“A sometimes overlooked area of history is that of agriculture.” Newark might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of nurseries, but in the 19th century, it was a major hub for the nursery industry. Two prominent nurserymen, Charles W. Stuart and Charles H. Perkins, saw the potential of Newark’s fertile land and access to markets via the Erie Canal and railroads. They established vast nurseries, covering hundreds of acres, and specialized in growing fruit and nursery stock. Other firms followed suit, and Newark became a leading nursery stock center in the country. This industry brought prosperity to Newark, providing jobs for countless families. Field workers toiled in the nurseries, planting, tending, and digging up stock. Packers carefully prepared the plants for shipping, while salesmen, armed with full-color plate books, traveled the country, enticing customers with the promise of beautiful gardens and bountiful harvests. The nursery owners themselves became wealthy and influential figures. They contributed to the cultural fabric of Newark, shaping its character and leaving a lasting legacy on the town. Even today, you can still see the remnants of this once-thriving industry in the names of streets and businesses, a testament to Newark’s fascinating past as a nursery capital.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to