchise granted by the Village Commissioners on January 24, 191-t, and during the same year cars entered Ridgewood, the terminus being in the rear of the Osman Building, corner of Frank- lin Avenue and Wilsey Square. North Jersey Rapid Transit Company First surveys were made in 1908 and 1909, and in 1910 the first car ran from its terminus opposite the grounds of the North Jersey Country Club to Ho-Ho-Kus. The line was completed through to Suf- fern in 1911 and is now operated as an interurban road under a steam charter^ by George Jackson, Jr., General Manager. The principal station in Ridgewood is at the East Ridgewood Avenue crossing. HACK AND BUS SERVICE Besides the two trolley systems which serve the people more in reaching neighboring communities than in their local needs, there are a number of automobile hacks which render day and night service, under permits granted by the Village Commissioners. In addition to this service and also under permits issued by the Village Commission- ers, three automobile bus lines furnish day service to the residents, one on the east side, the Ridgewood Motor Bus, established in 1914, and two on the west side, Terhune's Yellow Bus and Jackson's Bus, established during 1916. TELEPHONE AND TELEGRAPH FACILITIES Telepihone The history of the telephone in Ridgewood is very similar to the history of the telephone anywhere, or, for that matter, the history of any new invention. It has received many hard knocks, some of which have very nearly terminated its career, but these have been counter- balanced by the appreciation of men who were able to look ahead and foretell the ultimate usefulness of the telephone and the natural realiza- tion by the public of the value of the instrument. Nearly 2,400 telephones are now connected with the Ridgewood Cen- tral Office of the New York Telephone Company. Of these 1,800 are in Ridgewood proper, while the remaining 600 are in the various munic- ipalities immediately adjacent. The outside local wire plant consists of 7,196.33 miles of wire in cable and 453.27 miles of bare wire. There 115 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY are also 209.55 miles of bare wire used for trunk lines. This large plant satisfies all demands of the people of Ridgewood in the quick, efficient, polite manner for which the Telephone Company is noted. The sixteen operators answer and connect about 9,500 local calls daily and over 1,800 calls are made between Ridgewood and other places each day. The first telephone exchange in this vicinity was opened for business at Paterson on the afternoon of December 24, 1879, with eleven sub- scribers. In the spring of 1882 the Erie Railroad opened the Bergen County short cut and simultaneously a line was extended from the Paterson switchboard to Wortendyke, branching at Midland Park to connect Ridgewood. There were two stations on this line, C. A. Wort- endj'ke's silk mill at Wortendj'ke, and the home of Garrett Van Dien, then Postmaster of Ridgew^ood. In the fall of 1883 Mr. Van Dien dis- continued his telephone for the reason that a Paterson undertaker called him each time a death occurred anywhere in tlie neighborhood. John F. Cruse came from Batli, Me., to Ridgewood in 1878 and later opened a grocery store at 252 West Ridgewood Avenue, where F. H. Adam is now located. Mr. Cruse came to the rescue and took over the lonely little telephone which had been dropped by Mr. Van Dien because of his dislike of having sad news forced upon him. It was during the summer of 1884 that the Acme Band of Worten- dyke gave a demonstration by playing near the telephone at Wortendyke to a number of people who gathered at Cruse 's store in Ridgewood and took turns listening over the telephone to the music nearly two miles away. There is grave doubt in the minds of many whether the patient listeners heard the music over the telephone or whetlier the wind was especially favorable on that particular day. In 1894 the second telephone w^as installed for H. A. Tice in his drug store, at the northwest corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Chestnut Street, where C. A. G. Welti's market now is. From that time on, much of the telephone history of Ridgewood has revolved about Mr. Tice and his drug store. In the summer of 1895 the single telephone in Tice's drug store was replaced by a 10-line switchboard connecting with fifteen telephones, and with one trunk line to Paterson. This switchboard then served Allendale, Waldwick and Ramsey, as well as the present Ridgewood Central Office District which comprises the Village of Ridgewood, the Boroughs of Midland Park, Glen Rock and Ho-Ho-Kus, and part of the townships of Franklin and Midland. Service was rendered on this board from 7 :00 A.M. to 10 :00 P.M. By 1896 this equipment was taxed to its limit and had to be again replaced by a 100-line switchboard. The first operator was Miss L. Van Emburgh. The first telephone directory covering telephones served by the Ridgewood Central Office was issued in September, 1897. The fol- lowing is a list of telephone numbers and subscribers at that time : Allendale 4 f Ackerman, R. V. (pay sta) Ridgewood 9 Carrigan, J. F. Ridgewood 11 Chaplin, Duncan D. Ridgewood 7 a Cooper & Corsa Ridgewood .5 Cox, D. C. Ridgewood 3 a Cruse, John F. (pay sta) 116 PAST AND PRESENT Ridgewood 7 f Daley, James E. Ridgewood 6 Gardiner, Edmund Le B. Ridgewood 12 b Haskins, R. T. Ridgewood 14 b Hengeveld, Jacobus Ridgewood 3 i Holt Bros. & Co. Ridgewood 2 f Hopper, John B., Dr. Hohokus 4 a Keiser, G. J. B. (pay sta) Wortendyke 14 a Mayhew, F. H. (pay sta) Ramsevs 4 i Motfatt, P. B. (pay sta) Ridgewood 25 N. Y. & N. J. Tel. Co., ( pay sta ) " Ridgewood 3 f Ockford, George M., M.D. Waldwick 4b Oughton, Geo. (pay sta) Ridgewood 3 b Post, John H. Ridgewood 2 b Rouclere House (H. Terhune) Ridgewood 25 Tice, H. A. (pay sta) Ridgewood 7 b Vroom, W. L., M.U. Ridgewood 2 a Wall, Isaac M. Ridgewood 8 West'rn Union Telegr'ph Co. Ridgewood 12 a Zabriskie, David D. On March 21, 1900, Mr. Tice's building and the telephone switch- board were destroyed by fire, but on the following day, March 22nd, service was restored by a new switchboard placed in George Winters' stationery store, on the south side of Ridgewood Avenue near Prospect Street. After about a year, the switchboard was moved back to the rear of the drug store in Tice's new building. On October 10, 1908, the present common batterj" switchboard Avas put into service. It is now located over Tice's drug store on the third floor of the building at the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Chestnut Street. The steady increase in business has necessitated the complete rebuilding of the outside distributing plant. In the early days the telephone wires were carried singly upon cross-arms attached to poles. As the number of lines increased, the single wires and cross-arms have been replaced l)y small aerial cables and in the business center of the town, underground subway cables have been constructed. Telephone rates in Ridgewood have been reduced from time to time for the past sixteen years. On January 1, 1900, there were two schedules applying in Ridgewood; one a message rate schedule of $50 a year for an individual line, $40 a year :^or a two-party line, and $30 a year for a three or more party line. These rates permitted a sub- scriber the use of 500 messages per annum and applied to both business and residence. An optional flat rate was also in effect at this time of $100 a year for individual line business service and $75 a year for two party line business service. The extension station in connection with service of this type was $30 a year. The optional flat rate for residence service was $75 for an individual line and $60 for a two- party line, with an extension station rate of $20. In November, 1901, the message rate service was eliminated and flat rates for business service were reduced to $60, $48, and $36 for indi- vidual, two-party and four-party lines, respectively, while residence rates were reduced to $48, $36, and $24 a year for tlie same classes of service. The business extension station rate Avas reduced from $30 to $20 per annum and the residence extension station rate from $20 to $12 per annum. 117 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY In May, 1904, the rates were again reduced by the introduction of business rates of $48, $39 and $30 for individual, two-party and four- party lines, respectively, and residence rates of $36 and $24 for indi- vidual and four-party lines, respectively. Other small reductions have been made from time to time until the present rates were made effective in 1910, which are $48, $36 and $30 for business individual, two-party and four-party lines, respectively; and $36, $30 and $24 for residence individual, two-party and four-party lines, respectively. The private branch exchange rates have also been reduced in pro- portion. Telegraph Prior to 1864 only one telegraph wire was in operation over the Erie Railroad lines. While this was used by the railroad principally for operating purposes, commercial telegrams were accepted at their stations and delivered to the Western Union Company in New York City if destined to points not on the lines of the Erie Railroad. During 1864 the Western Union Telegraph Company made arrange- ments with the Erie Railroad for the construction of a telegraph line along the railroad right-of-way with an exchange of telegraph traffic. The Erie Company's stations were connected with the Western Union Company's wires at that time, the date of Ridgewood's first regular telegraph service. The first telegraph operator was R. Terhune, who also acted as agent for the railroad and the telegraph company. Lew E. Weller of Otisville, N. Y., now holding a position in the Western Union Telegraph Company's New York operating room, was also one of the early operators in Ridgewood, serving in that capacity during 1865. Mr. Weller has the distinction of not only having been in con- tinuous service of the Western Union Telegraph Company for the past 47 years, but also of being the oldest living operator who has served the Erie Railroad. On September 28, 1913, the joint arrangement for the operation of their offices which had existed up to this time between the Erie Rail- road and the Western Union was discontinued and the latter, in con- junction with the New York Telephone Company, opened an office in the Wilsey Building for the handling of their commercial affairs. Mr. F. W. Milliken, who had been in charge of telegraph matters in Ridgewood for both the Erie Railroad and the Western Union Tele- graph Company since March 11, 1896, was placed in charge of the Telegraph Company's interests and is their present manager. On April 27, 1914, the joint commercial office of the Telephone and Telegraph Companies was discontinued and since then the telegraph office has been located in the Osman Building in Wilsey Square. WATER SUPPLY The Bergen Aqueduct Company Prior to 1900, the Village of Ridgewood had no system of water supply either for domestic or municipal purposes. During that year the Bergen Aqueduct Company was organized by H. W. Corbin of 118 PAST AND PRESENT Jersey Citj^ and the company entered into a contract with the Village to construct and operate for a period of fifteen years a system of water works in the Village. A pumping station near the intersection of North Maple and Harrison Avenues and a storage tank near the intersection of Sunset and Vallej' View Avenues were constructed and the company commenced supplying water to the Village about January 1, 1901. The first standpipe was placed in the vicinity of Sunset Avenue and is still in service. In 1903 the company acquired a franchise to extend its pipes from Ridgewood through Glen Rock and since then it has furnished water to the two communities. The Bergen Water Company From 1900 to 1908 the Aqueduct Company procured its supply of water from the wells located on the Harrison Avenue plant. During this period both Ridgewood and Glen Rock had rapidly increased in population and by 1908 this supply was inadequate to the needs of these two communities. The Bergen Water Company was therefore incorporated on August 19, 1908, by the stockholders of the Aqueduct Company and constructed a pumping station, two storage tanks, and a system of street mains in the Borough of Midland Park. The sale of water started on August 1, 1909. At present the Aqueduct Company owns all mains, valves and hy- drants in Ridgewood and Glen Rock, the pumping station, wells and land at Harrison Avenue, and the storage tank and land at Sunset and Valley View Avenues in Ridgewood. The Water Company owns the system of mains, valves and hydrants, pumping plant, wells, land and two storage tanks in Midland Park. While the mains are continuous between Ridgewood and Midland Park, the ownership is determined by the dividing line between the towns. The Aqueduct Company, from the time it started until the com- mencement of operations of the Water Company, pumped its own water by means of the Harrison Avenue plant, but after the Water Company began oj^erations, the pumping plant at Harrison Avenue was shut down and held in reserve for use only in case of breakdown at Midland Park and during the midsummer months to carry the peak of the load. Water was then and is now purchased by the Bergen Aqueduct Company from the Bergen Water Company for distribution in Ridgewood and Glen Rock. The Bergen Water Company also supplies its own consumers in Midland Park and since 1912 has sold water to the Village of Ho-Ho- Kus by meter. The pipe system in Ho-Ho-Kus is owned by the Village, and water rents are collected by the Village. The supply for Ho-Ho-Kus, when the Harrison Avenue plant is not running, passes through Ridgew^ood by way of Lake, Godwin, Franklin, Ridgewood and Maple Avenues. The contract between the Bergen Aqueduct Company and the village 119 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY of Ridgewood having expired by limitation on January 1, 1916, and the water supply, plants and mains owned and controlled by the Bergen Aqueduct Company and the Bergen Water Company being insufficient to meet the future needs of the communities served by these companies, the question of whether the Village of Ridgewood shall acquire the properties of the two companies, or enter into a contract with a new company to be incorporated for the purpose of taking over the prop- erties with the development, in either case, of a new supply of water, is now receiving the attention of the Commissioners ajid citizens of the Village. 120 CHAPTER VII RESIDENCES— PRESENT, EARLY, HISTORICAL— AND COMMUNITY CENTERS RESIDENCES PRESENT, EARLY AND HISTORICAL The Homes of Ridgewood ALL of the traditions of Ridgewood and the efforts of its people combine to make it a residential community or home town. While it is impossible to describe in a book of this kind the various types of modern houses to be found within the boundaries of Ridgewood, it may be stated briefly that, with the exception of a few within the busi- ness section of the Village, all dwellings are detached and most are surrounded by ample and well-kept lawns, with space for gardens or fruit and shade trees. As will be seen in the foregoing pages, during the 50 years of its existence, as Ridgewood, the community has developed from an agri- cultural section into a modern residential village. As in other localities in Bergen County, the coming of the new type of dwelling has, in the natural course of things, brought about the gradual elimination of the houses of the early settlers, and these deserve greater consideration than has been given in the following general description of those in Ridge- wood and its vicinity. Eai'ly Dutch Homes Bergen County having been settled principally by the Dutch, such of the early homes as remain today show a distinctive style of archi- tecture that Avas the result of a slow local development, unmodified by outside influences until after the Revolution, which, so to speak, made the colonies more aware of each other's presence. Prior to that time, the Dutch settlers held slight communion with their English neighbors and were possessed of a marked individuality. This is responsible for their type of home, now generally referred to as Dutch Colonial. The first houses were primitive one or two-room cottages with rough stone walls and thatched, fiat gable roofs without the overhanging eaves so noticeable later on. Very few houses of this type remain today. These simple cottages continued to be built for some time, always more carefully and with better workmanship, the stone laid in courses and roughly faced. The stone, called sandstone, is a local stone, found on almost any site, ranging from light or dark tan to light brick color and of a great variety of texture. As time went on the stonework was more carefully cut, until the 19th Century, when the precise jointing and smooth-tooled finish on the front was developed. The walls were laid in a binding material of ordinary clay from the fields, mixed with straw, and this, while keeping out moisture, was 121 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY easily washed out of the stone on the outside of the walls by rain. It was to prevent this that the houses were later built with wide eaves overhanging the walls three feet or more. The end walls were not so easily taken care of and were not, there- fore, carried up to the peak of the gable. The space between was framed in wood covered with shingles and sometimes with clapboard, which left only a short space of stone wall requiring occasional repair. Once the overhang was adopted, the projecting portion was curved outward to keep the roofs from coming too close over the windows, to avoid the clumsy, top-heavy appearance and, possibly, to cast the rain-water farther out from the walls. When the original cottage became too small for its owners, a larger house was built against one end and this became the main portion of the house, the original building being used as a kitchen wing. Fre- quently a second wing, more or less like the first, was added on the other end of the building to acconnnodate a married son, who used the living quarters of the main house with the rest of the family. Thus the symmetrical house plan of center and flanking wings was not at all a formal conception carried out at one time, as we build houses today, but simply the result of natural growth in the prosperity and necessities of the family. This gradual evolution developed a type of house that is distinctive of Bergen County. Generally speaking it may be described as a low stone dwelling, usually with one wing and some- times two, a "Dutch" door in the middle with a fanlight above, two windows at each side, bare of columns or any other architectural orna- mentation, a simple platform with plain side railings in front of the door, the walls carrying low unbroken, gambrel roofs with eaves curving out three feet more or less, the whole giving an impression of strength, austerity, harmony, and comfort. The wings were lower and covered with a plain low gable, usually with the curving overhang, while the chimneys were large and usually of brick brought from Holland or Barbadoes. While the most important remaining groups of these Dutch houses are to be found in a district beginning about fifteen miles northwest of lower New York in Bergen County and stretching north along the valley of the winding Hackensack River from the town of Hackensack to the New York State Line, in Ridgewood and vicinity, a number still remain as follows: Ackerman-Vcni Emhurgli House Situated at the head of Paramus Road just as it turns to cross the Saddle River is the old Ackerman Homestead. It was built by a mem- ber of that family in 1750 and came into the possession of the Van Emburgh family from the Ackerman Estate in 1800. It is commonly known as the home of Jacob Van Emburgh and at present is occupied by Hervey Terhune. Ackernian-N angle House The first house north of the Ackerman-Van Emburgh House, and standing on the East Saddle River Road with its end towards the south, 122 3 o K be o < RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY and at the Junction of Paramus Road, was built by Abram Ackerman in 1760. It has generally been known as the home of John Naugle and for a number of years, until his recent death, w^as occupied by Jacob Ferdon. Van Dien Home A few yards beyond the Saddle River boundary line of Ridgewood and on the west side of Paramus Road, just below the Blauvelt home, is the old home of the Van Dien family. Built in 1800 by Herman Van Dien, the house faces east with one wing on the south end. It is now owned by Miss Aletta Van Dien, daughter of John H. Van Dien, and is occupied by Elmo Paxton. Ackerman House At the junction of Ackerman and Doremus Avenues is another old Ackerman homestead now occupied by Garret G. Ackerman. The stone part of this was built by his great grandfather, David Ackerman, over 175 years ago. It now has a wooden wing on the south side. Z ahriskie-W essells-Board House On the east side of Paramus Road, just below the junction of Ho- Ho-Kus Brook and the Saddle River, in Midland Township, but within fifteen hundred feet of the Ridgewood Line, stands the old Zabriskie House, now owned and occupied by Frederick Z. Board. The house was constructed in 1790 by Andreas Zabriskie. Stand- ing at right angles to the road, the end of the nearest wing with its little ovah windows set diagonally in the gable and in perfect detail, attracts immediate attention. The remaining portion of the structure has been added to, but in such a way as to leave the picturesque effect unharmed. A great lawn with beautiful trees and shrubbery stretches away from the rear of the house, and in front, across the drive-way, is the last of the old Colonial gardens, carefully laid out with paths and hedges. Nearby is an old barn originally constructed in 1775 and remodelled in 1823 and 1892, whose beams show the marks of British bullets fired during the Revolution. The house has often been described in periodicals dealing with ar- chitectural matters and is referred to as one of the most delightful of the old places, both for its structural beauty and its splendid location, to be found throughout this ancient countryside. Yan Dien-Yan De Beek-Hopper Houses The foregoing houses, together with the Van Dien home on Grove Street, the Van De Beek house at the junction of Maple Avenue and Prospect Street, the old Hopper home on Prospect Street, now owned by Mrs. T. A. Strange and built in 1810 by Garret Hopper, and the stone portion of the building now used by Dr. W. L. Vroom on West Ridgewood Avenue, which was built by Peter J. Hopper, the father 124 PAST AND PRESENT of Albert P. Hopper, about 1830, are practically all of the old stone houses of the former inhabitants Avhich now remain, their places having been taken by the modern houses of today. While no longer in existence, the following stone houses were all excellent examples of the period: Aycrigg House Located on the east side of the Paramus Road about one-half mile below Grove Street, this house was built about 1730 and destroyed by fire on July 4, 1899. The house faced south with a wing on each end and with white-washed walls. In 1790 it was owned by John Zabriskie and later passed into the Bogert and then the Aycrigg families. On the west side of the Road stands the old family burial vault built in 1786. Zahriskie-Van Dien House About one thousand feet north of the Aycrigg House stood the house occupied by John and Leah Zabriskie, which was built in 1790 and later passed into the Van Dien family. Zabriskie House Built by Christian Zabriskie in 1728, this house was demolished in 1790 by Andreas Zabriskie, who at that time built the present residence of F. Z. Board on the Paramus Road, a few yards in front of its site. HOUSES OF HISTORICAL INTEREST The houses described in the preceding pages might well have been included under this caption, as they are not only surrounded by the traditions of the families wliicli occupied them, but, as many of them existed during the stirring times of our country's infancy, they were, without doubt, often visited by both the American and British troops. Washington and his generals, it is known, visited this section during the Revolutionary War and, judging from his orders and correspond- ence dated at Paramus, must have used one of the old houses in the vicinity as his headquarters. Some writers state that this was probably the place then called tlie Hopper Tavern, now known as the Brainard Tolles residence, in Ho-Ho-Kus, but this has never been established as a fact. In the vicinity of Ridgewood, however, are two old landmarks which sheltered those around whom, in one case, a glowing and romantic picture might be painted, while the other still remains a fond sentiment in the hearts of friends and admirers. They may not fall strictly within tlie scope of this book, but their historic value is as keen to the residents of Ridgewood as it is to those of their community. The Hermitage On the west side of Franklin Turnpike, a short distance above the Ho-Ho-Kus Station, still stands "The Hermitage", the home of the 125 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY widow of Colonel Provost and the scene of her courtship by the dashing Aaron Burr previous to their marriage. The house, quaint in appear- ance and surrounded by wonderful trees, was rebuilt in 1812. It Has long been occupied by the Rosencrantz family and is an excellent speci- men of Colonial architecture. Jefferson House About one mile above the old Paramus Church on the west side of the East Saddle River Road, in Orvill Township, but within a few rods of the Ridgewood line, is the old Van Emburgh Homestead, which was later the summer home of the late Joseph Jefferson, of Rip Van Winkle fame. Here the old comedian rested from the exacting labors of his pro- fession and here it was his pleasure to extend to loving friends a hos- pitality that has become proverbial. COMMUNITY CENTERS One of the greatest factors in the development of Ridgewood is the interest manifested by the citizens in all matters relating to the social, recreational, educational and civic life of the community. The oppor- tunities afforded by the churches and their various organizations, by clubs and other societies, are extensively utilized as a medium of social and civic intercourse in accordance with the preferences of those inter- ested. Almost all of these have their particular places for holding meetings and their activities are described elsewhere in this book. The following serve the people as central gathering places for the discussing of civic and community matters as well as for the purpose of social and recreational affairs. Pearsall's Grove On the north side of East Ridgewood Avenue, between the Ho-Ho- Kus Brook and North Maple Avenue, stands a charming grove of nat- ural growth forest trees which follow an uprising of the land from the street level to the summit of a ridge from which there is an excellent view, the whole being admirably adapted to open air gatherings. In former days this was known as Dayton's Grove and through the cour- tesy of James W. Pearsall, its present owner, has served the people on a number of occasions as a gathering place for such events as Inde- pendence Day celebrations, mass meetings, and Sunday afternoon church services during the summer months. The Opera House The idea of having an opera house started with a few public-spirited citizens who recognized the need of a suitable hall in which to hold meetings, local society entertainments, and theatrical performances. The project was presented to the citizens by means of a circular and a call for funds resulted in subscriptions amounting to approximately $10,000. In order to carry on the work, a private corporation called 126 PAST AND PRESENT the Ridgewood Hall and Park Association was formed. The original plan contemplated the transformation of the triangular piece of ground, now occupied by the Opera House, the Trust Company, the stores on Prospect Street, and the stores on Ridgewood Avenue between Prospect and Oak Streets, the beauty spot of the Village, by planting trees, shrubs and flowers. Owing to the lack of funds, however, the Asso- ciation was at first compelled to dispose of the Prospect Street frontage and later the Ridgewood Avenue and Oak Street parts now occupied by stores. The building, when completed in 1889, had a seating capacity of five hundred and was one of the best in Ridgewood. It was built by day's work, Andrew Van Emburgh doing the mason work and John B. Van Dien the carpentry. The cost of erecting the building, including the foundation, amounted to about $29,000, the foundation work prov- ing expensive owing to the fact that the locality had at one time been the site of a small pond, which necessitated the construction of a drain. "When the building was designed an addition was provided for the use of the Ridgewood Club, a social organization prominent in the Vil- lage for a number of years, but which went out of existence with the formation of the original Golf Club. The building has been of great service to the Village as a place for public, social, and amusement af- fairs, the latter being under the direction principally of private indi- viduals who leased the premises for the purpose. During the early 90 's the grounds surrounding the building were used on numerous occasions for carnivals and other public gatherings. For quite a period, band concerts were given every Saturday afternoon, through the generosity of the late Joseph W. Edwards. Since the completion of the Play House and the Assembly Hall in the Wilsey Building, these places have been preferred for holding gath- erings formerly held in the Opera House. The first amateur minstrel show was given in the Opera House by members of the Ridgewood Club, under the direction of Franklin Hart on December 19, 1895. The cast included: Lucius Smith, J. B. Smith, A. S. Alexander, Walter Walton, H. M. Crowell, J. McLean Walton, J. W. Edwards, C. C. Harrison, Howard Walton, R. W. Hawes, F. A. Ross, F. C. Smith, 0. C. Tompkins, John Hawes, J. W. Dunnell, with D. C. Cox as interlocutor. One of the most notable events held wdthin its walls was the hearty reception given to Woodrow Wilson, then Governor of New Jersey, Avhen he addressed the people of Ridgewood on the evening of October 13, 1911, during the political campaign of that year. On August 5, 1913, after having been pu^'chased and renovated by the late Joseph H. Martin, the building was reopened as a photo play house under the direction of his son, Frank Martin, but this project has since been discontinued. At the present time a portion of the building is occupied by Com- pany L and serves not only as their headquarters but is also used by them for drills. When the Opera House was first opened it was the scene of a carnival which continued for several days. The first theatrical performance 127 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY within its walls, which was given at that time by local talent, was entitled "The Loan of a Lover". The Play House On May 26, 1913, the Village Commissioners, through the Building Inspector, gave the Ridgewood Play House Company permission to erect a building on Wilsey Square between the Van Orden Garage and the Osman Building. On November 21st, in the presence of a larger as- semblage of citizens than had ever before gathered in an auditorium in the Village, the building was formally opened. The program included an address by His Honor, Mayor Daniel A. Garber, a response by Walter W. Wilsey, the father of the project ; the presentation of Pinero's comedy in four acts "Trelawney of the Wells", by Miss Gelbart and her associates, all Ridgewood young people ; and the reading of a " Ded- ication Poem" written by Roland Clinton. The building, which is of fireproof construction, will seat 800 per- sons and was built by Ridgewood contractors. The carpenter work was done by J. L. Brown, the mason work by Thomas Vanderbeck, the plumbing and heating by W. H. Moore, and the painting and deco- rating by J. Uhlman. Bigelow and Maxham provided the furnishings. The land and buildings cost the company between $40,000 and $50,000 and during the latter part of 1916 an orchestral organ made by the American Master Organ Company of Paterson was installed at a cost of $5,000. The directors of the company are : Walter W. Wilsey, President ; Thomas Nichols, of Nutley, Vice-President ; A. B. Van Liew and A. W. Fish, of Bloomfield, and Howard Peck of East Orange, Directors. W. W. Young, formerly of Bloomfield, is Resident Manager and under his direction the company has furnished a daily program of high-class moving pictures, except when the building is used as a place of assembly for events connected with the social and civic activi- ties of the community. The Municipal Building During the fall of 1910 the Village determined to construct a muni- cipal building that should be in keeping with the progressive spirit of the citizens. The building was completed and occupied during 1911. Located on Hudson Street, the first floor is occupied by the Fire and Police Departments. The second floor, besides providing office room for the various officials and departments of the Village, contains a large assembly room which is used for the weekly sessions of the Village Commissioners and for public meetings. The Village fire alarm bell, contained within a wooden frame, is mounted on the roof of the building. HALLS AND CLUB ROOMS A history of the Village organizations is given elsewhere in this' book, but their places for holding meetings are at times used by the citizens for other purposes and their development has been an important feature of the community life. 128 PAST AND PRESENT Wilson's Hall In 1873 a two-story buiklino- with an outside stairway leading to tlie assembly room Avas located at about the site of the present feed and grain business of E. B. Van Horn on Broad Street, and was known as Wilson 's Hall. This was the meeting place of the Masonic Fraternity until May, 1881, when the building was destroyed by fire. Union Street School Hall Music and Theatricals The prime mover in athletic and musical entertainments in Ridge- wood was Mr. Thomas W. White, then on the staff of the New York Herald. The first public concert given in Ridgewood was given for the benefit of the first Athletic Club in the hall over the Union Street School soon after it was completed. Mr. White's grand piano, then the only one in Ridgewood, was with difficulty carried to the platform. The Misses Sloman of New York played solos on piano and harp and the accompaniments to songs by Mr. White, Mr. Lucius Smith and Mr. R. W. Hawes. Dramatic In this Hall was also given the first theatrical performance in Ridge- wood. The hand-bills announced: Amateur Concert and Dramatic Entertainment at the Ridgewood School House Hall, Saturday, December 14, 1878. Mr. Tom Jefferson as Hugh De Brass In the laughable Farce, A Regular Fix. Tickets 50 cts. The concert was given by the singers who appeared at the athletic entertainment. The cast included Miss Hawes as leading lady, Mr. L. A. Stout and Miss Stout, Miss Effie Orr and Mr. Robert Kucuck of Ho-Ho-Kus and Mv. Rea of Midland Park, all amateurs. It was under- taken to raise funds for one of the churches in Ridgewood. Mr. Joseph Jefferson suggested it as good practice for his son, Tom. who was to begin his professional career in New York the next week. The cast was made by Mr. Jefferson and all rehearsals but the final one were held at his house and were delightful meetings never to be forgotten by those who attended them. The performance was well attended and cleared $100. Social A series of dances was held in the winter of 1876-1877, beginning in the homes of the residents of Ridgewood and Ho-Ho-Kus, by mem- 129 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY bers of the England Keeley, Cameron, Robinson, Walton, Bockee, Ros- encrantz and Hawes families. Two were held in the iinoccupied Kidder Academy on Van Dien Avenue. The music was furnished by the younger members; the dances were all square, quadrilles and lancers, closing with the Virginia reel, which was particularly enjoyed by the gray-haired members. The last of these dances was given on Wash- ington's Birthday in the School Hall, Union Street. Guests came from New York and Paterson. It was the first masked ball given in Ridge- wood, with elaborate music and refreshments and round dances. Ryerson's Block — Prospect Block — First National Bank Building — Masonic and Wilsey Building — Halls In 1882 Ryerson's Block was built and a hall was provided to take care of the needs of various organizations. The hall was used until the construction in 1903 of the Prospect Block and the First National Bank Building, when the assembly room provided for in the plans of the latter became the recognized meeting place and was known as Ma- sonic Hall. The hall in the Prospect Building was used principally for political meetings and dances, while Masonic Hall continued to be the principal meeting place of the Village organizations until 1915, when the Masonic Fraternity purchased the former home of the Town Club (White Stars) on South Maple Avenue, which it improved and dedi- cated to its uses. Beginning with the opening of the Woman's Club Rooms in the Wilsey Building in 1914, the two last mentioned build- ings liave become the meeting places of a number of organizations re- quiring rooms of such proportions. The bank building assembly room is known as Knights of Columbus Hall. The Woman's Club Rooms in the AVilsey Building were the scene during 1916 of two assemblages of a historic nature. One of these was the semi-annual meeting of the Federation of Woman's Clubs of New Jersey during the latter part of October. The Club rooms were used as headquarters and the business sessions were held in the Play House. The other occasion was on February 16, when 450 persons gathered at a banquet of Fidelity Lodge No. 113, F. and A. M., and talked, sang, and cheered with a similar gathering of Masons in San Francisco and Pasadena over the recently completed transcontinental telephone line of the American Telephone and Telegraph Company. Ridgewood upon this occasion had the honor of being the first small town to have an opportunity to test this marvelous feat of engineering. Through the greetings exchanged by Herbert R. Talbot, Master of Fidelity Lodge, and Albert G. Burnett, Grand Master of the State of California, Ridge- wood was the eastern terminus of the first verbal greetings ever ex- tended between officials of the Masonic order across the Continent. Country Club The facilities provided by the clubhouse of the Ridgewood Country Club since its completion in 1913, have given its members opportunities to enjoy the benefits which are usual in such an institution. While its short life has not enabled it to be the scene of any public gatherings 130 PAST AND PRESENT of note, it is well adapted for such purposes and history Avill doubtless record its part in such future achievements of the citizens. The Town Club Formerly the home of the Ridgewood Golf Club, the present quarters of the Town Club, have been the scene of many social and public func- tions, the most prominent affair of a public nature being when President Taft addressed the citizens from the club veranda on May 25, 1912. This was the first time in the history of the community that a President of the United States was entertained within its confines. Another important event in the history of the club occurred on April 8, 1915, wlien the citizens of the Village entertained at dinner the members of the Grand Army of the Republic living in this vicinity in commemoration of the Fiftieth Anniversary of the cessation of hos- tilities between the Nortli and the South. The principal speaker of the evening was United States Senator Moses E. Clapp of Minnesota. SPEEDWAY About 1818, Van Dien Avenue, then known as Van Dien Lane and considered as one of the best dirt roads in this section, was used as a speedway for the best horses in the neighborhood. It was the gathering place for those interested in the sport and some lively running and trotting races were held. HO-IIO-KUS DRIVING CLUB PARK On Race Track Road, which separates Ridgewood from Ho-Ho-Kus, and within the limits of Ho-Ho-Kus, stand the buildings and one-half mile track leased by the Ho-Ho-Kus Driving Club from Samuel Naugle. Since 1885 the park has served the people of the vicinity, not only as a speedway and for neighborhood horse shows, but also as a place for fairs. Since the advent of automobiles and aeroplanes it has been the scene at various times of exhibitions of these machines, BERGEN COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION The foregoing site was originally part of the Samuel Banta farm and was first used as a fair ground by the New Jersey Agricultural Association, organized in 1885. Jacob Bamper was its first president and served about ten years. In 1895 this organization was succeeded by the North Jersey Agri- cultural and Driving Association, which constructed the present build- ings, repaired the race-track, and generally improved the condition of the property. Up to 1914, the property was used at various times for speeding exhibitions and county fairs, but during that year it was sold to Samuel Naugle. The Ho-Ho-Kus Driving Club now rents the property from Mr. Naugle and, since 1915, has sublet the premises to the Bergen County Fair Association. Incorporated during 1915, this association has con- ducted a fair on the grounds for the past two years. 131 PAST AND PRESENT COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL An enjoyable custom, which will probably be continued in the years to come, was established as a community affair on the evening of De- cember 23, 1916, when several hundred school children and as many adults assembled on Cottage Place around a towering evergreen, beau- tifully illuminated by hundreds of colored lights. Festoons of lights also illuminated the street. The children, under the direction of the Supervisor of Music of the Public Schools, sang a number of the old Christmas carols, after which the entire assemblage sang several closing hymns. Refreshments were served at the Unitarian Church for tlie adults and packages of cakes and candies were distributed to the young folks at the High School Building. loi) CHAPTER VIII CIVIC AND COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATIONS ON account of its location at a distance from New York, where it cannot conveniently share the pleasures and activities of that city to any great extent, Ridgewood has found it necessary to provide its o^vn entertainment, club life and civic interests. The natural result of such endeavor has been the organization of various clubs, societies and associations, all of which have as objectives the improvement of the individual and the advancement of the Village. These organizations may, for the sake of convenience, be grouped under several headings, each denoting the general character of the organization so classified, as follows : Clubs, Patriotic Organizations, Political Organizations, Fraternal Organizations, IMusical Clubs, Wel- fare Associations, School Associations, Anti-Liquor Organizations, Medi- cal Societies, Organizations for Young Men and Commercial Organi- zations. CLUBS The call of outdoor sports and of social intercourse has been answered ])y the people of Ridgew^ood Avith the organization of nine clubs, all of which are of decided advantage to the Village. The Ridgeivood Cluh The Ridgewood Club was organized in December, 1893, with the following officers : President Henry S. Patterson, Vice-Presiden i M. T. Richardson, Treasurer W. J. Fullekton, Secretary Paul Walton. This organization was the first of its character in the community, becoming one of the leading institutions of the Village and the center of its social life and activity. In 1900 its membership was practically absorbed by the Ridgewood Golf Club. During its existence its aim had been to appeal particularly for the interest and support of the ladies, to which fact its growth and success were mainly attributable. Two days of each w-eek were set apart as Ladies' Days and weekly entertainments were given through- out the season. During the winter months afternoon lectures were held in the club parlors in the Opera House Building, followed by a five o'clock tea. The club was a member of the Whist League and the devotees of the game made it a feature of the club life. Ridgewood Country Club Golf in Ridgewood dates back to 1893, when the old Ho-Ho-Kus Golf Club was organized, the first in this section of New Jersey and 134 PAST AND PRESENT said to be one of the first in the country. The heir to the old Ho- Ho-Kus Club was the Ridgewood Golf Club, established in 1901, Avith a golf course on Maple Avenue. Out of this latter club developed the present Country Club which, on March 12, 1910, was organized as an entirely new ])()dy, with the following officers and directors: President 7. H. Snyder, Vice-President ( '. W. Stocktox, Secretary W. D. Lawton, Treasurer PI. G. White. Board of Directors J. H. SxYDER, W. D. Lawtox, J. H. DuxxiXG, ('. \V. Stocktox, H. G. White, G. F. Brackett. P. A. Toohey, J. C. Mahlax. C E. Merrihew, G. E. Boreham, IT. S. Willard, The Ridgewood Country Club is a corporation, the capital stock of $50,000 being owned by about two hundred stockholders. Stockholders may become regular members of the club by paying the prescribed dues; otherwise a stockholder cannot enjoy any of the privileges of the club, but may vote at all meetings of stockholders. A stockholder may have but one vote in the affairs of the club, regardless of the number of shares of stock he may hold. This is rather a unique feature, as it gives every member an equal voice in the management of the club; consequently, there is no particular object in a member owning more than one share of stock except that he receives a 5 per cent, return on his investment, provided he becomes a regular member. This provision was made so that the club might be perpetuated and to avoid the risk of a few members obtaining control and possibly at some future date selling the land at a handsome profit. Under the circumstances, there is no reason why this tract of land should not continue indefinitely to be a beautiful park and pleasure ground prac- tically in the heart of Ridgewood. The whole project was founded and built upon the faith in a greater and more beautiful Ridgewood and while, possibly, it was a little ahead of its time, it will, no doubt, serve as a landmark by which all future undertakings in Ridgewood may be measured. The purchase and de- velopment of the property, including the erection of the clubhouse, represent an outlay of more than $100,000. The corporation owns 102 acres of land, most of which was used in the development of an eightcen-hole golf course. Donald Ross, the great golf professional, has pronounced it one of the most beautiful spots for a golf course in America. There is a splendid brook, fed from natural springs, at either end of the property. Both of these bi-ooks have been dammed on the lower side of the property, creating two beautiful little lakes stretching practically across the entire width of the property. These lakes fur- nish hazards for golf in tlie summer time and ice parks for the skaters in winter. In addition to these two bodies of water for skating, an artificial skating rink has been created witliin twenty-five yards of the clubhouse. There the broad expanse of hills stretching from the club- house to Lincoln Avenue, that furnishes a splendid variety of golf 13.5 PAST AND PRESENT during the season, is a wonderful place for tobogganing and coasting during the winter. Tennis, curling, archery and trapshooting are other outdoor sports indulged in by the members, their families and guests during the various seasons of the year. The clubhouse contains a high-class cafe and restaurant, bowling alleys, billiard and pool tables and a fine dancing pavilion that fur- nishes amusement and recreation throughout the entire year. The views from the clubhouse veranda are of surpassing beauty. On clear days and nights the lofty buildings of New York are clearly visible in the distance and the surrounding country in every direction fur- nishes a panoramic picture beyond description. Tlie membersliip at present is limited to two hundred and fifty regular and special members, but the limit will, in all probability, be raised to three hundred, as there are several applications on the wait- ing list and experience indicates that the club can comfortably accom- modate three hundred members. Town Cluh The present Town Club had its origin a few years prior to 1898 in an organization then known as the Eidgewood Juniors, having for its original officers : President Joiix G. Zabriskie, Secretary Charles Stewart, Treasurer Frank C. 8mack. This organization consisted of nine members : John G. Zabriskie, J. Robert Maltbie, Frank C. Smack, Charles Van Dien, Charles Stewart, Fred Bykeeper, Everett Hopper, William Haight and Fred Z. Board. The Juniors grew in numbers and in 1898 termed themselves the Wliite Stars, a little later increasing to such proportions as to Avarrant the renting of a home at w^hat is now No. 23 Hope Street. Later rooms in Hutton Hall w'ere rented. In 1901 they were incorporated as the White Stars. The organiza- tion papers, dated June 14, 1901, specified that it was to be "An association of less than five hundred members associated for the en- couragement and practice of indoor and outdoor athletics." These papers were signed by John G. Zabriskie, then President; Herbert A. Obrig, Secretary ; Frank C. Smack, Treasurer, and also by John Robert Maltbie, Joseph F. Carrigan, Jr., and Charles W. Eichells, Jr., acting for the club. Shortly afterward the club purchased the property at South Maple Avenue, where in June, 1904, the clubhouse w^as opened. The house has since been acquired by the F. & A. M. of Ridgewood. Under date of July 22, 1912, the amended certificate of incorpora- tion was filed changing the name from the "White Star Athletic Club" to the "Town Club of Ridgewood." This amended certificate was signed by the following trustees: John B. Cavagnero, Edward ]Maxon, William C. Siegert, Harold Dwight, Frederick Pfeiffer, Bayly Hipkins, Thomas P. Walls, A. S. Maerz, M. F. Bargebuhr and John G. Zabriskie. At that time Walter L. Dawson was President and Robert V. Bates, Secretary. 137 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY This amended cei'tificate specified as the purposes of the Town Club the "engaging in all forms and classes of athletic sports and generally to promote and maintain social intercourse among, to encourage the literary pursuits of, and to provide entertainment and recreation for its members." During the Avinter of 1912-1913, the present property on North Maple Avenue, consisting of approximately 12 acres, was purchased. Because the Town Club had alwajs taken a lively interest in local affairs, it consented to sell the Ridgewood Avenue property previously used by the White Stars as an athletic field, to the Village to become a part of the new high school site. Carrying out the purposes of the organization, the club now pro- vides for its members bowling on four excellent alleys, billiards, pool, whist and other card games, library, dancing and ballroom in the club- house, baseball and tennis on the grounds, there being five excellent courts for the latter game. Ladies have the privilege of the clubhouse as specified by various actions of the Board of Governors, and the families of members, as well as the school teachers, have the privileges of the tennis courts. The baseball diamond and the football field have been gratuitously given over for the use of the Ridgewood High School baseball and football teams. A limit of 250 has been placed upon the club membership as now constituted, and 238 of this number have been secured. Paramus Valley Pliotograpliic Association On March 23, 1903, a number of amateur photographers met in the evening in the Tower Room of the Y. M. C. A. Building — the Opera House — to consider the question of organizing. In April the Paramus Valley Photographic Association was launched with the following mem- bership : President Henry W. Hales, Vice-President C. H. Lomax ]\Iitchell, Secretary I. P. Lawton. Treasurer A. A. Fitzhugh. Everet L. Zabriskie, Jos. Carrigan, Leonard A. Smith, Austin Hanks, S. S. MeCready, Maurice Hopkins, P. G. Delamater, H. D. Hartley, F. H. Howland, Peter 0. Terheun, Theodore Obrig, and George Fer- guson. At intervals the membership was augmented bv the addition of the following : G. D. Clippel, H. V. Townsend, H. W. Wilson, W. H. Moore, W. J. Tonkin, Chas. A. Throckmorton, Jos. J. Smith, Harvey Blauvelt, E. W. Cobb, Jas. J. Bailej^, Geo. M. Schinzel and A. Lee Don. The declared purpose of the association was the "advancement of the science and art of photography." Of those who were enrolled, there Avere a few Avho devoted most of their spare time to photographic Avork, and these were the ones upon Avhom the labor devolved Avhen an outing or an exhibition Avas to be organized. IMonthly meetings Avere held and Avere well attended. In June, 1903, the first annual exhibition Avas given in the room of the Library Association, First National Bank Building. On this occa- l?.s PAST AND PRESENT sion, more than four hundred photographs were shown and, in addition to the prints exhibited, there were many lantern slides and transparen- cies, all of which had been produced by members. The exhibition was vv^ell attended and the association Wcis encouraged to greater effort. Tlie 1904 exhibit was well received and the work of the members showed nuich improvement both in choice of subjects and composition. The artistic discrimination was notable and the distinction between the ordinary amateur photograph of the preceding season and the later work of the members Avas accentuated by comparison. In the 1905 exhibition the association conducted a competition open to all amateurs, without regard to membership. Ten solid silver cups were provided as prizes. Twenty entrants displayed more than four hundred prints in Hutton Hall. Nineteen persons entered 197 pictures in the several competitive classes. A feature of the exhibit was a col- lection of 33 photographs of old houses in Bergen County, all of which were of historic value. This was the work of Mr. B. H. Allbee, then Vice-President of the Bergen County Historical Society. A notable fact in connection with the display was the contribution of specimens of photographic skill by amateurs residing in distant towns ancl cities — Hackensack, "N. J.; Detroit, Mich.; Bristol, England; Portland, Me.; Allendale, N. J., and Brooklyn, N. Y. On the evening of the second day, the exhibition was closed with the display of 225 stereopticon views, the product of home talent. In the meantime, the association members made excursions into the regions about Ridgewood in all kinds of weather and many were the unique pictures made in spring, summer, autumn and winter. There were many requests for the loan of photos for exhibition in the fairs and entertainments of other clubs. The meetings were often enlivened by demonstrations of methods of working, from the choosing of the point of view from which to obtain tlie best results of light and shade, to the development of original ideas of mounting and framing the resultant print. Woman's Club of Eidgewood, N. J. One of Ridgew^ood's most valued assets is its Woman's Club which was organized in 1909, federated in 1910 and later incorporated in 1914. The following served as the original officers: President Mrs. William F. Allex, Vice-Presidents \ f^""' ^^harles W. Stocktox and ( Mrs. Charles A. Deshon, Recording Secretary Mrs. Cornelius Doremus, Correspo7ulinc) Secretary ^NFrs. Lansing P. Wood Treasurer Mrs. Duncan D. Chaplin. The purposes for which the club was organized were the mutual improvement of its members through study and social intercourse and the active promotion of civic and social betterment. The clul) has de- partments of music, history and travel, drama and literature, and home economics. Civics and current events are also discussed. The membership is divided as follows: Active 326; Honorary 14; Inactive 2; making a total of 342. 139 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY The Woman's Club of Upper Ridgewood The Woman's Club of Upper Ridgewood \vas organized November 20, 1912. The original officers were : President Mrs. Charles K. Ai.len, Secretary Mrs. E. A. Nichols, Treasurer Mrs. E. IT. Portsmore. There are at present 40 members in the club. The purpose of the organization is to promote neighborly interest, and the work done by the club has this purpose alwa^'s Ijefore it in its philanthropic, social and school work. College Cluh The College Club was oi-ganized in September, 1913, by women graduates of colleges, residing in Ridgewood. Tlie officers elected at the time of organization were :- President Miss Nell B. Doremus, Vice-President Mrs. Theodore S. Hope, Hecretary-Treasurer Mrs. Ruth Wood Cadmus. Assistant Secretary Miss Raena Ryersox. The original purpose was to aid in establishing the Woman's Col- lege of New Jersey at Rutgers, but that plan was abandoned in 1915 by the State Leaders, so at present the club is interested in establish- ing a girls' scholarship fund. The organization has 35 members. Tlie League for Creative Work The League for Creative Work was organized in April, 1914, with the purpose of producing original work as writers, artists and musicians. The original officers were : President Mrs. Laxsixg P. Wood, Vice-President Mrs. James B. Parsons, Secretary-Treasurer Mrs. William F. Sroufe. The present membership numbers nineteen. Garden Club of Ridgewood The Garden Club of Ridgewood was organized in November, 1914. The object of the club is to broaden and increase its knowledge of growing things by an exchange of ideas and experiences at periodical meetings of its members; also to stimulate intelligent and artistic gar- dening. Its membership numbers 60. Men living in Ridgewood and vicinity, having gardens in which an active interest is taken and over which a personal supervision is exercised, only are eligible for membership. Incidentally, it is the only garden club of men within a very consid- erable radius of New York City. Monthly meetings are held at which papers prepared by members and dealing with their own experiences, are read. Discussions of various garden problems that constantly arise are entered into and plans for the exchange of plants are perfected. Members who have been delegated to visit garden club shows and nurs- 140 PAST AND PRESENT eries report their findings to the club and professional talent is engaged to lecture from time to time. A systematic distribution of flowers to the hospitals is also a very pleasant feature of the club's work. Two shows a year are given, in June and September, to w^hich the public is invited. These shows not only include flowers, but fruits and vege- tables. The officers of the club, all of whom have served since the organi- zation, are :- President Robert L. Roe, Vice-President Stanley R. Walker, Secretary-Treasurer E. T. Sowter. Ridgeivood Rifle Club The Ridgewood Rifle Club was organized in October, 1915, with a charter membership of about 20. Affiliation was at once effected with the National Rifle Association of America. The club's membership soon rose to nearly 50 and it has become one of Ridgewood 's most popular organizations. Under the guidance of the first officers, President Daniel R. Bacon, Vice-President A. A. Winters, Secretary A. L. Forman, Treasurer A. L. Coburn, Executive Officer Dr. H. S. Willard, the first year of the club's existence has been a most successful one. A range for indoor shooting was secured in the old cement works on Spring Avenue and many a hotly contested competition has been held there among the members and with teams from neighboring towns. Many members who, a year ago scarcely knew what a rifle was in- tended for, have developed surprising expertness, so much so that to date the club team has never been beaten in a match and a number of the men wear National emblems attesting their prowess as sharpshooters or marksmen. The club has in prospect the establishment of an outdoor range upon which the regular army service rifle may l)e used. The privilege of the range is extended to students in the Ridgewood High School and a large iuim])er of the upper classmen arc educating themselves in the use of firearms. PATRIOTIC ORGANIZATIONS Ridgewood has not devoted all its efforts to the securing of pleasure and amusement by means of social intercourse, but has found enjoy- ment in preserving the nuMiioi'les of its ancestors and in safeguarding the future of its children. This ])atriotic spirit has found expression in the following organizations :- Daughters of the Revolution The Society of the Daughters of the Revolution was organized in 1891, its object being "to perpetuate the patriotic spirit of the men and women who achieved American Independence; to commemorate 141 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY prominent events connected with the War of the Revolution ; to collect, publish and preserve the rolls, records and historic documents relating to that period; to encourage the study of the country's history; to promote sentiments of friendship and common interest among the mem- bers of the Society, and to provide a home for and furnish assistance to such Daughters of the Revolution as may be impoverished, when it is in their power to do so." In May, 1900, a chapter called the Ramapo Valley Chapter, Daugh- ters of the Revolution, was founded in Ridgewood by Mrs. Richard W. Hawes, who being a member of the Montclair Chapter, was ap- pointed Organizing Regent by the General Secretary in New York. The five charter members Avere Miss Rebecca W. Hawes, Mrs. Richard Hawes, Mrs. T. A. Strange, Miss Martha E. Smith and Miss Florence de la M. Bunce. Since the organization of this chapter there has been but one Historian-Registrar, Miss Rebecca W. Hawes, who was elected to this office for life. The first Regent, Miss Florence de la M. Bunce, served for a period of fourteen years. The meetings are held at the homes of the members, of Avhom there are now forty, with the exception of the June meeting, wlien, in com- memoration of the Battle of Bunker Hill, the chapter makes its annual pilgrimage to the Revolutionary intrenchments at Hillburn, New York, marked by them Avith a granite tablet. Junior Order United American Mechanics This patriotic order was organized in Ridgewood on February 18, 1897, with 125 charter members and with these original officers :- Couiwiler J. D. Van Emeurgh, Viee-Counciler S. O. Giles, Financial Secretary Hekvey Terhune, Recording Secretary .J. Blauvelt Hopper, Treasurer I. A. Wall. Its objects are — First — To maintain and promote the interests of Americans and shield them from the depressing effects of foreign competition. Second — To assist Americans in obtaining employment. Third — To encourage Americans in business. Fourth — To establish a Sick and Fnneral Fund. Fifth — To maintain the Public School System of the United States of America and to prevent sectarian interference therewith, and up- hold the reading of the Holy Bible therein. The membership now numbers 280. Independence Day Association of Ridgewood, N. J., Inc. In 1910 the Independence Day Association held its first meeting and elected as officers the following: President Mrs. J. E. Coyle, Vice-Presidoit Mrs. F. F. Kxothe, Secretary Mrs. J. Turner, Treasurer ]\Ii;s. W. J. Tonkin. After two successful years, it Avas incorporated in 1912. 142 PAST AND PRESENT The purposes for which this corporation was formed are to discour- age the general public use of dangerous firearms and fireworks; to foster and stimulate a patriotic spirit and sentiment in the citizens and children of Ridge wood, N. J., and vicinity, by observing Independence Day in a fitting manner; the same to be accomplished by parades, pageants, mass meetings, fireworks and other suitable and appropriate observances, and in general to do all things in connection with the foregoing that may be necessary and expedient. The membership consists of the subscribers to its fund and in 191G it numbered 238 individuals and firms and nine organizations. The Theodosia Burr Cliapter, Junior Sons and Daughters of the Revohition The Junior Auxiliary of the Ramapo Valley Chapter, Daughters of the Revolution, was organized in June, 1912, with the object of "encouraging patriotic spirit in citizens of the vicinity in every prac- ticable way and to extend its influence in this direction to other places, as opportunity occurs, and to promote friendship and common interest among the members of the chapter." With ]\Iiss Edna Bunce as Director, and five charter members, the following officers were elected: — President Vavghn Keeley, l^ccrefary C'oxstance Frejn^ch, Treasurer Morton Adams. In 1913, the name was changed to Penelope Von Princips Chapter, Junior Sons and Daughters of the Revolution. In 1914, a change in the name was suggested and the Chapter is now known as the Theodosia Burr Chapter, Junior Sons and Daugh- ters of the Revolution, Theodosia Burr being the daughter of Widow Theodosia Provost and Aaron Burr, and directly associated with this vicinity. The Theodosia Burr Chapter now has an enrollment of 35 members, having the greatest increase in membership during the year of 1914-15 of any Junior Chapter in the State. Company L, Fifth Regiment, N. G., N. J. Company L was mustered in on February 20, 1913. Tlic original officers were : Captain Joseph L. Smith, First Lieutenant Horace G. Clevetand, Seeond Lieutenant John Merrihew. Upon the resignation of ]\Ir. Cleveland and Mr. Merrihew, Joseph R. Brackett became First Lieutenant and Gene E. Pattison became Second Lieutenant. Lieutenant Brackett Avas lost bj' death and Lieutenant Pattison resigned. The company Avas nuistered in to federal service in June, 1916, Avith Captain Joseph J. Smith commanding, the junior officers being — • First Lieutenant Joseph C. Fitts, Second Lieutenant Samuel I. Bateman. 143 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY On the date of mobilization, June 19, 1916, the company had 65 men on its rolls and was sent with its regiment, the Fifth New Jersey Infantry, N. G., to Sea Girt, N. J., at which place the New Jersey brigade was to mobilize. The Fifth Regiment entrained for Douglas, Ariz., on June 13th. On its return to the East, the regiment reached Paterson November 3, 1916. After a parade in Paterson, the out-of- town companies returned to their quarters and Company L was mus- tered out of the federal service on November 11, 1916. Several acres of ground on East Franklin Avenue were donated to the Ridge wood Armory Association by Mrs. Joseph W. Edwards for the purpose of erecting an armory thereon for the use of Compan}^ L. The foundation has already been completed with the aid of funds raised m Ridgewood. At present active efforts are being made to secure the $25,000 ap- propriation for this building authorized by the State Legislature. Paramus Cliapter of the New Jersey Sociefij, Sons of the American Revolution The Paramus Chapter No. 6, New Jersey Society of the Sons of the American Revolution was organized through the efforts of Mr. R. T. Wilson, with 35 charter members, on December 18, 1913. Those offi- cers elected at the first meeting were : President .Judge Coenelius Doeemus, Vice-President Kichabd T. Wilsoiv, Secretary .Tof-EPH B. Robeets, Treasurer L. F. Halsted, Historian E. L. Zabriskie. The objects of this society are declared to be patriotic, historical and educational, and include those intended or designed to perpetuate the memory of the men who, by their services or sacrifices during the war of the American Revolution, achieved the independence of the jA merican people ; to unite and promote fellowship among their de- scendants; to inspire them and the community at large with a more profound reverence for the principles of the Government founded by our forefathers ; to encourage historical research in relation to the American Revolution; to acquire and preserve the records of the indi- vidual services of the patriots of the war, as well as documents, relics and landmarks; to mark the scenes of the Revolution by appi'opriate memorials; to celebrate the anniversaries of the prominent events of the war and of the Revolutionary period; to foster true patriotism; to maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom, and to carry out the purposes expressed in the preamble of the Constitution of our country and the injunctions of Washington in his farewell ad- dress to the American peo])le. The Cliapter has now 51 members. The National Security League — Ridgewood Brancli One of Ridgewood 's newest organizations is the branch of the Na- tional Security League wliicli was organized on April 6, 1916, through 144 PAST AND PRESENT the efforts of Mr. W. E. Remington, who was elected Chairman. With him are serving — Vice-Chairman B. F. Sloat, Secretary George M. Schinzel, Assistant Secreiary Jcdson SALiSBrRY, Treasurer James D. Craig. The folloAving, Avith the officers, compose the Executive Committee: Lewis R. Conklin. Judge Cornelius Doremus, W. D. Ferris, Joseph Pitts, T. J. Foster, J. J. Glynn, E. B. Lilly, George N. Pfeiffer, 0. B. Surpless and R. T. Wilson. The National Security League is non-political, non-partisan and absolutely neutral. Its object is to arouse the American public to a sense of the nation's naval and military weakness, of the national menace that attends the present state of unpreparedness and, through public mass meetings, petitions and resolutions, to bring pressure to bear upon representatives in Congress to provide an adequate army and navy as determined by the expert army and navy officers. The kidgewood branch has more than 300 members who are also interested in increasing the membership of the American Red Cross. Bergen County Historical Society. An organization of interest to the citizens of Ridgewood is the Bergen County Historical Society which has been extremely active in delving into the past and has brought to light much of value. In 1895 an exhibition was given in the Opera House under the auspices of this society. There were shown coins, ancient documents, weapons, clothing, implements of industry, family trifles and records, and an inspection of the articles displayed was a liberal education in the his- tory of the past. People throughout this section responded with en- thusiasm and were surprised to learn that there was here so much of interest relating to our past history. Among the past presidents of this organization are Judge Cornelius Doremus, Judge David Zabriskie and Everett L. Zabriskie of Ridge- wood, while R. T. Wilson is at present a vice-president. POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS Ridgewood is not without its political activities nor its fqrces which have influence for good government, as is evidenced by the five active organizations in the Village. The Woman's Suffrage Association In 1894, as the only member in this part of Bergen County of the New Jersey State Suffrage Association, Miss Rebecca W. Hawes circu- lated a petition for the restoration of full school suffrage for women and obtained a hundred signatures in Ridgewood and Ho-Ho-Kus. At a meeting of the Ramapo Valley Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, it was voted that the members in favor of suf- frage should call a meeting and invite Mrs. Minnie Reynolds to organ- 145 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY ize a branch of the Woman's Political Union of New Jersey. The meeting was held at the home of Miss Hawes, Corsa Terrace, on November 21, 1913. At a second meeting held a month later at the residence of Mrs. F. F. Knothe, The Woman's Political Union was organized with the following officers: President "Mrs. Carl M. Vail, First Vice-President Mrs. C. W. ]VIacDonough, Second Vice-President Mrs. Frances H. Waltox, Secretary Mrs. Cynthia Mitchell, Treasurer ]\Irs. George Etesse, Press Agent Mrs. F. H. Valentine, Auditor Mrs. F. F. Knothe. In October, 1916, The Woman's Political Union was absorbed by the Woman's Suffrage Association of New Jersey. Ridgeivood Democratic Club The Democratic Club was organized in 1892. Its original officers were: President J. B. Cavagnabo, Vice-President Dr. G. M. Ockford, Secretary .Joh n J. Murphy, Treasurer Frank A. Baxter. The object of the organization was to promote Democracy along the lines laid down by Thomas Jefferson, to establish good government by the election of honest and efficient men to office, with the greatest good to the greatest number and special privileges to none. There are 95 members in the club. Voters' League The Voters' League was organized August 29, 1910. The constitu- tion provides, '4ts object shall be to secure and maintain the maximum of efficiency in the government of Ridgewood". The adoption in 1911, by the Village of Ridgewood, of its present form of government was clue to the energetic campaign conducted by the officers and members of the League in presenting to the citizens the merits of the common form of government. Its first officers were : President Lewis R. Conklin, Vice-President Samuel S. McCurdy, Treasurer Frank A. Thayer, Secretary S. S. Walstrum, and the Executive Committee which was composed of the above officers and John T. Hanks, J. McGuinness, Jr., Edward J. Miller, Frank F. Knothe and Harvey H. Palmer. Republican Club The present Republican Club was organized in 1912 with — President I.E. Hutton, Secretary Frank Stevens, Treasurer W. 0. Dietrich. 146 PAST AND PRESENT It was re-organized on January 20, 1916. The object of the club is to carry out most effectively the principles nnd good government as expressed by Republicanism; to further the interests of the Republican ticket and by that means secure the election of Republican candidates. The club has about 75 members. Citizens and Taxpayers' Association The Citizens and Taxpayers' Association was organized in 1913. The following were its original officers: President I. E. Hutton, Vice-Presidtvt B. F. Sloat, Secretary R. L. Fernbach, Treasurer F. L. Dooly, Chairman of Executive Committee W. O. Dietrich. The Citizens' and Taxpayers' Association is a non-partisan body of Toters and has about 300 members. FRATERNAL ORGANIZATIONS Another result of the "get-together" spirit manifested by the people of Ridgewood has resulted in the organization of branches of sevoi fraternal orders : Fidelity Lodge No. 113, F. ^ A. M. The Ridgewood Branch of the Masonic Order, established in 1869, is the oldest existing organization in Ridgewood. The original officers were: Master John M. Knapp, Senior Warden Robert B. Cable, ■Junior ^Vavden John A. Ackerman. The present membership numbers 245. Paramiis Valley Council No. 1597, Royal Arcanum The Paramus Valley Council No. 1597 of the Royal Arcanum was organized in Ridgewood on INIarch 5, 1895, with the following as the original officers: Regent Rev. E. H. Cleveland, Vice-Regent C. C. West, Past Regent C. H. Eddy, Orator L. F. Halsted, Secretary B.C. Wooster, Collector L. N. Taft, Treasurer S. W. Orne, Chaplain F. H. White, Ouide J. H. Oxley, Warden E. B. Van Horn, Sentry F. A. Ross, ( Alexander Bell, Trustees \ John R. Stevens, ( H. G. White. Representative to Grand Council C. H. Eddy Alternate to Grand Council Rev. E. H. Cleveland, Medical Examiner Dr. G, M, OckfobD, 147 I RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY The original membership in 1895 was 32. It has now increased to 303. The Royal Arcanum is a fraternal beneficiary order founded in Boston in 1877. It has a membership of about 250,000 and has paid to the widows and orphans of its memliers $185,000,000, of which over $100,000 has been paid in RidgcAvood. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows The Independent Order of Odd Fellows is a secret, beneficiary so- ciety, having for its purpose the elevation of human character. While sick and funeral benefits are paid, Oddfellowship is not an insurance society and this feature of the work should at all times be recognized as secondary to the great work of the organization which consists of "visiting the sick, relieving the distressed, burying the dead and edu- cating the orphan". It therefore presents a broad platform upon which mankind may unite in offices of human benefaction. The order in America was founded April 26, 1819, in Baltimore, by Thomas Wildey, a young mechanic, and four others. It began to grow and to spread into other localities and at the present time its membership extends throughout the civilized world and numbers 2,190,- 000, Since the year 1830, prior to which no records were kept, $170,- 000,000 has been paid out for the relief of members of the order. Ridgewood Lodge No. 260, I. 0. 0. F., was instituted on the after- noon of November 7, 1900, with twelve charter members, Thomas E. English, Charles F. Bechtlofft, George A. Stevens, Theodore H, Meade, William H. Fogg, John Q. Archdeacon, Frank M. Merritt, James H. Salisbury, John G. Hopper, James B. Christopher, John McCroden and George N. Winters. The first four named are the only charter members remaining at the present time. The first officers installed at the institution were:- Noble Grand Thomas E. English, Vice Grand George N. Wintebs, Recording Secretary John Q. Archdeacon, Financial Secretary George A. Stevens, Treasurer Frank M. Merritt. In the same evening 35 were admitted to membership by initiation. At present the membership numbers 51. Branch 991, National Association of Letter Carriers The Ridgewood Branch of this national organization received its charter on April 22, 1904. The following served as original officers: President Robert Campbell. Secretary Peter R. Titus, Treasurer Arthur Storms. The purpose of the association is to promote social and fraternal affairs, to improve and equalize labor conditions in the service and to increase the efficiency of the service. The membership consists of the eight regular city carriers and their two substitutes. 148 PAST AND PRESENT Ridgewood Chapter No. 39, Order of the Eastern Star The Ridgewood Chapter No. 39, Order of the Eastern Star, held its first meeting February 5, 1909, at which the following Avere the original executives elected: Worthy Matron Mrs. M. V. Tonkin, Worthy Patron Mr. P. G. Delamater, Associate Matron Mrs. B. G. Schinzel, Secretary Mr. W. J. Tonkin. Court Midland Park No. 172, Foresters of America The Court Midland Park No. 172, Foresters of America, was or- ganized on November 15, 1910, and incorporated on May 2, 1911. The original officers were: Chief Ranger .Thomas Post, Sub-Chief Ranger Louis Carlough, Past Chief Ranger John Marr, Lecturer Daniel M. Calkoen, Financial Secretary Charles J. Christopher, Recording Secretary William J. Benjamin, Treasurer John Robertson, Senior Woodward Nicholas Heemstra, Junior Woodward George Phillips, Senior Beadle Adam B. Goetchins, ■Junior Beadle Caradog P. Morgan, Physician Dr. Joseph Payne, {Hubbard Ferguson, John Phillips, John R. Stott. The organization has for its purpose the raising and maintaining of a fund for the purpose of defraying the burial expenses of members and their wives, and the rendering of assistance to members when sick and unable to follow their employment, and providing medical attend- ance and medicine. There are at present 75 members. Ridgewood Council No. 1736, Knights of Columbus This order was organized in Eidgewood in June, 1914. It had as its original officers the following: Grand Knight Paul A. McGoldrick, Deputy Grand Knight Henry Johnson, Chancellor P. L. Alberse, Recording Secretary T. B. Hesketh, Financial Secretary J. G. Crowley, Treasurer J. Moran, Lecturer W. W. O'Neil, Advocate T. P. Connor, Warden J. S. Hand, Inside Guard J. H. Trey, Jr., Outside Guard W. Nalley, {\V. jMoran, W. Dermody, F. Hand, Chaplain Rev. P. F. Pindar. The Knights of Columbus have as their objectives: Charity, Patriot- 149 lilDGEWOO'D, BERGEN COUNTYy NEW JERSEY ism, Unity, Education and Brotherly Love. The Ridgewood Council has a membership of about 100. MUSICAL CLUBS Eidgewood is fortunate in possessing two musical clubs, one com- posed of Avomen and one composed of men. Not only do they encourage the study of music but they give four private concerts a year which always prove a delight to those fortunate enough to be present. The Orpheus Cluh The Orpheus Club was organized in 1909. Its object was to bring together the male singers of Eidgewood for mutual enjoyment and to give private concerts to be supported by the active and subscribing members. The club was organized with ten active members. The following officers were elected for the first year: President G. U. White, Vice-President Jb . E. Powley, Secretary-Treasurer F. F. Knothe, Librarian Wilbur Morris, Chairman Music Committee G. R. Young. The club chose as conductor, Mr, Dewitt Clinton, Jr., who on Octo- ber 5, 1914, was succeeded by the present conductor, Wilbur A. Luyster. In the spring of 1910, Mr. Bevier Smith was selected as accompanist. Two private invitation concerts were given in May and June of 1910. The active membership had then grown to fifteen. In October, 1910, the club began its second season by planning to give two public concerts each season. An associate membership Avas established. No tickets were sold for the concerts, but active and asso- ciate members received and distributed them as invitations to the con- cert. This practice has been maintained through the seven seasons of the club's successful history. The active members consist of 22 tenors and 23 bassos. There is an associate membership of 140. The Cecilia Society The Cecilia Society, composed of women of Eidgewood, was organ- ized in November, 1912. Its original officers were: President Mrs. J. Purcell, Recording Secretary Mrs. \A'ilfred Kurth, Corresponding Secretary and Treasurer . . . .Mrs. Herman Fritz, Librarian Mrs. E. E. Alley, Assistant Librarian Mrs. C. F. Osgood. CJmirman of Arrangemoils Mrs. W. H. Haddox. Musical Director Mrs. Elizabeth D. Leonard. The object of this society is to encourage the study of music, par- ticularly choral and instrumental music, the study and discussion of musical literature and the expounding of such literature by its members 150 PAST AND PRESENT and various distinguished musical artists. The society has a member- ship of 200. WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS The people of Ridgewood have always taken an active interest in civic matters and the general welfare of the community and its citizens. As proof of this concern, there have developed within the past twenty years, eight organizations which are now doing effective work. Village Improvement Association The Village Improvement Association was organized by the women of the Village on November 4, 1897, for the purpose of improving and beautifying the Village. The first officers were: President Mrs. de L. Eerier, First Vice-President Mrs. Allen Macnaughton, Hecoiid Vice-President Mrs. I. E. Huttox, Recording Secretary Miss HorsTOX, Corresponding Secretary .Miss Carrigax, Treasurer Mrs. G. U. \Yhite. Among the several committees were such as — Children's Auxiliary, Prevention of Cruelty to Children and Animals, Street, Sanitary, Hu- mane, Railroad, Penny Savings Bank, Park, Library and Preservation of Natural Beauties. As showai elsewhere in this book, the results of the association 's efforts are prominent among the achievements of Ridge- wood 's citizens. In 1904 the various committees were disbanded because several ob- jects had been attained as, for instance, the street cleaning and the systematic removal of garbage. The Library Committee continued its work. The Village Trustees allowed the association $300 a year for the support of the Library and the Commissioners have continued this appropriation. The Village Improvement Association was incorporated in January, 1916, its only activity being the operation of the Public Library. The Ridgewood Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals The Ridgewood Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Avas organized in 1899 with a membership of less than twenty men and \vomen. Cases of cruelty Avere then tried in Hackensack. The meet- ings were at first held at the home of Mrs. George N. Ockford, but later a room in the Library Building was secured and was kept open for several hours each day for the purpose of receiving complaints. The original officers were: President ]\Irs. C. C. Harrison, First Vice-President Mrs. George N. Ockford, Second Vice-President Miss Bertha Mills, Third Vice-President Miss F. G. Vietor, Secretary Mrs. F. J. Walton, Treasurer Mrs. J. Carshaw, Veterinarian Dr. Holdenby. On account of death and the change of residence of several members, the society at one time became inactive, but was finally reorganized 151 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY and its charter returned. Membership and activities increased so that now cases are tried in Ridgewood and tlie Village has turned over to the society the care of all animals. During the presidency of Mrs. H. A. Bonynge, a drinking fountain was erected at the intersection of Spring and Maple Avenues and a shelter in the town yard was built for housing animals. At present the society is caring for between 200 and 300 animals a year, besides handling numerous complaints. The society is also working hard, with the assistance of the Semi-Centennial Committee, to raise funds for a handsome granite combination drinking fountain, designed by Mr. H. E. Paddon, to be erected in the Plaza. Wojuan's Auxiliary to the Young Men's Christian Association The Woman's Auxiliary to the Young Men's Christian Association was formed for the purpose of assisting the Y. M. C. A. and its work for young men. It was organized on October 14, 1902, with the fol- lowing officers: President Mrs. R. M. Winans, First Vice-President Mrs. I. E. Hutton, Second Vice-President Mrs. C. V. R. Berdan, Secretary Mrs. A. P. Crouter, Treasurer Mrs. F. K. Matthews. The membership consists of 220 mothers and women of the Village. Social Service Association The Social Service Association, originally called the Relief Society of Ridgewood, was formed as the result of the co-operation of Mrs. H. H. Palmer, Mrs. S. D. Graydon and Mr. F. F. Knothe. Mrs. Palmer had been active in relieving suffering in Midland Park and Wortendyke and Mrs. Graydon had been caring for needy families in the Village. While doing this work they conferred with Mr. Knothe, who asked several men to join him in providing a nurse to investigate and relieve conditions in Ridgewood. The result was that the Village Improve- ment Association called a meeting of representatives of all churches and organizations in Ridgewood and the Relief Society Avas formed on February 24, 1909. As the constitution states, the objects were: 1. To foster harmonious co-operation among the various religious and benevolent organizations of Ridgewood and A^cinity and to avoid the overlapping of relief work. 2. To investigate all applications for relief, to dispense adequate relief for suitable cases and to procure work for needy persons. 3. To repress mendicancy. 4. To promote the general welfare of the poor by social and sanitary reform and the inculcation of habits of providence and self-de- pendence. Every department of the society's work is completely severed from all questions of religious belief, politics, and nationality. 152 PAST AND PRESENT The first officers were: I'rcsidoit .Mks. F. F. Knothe, First ^'ice-President Mrs. De L. Berier, Second Vice-President ]\Irs. R. Wortendyke, Secretary Mrs. R. W. Hawes. Treasurer Mrs. A. C. Brookes. In 1912, the Avork of the society warranted the help of a trained social worker for part time, and the Board of Education engaged the same worker for part time as school nurse. Later each organization secured a worker of its own. On May 6, 1913, the Relief Society was incorporated under the name of Social Service Association. In May, 1916, there were 429 members. Village Cliristmas Tree Association The first Village Christmas Tree was held at the home of Mrs. A. E. Tolkamp on East Ridgewood Avenue, Christmas, 1909, at which time she and her daughter, Mrs. W. H. Haddon, having conceived the idea, provided gifts for a few worthy children, about ten in number. A like celebration was held the following year, the number of children increasing to about twenty. In 1911 the number having grown too great to be accommodated at their home, a number of ladies were inter- ested and Prospect Hall was secured for the festivities. The following year the entire matter was assumed by the Village Christmas Tree Association of Ridgewood, which had been formed with the following officers: President ]\rRS. E. T. White, Vice-President Mrs. D. A. Garber, Secretary-Treasurer Mrs. E. 8. Brower. The association now consists of about 35 members, embracing every church and section of Ridgewood. The recipients, now numbering about 200 children, are barred by neither creed nor color. The work is carried on entirely through the generosity of the Ridgewood people and the energy and tireless work of the members of the association. Upper Ridgewood Association In 1910 when a number of newcomers settled in Upper Ridgewood, they, together with a few old residents in the neighborhood, organized Avhat is now the Upper Ridgewood Association to which every resident of Upper Ridgewood and Wastena Park is eligible. The object of the association was to improve that new residential section of Ridgewood. Meetings were held with frequency Avhenever the Avants of the com- munity demanded them and everyone contributed his efforts for the general welfare. The first officers of the association AA^ere: President Louis Ciiable, Vice-President Charles Fairchili), Secretary -Treasurer John Kolmar. 153 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Federated Men's Club The Federated Men's Club of the churches of Ridgewood was or- ganized September 27, 1910, by the following delegates: — Rev. C. P. Pearson, C. S. Chapman, G. W. Martin, L. Wardell, A. E. Tolkamp, W. J. Bowling, J. W. Boylston, W. C. Zabriskie, Dr. W. T. Whitney, T. J. Foster, Rev. C. 0. Wright and G. A. Sehaible. The following officers were elected: President T.J. Foster, Vice-President H.\dley Ford, Secretary H. S. Vincent, Treasurer L. F. Broach. This organization has a long list of good deeds accomplished to its credit, some of which include practical attempts to better the con- dition of the colored population of our Village, and advocating the use of school buildings for civic, social, and educational purposes after school hours. The organization has also been instrumental in establishing and maintaining a camp for boys from the slums of New York where they can have at least two weeks of life in the open. Mr. C. S. Chapman labored faithfully and efficiently for three years as chairman of the committee who had this camp in charge and Mr. W. U. Green has had charge of it for two years and greatly enlarged the work which has the support of all the people of Ridgewood. This organization has ever been ready to lend a helping hand to those in distress and has labored diligently to curtail the liquor traffic evil, to foster the Big Brother movement, to complete a card index of the religious standing of the people of our town — and, in fact, have tried to do what they could to make our town a better place to live in. The Ridgewood Chapter of the American National Red Cross During 1898 the Village Improvement Association undertook to conduct during the summer Red Cross work and provided many arti- cles for the sick and wounded, but it was not until August 16, 1910, that a Ridgewood Chapter of this national institution was organized through the efforts of the Ridgewood Branch of the National Security League. The original officers were : President Mr. J. H. Dunning, Vice-President Mrs. C. H. Eddy, Secretary Mrs. T. J. Foster, Treasurer Mr. W. H. Hendrickson. The officers, with the following, constituted the Executive Commit- tee: — Mrs. J. L. Averill, Mrs. H. C. Christianson, Mrs. W. D. Ferres, Mr. W. E. Remington, and Mr. G. N. Orcutt. During the summer of 1916, the Surgical Dressing Committee, under Mrs. J. L. Averill, made 915 yards of gauze and muslin and 23 pounds of cotton into bandages. There are 21 active members, 1 sustaining member and 1 life member. Publisher's Note: The remarkahle residt of this chapter in in- 154 PAST AND PRESENT creasing its memhership in the early part of the year 1917 to over 2,000, or 28 per cent, of the population of the Village, placed Ridgeivood as holding the record for the most successful campaign for Red Cross viemhers ever held in any city or town in the United States. SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONS To indicate the interest the people of Ridgewood have in the schools and Avelfare of their children in their educational pursuits, mention may be made of the parents' and teachers' associations which co-operate with the schools. The fact is noteworthy that this co-operation results in better work on the part of the student and a greater understanding on the part of the parents and teachers. Alumni Association of the Ridgeivood High School, Ridgewood, N. J. Although interest in an Alumni Association was first aroused in 1902, it was not until June, 1911, that such an association was organ- ized. At that time Everett Shutts was elected President, Edgar Wand- less, Vice-President and Secretary, and Miss Grace E. Jones, Treasurer. At a re-organization meeting held in September, 1916, a constitution and incorporation papers were accepted and a Board of Trustees was elected. On December 28, 1916, the association was duly incorporated and a Board of Trustees was chosen. Membership in the association con- sists of: 1. Regular graduates of the Ridgewood High School. 2. Students who have left high school after having completed at least two years' study and who make application for membership to the association secretary. 3. Honorary members Avho may be elected by a two-thirds vote of the active members of the association. 4. Members of the High School Faculty and Board of Education who are honorarj^ members as long as they are actively connected with the high school. The general purpose of the association is to promote and stimulate an active interest in and among the members in all that pertains to the welfare and progress of the alumni and the high school body gen- erally. The definite aim is to establish a scholarship for that member of the senior class of the Ridgewood High School who, in the opinion of the committee, deserves it most and who has fulfilled certain condi- tions specified by the Alumni Association. Kenilworth Parents, and Teachers' Association The Kenilworth Parents, and Teachers' Association was organized on February 12, 1912. At that time the following were elected officers : President Mr. E. O. Grover, Vice-President Mrs. G. H. Nickersox, Secretary Mrs. D. W. Boyd. Treasurer Mr. C. Woodworth. The object of the association is to provide facilities for bringing the 155 RIDGEWOOB, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY teachers and parents into a closer relationship, to secure more perfect co-operation in advancing the moral, intellectual and physical welfare of the pupils and in furthering the cause of education in the commun- ity. The association has a membership of 67. Monroe Home and Scliool Association The Monroe Home and School Association was organized in Novem.- ber, 1915, when the following officers Avere elected: President J. J. Glynn, Vice-President Daniel E. Bacon, Secretary-Treasurer Miss Elizabeth Sturgess. The association has grown to a membership of 170 and has as its object the co-operation of the parents with the teachers and the school for the welfare of the children. Citizens' High Scliool Association On December 15, 1915, a committee of 150 citizens was organized at the high school and was known as the Citizens' High School Com- mittee. The following officers were elected: Chairman George M. Schinzel, Secretary Eugene A. Skehan, Treasurer Harvey E. Whitney, and the following Executive Committee: 0. B. Surpless, Frederick Pfeifer, T. J. Foster, Charles H. Woodman, Clarence Stewart, R. T. Wilson, W. J. Klug, Harold F. Dana, George H. Nickerson, Thomas P. Connor, C. D. Ireland and B. D. Forster. Subsequently the committee resolved itself into a permanent or- ganization and the present membership of more than 450 consists of the parents of all high school pupils and all residents over eighteen years of age who desire to join. There are no dues. The objects of the association are to bring before the people of Ridgewood the needs of the public school system in general and the needs of the high school in particular and to form a medium by which the teachers may be brought in contact with the parents of the pupils for their mutual understanding and benefit. ANTI-LIQUOR ORGANIZATIONS Local Option League In 191-1, certain men of Ridgewood learned to their great astonish- ment that all states excepting New Jersey and Pennsylvania had passed local option legislation, by which the people through majority home rule could control the licensing of the saloon. This knowledge pro- voked inquiry as to whether this condition was the will of the people of New Jersey or whether it was the result of the vote having been scientifically controlled against them. In that year a petition signed by 2,000 voters of Bergen County was presented by a delegation of Ridgewood men to their assemblymen, praying for their affirmative vote on a Local Option Bill about to come 156 PAST AND PRESENT up in the Assembly. Each of the three Bergen County assemblymen replied that he would vote as his constituents wanted him to. As not one of them recorded his vote in favor of the bill^ it became apparent that the people would have to make their will known before the pri- maries and election, rather than to waste time and effort in attempting to do so afterward. The subject then l)ecame a iiialter of votes, the all-potent factor in politics. Ridgewood citizens fortliwith organized the Bergen County Local Option League — Ridgewood Branch, with the usual officers, an executive committee of 17 and a general committee of 100. The fore- most citizens of the Village lined up behind the movement. The matter was carried into other sections of the county and similar leagues were organized in several municipalities, with w^orking committees and units in still other sections. The response everywhere to the movement was immediate and aggressive. In due time, representatives of all the leagues were brought together at a meeting in Ridgewood and a central organization known as the Bergen County Local Option League w^as formed and shortly afterward incorporated. Woman's Cliristian Temperance Union The Woman's Christian Temperance Union was organized in Ridge- wood in May, 1915, with the following original officers : President Mrs. Frank H. Valentine, Recording Secretary Mrs. Henry W. Baylis, Corresponding Secretary Mrs. F. L. Bailey. Treasurer Dr. Lynda E. H. Staff, f Mrs. William L. Platt, I Mrs. Frank H. White, Vice-Presidents ^ ^^^-^^ Herbert Eawson, 1 ice fiesiaents ^ ^^^^ Charles G. W^elti, I Mrs. B. F. Decker, I^Mrs. J. H. Ward. The organization has for its purpose the abolition of the liquor traf- fic and its kindred evils by means of church organizations, public senti- ment, suffrage, literature, education and training in public schools, and the press. There are at present 49 active members, three honorary members and three well-wishers. THE RIDGEWOOD MEDICAL SOCIETY The RidgCAvood Medical Society was organized in the fall of 1911 and incorporated under the Laws of the State of New Jersey. Its object, as set forth in the constitution, is "to advance medical science, promote friendly relations among its members, to educate and protect the public in preventive medicine and hygiene, and to safeguard the material in- terests of the profession. "Every legally registered physician residing and practicing in Ber- gen County and who is of good moral and professional standing shall be eligible for membership in the society. 157 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY "Regular meetings shall be held on the third Wednesday in each and every month at 8 :45 P.M. at such place as from time to time may be determined by the society." From its inception the society has been a success, and its value to the profession and to the community has been noticeable. At each meeting some interesting scientific topic has been discussed, many times by men from neighboring towns and cities who have presented papers and lectures, this being followed by light refreshments and general round table talk and social intercourse. Under the able administration of its officers, the first President being Dr. W. L. Vroom ; Secretary, Dr. W. C. Craig ; and Treasurer, Dr. George M. Ockford; and on through successive administrations, the society has grown and developed, its membership including all the physicians in Ridgewood, Ho-Ho-Kus, Waldwick, Allendale, Midland Park, and Wyckoff. ORGANIZATIONS FOR YOUNG MEN Although Ridgewood is not a place where evil flaunts itself, it, nevertheless, takes the precaution of protecting its young men. The two most excellent institutions of their kind in the country have branches in Ridgewood. The Young Men's Christian Association and the Boy Scouts of America are indeed organizations of which to be proud. The Young Men's Christian Association The Young Men's Christian Association, having as its objective, the spiritual, social, mental, and physical w^elfare of men and boys, takes up its work where everything else leaves off and utilizes leisure hours, unemployed time, and idle hands. Its work is mostly accom- plished in the afternoons and evenings when the schools and business places are closed. The Ridgewood Association is wielding a wonderful influence not only in our own village and county, but also throughout the whole state and is one of its strongest organizations. It was founded in 1902 with a few members. Judge Cornelius Doremus served as its first President during 1902 and 1903, and until 1906 the association occupied space in the Old Town Hall (Opera House). The Association has grown steadilj^, until it has attained, during the past four years, to the position of first rank in the State of New Jersey, in proportion to population, having at the present time 569 members, 254 of whom are between the ages of 12 and 18 years, known as juniors and intermediates. The most notable advancement has been in the Religious Depart- ment and fully 80 per cent., of the boy membership, is enrolled in the Bible study classes. Of the 73 members taking the international Bible examination in 1916-17, all passed with an average of 95 per cent, and 13 passed with 100 per cent. This remarkable showing places our 158 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY association as first in New Jersey and seventh in the United States in Bible study. The present building, erected on Oak Street in 1906, is 65 by 90 feet and with the athletic field occupying a space 225 by 500 feet lends to the various activities and serves to produce effective work in all departments. The total property investment is $32,500 free of all debt. The Jewell system of purifying the 20,000 gallons of water every 24 hours is a great attraction the year round and is in constant use, as it insures an absolutely clear swimming pool for the members and their friends. Aside from this great attraction are two bowling alleys where unusually high scores are rolled, the gymnasium of liberal di- mensions, the pool and billiard tables, the chess and checker boards, the reading room with 37 weekly and monthly magazines, and the new library with a few hundred volumes. The athletic field has a most excellent baseball diamond, two tennis courts, and an eight-lap track, where the games of many of the organi- zations in town are held. This increases the usefulness of the Y. M. C. A. and makes it a community affair. Early in May of each year the baseball team takes up the summer activities and with its weekly attraction presents most excellent enter- tainment to the people of Ridgewood and vicinity. Fully 5,000 attended the games during the 1916 season. The Y. M. C. A. team is strictly amateur, but plays the strongest semi-professional teams. Its best year was 1916, when it won 15 games, tied one, and lost four. Boy Scouts of America A branch of the Boy Scouts of America was organized in Eidgewood in 1910. The original officers were: President R. L. RoE, Vice-President F. F. Knothe, Secretary-Treasurer G. A. Schaible, Commissioner E. B. Lilly. Through the kindness of the Young Men's Christian Association the scout work was started in their building. As the membership in- creased more room was needed and in May, 1916, the Boy Scout organ- ization moved to its present headquarters in the basement of the Re- formed Church, the use of which was kindly granted by the consistory. Through the generosity of their many friends, the scouts were enabled to secure proper equipment to carry on the splendid work in a much larger way. The 70 scouts composing the organization are divided into three troops, each under the leadership of a capable scout master. Each scout is graded according to his accomplishments as tenderfoot, second class, and first class scouts. The object of the organization is to develop the boys morally, men- tally, and physically. The adherence by the boys to the scout oath and scout law are ways in which the objective is attained. 160 PAST AND PRESENT COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATIONS The Board of Trade The Board of Trade of the Village of Ridgewood was organized in 1904 with James W. Pcarsall, President; Henry L. Patterson, Judge Cornelius Doremus and Peter G. Zabriskie, Vice-Presidents; W. J. Fullerton, Treasurer; Walter W. Wilsey, Recording Secretary; and W. L. Dooley, Corresponding Secretary. The Publicity Department of the Board of Trade in 1905, first under the direction of M. T. Richardson and later under Collingwood Gordon, inaugurated one of the first campaigns conducted in the New York newspapers by a New York suburb. In this connection an at- tractive illustrated booklet, written by Henry P. Phelps, went through three editions and was distributed to about 15,000 people. As a result of a suggestion of one of its members, I. E. Hutton, a movement was started in 1906 to secure for the Village the property now forming the east Plaza which, with property acquired by the Eric Railroad on the west of the railroad, enabled Ridgewood to pave the way for the handsome new station improvements which were secured during the administration of the present ]\Iayor, the Hon. D. A. Garber. Charles Mulford Robinson, a recognized expert in town planning, was engaged to make a personal inspection of Ridgewood and to sug- gest a system of public improvements. His report was published by the Board of Trade in 1908. This organization disbanded several years ago. Business Men's Association of Bidgewood The Business Men's Association of Ridgewood was organized on November 6, 1916, by the following officers: President George R. Youxg, Vice-President I. E. Hutton, Treasurer Hervey Teriiune, Rccordinft Secretary C. C. Van Emburgii. This association, which will be incorporated as soon as the necessary papers are filed, was formed to promote friendly business relations between the business men and the public; and in a broad sense, to use its influence in any and every way to help develop and advance the best interests of Ridgewood and its people. The membership has not yet been completed but it is estimated that there will be about 100 members. 161 CHAPTER IX BURIAL PLACES PARAMUS CHURCHYARD THE oldest burial place in Ridgewood is ihat adjoining the Paramus Church, the ground for which was given to the consistory of the church by Peter Fauconier in 1730. It is not known when the first burial occurred here, though the earliest editice ha^dng been completed in 1735 renders it probable that interments took place soon after. Many of the memorial slabs bear the marks of age and many of the inscriptions are nearly obliterated. It is here that many of the earlier settlers as well as patriots of the Revolutionary War are buried. VALLEAU CEMETERY The Valleau Cemetery occupies a plot of ground ojiposite the Par- amus Church extending back from the Saddle River and is intersected by Harrison Avenue, Franklin Turnpike and the West Saddle River Road. The only part of it which has been used up to the present time is the section bounded by Harrison Avenue and Franklin Turnpike. With the exception of a small section purchased from David Gr. Aekerman, the land embraced in the cemetery was given to the Con- sistory of the Reformed Church of Paramus in 1750 by Magdalen Valleau, daughter of Peter Fauconier, in whose honor it is named. At this time an exchange of land with John Aekerman became neces- sary to determine definitely its boundaries. The cemetery was incorporated in 1859 and in November of that year rules and regulations affecting its management were adopted, to which the committee made additions in December of the same year. It is now one of the most beautifully appointed burial places in the county and its monuments and carefully maintained grounds bear M'itness to the tender memories clustering around it. TRUE REFORMED CHURCH CEMETERY On the corner of Ridgewood and South Pleasant Avenues and in the rear of the edifice of the Kenilworth Presbyterian Church is located the cemetery of the True Reformed Church, which was established by that society on a portion of the land donated to it by David Van Bus- kirk about the time of the building of their edifice in 1858. Since that time, however, the edifice has been sold to the Kenilworth Presbyterian Church, its present occupants. Since its establishment the burial place has been used as a place of interment by many of the oldest families of the township. 1(52 CHAPTER X SUMMARIZED FACTS, STATISTICS AND CHRONOLOGY Average altitude , . 200 feet Distance from New York 22 miles Trains between New York and Ridgewood More than 70 Monthly conmuitatiou to New York: $7.75 or .00587 per mile. Estimated number of commuters to New York 1100 NeAvspapers, weekly 2 Number of telepliones in service December 1, 1916 2236 t'liurcli organizations 13 Schools ( including High ) 6 Schools in construction ( High ) 1 Schools (Private) 2 Public Library 1 Hospital, complete ( Private ) 1 Banks 2 Building Loan Associations 3 Y. M. C. A. (Completely equipped and free from debt) 1 Area of Village 5.66 square miles or 3630 acres STREETS Village — Improved by macadam or brick 29.14 miles Village — Unimproved 7.94 Countv Roads 5.20 " Private 17.22 " Total 59.50 miles POPULATION 1880 500 1905 3980 1890 1047 1910 5416 1900 2685 1915 ... 6729 NEW HOMES « Average Average per year ])er year 1875 to 1885 2 to 3 1907 to 1911 100 1885 to 1895 8 to 10 1912 to 1915 35 1895 to 1906 10 to 20 1916 50 TOTAL PROPERTY VALUATION Year 1907 1908 1909 1910 1911 1912 1913 1914 1915 1916 Land $1,258,285 1,491,126 Buildings $1,938,275 2.535,500 2,892,525 3,275,225 3,514,425 3,773,025 4,060.175 4.274.525 4.418.250 4,520.000 Personal $324,975 354.750 434,800 477,876 493,541 553,993 511,807 526,973 586,835 (i 14,342 Automobiles Total $3,521,535 4,381.376 2 457 551 5,784,876 2 72f» 776 6,482,877 2 847 100 6,855,066 3 112,855 7,439,873 3.354,540 3.332.283 3.316,.305 3,302,760 $102,350 106.700 149.825 165,610 8,028,872 8,286.566 8.517,300 8,602,712 163 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY The taxable property in the Township of Ridgewood in 1876, the first year as such, was as follows: Amount taxable to residents of the Township $608,710 Amount taxable to non-residents of the Township 175,250 Total $783,960 Number of polls 303 Number of dogs 156 Amounts to be raised in the Township: State General Tax $1,235.07 County Tax 2,165.35 Bonded Debt and Interest 1.429.13 State School Tax 1,616.51 Poor Tax 403.89 Road Tax 1,000.00 Township 200.00 Total $8,049.95 In addition to the above, the School Districts voted to raise a Special School Tax, as follows: District No. 61 — Wholly within the Township $1,600.00 District No. 45 — For the part in Ridgewood Township 276.58 District No. 26 — For the part in Ridgewood Township 8.14 Total Special Tax voted by District on property in Ridgewood Township .". * $1,884.72 DERIVATION OF LOCAL NAMES RIDGEWOOD — Adopted because of its appropriateness, in 1866, at the suggestion of Mrs. Cornelia Dayton. BERGEN — Probably from "Bergen op Zoom." an important town in Holland. GODWINVILLE — From Abraham Godwin, of Revolutionary memory. HO-HO-KUS — One source says from Indian word meaning "cleft in the rock"; another authoritv, from Indian -word Mehokhokus, "red cedar." HOPPEHTOWN— The former name of Ho-Ho-Kus, from the fact of its early settle- ment by the Hopper Family. PARAMUS — From Indian, Peremessing, because of the abundance of wild turkeys. First white settlers called it "Peremesse." SADDLE RIVER — Probably from Richard Saddler, a purchaser of lands from the Indians in 1674. A CHRONOLOGY OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD 1662 — Tlie land in the Paramus section of Ridgewood was purchased from the Indians by Albert Zabrowski or Saboraweski. 1682 — Province of New Jersey divided into counties — Ridgewood then part of Essex. 1687 — A grant of land was made liy the Lords of the Province to Samuel Kingsland, of five hundred acres, in which is now Ridgewood, between the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook and Saddle River and a portion extending westerly to the Heights. 1696— -The sale of the same tract of land was made to Peter Johnson for thirty-two pounds and ten shillings. 1698 — The same tract of land came in possession of Johann Van Emburgh. 1700 — The first house was built by Johann Van Emburgh near Maple Avenue and was demolished about 1895. 1709 — Boundaries of counties changed, Ridgewood becoming part of Bergen, town- ship of Barbadoes. 1725 — The Paramus Church congregation commenced worship in 1725 or earlier. 1730 — First school established in Paramus section. 164 PAST AND PRESENT 1735 — Paramus Church was erected on land donated by Peter Fauconier. In ex- change he received in perpetuity two sittings. The building was used during the Revolution as ?, hospital and prison. Tlie present building was erected during the year 1800 and remodelled in 1875. 1750 — Magdaleii \'alleau gave land for the Valleau Cemetery opposite the Paramus Church. 1767 — Franklin Township, containing Ridgewood, set ofl" from Barbadoes Township. 1770 — A schoolhouse was erected at the junction of Harristown and Rock roads, just south of the Garret I. Hopper residence, now used as a dwelling and witliin the present limits of Glen Rock. 1775 — John Fell, of Paramus, elected Chairman of Bergen County Committee of Safety. 177fi — Washington encamjied at Paramus after his victory at Monmouth, and later in the year. Again at Paramus during 1780. General Heath encamped at Paramus. General George Clinton encamped at Paramus; also in 1777. 1777 — Colonel McClaughey encamped at Paramus. Colonel Aaron Burr achieved first military success near Paramus. 1779 — Major Henry Lee — Headquarters at Paramus. Washington army cantoned during August from Fort Defiance to Paramus. 1780 — Lord Stirling— Headquarters at Paramus. Attack on Hackensack and Paramus by British, who returned to New York City with about fifty prisoners, mostly citizens and members of the militia. 1785 — A schoolhouse was built at the Paramus Church. It was rebuilt in 1810, 1820, 1845, and 1871, and was discontinued in 1905. 1800— First grist mill built. 1818 — The present oldest citizen, John B. Van Dien, was born in Ridgewood. 1823 — The Kenilworth Collegiate Church was organized as the True Reformed Dutch Church of Paramus. Present building erected in 1858. In 1870, reorganized as Kenilworth Church, and changed to the Presbyterian denomination in 1898. 1829 — Locality afterward known as Godwinville — ^named in honor of Abraham Godwin, of Revolutionary memory. The oldest road in Ridgewood, and associated with the historic days of the Revolution, was known as the Godwinville Road. It is now called Ridgewood and Go0 — First National Bank opened. First issue of Ridgeicood Herald. 190Q — Public Water Supply, Gas, and Gamewell Fire Alarm System were installed. Ramapo Valley Chapter, Daughters of The Revolution, organized. Last fire of a disastrous character. Eagle Hose Company, No. 1, organized. Later changed to Hose Company No. 1. Practice established of placing signs on houses containing contagious diseases. 1901 — Ridgewood Golf Club organized; later merged with Ridgewood Covuitry Club. Trees planted by citizens on Franklin, Godwin, and Ridgewood Avenues, through efforts of Village Improvement Association. 1902 — Y. M. C. A. was founded. Present building erected in 1906 and entirely clear of debt in 1916. Woman's Auxiliary, Y. M. C. A., organized. Private School established by James B. Parsons. Part of Orvil Township added to northeastern portion of Ridgew^ood. 1903 — -Sewerage System installed. Mail delivery by carriers was commenced with three carriers. Old Union Street School Building demolished and a new one erect^'d and occupied in 1905. Paramus Valley Photographic Association organized. First Church of Christ Scientist organized. Building dedicated in 1912. 1904 — Board of Trade organized. Ridgewood Branch National Association of Letter Carriers organized. 1905 — Bethlehem Lutheran Church inaugurated. Mount Bethel Baptist (Colored) Church organized. Four-room school buildings erected and occupied on Kenilworth Place, Union and Monroe Streets. 1906 — Ridgewood Trust Company opened. First Board of Health appointed. 1907 — Glen Rock Building & Loan Association organized. 1908 — The Arrow, a periodical of the Ridgew^ood High School, established. 1909 — The Editor magazine moved to Ridgewood. Ridgewood Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, organized. Village Shade Tree Commission established. Relief Society was organized. In 1913 name changed to Social Service Asso- ciation. Third District Court opened by Judge Cornelius Doremus. Orpheus Club organized. Woman's Club established. Federated in 1910 and incorporated in 1914. 1910 — Upper Ridgewood Association organized. Linwood Park dedicated on Arbor Day and marked the beginning of a Park System. Kenilworth and iMonroe Street Schools were each enlarged from four to nine rooms. North Jersey Rapid Transit Company trolley road was opened. First celebration of the 4th of July was held by the Independence Day Asso- ciation. Voters' League organized. Ridgewood Country Club organized. Branch of Boy Scouts of America organized. The Federated Men's Club of the Churches of Ridgewood organized. 1911 — Commission Government established. Alumni Association, Ridgewood High School, organized. Ridgewood ^Medical Society organized. Court Midland Park, Foresters of America, organized. Woodrow Wilson, then Governor of New Jersey, addressed citizens during political campaign. Daniel A. Garber elected first Mayor. Harrison Avenue School completed. 107 RIDGEWOOD, BERGEN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY Municipal Building erected. Ridgewood Country Club and Ridgcwood Golf Club consolidated under the name of former. 1912 — The Cecilia Society organized. Kenihvorth Parents and Teachers' Association organized. Woman's Club of Upper Ridgewood organized. Republican Club organized. Junior Auxiliary, Daughters of the Revolution organized. In 1913 name of Penelope von I'rincips Chapter, Junior Sons and Daughters of the Revolu- tion, adopted and clianged in 1914 to Theodosia Burr Chapter. Upper Ridgewood Primary School started. White Star Athletic Club name changed to Town Club. West Side Collegiate Church organized. Present building erected in 1913, with an additional wing in 1915. Ridgewood entertained on May 25tli a President of the United States, for the first time in its history, in the person of President William Howard Taft. Present Post Office Building erected and occupied. 191. '5 — Upper Ridgewood Community Church Society organized. College Club ( Woman ) organized. Woman's Political Ujiion organized. In 1916 absorbed by the Woman's Suf- frage Association. Citizens and Taxpayers' Association organized. New High School site and Athletic Field — Heermance Place and Ridgewood Avenue, was purchased. Three portable school houses were placed on Beech Street school grounds. Paramus Chapter, New Jersey Society, Sons of the American Revolution organized. West Side Collegiate Church dedicated. Company L, 5tli Regiment, N. G., N. J., formed. Osman Building completed. Ridgewood Country Club House opened. Town Club mo\cd to new quarters formerly occupied by Ridgewood Golf Club. Play House opened. Opera House rehabilitated. Police dogs introduced by Police Department. 1914 — Ridgewood Council, Knights of Columbus, organized. Local Option League organized. Old elm at Ho-Ho-Kus marked by Ramapo Valley Chapter, D. R., as a route of Washington's Army. Tablet placed by New .Jersey Society, S. A. R., in conjunction with Paramus Chapter No. 6 on Paramus Church to commemorate events of the Revolu- tionary War connected with its history. Garden Club of Ridgewood organized. League for Creative Work organized. Recorder's Court established. Wilsey Building completed. Reformed Church House completed and dedicated. East Side AutO' Bus Line established. Public Service Railway Company's trolley line to Paterson opened. Fidelity Lodge, Free and Accepted ilasons purchased old Town Club quarters. 1915 — -Citizens' dinner to members of G. A. R. — 50th Anniversary of cementing of peace between North and South. Monroe Home and School Association organized. Woman's Christian Temperance Union organized. Ridgewood Rifle Club organized. Poition of northwestern jtart of Ridgewood annexed to Orvil Township. Contract awarded f(ir new station and surrounding improvements. .Maple Avenue improved — new Aniasite roadway. Glen Rock to Ho-Ho-Kus. Cliurch of Our Lady of ]\lonnt Carmel, new building completed. Prospect and Hudson Streets. 1916 — Terhune's and Jackson's West Side Auto Bus Lines established. Community Christmas Festival established. 168 PAST AND PRESENT Citizens' High Scliool Association organized \ ictoria School for Little Children establislied by Miss Vivia Victoria and named m memory of her mother, Metta Victoria Victor, the authoress Uie Jxiilgewood Tunes established by J. Douglas Gessford Iranscontinental Telephone Demonstration over lines of the American Tele- phone k lelegraph Company between Ridgewood, San Francisco and Pase- dena, California. Ihe first time in history that officials of the Masonic Urder extended veibal greetings to each other across the Continent Semi-Centennial Association incorporated. School Board reduced by citizens' vote to five members Pi^paredness Mass Meeting by citizens under the auspices of National Security Day Nursery opened. Company L Fifth Regwent, N. G., N. J., in Federal Service on Mexican Border, stationed at Douglas, Arizona. Infantile Paralysis EpidenTic; Ridgewood afflicted with only one case, not Ridgewood Chapter, American Red Cross, oioanized Grade Crossings at Ridgewood, Godwin an-l^Franklin Avenues abolished, ublic'*" ' ^°'^^^''n ''^"