CONNECTING PEOPLE TO LOCAL HISTORY
LOCAL HISTORY MATTERS
Local History Matters to Individuals
Local history matters because learning about history teaches essential skills. It pushes individuals to view the world from a different perspective. It teaches critical thinking when researching, like understanding biases and juggling multiple perspectives. This is especially relevant today, considering the availability of information online and the ever-growing need to examine reliability of information.
Local History Matters to Our Communities
Local history matters because towns are not communities without an understanding of the past. The traditions, stories and civic commemorations transforms our towns into communities. Telling these stories and continuing these local traditions help strengthen our community connection.
Local History Matters to Our Future
Local history matters to our future because by revisiting history in modern discussions, we can better understand the source of differing perspectives on issues we face in our community and in our country. History also serves as inspiration for current and future leaders. By looking back at role models in our community before us, it gives current leaders the insight and inspiration to move forward.
Visit the Programs & Events Page to see if there are any particular programs or events tied to one of the Somerset Hills Landmarks. Click Here
Somerset Hills History 101
So let’s get down to the bare facts:
Did you know…
1921 – Far Hills was actually part of Bernards Township until seceding in 1921. Rising taxes led the 200 residents of Far Hills to decide to separate from Bernards Township and to incorporate as a Borough. The local property tax rate jumped from $2.72 in 1919 to $3.53 in 1920.
1717 – The original Bernards Township (Bernardston) area (3,000 acres) was purchased by John Harrison, agent of King James III of England, from the Lenape Indians in 1717 for only $50. That’s only 1.6 cents per acre! Learn more
Do NOT forget to visit Meet the Historians.