Staffed by volunteers of the Historical Committee. The 5 room “museum” is a work-in-progress and donations of artifacts, old photos, and monetary donations are always welcomed to enhance the displays.
The Texier House Museum houses Watchung’s history in photos and artifacts for a hands-on experience.’Exhibit Highlights include:
–Displays on World War I & II. Operate a preserved hand cranked siren that was meant to warn the residents of Watchung if any Nazi boats had stormed NJ shores.
–A history of Watchung and Best Lakes, which were used for ice harvesting and in the early 1900 a wildly popular swim club.
–Meat scale and well pump from O’Connor’s Restaurant, and memorabilia from restaurants of the past: Lake Edge, the Colorado Cafe, and Washington House.
–A display on Adella (Tiby) Wotherspoon, the youngest survivor of the General Slocum Disaster of 1904 NYC’s deadliest disaster until Sept 11th. 1,021 of the 1,331 passengers died in New York City’s East River, mostly women and children.)
–Display showcasing athletes of the Borough, including Sports Memorabilia from New York Giants legend Bobby Thomson.
–A history of Hippolyte Texier, a glove manufacturer who lived in the Texier House.
-Then and Now: An exhibit on historic homes from the 1700’s, 1800’s, and 1900’s, as well as local businesses.
–A copy of the original hand-written diary of Captain William Parlin (father-in-law of Congressman Eaton), who led the first black battalion of soldiers during the Civil War.
–Restored stained glass skylight and other artifacts and photos from the Moldenke Castle.
and so much more