Summit Historical Society

The Summit Historical Society: A Treasure Trove of Local History

The Summit Historical Society, established in 1929, stands as a vital institution dedicated to preserving the rich history of Summit, United States. Although it remained largely inactive until the 1960s, renewed interest catalyzed its revival. In 1962, the Summit Herald highlighted the need for a historical society, only to discover that one was already in existence. This newfound enthusiasm for Summit’s heritage has since driven the society to actively collect and share information about the town’s past.

Extensive Archives and Resources

Today, the Summit Historical Society boasts a large and diverse archive. This collection includes photographs, genealogy files, Summit house files, historic structure surveys, maps, newspapers, postcards, yearbooks, and city tax atlases. Remarkably, the archive features city directories dating back to 1890, offering invaluable insights for researchers and history enthusiasts alike. The society is committed to continually enhancing this archive, encouraging donations of materials that relate to Summit’s history.

Visiting Hours and Lectures

If you are interested in exploring the Summit Historical Society in person, their hours are as follows: from September to June, they are open on Tuesdays from 9 am to 12 pm and Wednesdays from 1 pm to 4 pm. During July and August, visits are available by appointment only. The society invites everyone to come and discover the stories and artifacts that make Summit unique.

Engaging Community Events

One of the highlights of the society’s programming is the lecture delivered by President Patricia Meola. This 45-minute presentation delves into the history of Summit, with each letter of the alphabet representing a person or place connected to the city’s narrative. Additionally, Meola has provided insights into the history of various homes in Summit, detailing the lives of their residents.

A Historic Moment: The Old Sow Cannon

An important event in Summit’s history occurred on June 6, 1780. An explosion from the “Old Sow” cannon, fired by Richard Swain of the New Jersey Militia, marked a crucial moment. It signaled to George Washington’s Continental soldiers at Jockey Hollow that Summit was under threat from approximately 6,000 British and Hessian troops. Such events punctuate the historical significance of this vibrant community.

In conclusion, the Summit Historical Society plays a critical role in safeguarding the local history of Summit. Through extensive archives and engaging community events, they foster an appreciation for the past that enriches the present. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, the society welcomes you to explore Summit’s captivating history.