Ridgewood History
Topics in Ridgewood History. Explore some of Ridgewood’s History Online.
Birth of Ridgewood
In celebration of Ridgewood’s 125th anniversary, local historians Peggy Norris and Joe Suplicki provided a slide lecture on the critical years between 1865 and 1876. Using documents, maps, and historic panoramic photos, Norris and Suplicki illustrate Ridgewood’s transformation from farm to suburb. We welcome you to watch this video of their presentation. If you have any questions, please feel fee to contact Local History Librarian Sarah Kiefer at 201-670-5600 x135 or skiefer@ridgewoodlibrary.org
A Brief History of Ridgewood
Ridgewood's history stretches back to 1698 when this area was a wilderness. Follow the transformation from wilderness to agriculture to commuter suburb.
Ridgewood COVID-19 Stories
The Bolger Heritage Center collected materials which documented the response of our community to the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Read, watch and view how the Village reacted to this pandemic, and came together as a community. If you would like to contribute your story, please click here.
Ridgewood Neighborhoods
Ridgewood has many neighborhoods reflecting its long history.
Varian Fry, Holocaust Hero (1907-1967)
Varian Fry (1907-1967) grew up in Ridgewood. He went to Marseilles, France in 1940 and was responsible for establishing a network that rescued over 2,000 Jews, dissidents, and artists trapped in France.
Armistice Day, 1931
On November 8, 1931, Ridgewood observed Armistice Day by dedicating trees to the Ridgewood men who lost their lives in World War I, planted George Washington memorial trees, and named Graydon Park.
Storms in Ridgewood
In the last 20 years Ridgewood has survived three major storms: Hurrican Floyd, Hurricane Irene, and Superstorm Sandy.
Cemeteries
Ridgewood is home to two cemeteries--the Churchyard Burying Ground next to the Old Paramus Reformed Church and Valleau Cemetery across the street. The monuments reflect an incredible variety of styles.
Victory Bazaar, 1919
July 4, 1919 Ridgewood Independence Day committee planned the Victory Bazaar to raise money for the War effort. The event included booths, games, a French Village and entertainers.