Ever heard of a town lit by the first electric streetlights? That’s Roselle Park for you. A small borough in Union County New Jersey Roselle Park boasts a fascinating past. It’s a place where history whispers on every corner.
Before Roselle Park there were the Lenape Indians. They roamed the land. Their trails became colonial roads. Westfield Avenue an old Indian trail winds through Roselle Park. The story of Roselle Park really begins with Samuel Williams. In 1700 he settled near the meandering Westfield Avenue. His family named the area Williams Farms.
The Revolutionary War left its mark too. Galloping Hill Road a vital artery saw many a messenger race past. British columns marched down this very road. They were on their way to the Battle of Connecticut Farms. A tragic event occurred near Galloping Hill Road. The son of General William Crane was killed. A monument stands in his memory.
Railroads fueled Roselle Park’s growth. The Central Railroad’s Mulford Station served the community. It was renamed Roselle after the railroad president’s friend John Pierre Roselle. This area became North Roselle in the late 1800s. Residents longed for better services. They desired a sewer system better schools and more.
In 1901 Roselle Park was incorporated. Mr Keddie suggested the name. The first mayor was John Cummings. One of their first projects was installing a sewer system. Simon Birmingham became Roselle Park’s first police officer.
Charles E Stone’s grocery store held a special place in history. It was the first store worldwide lit by electricity. Thomas A Edison wired it. The Roselle Park Veterans Memorial Library stands today. It’s a testament to community spirit. Its over 10000 square feet hold books computers and more. It also hosts many events and programs.
Roselle Park’s history is not just about railroads and electricity. It’s about the people who shaped it. The volunteers the community organizations. It’s a place that continues its spirited tradition. It’s a community supporting its needs building a better place for all. Roselle Park is a place of rich history. Come and explore it.