New Jersey Historical Society and the Essex Club
Located in the heart of Newark, the New Jersey Historical Society (NJHS) serves as a vital repository of the state's heritage. Currently housed in the former headquarters of the Essex Club, the society combines a rich institutional history with a stunning architectural landmark that reflects the elegance of the early 20th century.
Key Facts
- Current Location: 52 Park Place, Newark, New Jersey.
- Building Origin: Former headquarters of the Essex Club, built in 1926.
- Architects: Designed by the firm Guilbert and Betelle.
- Architectural Style: A blend of Colonial Revival and Georgian Revival.
- Historic Status: Listed on both the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and the New Jersey Register of Historic Places (NJRHP).
- Founded: Established in 1845 in Trenton.
The Architecture of the Essex Club Building
The current home of the NJHS is a distinguished structure characterized by its Colonial Revival and Georgian Revival styles—architectural movements that draw inspiration from 18th-century English and American designs. Completed in 1926, the building occupies 0.2 acres on Military Park.
The interior has been adapted to serve the needs of a modern museum and research center. The second and third floors are dedicated to exhibitions, while the fifth floor—which originally served as the Essex Club's squash courts—now houses the library reading room. The facility also includes a gift shop and a dedicated hall for lectures.
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A History of the New Jersey Historical Society
The society was founded in 1845 in Trenton by a group of New Jersey's intellectual and business leaders, including William A. Whitehead, Peter D. Vroom, Robert Gibbon Johnson, and Joseph C. Hornblower. Shortly after its inception, the society moved to Newark in 1846, where it has remained for nearly two centuries.
Evolution of Headquarters
The society's physical presence in Newark has shifted over time to accommodate its growth:
- Market Street: The society's first Newark headquarters.
- 230 Broadway: In 1931, the NJHS moved to a large colonial-style building east of Branch Brook Park, a project partially funded by Louis Bamberger.
- 52 Park Place: In 1997, the society returned to downtown Newark, moving into the vacated Essex Club building. This transition proved highly successful, with visitor numbers increasing nearly fivefold during the first year.
Visitor Information and Services
Under the leadership of Director Steven Tettamanti, the New Jersey Historical Society remains open to the public. While members enjoy free access, non-members are required to pay an admission fee. For those wishing to utilize the library, the society encourages patrons to make an appointment in advance.
Beyond its permanent exhibits, the NJHS engages the community through occasional Newark walking tours. Historically, the society also contributed to academic discourse by publishing the journal New Jersey History.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Address | 52 Park Place, Newark, NJ |
| Year Built | 1926 |
| Architects | Guilbert and Betelle |
| NRHP Reference No. | 91000110 |
| NJRHP No. | 1245 |
| NRHP Listing Date | February 22, 1991 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the New Jersey Historical Society located?
The society is located at 52 Park Place in Newark, New Jersey, situated on Military Park.
What is the architectural significance of the building?
The building is a prime example of Colonial and Georgian Revival architecture, designed by Guilbert and Betelle in 1926. It is recognized on both the National and New Jersey Registers of Historic Places.
Who founded the New Jersey Historical Society?
It was founded in 1845 in Trenton by business and intellectual leaders, including Joseph C. Hornblower, Robert Gibbon Johnson, Peter D. Vroom, and William A. Whitehead.
What can visitors find inside the museum?
Visitors can explore two floors of exhibition space, a gift shop, and a lecture hall. The fifth floor houses the library reading room, which was formerly the squash courts of the Essex Club.
Is admission to the society free?
Admission is free for members, while non-members must pay a fee to enter.