Celebrating Montague, NJ & its Heritage

2012-01-27T15:40:00.000-05:00

Looking for something fun to do this weekend?

The Friends of High Point State Park are sponsoring their annual Winter Festival, a celebration of snow and ice (even if there hasn't been much of either so far this year), Saturday, January 28 from 12:00 to 3:00 PM, in the High Point State Park Interpretive Center.
Activities will include a guided hike, winter weather presentation, bird feeder and seasonal crafts for children, a decorate-your-own cookie and cupcake station, storytime, sing-a-long, and hot cocoa by the fire.

Please visit the Friends of HPSP blog for a complete schedule of activities.
The event is free, but donations are appreciated.
Snow date is Sunday, January 29.

2012-01-26T18:53:00.000-05:00

Disadvantages in being in the chilly corner of northern NJ:
With tonite's temps hovering around 33 with a rain/ snow/sleet mix threatened til 10pm, when it's supposed to warm up, the historical society meeting scheduled for Thurs. Jan. 26th has been cancelled.
M.A.R.C.H. hopes to be able to meet in Feb.

2011-12-04T09:12:00.002-05:00

Consider joining M.A.R.C.H. as a member as part of a New Year's resolution!

Help the township's historical society protect and preserve the last vestiges of this valley's rich history.

Two hundred thirty five years have passed since Gen. Horatio Gates arrived with four regiments from the Nothern Department into this corner of NJ. He led a column of six hundred men along Old Mine Road, who spent the night in the village of Montague on Dec. 11th, 1776. They were attempting to unite with Gen. Washington for his famed crossing of the Delaware River into Trenton, but were delayed by a winter storm which detained them in the hamlet of Walpack [as recorded in the diary of Gates' Chaplain, David Avery].

2011-11-17T09:35:00.000-05:00

Montague Post Office's 30th year!

Originally from 1815 through 1823, the Montague P.O. was known as "Brick House" - referencing the building, and also the village center in which it sat. Montague continued operating a class 4 post office until February 29, 1908. A class 4 designation reflected a rural locale, and designated how the postmaster was appointed and the amount of business being transacted. Change came in 1908- when the Postmaster General felt that, as a result of rural free delivery and our small population, the town would be better serviced from Port Jervis, N.Y.

Thomas V. Cole had been the township's last and longest serving postmaster, holding the position for 34 years from 1874 until 1908. He was connected with the Martin Cole Store which opened in 1870, and ran it at that time. It is likely that was why the store is recalled as having been an adjunct location for postal matters after the official Montague P.O. was discontinued.

2011 marks 30 years since the existing location at the Clove Road Mini-Mall opened on Jan. 24, 1981 as Montague's contracted post office [CPO], with its local deliveries routed through Branchville, NJ. It was a change that took 20 years. The Port Jervis, NY address being used by township residents had caused greater issues with mail order sales and state income taxes, insurance policies, driver's license applications, etc. With the help of Rep. James Courter, the matter was resolved. Former R.D. addresses via Port Jervis, NY 12771 were then renamed as RFD routes of Montague, NJ 07827.

The CPO opened with 60 lock boxes - all rented within a month. Helen (Zitone) Gassmann ran the office for three years as its first contracting officer. Postal lockboxes, once located by the old gatehouse for mail delivery to residents of the Current High Point Country Club, { then called Canyon Ridge} were moved into the CPO lobby in 1982. Renovations, to further expand the post office's space to its current size, occured in 1984.
The present Distribution Window Clerk, John Newcomer, has served full time since 1993.

Montague's population census totals:

1930 = 581; 1940 = 621; 1950 = 602; 1960 = 879; 1970 = 1,131;
1980 = 2,066; 1990 = 2,832; 2000 = 3,412; 2010 = 3,837

2011-11-10T22:54:00.000-05:00

2011-11-10T22:53:00.000-05:00

Col. Anthony Kuser was interested in wild life and natural history. He thus acquired a large estate on Kittatiny Mountain, including High Point, 1805 feet high, highest point in New Jersey, and Lake Marcia, the state's highest lake, and maintained it as a wild life sanctuary. In 1922 he turned it all over to the state, which then placed it under the care of the High Point State Park Commission, with Wayne Dumont as chairman. It was extensively developed with state appropriations.

Col. Kuser gave funds for the erection of a perpetually lighted war memorial tower, to the soldiers and sailors of New Jersey who gave their lives in the various wars of the Nation, on the summit of High Point.

Source of data: Scenic and historic America, Volumes 1-2

by American Scenic and Historic Preservation Society

2011-10-27T14:48:00.000-04:00

All Hallow's Eve - Harvest Fest

Halloween, known in the Netherlands as All Hallows Eve or "vooravond van Allerheiligen", was initially brought to North America with Irish and British colonists. It was not widely observed until the larger influx of European immigrants in the 19th century [late 1800's] and trick or treating was not recognized as commonplace until the early 1900's. In Ireland, however, Halloween remains much more a harvest festival.

2011-10-12T21:55:00.000-04:00

Sussex County Heritage Tour this weekend

The Foster-Armstrong House will be one of a number of locations opening up for tours this Sat. and Sun., Oct. 15th and 16th, as part of a county-wide effort to celebrate the county's rich history - in conjunction with the truly unique traveling exhibition being hosted at the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council in Newton, NJ. The ca. 1790 house will open between 1 and 4pm and on Sunday only, a banjo minstrel will offer up some musical tunes and tales.

At SCAHC, the exhibit entitled "New Harmonies" lets anyone stopping in try playing the spoons, a rub board, or a diddley bow. Discover what old tyme country, polka, blues, gospel, klezmer, folk, zydeco and hip-hop have in common .... and hear samples of many of these. The exhibit has been touring the nation, and Sussex County is currently hosting it at SCAHC, 133 Spring Street until Oct. 30th.

2011-09-17T20:54:00.003-04:00

Did you know there is a Constitution Day -
when our Constitution of the United States
marked its 224th birthday?!

On Sept. 17th 1787, the draft of the Constitution was signed and formed the foundation upon which the United States of America organized its government. This link tells the story of its creation.

2011-09-11T12:22:00.000-04:00

9/11: Ten Years Later

It’s hard to believe it’s been ten years since that tragic morning of September 11, 2001. While a full decade has passed, the memories of that day remain seared in our hearts and minds. Many of us will never forget where we were and how we felt when we first heard the news. And many of us will never forget the friends and family whose lives were cut short that day.

As we gather together today to mark the ten year anniversary of September 11, let us honor and remember the many legacies left behind on that fateful morning. Let us honor and remember the heroism displayed by the first responders who ran into the burning buildings; let us honor and remember the search and rescue teams that scoured the debris of ground zero for survivors; and let us honor and remember the brave men and women of our armed forces that have brought justice to the enemy.

To say September 11 was a defining moment for our country would be an incredible understatement. After September 11, we learned that the forces that unite us are far stronger than those which seek to divide us. They say that the true test of a people’s strength is how they rise to confront a challenge when it arrives. Following the attacks of September 11, Americans of all stripes united together as one behind a common purpose. In our country’s greatest hour of darkness, the resiliency of the American spirit shined brighter than ever before and our nation grew stronger.

Every time we feel we have reached our limit, we are reminded that our potential knows no end. Today, our problems are more focused on the state of our economy and our country’s finances. While we face many challenges on the road to recovery, we can still move forward with the same determination that inspired us a mere decade ago. I have always held the utmost faith in the will of the American people. September 11 awakened us to the worst of humanity, but brought out the best in all of us.

My thoughts and prayers are with all those who mourn the loss of loved ones on this day. May God bless their memory and may God bless the United States of America.

Sincerely,

U.S. Congressman Scott Garrett

2011-08-17T14:39:00.004-04:00

Public Hearing August 17, 2011 at the Montague Municipal Building

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
Green Acres Program - Notice of Public Hearings on Proposed Conveyance
(Lease) of State-owned Lands in High Point State Park (Montague Township, Sussex County), Long Pond Ironworks State Park (West Milford Township and
Ringwood Borough, Passaic County) and Ringwood State Park (Ringwood Borough, Passaic County and Mahwah Township, Bergen County).
Take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 13:1D-51 through 58, the State of New Jersey, Department or Environmental Protection ("NDJEP" or Department"), Green Acres Program, will hold three public hearings to seek comments on a proposed 25-year conveyance (lease) to Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company ("Tennessee") of certain State-owned lands, described more specifically below, in High Point State Park (Montague Township, Sussex County), Long Pond Ironworks State Park (West Milford Township and Ringwood Borough, Passaic County), and Ringwood State Park (Ringwood Borough, Passaic County and Mahwah Township, Bergen County).

One only needs to go to nearby Vernon, NJ to see what's ahead in terms of clearcut deforestation, earth removal and truck traffic. Similar projects raise concerns in residential areas.

2011-08-12T13:48:00.001-04:00

Photo: Courtesy Congressman Garrett's office

Montague resident picked as Senior of the Year

The county award announced at Thursday's Senior Day at the NJ State Fair, hosted by the Division of Senior Services, went to Louis Avenatti of Montague.

Avenatti is an active member of the Montague Senior Club, volunteers as an income tax filer for seniors, and has organized seniors to assist with the Sussex County Food Pantry. He was nominated as Sr. volunteer of the Year by the township committee.

"He is tireless in his pursuit of programs, speakers and activities that will offer valuable information, advice or entertainment to our seniors", said Lorraine Hentz, Sussex County Division of Senior Services director.

Also nominated on the county level, hailing from Montague was Joseph Lashendock Jr.

2011-08-09T07:40:00.000-04:00

BEAR info -
To report a nuisance black bear, call the DEP's 24-hour, toll-free hotline: 1-877-WARN DEP (1-877-927-6337).

If a bear is seen around your neighborhood, it is important to immediately discourage repeat visits. What you can do is determine if there is anything attracting it in your neighborhood that will cause the bear to return. If you have unsecured garbage, pet food, barbecue grills, or other food items available in your yard, you should secure those items as soon as possible.
A nuisance bear is one that looks for handouts, hangs around because it thinks food is available, or becomes aggressive, etc. More information about bears is available on this NJ website.

Due to a shortage of acorns this year, bears will be looking for alternative food sources and have already been more active trying to access them. If a bear lingers near your house for an extended time, despite loud noises being made - report it before it causes damage.

2011-08-06T18:33:00.003-04:00

Did you know - Montague almost had a railroad track running through town!

The Evening Gazette, July 24, 1873 (page 1)

2011-07-19T07:11:00.000-04:00

112 years ago......

"The Reformed' church at Montague, N. J., which has recently been rebuilt, was dedicated to the worship of God on the 18th of July. Rev. J. L. Stillwell a former pastor, presided and delivered a brief address. Rev. T. H. MacKenzie preached an impressive sermon from I. Tim. iii. 15, after which the venerable S. W. Mills, D.D., led in the dedicatory prayer. The other ministers who took part in the exercises were Revs. Thomas Kichols, D.D., W. A Mackenzie, T. D. Harris and Charles H. Whittaker." - as reported on page 193 of the August 3rd, 1899 issue The Christian Work: illustrated family newspaper, Vol. 67.

The current building is the third structure for this congregation. The Minisink Dutch Reformed congregation dates to 1737.

2011-07-07T09:16:00.008-04:00

Congratulations Miss Montague 2011

Haley Jacob has been crowned Miss Montague and will represent our township at the Sussex County Fair.

Congratulations also go to the Royal Court:

Junior Miss Montague - Paige Lynn Conklin

Little Miss Montague - Alexys Mitchell

Little Mr. Montague - Owen T. Kelly

This year's pageant was sponsored by the Montague Vol. Fire Dept.

2011-07-04T11:57:00.000-04:00

Reflections on the significance of Independence Day...

{Shared with Permission}

We celebrate today our nation's birth. And, as with all birthdays, this day naturally leads us to recall our nation's beginnings.

We gratefully call to mind those courageous people who brought this nation into existence. We easily recall such names as George Washington, Commander of the armies of the colonies. We think back to Paul Revere, and the lanterns in the Old North Church tower; the Minutemen of Lexington and Concord; John Paul Jones, Admiral of the American Fleet; Patrick Henry, with his famous words in the Virginia Statehouse: "Give me liberty or give me death." Nathan Hale, who acted on these words with his own last pronouncement: "I regret that I have but one life to give for my country." Thomas Jefferson, who penned the words of the Declaration of Independence.

All of these individuals and events were inspired by the single dream, a single hope of freedom and liberty. What does 'liberty' mean anyway? What is meant by 'true freedom?'

Those forefathers in 1776 founded this nation as a bold experiment in opposition to what they had experienced up till then. They were tired of living under conditions where the whims and motives of a king would determine your future. They felt that conditions could be much better if everyone were treated equally, under laws which all agreed to follow. It would be written laws, first the Articles of Confederation, then the Constitution, under which disputes and conduct would be judged--not by a ruler who could be swayed by his own self-interest. George Washington, when he was inaugurated as the first President in 1789, expressly called for a simple ceremony, without the trappings of royalty, or any hints of a royal coronation. No, the first term of the first presidency would set a new course, where freedom and liberty would be guarded by laws.

So it is very important to stop and reflect upon .. what is freedom, what is liberty? Is it the right to do anything you want, how you want? ... I don't think that is what the founders had in mind. That instead is 'license,' and unfortunately we see all around us the effects of people who confuse 'liberty' with 'license.' From throwing your litter anywhere, to disturbing the peace with blasting music, to using public office to steal public funds, 'license' is really a disrespect for others. It is putting yourself and your interests first, with total disregard for the rights and sensitivities of others. I don't think that our fore-fathers fought, died, and risked everything so that we could race our cars down the highways.

True freedom respects others as equals, and asks the question: how can I pursue life, liberty and happiness, without disregarding the next person's right to do the same. True liberty means living as a social being, with responsibilities towards others and towards the country we inhabit. In fact there can be no true freedom, no true liberty .. without responsibility. And that may be where our society seems to be breaking down. All people want their freedoms, but too many, it seems, don't accept their responsibilities.

The Church makes a great contribution to our nation by its insistence that we are all responsible to the Lord, and to each other, For all the talk about separation of Church and State, the State would have fallen apart long ago, if the Churches hadn't stressed that ideal of moral responsibility, And to the degree that people heed this message, only to that degree can our nation flourish. Only to that degree will citizens look beyond their own immediate interests ... to the common good.

May we pray today that the Lord be allowed to play a greater role in our nation's life. As our fore-fathers called upon God to witness their actions 235 years ago, and called upon the Lord to guide the young nation's future, so must we. May we pray that our elected leaders may listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit, and to the voice of their conscience, in making the decisions which affect all of us. And may all citizens take seriously the need to be vigilant and to take initiative in ensuring that the freedoms we enjoy will be protected. May all citizens work towards the day where everyone is treated fairly and equally, where there is true 'liberty and justice for all.'

God Bless America!

2011-05-25T21:18:00.000-04:00

Memorial Day.......

more than an unofficial start to the anticipated summer season, a long weekend filled with BBQ's, etc. - let us not forget to stop and recall those who gave their lives, so that we could

live ours in FREEDOM.

Postcard Image(s) courtesy VintageHolidayCrafts.com

The annual Memorial Day Service will be held

May 30th at 10 am

at the Montague Municipal Building.

2011-05-08T19:37:00.000-04:00

El Paso Corp. files Northeast Upgrade proposal with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Information and current documents can be accessed though the electronic library - FERC Documents.

2011-04-20T19:46:00.000-04:00

Spring is busting out all over....

April showers have not stopped a flurry of activities, as folks gladly shake off cabin fever after what seemed to be a never ending Winter season.

Students got a change of pace this week with Spring break; area churches have services observing Holy Week and Easter Sunday; the annual Easter Egg hunt is being hosted by the Minisink Reformed Church.
The Montague Vol Fire Dept., the Recreation Dept. and the High Point Country Club Community Corp. are all combining efforts to support this community event. Come to the Minisink Reformed Church Pavilion on Clove Rd. for breakfast beinning at 9AM on April 23rd. The Easter Bunny will make an appearance, and the egg hunt will follow at 11AM.

Trailblazers Camp is inviting folks to visit their site between mile markers 4 and 5 at 210 Deckertown Turnpike (CR 650) from 12 - 4PM for their annual Earth Day and Open House Event. With games, tours, Earth Day activities and a BBQ, there will be something for everyone. For those with green fingers, help our resident botanist plant the TBC garden. There will be tours of our beautiful property with the assistant director, Martin, who will a tell you all about our program and the environment the children inhabit over the summer.
Take a boat or a canoe out on the lake and get a lesson in boating and fishing with Program director, James. There will be a sign up area for Sleep Away and Day Camp this summer.
Please send them an email to info@trailblazers.org if you plan to attend.

M.A.R.C.H., Montague's Historical Society, is meeting Thurs. evening April 30th at 7PM at the Foster-Armstrong site. Come out if have an interest or curiousity about the area's rich heritage. The group could use help in getting both its sites spruced up and painted, and staffed for summer tours.

M.A.R.C.H. can now be found on Facebook!

The Montague Grange, located on River Rd. between Millville & Weider Rd.'s, is having an Open House. You can visit their building and see what they are all about on Sat. April 30th from 1-4:30 PM.
Free Giveaways and Door Prizes!

2011-04-03T10:29:00.001-04:00

Buds are bursting out all over ... maybe Spring is finally here ?!

Did you know "Phenology" is the study of nature's changes?
Take the kids outside - notice what's new.

Amidst these signs of color, pink surveyors flags have been seen around town. Some mark two alternative routes for the planned Northeast Upgrade to the Tennessee Gas Pipeline (TGP).
Read a NJSpotlight post about this issue.
The Northeast Upgrade is the connecting link in the "300 Line Project".
The existing Right of Way, which was acquired c. 1955, predated the creation of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Holiday Lake community, now known as High Point Country Club, which it traverses. TGP also crosses High Point State Park.

2011-04-01T15:00:00.014-04:00

B.E.A.R. Learning Fair

“B.E.A.R.” stands for Better Education for All Residents.

The event is being held at the Montague Township Elementary School located at 475 U.S. Highway 206 on Saturday, April 2nd, from 9 AM to 12 Noon. The desire of the planners is that the community will take part with demonstrations and/or classes for adults and/or children. Among the local groups participating with exhibits or presentations:
Boy Scouts; Girl Scouts; Pre-schools and Day care from the area; YMCA; Trailblazers; Montague Education Association; PTA Voter Registration; Montague Volunteer Fire Department; Montague Grange; M.A.R.C.H. - Montague Township's Historical Society.

2011-03-26T17:44:00.005-04:00

Spring.... it's time to chase Old Man Winter away!

Last week's brief reprieve to sweater weather was cruelly followed by more snow days and chilly winter-like days. Flocks of robins were spotted..and crocuses are blooming, with tulips and hyacinths pushing their leaves and buds up from the cold ground... so it's just a matter of time.

Celebrate Nature Coffee House
The Friends of High Point State Park welcome spring and recognize Earth Day with their 2nd Annual Celebrate Nature Coffee House on Saturday, April 16, 2011, 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm.
Lineup of great musicians: Hard Luck, featuring Ray Sikora, Brian McArdle, and Michel Beliveau, entertain with some amazing harmonies. Joe Rocco rocks High Point State Park at 1:30 pm.Tim Blohm takes the stage with some classic rock and country at 2:30 pm. Walkabout Clearwater Chorus, founded by Pete Seeger in 1984 as a musical arm of the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, will immerse everyone in folk music from 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm.
Please visit http://www.friendshighpointstatepark.blogspot.com/ for information.

2011-03-07T19:55:00.002-05:00

Can Spring be far behind...??

With the return of Red-winged blackbirds and geese flying in.. weeping willows turn golden, and trees starting to bud.. and bulbs start to push up their greenery from what [ only last week ] was frozen & snow covered ground.
It's closer than we realize.

Change through or as a result of growth = last 3 census' showed Montague Township population at 2,832 in 1990, at 3,412 in 2000, and at last count in 2010 at 3,847!

While more showers may come - they will spare us the March 6th deluge and a resulting flood watch on the Delaware River while it crested at 19.27 feet, the evening of March 7th, 2011.

Such snow melts enhanced by rains caused the Spring freshes which ran the river rafters downstream in olden days.

2011-02-09T08:31:00.007-05:00

Little League history.. for Montague!

For the longest time that most younger families recall, Montague has had the opportunity for its young people to play under baseball leagues from our section of Sussex County, or in the Tri-State Area.

However... as of 2011 - Montague Township is now chartered to have its very own Little League and its players will proudly sport "MONTAGUE" shirts!

2011-01-25T19:41:00.003-05:00

Learning to appreciate what surrounds us... !

Montague Township abuts the Wild and Scenic Delaware River and lies to the north of the famous Water Gap. Montague links to that land feature via the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation area, which also covers adjacent PA.

DISCOVERING DELAWARE WATER GAP, A Field Book for Young Naturalists can help us value what is here and better understand the unique qualities of this part of NJ.

2011-01-05T20:54:00.005-05:00

Possible snowstorm[s] ahead..

so cuddle up with a good book,
or [as long as we don't lose electricity] you might access the 1881 copy of James P. Snell's History of Warren and Sussex County via the "Read Online" option and have fun learning about life and people from our county's past.

PS: Daylight is starting to last longer.. think Spring!

2011-01-01T09:34:00.008-05:00

Welcoming 2011 on 1/1/11! News:

Township Committee reorganized and re-elected Joseph Barbagallo as mayor for 2011, George Zitone - Deputy Mayor.

A representative of the EL PASO Corp., overseeing the Tennessee Gas Pipeline's Northeast upgrade, will be in attendance at the first regularly scheduled township meeting to update residents on the status of their project . There is pending a proposal for a new loop to be created through part of the township. It would veer off from the existing Right of Way (ROW) that crosses High Point State Park and enters the High Point Country Club. It would cross Clove Rd. about a 1/4 mile north of the mini-mall and continue to head NW - crossing River Rd. in the vicinity of New Mashipacong Road and cross Mashipacong Island into PA. The existing ROW crosses Clove Rd. by the Township offices and DPW, but may not be reused.

Friends of High Point Park announce 2011 events:

. **Yoga on the Mountain to be set at a future time (Apr-Nov) * Winter Festival Saturday, Jan. 29 12-3 (1/30 snow date) * Friends Meeting March 5th 1:00 * Explorations at HPSP (Family photo fun) Saturday, March 26 10-3 (rain date 3/ 27) * Celebrate Nature Coffee House Saturday, April 16th 1:00-4:00 * Get Out and Read in the Park: Story time Walk Saturday April 30 1-3 (rain date Sunday May 1st) * Car Show May 14th 12-4 (rain date May15th) * Kilby Taylor Concert June 25th 6-8pm * Friends Meeting 1:00 July 16th * Patrick Fitzsimmons Concert 6-8pm July 16th * Bait and Boat Festival Saturday September 10th 1- 7:30 pm * Bike Hike @ Saw Mill Oct 15 and 16th * Open Hearth Saturday, Oct. 29th 11:00-3:00

* Friends Meetings held: Mar 5th 1:00 , July 16th 1:00 Nov. 12th (lunch at 12:00/ meeting at 1:00)

2010-12-15T07:40:00.002-05:00

"You better watch out, you better not cry, ...."

Though these words normally are sung in Dec. to remind folks to be on the lookout and ready for Santa.. it's also a word of advice during the latter week of deer hunting, and also with the arrival of freshly fallen snow and potential black ice [and equally treacherous grit, if driven onto too quickly].. to drive alert and with caution, leaving room between vehicles, and abiding by posted speed limits.

FYI As survey stakes are more noticed throughout the middle of town.. folks are now aware that the Tennessee Gas Pipeline Northeast Upgrade is deciding upon the route to use for their upgrade - already in the works as part of their 300 line in Vernon. Originally, the existing Tennessee Gas ROW and pipeline was put through in the 1950's. There is a proposal to add a new loop because the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area was created afterwards, so using the original route would require new federal legislation, as the NPS does not have the authority to allow use of the existing ROW on Federal land. The proposed route would cross Clove Rd. above the Mini-mall and proceed towards the Delaware River and cross River Rd. near New Mashipacong. Scoping meetings have been held.

2010-12-05T08:26:00.002-05:00

Eve Of St. Nicholas

Ever wonder where we got the name "Santa Claus"? It actually comes from Sinterklass - the Dutch name for St. Nicholas, who would leave presents for children on this evening.

Christmas Day itself was a day for attending church services and enjoying family, rather than the gift-giving celebration it has evolved to today. Click here to learn more about how this feast was celebrated during our region's early days, while we were part of New Netherlands.

2010-11-23T16:23:00.010-05:00

Steal away from the hustle and the bustle of the holidays...
to recall times when friends and neighbors came together to celebrate the season!

Visit the c. 1790 Foster-Armstrong House at 320 River Rd. in Montague, NJ for MARCH’s Old-Fashioned Holiday Weekends

Please stop by when the Foster-Armstrong House is open, to see the special now displays and exhibits highlighting the Store and Post Office run by James B. Armstrong; Julius Foster's Tavern [documented as having operated from 1798-1814]; a newly acquired Native American collection; vintage Christmas postcards and greeting cards; the Foster & Armstrong family heritage. Donations welcomed to support both sites maintained by M.A.R.C.H. which are located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

2010-11-11T00:32:00.001-05:00

2010-11-07T06:40:00.003-05:00

November brings.........

a time shift - as clocks "fall back" one hour on the 7th ; deer on the move - motorists remain alert; bears scavenging to fill up before winter hibernation; need to clear gutters before water freezes or snow arrives; and a time to acknowledge the men and women who fought for our country on Veteran's Day.

2010-09-14T00:21:00.007-04:00

2010 Senior Volunteers of the Year

Ruth Owen - Past President of Montague's Sr. Citizen Club

&

Joe Lashendock - active volunteer on the County level

2010-08-25T07:47:00.014-04:00

An extra special exhibit by J.W. Carpenter was featured on about antique bicycles - one example shown.

As you drive from the Nelden-Roberts Stonehouse on Rote 206 to the Foster-Armstrong House .. you can pull over to read the historic marker placed alongside CR 521 North ; located just across from a traffic triangle where Route 206 and River Rd. intersect.

If you turn around to look towards the bridge approach, you can view this marker noting the actual location of the "Brick House".

There is an exhibit dedicated to the Brick House, its village, and the many structures lost - first to the bridge project and then to Tocks Island acquisitions, at the Foster-Armstrong site.

2010-08-08T08:46:00.007-04:00

Montague Grange's display took 1st place!

Stanley B. Roberts, one of the original founding members, was recalled in a display about the history of the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show.

His large Montague farm was acquired as part of the Tocks Island project.

2010-08-06T07:47:00.007-04:00

The Fair!

Back in 1869, Montague hosted its own horse fair!

Excerpt from Evening Gazette

2010-07-14T20:02:00.007-04:00

about Railroads & Montague....

Most folks are aware that the Erie Railroad ran through nearby Port Jervis, and that it succeeded the D&H Canal for the movement of goods and produce.

But....

did you know that in July of 1873, the Eastern Division of the Erie RR proposed a railroad route following Clove Brook through Montague?

Can you only imagine how different the township would appear today.. and how the peaceful and tranquil scene between Zitone's Field and the Westfall Farm would have looked instead,

had railroad tracks crossed this valley?

Though spared the invasion of the rails, Montague did depend on its nearby connections - to the Erie RR, and also the Sussex Railroad - which came up to Branchville, NJ.

2010-06-28T13:12:00.006-04:00

Miss Montague and Company

{Jr. Miss, and Little Miss and Little Mr.}

for 2010

Our local pageant was held July 17th at the grounds of the Montague Vol. Fire Department. The winning contestant for Miss Montague was Danielle Dieckman.

Special thanks go to the Committee - particularly Lori Coss and Blennie Kelly for arranging for the contest, judges, & awards and sponsorships, to Toni Lu Martin, who served as Emcee, and to the Montague Vol. Fire Dept. for hosting the overall event.

Also picked as runner-up to Miss Montague is Amanda Johnson; Jr. Miss is Hailey Aligo; Little Mr. is "C.J." Woel; Little Miss is Brianne Olenick.

Miss Montague will now represent our township and participate in the Miss Sussex County Pageant held during the NJ State Fair.

2010-06-01T22:10:00.003-04:00

June.....

June 1, 1813: New Jersey native Captain James Lawrence uttered the famous expression "Don't give up the ship" after being wounded in a naval battle during the War of 1812.

June 3rd Birthdays: Future vice president of the United States Garrett Hobart born in Long Branch in 1844, and future poet Allen Ginsberg born in Newark in 1926.

June 19, 1846: First recorded baseball game played with modern rules took place in Hoboken.

June 24, 1664: A new colony named New Jersey was established by the Duke of York, who later became James II, King of England. The year 2014 will mark the 350th anniversary for this colony!

June 28, 1778: The legend of Molly Pitcher was born when an American army wife at the Battle of Monmouth was seen firing a cannon at the British enemy.

2010-05-28T07:35:00.008-04:00

Remembering those who fought to preserve freedom......

Capt. Cornelius Shimer, Co. A, 15th NJ,

KIA Spottsylvania, VA

WW1 & local veterans - photos courtesy of MARCH

As you drive about, you may notice in the local cemeteries and the small family plots which dot the countryside, fresh American and Marine flags set out by local veteran groups. These mark the known grave sites where soldiers were laid to eternal rest. There are those who defended this early frontier in the French and Indian War and some of those who died protecting their homesteads during the raids and skirmishes of the Revolutionary war, interred in burials forgotten over time.

The individuals, known to have served during the Civil War, World War's 1 & 2, in Korea or in Vietnam, or also when there was no active conflict, are recognized and honored in a special way this weekend. Unfortunately, for many, it has evolved to mark the preview to summer rather than the time we pause to recall the personal sacrifices of individuals and the families they left behind while actively serving their country. It is when we express our gratitude to those who also and still serve, so we continue to live our lives in peace.

Montague's WW2 Banner {displayed at M.A.R.C.H.} Gold Star's = those who lost their lives.

An observance to honor our American Heroes will be held on Monday, May 31 at 10:00 on the grounds of the Montague Town Hall. All veterans, and serviceman and women, are invited and welcome to attend.

2010-04-20T07:52:00.003-04:00

Volcanic activity...........

what History reveals:

an 1815 eruption

and the year without a Summer in 1816

Most consider that recorded climate anomaly to have been caused by both the combination of an historic low in solar activity with a volcanic event. While news was not instantly passed along years ago.. there has been scientific evidence found of even greater geological activity from prior years.

2010-04-19T14:12:00.009-04:00

VOTE...... School Elections held Tuesday, April 20, 2010

The ballot in 2010 includes those individuals seeking to serve on the School Board as well as the proposed budget = to support the education at our local K-6 Elementary school - as well as paying for tuition for all the Montague students who attend at a public Middle or High School, or for our Special Needs students sent out of district + Transportation costs.

Images courtesy of M.A.R.C.H.

2010-04-15T20:50:00.008-04:00

AN EARTH DAY CELEBRATION..
{Ever see a Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker?.. this one was spotted on 4/14/10}

Trail Blazers and Nature Conservancy are hosting an Open House at Mashipacong Bogs on Deckertown Tpke. [entrance is on the left hand side as you head East] on Sat. 4/17 to let residents experience the unique beauty of that part of the mountains and also to learn what Trail Blazers has to offer.

Itching to STITCH??

The Montague Grange which still uses their original building located on River Road, between Millville and Weider Roads, will be offering Community Sewing. This will be held the 1st & 3rd Saturdays of the month, starting April 17th - from 1:30 to 4:30pm.

Beginners to experts, all levels welcome. Anyone that would like help on a project or who is interested in sewing with people that have different skills... is welcome. Crocheting will also be available.

2010-04-10T15:45:00.006-04:00

Montague's Own! Mrs. Jeanne Moran.. Montague Elementary's Teacher of the Year and Art Instructor had some of her own paintings on display at the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Gallery at 133 Spring St. in Newton, NJ.

2010-04-01T12:12:00.010-04:00

Sings of Spring!
A new law goes into effect - April 1st which will affect both motorists and pedestrians. Motorists, previously required to yield to pedestrians, will have to come to a full stop and remain stopped or risk $200 tickets (double the current fine) and two points on their licenses. They can also be subject to 15 days of community service and insurance surcharges. Pedestrians can be fined $54 for not obeying traffic signals.

The law applies to both marked and unmarked crosswalks, which the state traffic code designates as existing at the intersection of any two roadways.
With the advent of Spring and warmer weather - deer, turkeys, and other critters are also on the move. Remain alert!

2010-03-31T07:33:00.006-04:00

Water, water, ........

With Spring's arrival has come the long anticipated snow melt and unexpected downpours. The rise in the Delaware river is reminiscent of freshets which helped support the transportation of logs downriver to Easton, Philadelphia and Trenton in the olden days.

All along the Delaware and far up along it's branches, men engaged in logging hemlock, pine, maple and oak. These would be brought to local sawmills and the logs would await the seasonal rise of the river. They would be lashed into rafts and floated downstream. This industry was maintained until canals, aqueducts and bridges impaired the rafts easy passage on the river.

During the journey, the men steering the rafts would tie up at locations along the river, to be able to stop for meals or to rest.

2010-03-17T10:00:00.006-04:00

Lá Fhéile Pádraig

Today we celebrate St. Patrick's Day & the contributions of individuals of Irish heritage.

John A. O'Grady was born on July 3rd, 1849 in our own hamlet of Montague to Irish parents: Michael and Bridget O'Grady. Fr. Senez, a travelling missionary serving Sussex and Warren Counties, would baptise this child of a Catholic family he "discovered in Montagu, near the Delaware River". The family would eventually relocate to Randolph Township's Dover area.

At the age of sixteen, he chose to follow a calling to enter the priesthood and attended the seminary at Seton Hall - being ordained in 1874 and worked in the diocese of Trenton. While residing in New Brunswick, during his assignment to St. Peter's Parish, he became more than a denominational figure. His sympathies and interests extended into all fields affecting the welfare and happiness of his fellowmen, irrespective of race or belief, his admirers being found in all classes alike. Rev. O'Grady became active in civic affairs and served as a member of the City Park Commission and of the Board of Trade. A devoted friend of Rutgers College, for several years he was the donor of an annual oratory prize, known as the "O'Grady prize."

He accomplished much during his life and was responsible for the the founding of St. Peter's General Hospital as a non-sectarian institution, and was elevated to the status of a Monsignor. For a number of years he also occupied the position of Rural Dean of the northern section of the diocese of Trenton. Monsignor O'Grady died January 15th, 1919.

2010-03-13T11:20:00.004-05:00

Celebrate the month of March as Women's History Month!

One of America's unsung heroine's is Ellen Swallow Richards.
If you're confident that your tap water is safe to drink and that your groceries are safe to eat, your confidence rests on her work.

Born in 1842 - Ellen Swallow Richards received no formal education until the age of 16, and was the first woman admitted to MIT. She was the first American woman to earn a degree in Chemistry, helped pioneer the field of Home Economics, and is called the founder of Ecology.

2010-03-12T17:18:00.003-05:00

Spring forward, Fall back

Daylight Saving Time [DST] returns March 14th

During DST, clocks are turned forward an hour, effectively moving an hour of daylight from the morning to the evening.

Daylight saving time was first used during World War I, as part of an effort in the United States and other warring countries to conserve fuel. In theory, using daylight more efficiently saves fuel and energy because it reduces the nation's need for artificial light.

The first American to advocate for daylight saving was Benjamin Franklin. He realized in 1784 that many people burned candles at night yet slept past dawn in the summer, wasting early-morning sunlight.

Don't forget to reset your clocks when you go to bed Sat. evening !

Many fire departments encourage people to change the batteries in their smoke detectors when they reset their clocks. A correctly functioning smoke detector more than doubles a person's chances of surviving a home fire.

2010-02-18T20:42:00.004-05:00

Montague... over the years - as reported in local newspapers:

1795 The Minisink Reformed Church Consistory petitioned the NJ State Legislature for permission to hold a lottery to raise funds needed to repair its meeting house. One of the two petitions noted it had been used as a hospital during the period of the Revolutionary War.

June 1869 Jacob Hornbeck is reported to have raised mammoth strawberries 6 to 8.5 inches in circumference.

Oct. 1869 Flood left cattle in one of Mr. Westfall’s fields nearly submerged.

May 1871 Martin Cole, Esq. erected new Blacksmith and Wheelright shops near his residence at Brick House {village}.

May 1872 Joseph Shimer tore down old Westbrook place.. the scene of the Jobs family massacre in Rev. War, and began to build a new modern home on its foundation.

Oct. 1869 Joshua Cole’s stallion, “American Emperor” was hoping to race at the Brick House track.

July 1873 The Eastern Div. of Erie RR proposed a railroad route following Clove Brook through Montague {… and through what we now call the Westfall Farm or Winery property}.

Nov. 1873 Montague NJ news boasted of a turnip weighing 11 lbs!

Feb. 1878 100,000 feet of white pine logs harvested in Montague were waiting by the river to be taken downstream as one large raft in the spring.

May 1910 High Point Inn sold to Kusers. It was proposed to convert the property into country homes with club membership.

Sept. 1932 JCP&L agreed to extend its distribution lines from the end of the concrete highway in Hainesville to the residence of George Armstrong, as sought by the Montague Improvement Assoc.

June 1934 Folks from Hainesville and Montague attended a baseball game held at the Montague diamond.

Nov. 1937 A new Bar & Grill opened at Rock View.

1946 A site was picked at Wallpack Bend for a proposed dam for the city of Phidadelphia’s water supply.

1966 Montague was the last Sussex County Township to adopt a subdivision ordinance. Had 300 taxpayers in the community at the time. {2000 census had a population of over 3000.}

2010-02-16T10:37:00.012-05:00

Route A still being considered for the Susquehannah-Roseland project ?

The NPS is currently in the process of accepting comments on PSE&G's approved Route B, which would cut through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation area [Click the link via the underlined text]. Alternatives include revisiting the two previously proposed routes A or C - as well as other separate options of rerouting Route B and Do Not Build.

Everyone is able to comment.

Neighboring Wantage Township contines to stand in opposition to Route A, which would also impact Montague. Route A would initially enter NJ by the Delaware River, cross over from PA in the vicinity of lower Mashipacong Island.. run parallel to Mashipacong Rd., then head east into and through High Point State Park and cross across the Appalachian Trail.

Our PA neighbors are renewing their opposition. Data is presented online, which shows the height of the proposed power lines.

PSE&G Alternative Route Identification Report - is a report done of all three routes and notes data specifically pertinent to Montague.

Route B is currently opposed by Stop the Lines, and videos and information are posted at Oppose the Towers. The transmission lines would not bring additional power to many of the communities it would affect along the Delaware River. It is essentially a power highway.. with no local exits. The new lattice towers and poles for these lines are proposed at heights of 190 feet .. 30 feet shorter than High Point Monument.

2010-02-15T22:36:00.009-05:00

Congratulatory Greetings from the White House:

This letter, signed by President Obama, was recently received by the township and acknowledged Montague's significant anniversary.

2010-01-15T20:43:00.005-05:00

2010 .... moving towards the future!

The celebration of Montague township, as having been in existence for a quarter of a millenium as of 2009, should help us to consider the years ahead. Little remains from our significant past which would allow us to fully appreciate our wonderful heritage, as a result of infrastructure changes and the Tocks Island Dam proposal. The town residents have the opportunity to reflect on what we want Montague to be - both for now, and the future - and what we wish to protect for future generations.

Montague Township is at the TOP OF NEW JERSEY and welcomes those travelling into New Jersey from New York and Pennsylvania - our neighbors in this Tri-State region. We are crowned with High Point, and the majestic Delaware River flows right alongside us. Less than 2 hours from Metropolitan NY City - the township sits amidst a backdrop of the beauty of nature in Sussex County - its people a blend of old and new, longtime resident and newcomer.

While the actual 250th anniversary year is over, we continue to celebrate Montague and the people who call it "home".

2009-12-31T10:20:00.006-05:00

As 2009 ends - 2010 welcomed!

It's not often a township gets to mark 250 years of existence....
so many Thanks go out to:

Montague Township Elementary School - its administration and staff for having welcomed many of the celebratory events and for actively involving its students in learning about their town's heritage,
and to the Montague Township Committee - for its overall support.

A commemorative booklet will soon be compiled thank to the contributions recv'd from:

Andover Orthopaedic
Brookside Excavating
Paul Brislin
Creative Cuts
Family Veterinary - Dr. Zaccone
Helen Gassman
J&J Pizza
M & B Electric
Alan Rubenstein - North & South of the Border
Sussex Bank
Sussex County Pediatric Associates
Zitone Construction
and
Dr. S. Cunico of Sandyston

We again acknowledge the help of:
Thompson Creative, and donations from Luhr's Ace Hardware of Milford, and from Lowe's and also Hope Depot of PA toward the 250th signage;
Shoprite of Montague for its donation toward the kick-off event, along with the cakes provided by MARCH, Montague's Republican Club and the Volunteer Fire Dept. and also help from the PTA.

Participating in many events, with their history panels, were the Montague Grange, the Montague Vol. Fire Dept., St. James the Greater Church, and the Minisink Reformed Church {which itself dates back to 1737} - and Mim Carpenter.

An extra special TY to Toni-Lu Martin for coordinating, along with the assistance of her committee, the very special Montague Day celebration.

MARCH initiated the effort for Montague to finally have a book created, compiling information about the town's heritage. This will now forever remain as the permanent accomplishment of this eyar - bringing the township's history to light.

Thanks also go to the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission [DRJTBC] for its assistance, with to the combined efforts of Thompson Stone and Stroyan Funeral Home, to get a marker created and placed - marking the location of the famed Brick House Hotel - lost in 1953.

High Point State Park, Nature Conservancy - NJ Skylands, members of the NJ Frontier Guard and also of the Broome St. Fife & Drum Corps added toward marking this significant year with their contributions by their participation.

Rather than just being remembered as a landmark celebration, may this year mark the beginning of a bright and hopeful future!

We pass the torch to future generations.. to the year 2059 & Montague's 300th!

2009-12-19T18:45:00.004-05:00

A wintry Montague scene ... stillness & beauty!

2009-12-09T08:34:00.008-05:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year.....!!

In the Tri-State Chamber of Commerce's Christmas Parade..a float representing 250 year of Christmases, created through the collaboration of varied individuals and groups ith the Recreation Committee, and another, where the Minisink Church's Kings Kids offered their musical talents, each received FIRST PLACE

in the respective categories - Christmas Theme & Music!

What a wonderful present !

2009-11-29T14:27:00.009-05:00

It's beginning to look like Christmas......

The Holiday weekends have ushered in the Christmas season and the winding down of Montague's 250th anniversary year.

Come visit the Brick House Village, as well as the Rock View Hotel. Costumed volunteers tour with visitors and tell about the displays.

On Dec. 5th the Rec. Committee, Fire Dept and PTA are sponsoring a Holiday Festival and Montague will have a special float entered in the Tri-State Chamber of Commerce Holiday Parade on Sunday Dec. 6th.

Great news!! Montague's Float took 1st place as a Christmas theme display, and the Minisink Church's Kings Kids got 1st Place for their musical offering.

2009-11-17T09:26:00.004-05:00

The 1st Thanksgiving!

Some believe that by the time the first settlers began to establish this village there were no Native Americans living in Montague. However, it is well documented that many of the earliest residents were known Indian traders and that the local ministers of the early Minisink Dutch Reformed Church had at one time preached both in Dutch and varied Indian dialects.

It is therefore presumed that a remnant portion of the Lenape were able to live peaceably alongside one another until warriors were instigated by the French and Indian War to try to force the colonists to leave their ancestral lands.
November is set aside and dedicated toward acknowledging NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH.

2009-11-09T21:03:00.006-05:00

Honoring our Veteran's

Montague's citizens, throughout our town's history, have helped to protect our liberty & freedom - first, on their own homefront in the French and Indian War, and later during the Revolutionary War period and throughout the many times our armed forces were sent out - including the current missions overseas.

During World War 2, the Montague Grange acknowledged our local men and women who had enlisted, up to the time they created this banner. A cloth version hangs at the Foster-Armstrong House, but this wooden one remained with the Grange.

The names with the small Gold Stars next to them are those who paid the ultimate price: Earl Irwin & Irvine DeRemer.

2009-11-09T20:47:00.005-05:00

Something new on Highway 206?

There has been some recent activity observed across from Scotty's Automotive
/Lukoil where a former restaurant & bar location - last known as The Blackthorn Inn, and formerly as The Rendezvous - has sat vacant for some time.
The building currently sports white siding with a red metal roof.. and many are hopeful that a family restaurant may once again reopen there.

In the mid 1900's, the location had started out as The Idlebrae on State Route 31, as seen in this postcard image.

2009-10-11T21:08:00.007-04:00

Fall in Montague

Time for Harvest Festivals and early frost on the pumpkins, hunting season, and seeing bountiful black walnuts littering the roadways. Yet they say we're having a mild winter !?!

Halloween always conjures up the tales of Spooks Hollow. Oh, the stories our old town could tell.....

Holiday weekends at the Foster-Armstrong House are coming soon:

Nov. 28 & 29, and Dec. 5 & 6 and 12th and 13th from 1 to 4pm.

Just in time to get your copy of MONTAGUE for $21.99 for holiday and Christmas presents!

2009-09-21T14:59:00.007-04:00

2009-09-12T07:23:00.006-04:00

MONTAGUE DAY was a great day............
Thank you to coordinator Toni-Lu Martin and all of the Montague Day committeepersons for all their work, and to all who participated, or just came out and showed support for our community!
Even the weather cooperated!

2009-08-21T07:52:00.014-04:00

Montague Day!

Please come out on Sept. 12th - starting at 11am, to enjoy a wide array of activities and to meet your neighbors involved with our local groups and organizations, enjoy food and entertainment, tour historic Montague via photographs .. and have lots of fun!
Poster by Thompson Creative LLC

2009-08-16T23:07:00.008-04:00

Municipal Building as shown in Montague Elementary's Yearbook of 1989!

Some residents may not know that prior to its current location, Montague Township offices had briefly been located at the building now used by Hinkley Auto. Prior to that, the town had used a trailer located on the elementary school grounds. At that time, and prior to that, most township employees worked out of their own homes. Meetings had been held at the school, and at the Grange Building and other gathering spaces in town - in the past.

Mark you calendars for the special township celebration : MONTAGUE DAY will be held at the grounds of the Township's Municipal Building Sat., Sept. 12th! All Montague residents are invited !

2009-08-03T18:59:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to our own Miss Montague, Rachel Thompson, for being picked as the first runner-up to the 2009 Queen of the Fair!

2009-07-22T13:13:00.030-04:00

Milford-Montague Bridge

Rededicated

July 21, 2009

Originally opened on Dec. 30, 1953, the Milford-Montague Bridge was rededicated upon the completion of it most recent major rehabilitation project. A video clip covering the event was shown on that evening's NJN News broadcast. Both the opera singer, who sang the National Anthem, and the antique car and its owner hail from Montague. .. as does the 2nd Vice Commander of American Legion Post 139.

2009-07-15T15:32:00.014-04:00

Congratulations to those picked as winners of our local Talent Show and to represent Montague as our Royalty for 2009!

Miss Montague now goes on to represent Montague Township in the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show / NJ State Fair "Queen of the Fair" Contest and the others participate as our Royalty.

Miss Montague - Rachel Thompson: Runner up - Kortney McCollough-Coss: Jr. Miss - Ilana Mishiyev; Little Miss - Madyson McCan; Little Mister - Robert McCullough

Talent show - 1st place winners: children's category - Nate Rome; youth category - Emily Biccum, Destiny Stackard; adult category - Rachel Thompson

2009-07-15T08:10:00.006-04:00

Gathering Info to Piece the Missing Portions from our Past

Much has changed over the years on Montague's landscape.

We welcome receiving copies of photographs or images that show sites or homes that may no longer exist to help document what was here - and to be able to tell of the people who resided at these sites.
This postcard shows "Belvedere Cottage". Anyone who can identify where it was.. please get in touch.

2009-06-24T07:19:00.004-04:00

Happy 345th Birthday, New Jersey!

"On June 24, 1664 the name " New Jersey " first appeared, as the name given by the British royal government for a brand new colony established between the Hudson River, the Delaware River, and the Atlantic Ocean. In March 1664 King Charles II of England granted his brother James, Duke of York lands in the New World including Maine, Long Island and territory between the Connecticut and Delaware Rivers. On June 24, 1664, James presented a valuable portion of this land to John Lord Berkeley and Sir George Carteret in recognition of their loyalty to the crown during the English Civil War. Described by one of the Duke's followers as some of the "most improvabelest land" held by James, this new proprietary colony was called Nova Caesaria or New Jersey." courtesy NJ Dept. of State website

2009-06-11T09:05:00.016-04:00

Montague Elementary School students create a time capsule & present their student-composed 4 volume set: Montague's History: Through Our Eyes.

L-R are shown - front row: A. Batko, historian; Students from grades 4-6 who submittend the winning entries; Asst. Principal, Mrs. R. Kalish.
back row: MARCH members: Ed Ibold, Sharon Orce, and Donna & Bob Gibson; Township committemen: Charles Teufert (deputy mayor) and Mayor Joseph Barbagallo [photo courtesy of K. Goyette]

On May 29th, during a final school program dedicated to observing the township's 250th anniversary during the current school term, students saw what items were being placed into their time capsule to be unveiled in 2059 - on Montague's 300th!

Among the items included were school memorabilia, a Powerpoint presentation highlighting life at Montague Elementary, their own 4 volume set about Montague's History, and winning entries from a school-based contest for students in grades 4 to 6 who submitted poems and letters speaking about the future or written to the students of 2059.

Copies of the 4 book set were also presented during the assembly to the Township, to MARCH, and to Montague School and the children of Montague's future. These books and the time capsule were funded by the Montague Education Association, Pride in Education funding.

2009-06-11T07:40:00.019-04:00

Making the news!

The local media have been giving Montague widespread coverage of both the town's 250th and the likewise named book.

The NJ Herald and the Pike County Dispatch offered reports of the celebration and offered positive press .. with photos from the kick-off remaining viewable at the NJ Herald's website. Jennie Sweetman highlighted our 250th {error: the "new" school housed K-6} and previewed the book in her History section. Ken Baumel covered the anniversary observance and editor, Chris Jones, of the Dispatch gave a personal review of the book.

Richard Jones and Alicia Batko were featured, discussing MARCH and the 250th, in a Mugs Media segment shown on Channel 10 for Service Electric TV customers - based out of Sparta, NJ.

The Milford Journal graciously accomodated a piece submitted at their request for the June issue, which hit the presses early so it could be ready before the Milford Music Festival held June 6th.

Chris Farlekas, longtime reporter hailing from Port Jervis, interviewed the township historian and the Port Jervis Gazette placed those reflections accompanied by selected photos from the book's front-page.

Two book signings are scheduled - on Sat., June 20th. The first will occur at the primary location for M.A.R.C.H. - the c.1790 Foster-Armstrong House from 10:30 am - 12:30 pm, and the second will be just across the river at Mill Run Booksellers from 2-4 pm.

2009-05-20T19:45:00.006-04:00

MEMORIAL DAY 2009 OBSERVANCE

A ceremony was held on Monday, May 25th, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Township Municipal Building to acknowledge those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.

Beryle B. Herman, a local WW2 vet of Montague, and Desmond Finegan sit observing a moment of silence in front of the memorial, after placing the wreath.

Our local militia had protected this early frontier during our French & Indian War and throughout the Revolutionary War. Our men and women then proudly served their country in the War of 1812, the Civil War, World War 1, World War 2, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and more recent involvements in Desert Storm, the Gulf and Iraq. Many are interred at the Montague Cemetery/ Minisink Churchyard - where American flags now mark their graves in honor.

2009-05-18T11:20:00.013-04:00

MONTAGUE has arrived!
Just released through Arcadia Publishing, the book has been delivered and will be available for local purchase through MARCH.

This was created as the first book dedicated to telling about the township's history and its sales will help to support the society. Cost per book is $21.99

add $5.00 to cover S&H, if desiring shipment and send a Check or M.O. made payable to M.A.R.C.H. along with your Name, full mailing address, a phone #, and an email address [if applicable] to:

Montague Assoc. for Restoration of Community History
P.O. Box 1101
Montague, NJ 07827-0101

2009-04-22T08:02:00.003-04:00

An early NY-NJ tug of war over our common boundary

On Thurs. April 30th at 7pm, at Montague Township Elementary, Historian Peter Osborne spoke about: While New Jersey Slept, New York Was Wide Awake.

Few realize that the colony of NJ laid claim to territory as far north along the Delaware River as present day Cochecton, NY. New York, also once tried to extend it's bounds as far south as across from Easton, PA.

The program explored the various issues surrounding the most significant boundary dispute in colonial America. It began in 1664 between the colonies of East and West Jersey and New York and was not finally resolved until 1884. Additional parts of boundary demarcation were not resolved until a Supreme Court decision in 2000.

The program included slides and a handout of maps that demonstrated the complicated nature of the dispute. Co-sponsored by M.A.R.C.H.

2009-04-16T09:28:00.017-04:00

Entered into the Congressional Record

to read - click on images

& from our Senator's:

2009-04-08T18:51:00.014-04:00

Blast to the Past
The PRIDE Committee at Montague Township Elementary invited MARCH to present an afternoon program to help the students and staff better understand and celebrate the township's heritage. Many students were dressed in Native American, Colonial, Civil War or 20th century era costumes. Artifacts were shown to the students and a historic timeline.

{shown L-R : Mrs. Batko- Historian, Mrs. Hodge - Chief School Administrator, Mrs. Marion - ESL Teacher and PTA Pres., and Mrs. Goyette - Enrichment/ LEAP Instructor}

Students returned in the evening to enjoy a rendition of Stone Soup, along with appropriate refreshments, with their parents and to partake of assorted activities.

The evening ended with a wrap-up by the Township Historian - who explained the significance of the township's 250th logo. A plaque was presented to MARCH for its work with the school and one was also given to recognize Mrs. Moran - for her work with the Art Club in creating the historic mural, and all the participating staff were also acknowledged.

2009-04-02T07:52:00.010-04:00

Mural Installed at Montague Elementary School

Mrs. Moran admires the mural which the Art Club created over two school terms. It now will greet students, staff and visitors at the school's main entry. The wall it is attached to is part of the original 3 classroom structure built in 1954 - the school having witnessed many additions with the growth of the community.

2009-03-26T23:03:00.017-04:00

SO it began......

We had a great turnout at the March 26th kick-off celebration and were joined by Congressman Garrett's aide, Ms. Holly Ostby, and by Mayor Gary Lopriore of Port Jervis, NY and Mayor George Harper of Sandyston, NJ - as well as past mayors of Montague: Pat Smith, Joseph Butto, Paul Brislin and Mark Utter and the current Township Committee.

The Art Club's mural was unveiled, and it is a wonderful work of art!

With costumed MARCH members in attendance, the Broome Street Fife and Drum Corps represented by: Betsy Brydon Krakowiak & Shelley Granger, and NJ Frontier Guard reenactors: Doug Pitchell and Dominic Zampella - it set the overall tone for the evening and a wonderful time was had by all.

Thank you again to Montague Elementary School for welcoming us to use their facility for this celebration. Someone said there were over 200 people present.

2009-03-11T23:22:00.051-04:00

HAPPY 250th ANNIVERSARY - MONTAGUE !!!

Thurs., March 26th The celebration of the township's 250th anniversary of the creation of Montague, had its official kick-off at the Montague Township Elementary School.

It began with a short program, during which excerpts of the original founding patent and an official township proclamation for this anniversary were read. Members of The Broom e Street Fife and Drum Corps from neighboring Port Jervis provided some music of the colonial period. Some M.A.R.C.H. members attended this celebration in period costume. An Invocation written by Pastor Forleo of the Minisink Reformed Church [organized in 1737] was read by church elder, Paul Blissenbach. Resolutions, Citations, and other greetings were accepted from the local, county and state representatives in attendance, and others received acknowledged. A mural portraying Montague's heritage created by the Montague Elementary School's Art Club was unveiled..and also the 250th logo created by Thompson Creative LLC. A Benediction by Rev. Wayne Varga of St. James the Greater Parish concluded the evening.
Following the formal portion, the Frontier Guard shared how life was like when the town formed.

{April 3rd - School event: MES students participate in a Blast from the Past! Sponsored by the PRIDE in Education Committee of the Montague Education Association, students + MARCH participation.}

{April 4th - Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Montague Fire Dept.
& Easter Egg Hunt 11AM at town hall }

{ April 11th - MRC Egg Hunt 11 am – 1 pm }

{April 24th - Montague PTA Tricky Tray at Montague Elementary, doors opened at 6PM}

Thurs. April 30th at 7pm
Peter Osborne's talk: While New Jersey Slept, New York Was Wide Awake.
The program explores the various issues surrounding the most significant boundary dispute in colonial America. Co-sponsored by M.A.R.C.H. Held at Montague Township Elementary.

May 18th - Montague's history in print!
After 30 years of compiling and preserving Montague's history, M.A.R.C.H. encouraged their Historian to pursue writing a book about the town's heritage through Arcadia Publishing. Entitled Montague, it will be offered for sale following its release.
Orders are being accepted through the society - for pick-up or mailing [with added S&H]. Cost $21.99 per book - payable by Check or M.O. to M.A.R.C.H. Please add $5.00 S&H if unable to pick-up and requesting mailing. Email Historian.

{May 25th - Memorial Day observance} Any servicemen who served as Montague residents are asked to attend if possible.

May 29th - Premier of MES students' books about Montague - school event

{June 4th thru June 6th - MRC Rummage Sale}

{June 7th - annual MVFD BBQ - tickets $10.00 973-293-7441}

June 25th - Robert MacAvoy will speak on NJ's Civil War veterans at Foster-Armstrong House Our Brothers Gone Before MARCH

June 28th - Historic Sites open 1-4pm. Exhibitor. MARCH

{July 6-10 – MRC Vacation Bible School}

{July 11th - Miss Montague contest at 1pm, at Minisink Church pavilion on Clove Rd. - contact Lori Coss for details 293- 8375 and at 3pm Talent Show - contact Chris Thompson 293-8252 Divisions: Children's - through age 9; Junior - ages 10-15; and Adult, ages 16 and up - applications at Town Hall.}

July 12th through Aug 30th - Historic Sites open 1-4 pm. Exhibitors scheduled. MARCH

{July 24th - Skylands Baseball Game with fireworks - to support MVFD - $10.. tkts}

{July 25th - Noon - 4

St. James Church Tickets : $10. for adults; children under 12 $5.00

and Minisink Reformed Church Annual BBQ's - limited Tkts will be sold onsite -Pavilion site on Clove Rd. , so call 293-3514}

{July 30th at 7pm, Glenn Wershing to talk about Archaeology of the Delaware River Valley area - at Foster-Armstrong House - sponsored by MARCH}

{August 29 - MRC King's Kids Reunion}

Sat. Sept. 12th - MONTAGUE DAY !!!
This will be an extra-special celebration, to help comemorate this significant year. To be held at Town Hall grounds. Details to follow.

{September 26 – MRC Auction}

{October 1, 2, 3 – MRC Rummage Sale}

{Oct. 3rd - Graveyard and Cemetery Art talk by Peter Osborne at FAH at 9:30am
followed by a walking tour of Minisink Cemetery - sponsored by MARCH }

{Nov. 28th & 29th - MARCH Holiday weekend - FAH

and Dec. 5th & 6th - MARCH Holiday Weekends - FAH}

As further events are planned, they will be posted.
Those events listed in brackets { } are independent of the 250th, but are community events noted for your participation.

2009-03-10T20:35:00.026-04:00

Helping Celebrate our 250th

Neighboring Wantage Tow nship has sent a plaque with its Resolution honoring Montague Township on the occasion of its 250th anniversary.

Sen. Frank R. Lautenberg has forwarded a congratulatory Citation.

The Sussex County Board of Freeholders presented a Certificate to township representatives during their March 11th meeting in recognition of the 250th anniversary. Shown (L-R) are: Richard Jones, MARCH Pres.; Alicia Batko - MARCH & Township Historian; Freeholder Phil Crabb; Township Committeemen: George Zitone and Ted Brace. An announcement regarding the township kick-off celebration is posted on the Sussex County, NJ website.

Gov. Jon S. Corzine of NJ has sent a letter expressing his greetings and best wishes.

NJ State Sen. Oroho, Assemblywoman McHose & Assemblyman Chiusano have presented a Joint Legislative Resolution, co-signed by the Senate and the General Assembly of the State of NJ, acknowledging their recognition of the significance of the township's anniversary.

A Proclamation has been received from Sen. Robert Menendez.

Congressman E. Scott Garrett acknowledged the township's anniversary and delivered what he had entered into the Congressional Record via Holly Ostby, his legislative aide.

M.A.R.C.H., celebrating its own 30th anniversary, presented the township with a congratulatory certificate.

2009-03-09T23:07:00.007-04:00

French and Indian War

It is known that the area, that became known as Montague, was almost entirely vacated due to the raids occuring during that period. The men of the NJ Frontier Guard will come patrol and assure the safety of the township residents in time for its opening celebration on March 26th.

First, they will visit with the school children, and then will return to stand guard while the township and visiting representatives issue a formal proclamation at 7pm to mark the 250th anniversary date. They will linger to share stories about their adventures to those who may be curious as to how life was lived in the early frontier.

2009-03-09T22:24:00.011-04:00

The Lenape

In February, John Kraft spoke regarding the Lenape people. His father, Herbert Kraft, had done archeological studies in the Delaware River Valley which offered substantial evidence of the presence of the native people prior to colonial settlement.

Currently, as the Director of Lenape Lifeways Educational Programs, Inc., John presented an evening program focused on the Lenape or Delaware Indians of New Jersey. He illustrated his talk with detailed life drawings and photographs, and had objects displayed for the audience to have a "hands-on" experience.

Over the years, he has helped discover and excavate Lenape villages and artifacts and has added much new information about their family life, dwellings, diet, spiritual beliefs and technology. John and his father published The Indians of Lenapehoking, an educational unit on the Indians of New Jersey, and he has illustrated The Lenape or Delaware Indians and other books. His goal has always been to create enthusiasm and appreciation for the remarkable people called the "Lenape."

2009-03-09T21:45:00.006-04:00

Environment, Ecology & Geology

In January, Nature Conservancy's [NC] Skyland's Director, Eric Olson, presented two assembly programs at the Montague Township Elementary. He explained to the students the significance of NC's work and why natural habitats are vital. He also informed them of the locations the Conservancy has in the township, which are open to the public for visitation: Mashipacong Bogs, and the Minisink Valley Preserve.

During an evening program, he offered an overview of how the area evolved geologically, and how that has influenced its unique features and ecology. Information about Montague's Nature Conservancy sites was presented, along with a slide presentation.