Paramus Focuses on Preserving Its History

Paramus is putting a new focus on preserving its history.

Five members were sworn in Tuesday to the new Historic Preservation Committee which is already gearing up to take on a number of projects designed to highlight and protect Paramus history.

"This is something we have to get back to," said Mayor Richard LaBarbiera. "So we don't lose any more treasures in this town."

Councilman Ralph Amato stressed the importance of preserving history referring to the loss of the Zabriskie House last year, a piece of African-American and Paramus history, which was torn down by a developer to make room for luxury homes.

The rare Dutch sandstone architecture, which stood on Dunkerhook Road, was once home to the prominent Zabriskies, one of Bergen County’s founding families, and the Bennett and the Stewart families, slaves that built the structure in 1790.

The newly formed commission consists of Cynthia Fordman, Joe Warburton, Scott Barone, Peter Evans and Pat Warburton, who is the alternate member.

The commisson's mission is to "learn from the past to preserve the future," said new Councilwoman Donna Warburton.

Initial projects including engaging residents on the borough's history through the Paramus website.

Warburton said they are also seeking historical photos which will be framed and displayed in the council chambers at Borough Hall.

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