Local History: Travel through Time

The thrill is in the chase. One of the great pleasures of pursuing local history is choosing a destination -- say, the location of Carteret Academy, circa 1912 -- finding old maps and the Essex County atlas, packing a snack, and setting out. Now, at 2011's end, and with long winter days ahead, I'd like to offer a few destinations of local interest. The links offer more details, including contact information and directions.

, while in Verona, is of considerable local interest. Built by a cousin of , the castle was built in the same period as our own . The castle is modeled on a Norman manor house, and its grounds offer a winter-time view of Manhattan that can't be beat. At this time of year, the home is closed, but the grounds are the real draw, and they're open to the public.

2. Thomas Edison's home is in Llewellyn Park, West Orange. The house is stunning, but so is the entire community, and a visit to Glenmont is a way to get beyond the gates. Drive or walk slowly to savor the remarkable architecture in a surprisingly rustic setting.

3. The where Thomas Edison invented light bulbs and power naps is open again to the public. It's a great trip for all ages, and is far more accessible than in past years. What impressed me about this place in fourth grade and still awes me is how the lab truly is a factory, not simply for products but for ideas. Besides, ; it's time for us to return the visit.

4. The is the final stop for many of the earliest settlers in our area, including . The grave markers are very moving; some reflect English birthplaces, while others show a lifespan measured in years, months, and even days. Particularly interesting to me are the graves that reflect both the Julian and Gregorian calendars in use at that period; this is unusual, and well worth a look. 

5. One of my favorite rides is from end to end. Our major thoroughfare has seen Native Americans, traders, soldiers and settlers in its long history. No wonder; it leads to and from the Hudson, which has been important even before Peter Stuyvesant came calling. I also like the literary resonance; Philip Roth's "Goodbye Columbus" has Neil, the main character, traveling through the night from Newark to Short Hills, probably by way of South Orange Avenue.