Question: What if these walls of Glen Ridge Borough Hall could talk? What tales would they tell?
Glen Ridge Borough Hall stands here as a symbol of community and history. It represents Glen Ridge’s journey from its early beginnings to the present day.
Glen Ridge’s story began in 1666. Sixty-four Connecticut families led by Robert Treat bought land from the Lennilenape Indians. They named it New Ark. This name reflected their covenant to worship freely.
The territory included the future towns of Bloomfield, Montclair, Belleville, and Nutley. In 1812, Bloomfield seceded. Glen Ridge became a section “on the hill”. It was mostly farms and woodlands. A thriving industrial area existed along Toney’s Brook in the Glen.
Three water-powered mills produced lumber, calico, pasteboard boxes, and brass fittings for most of the 19th century. A copper mine and a sandstone quarry were nearby.
The Newark and Bloomfield Railroad arrived in 1856. The New York, Montclair and Greenwood Lake Railroad arrived in 1872. Glen Ridge began its transformation into a suburban residential community. Stately homes gradually replaced orchards and wooded fields.
Residents “on the hill” grew dissatisfied with their representation on the Bloomfield Council. Roads remained unpaved. Water and sewer systems were nonexistent. Schools were miles away. This was despite repeated requests to Bloomfield officials.
Several men gathered on the third floor of Robert Rudd’s home on Ridgewood Avenue in 1895. They marked out the boundaries of a 1.45 square mile area. This area would secede from the adjoining town. The decision to secede passed by only twenty-three votes at the February 12, 1895 election. Robert Rudd became Glen Ridge’s first mayor.
Glen Ridge Borough was incorporated on February 13, 1895. This act of the New Jersey Legislature was based on the results of a referendum held the previous day. Glen Ridge separated from portions of Bloomfield Township.
Glen Ridge Borough Hall has likely witnessed many important decisions and events over the years. It stands as a reminder of the town’s rich history and the dedication of its residents.
Consider joining the Glen Ridge Historic Society to delve deeper into the borough’s past. Glen Ridge Borough Hall continues to serve as the center of local government. It reflects the ongoing story of this vibrant community. It ensures a bright future for generations to come.