Monthly Archives: March 2026

One of February’s snowstorms resulted in cancelling the February 24th program “Kramer Manor”. This captivating history of a Black Community located right here in Fanwood and Scotch Plains has been re-scheduled for Tuesday March 31st.

Kramer Manor proudly marked its centennial in 1924 and, less than a year later, it celebrated another historic designation—inclusion in the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail. Kramer Manor, a neighborhood comprising approximately one hundred households, has a rich history. For most of its 100+ years it stood as an all-Black enclave, but today it has transformed into a thriving and desirable multicultural community of single-family homes and green spaces.

The Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood is honored to have Jill Jackson-Jones, a respected member of our community, along with Kramer Manor long time existing and former residents Kevin Eldridge and Nora Dunn, as they share their insights into how their families contributed to this thriving community and educate us about Kramer Manor at our upcoming February 24th evening meeting. Nora is a descendant of one of the earliest settling families in Kramer Manor and has documented extensive family history that will great fascinate our audience. Additionally, Nora is a retired veteran and an ideal representative for Women’s History Month. Jill, who grew up in the Kramer Manor neighborhood in the 1970’s and 1980’s, now resides in her childhood home.  Her dedication to preserving the history of Kramer Manor is evident in her roll as a member of the Social Justice Matters (SJM) organization. Alongside Pamela Brooks, Kevin Eldridge and other Kramer Manor residents and SJM members, collaboratively spearheaded the process of tracing the history of Kramer Manor. Their efforts culminated in the successful application for Kramer Manor’s inclusion in the Black Heritage Trail. Beyond her remarkable contributions to the Kramer Manor history, Jill and her husband Felton Jones, own Savory Selections Catering, located on E. 2nd Street, Scotch Plains.

The Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood cordially invites you to join us for this timely meeting on Tuesday evening March 31st, starting at 7:30 PM. Prepare to be amazed by this remarkable history of this neighborhood of 51 acres. In 1924, it was purchased by a New York City-based real estate firm, Kramer Realities, Inc. The owners, brothers Harry and Hyman Kramer of Russian-Jewish heritage, actively marketed it as a destination for Black families. Join us as we delve into the obstacles faced and overcome by these pioneering buyers. Bring your family, friends and neighbors to this enriching meeting and embark on a journey through the captivating story and legacy of Kramer Manor. The meeting is free and open to all, and it is held at the historic Shady Rest Country Club, another significant landmark on the Black Heritage Trail. Located at 820 Jerusalem Road (at the corner of Plainfield Avenue) in Scotch Plains, the club offers a historic setting for refreshments and fellowship after the presentation. For further information please email Info@HistoricalSocietySPFNJ.org or call 908/322-6700 Extension 230.

The Kramer Manor history project represents a working research collaboration between local residents and member os Social Justice Matters, Inc., made possible by a H.E.A.R.T. (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) grant from the Union County Board of Commissioners.

These women, whose names are etched in history, continue to make a significant impact on society.  From literature and education to medicine, business and women’s rights, their influence and legacy extend far beyond the borders of New Jersey.

Clara Barton, a renowned nurse, founded the Red Cross. Mabel Smith Douglass, the first Dean of NJ College for Women in New Brunswick, was honored with the college’s name, Douglass College. Lucy Stone and Alice Stokes Paul were prominent suffragists. However, how many are familiar with the poet Annis Boudinot Stockton or the businesswoman Sara Spencer Washington? Rounding out the list are Mary Philbrook, an accomplished attorney, and Clara Maass, another remarkable nurse.

The Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood is delighted to have Marylou Morano Kjelle present these eight remarkable women, their accomplishments and their profound impact. Kjelle is a well-published author in the children’s nonfiction book market and is now venturing into the adult market with two upcoming books in 2026: “Notable Nurses” and “Trauma in the Garden State.” Her diverse background includes being a former lecturer, English professor and reporter for the Westfield Leader/Times of Scotch Plains-Fanwood. Given her extensive experience and expertise, she promises to be a dynamic and captivating speaker.

As March is celebrated as “Women’s Month,” this program is particularly timely. The Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood invites you to attend this free and open-to-the-public meeting. There is no need for  registration—just come and join us! The meeting will commence on Tuesday March 24th starts at 7:30 PM and will be held at the historic Shady Rest Golf Club, located at 820 Jerusalem Road (corner of Plainfield Ave.) in Scotch Plains. For further information please email Info@HistoricalSocietySPFNJ.org or call 908/322-6700 Extension 230.