Storytellers @RPL
We all have a story to tell. Here is a chance to share yours. In 2016, the Ridgewood Public Library was awarded a grant from the Bergen County Division of Cultural & Historic Affairs. The grant funded “Storytellers @RPL,” an Oral History Project aimed to document, preserve and celebrate the rich history of the community of Ridgewood, New Jersey. Every oral history provides additional insight into Ridgewood’s history, heritage and culture, for future generations to enjoy. They can also be used in research and education. Objectives are:
- To record residents’ life stories and significant memories.
- To identify and preserve the history of the community.
- To document Ridgewood family life, community organizations and record historical moments.
How do I participate? If you are interested in being interviewed or you know someone who is, please contact Librarian Sarah Kiefer in the Bolger Heritage Center: heritagecenter@ridgewoodlibrary.org or call 201-670-5600 x135
Ridgewood Bank Employee: Judith McKim
Judith's story provides details on a new bank in Ridgewood in the 1970's. How it started in a trailer and moved to a new building. In her interview Judith recalls training for the job and her coworkers.
Ridgewood Family Legacy: Rett Zabriskie
Everett "Rett" Zabriskie's family ties to New Jersey go back to 1662 when his family arrived in Hackensack. Through Rett's stories you'll learn about the Zabriskie family, it's 1810 farmhouse and their saw and grain mill. He shared many fond memories, having lived in Ridgewood a total of 33 years, from growing up here and eventually moving back.
Long Time Ridgewood Resident: Jared Banta
Jared can trace the Banta family's settlement in Ridgewood back to the late 1600's. In this recording, you'll hear Jared tell stories of when Graydon was smaller; working in the Big Store; and volunteering at the Schoolhouse Museum as a docent. He was born in Ridgewood and recalls fond memories, along with how the Village has changed since he was a kid.
Ridgewood Councilwoman: Pamela Perron
For Pamela, giving back to the Ridgewood community was just one reason she became involved in the Village Council. Growing up in Ridgewood, Pamela shares memories of the big slides at Graydon Pool. After becoming involved with the League of Women Voters, she transitioned to Village Council and now leads projects on Green Ridgewood for renewable energy.
Ridgewood Community Organizer: Tony Damiano
For many, Mango Jam is a destination for generations of Ridgewood residents. Owner Tony Damiano's eye for visual merchandising and store design isn't limited to just his storefront. When customers asked how they could help businesses in town, Tony was inspired to coordinate the Ridgewood Guild as a way to support fellow shop owners and ensure that downtown Ridgewood flourishes. Tony talks about how his career developed and about his ideas and vision to enhance Ridgewood's business district.
Ridgewood Volunteer: Mollie Galletly
Born and raised in London, Mollie was only 3 years old when WWII broke out in Europe. She recalls the bombings and air raids on her city and being evacuated to Northumbria to stay with her grandparents. Mollie remembers the rationing of food and clothing, which didn't immediately end with the war, and says that even though Hitler was determined to get Britain, "British spirits came through." Today, Mollie is a long-time volunteer at St. Elizabeth's in Ridgewood.
Ridgewood Musician: Eugene “Jean” Thomas
"Every journey is an experience," says long-time Ridgewood resident Eugene. A musician, Eugene shares his story of pursuing his dreams and never giving up while growing up in a large family and a supportive neighborhood. Eugene returns that support through his involvement with RHS's Jamboree and the annual Kasschau Shell series, where he performed in the very first concert decades ago. He finds joy in giving back to the community with his music.
Ridgewood Executive Producer: Arnold “Arnie” Labaton
As a resident of Ridgewood for 45 years, Arnie always felt it was a good family community. He raised two successful daughters here and fondly recalls how the Village and its services helped him as a single dad when he needed it the most. As a television executive and producer, Arnie was involved with numerous award-winning documentaries and mini-series, and he continues to work within the industry today.
Ridgewood Councilman: Jeff Voigt
Local businessman and councilman Jeff Voigt shares his story of moving to Ridgewood 26 years ago and immediately feeling "at home." Jeff talks about what drove him to run for office and how serving the community has helped him appreciate differences of opinion. Listen in as he discusses the challenges and potential rewards of the current issues facing the village.
Ridgewood First Generation: Rina Levy
A first-generation immigrant, Rina tells a life story that travels across generations and continents. Both her parents were Holocaust survivors and relocated to Israel where she was born and raised. After pursuing an education in software engineering, Rina emigrated to the US and furthered her education with a Masters in Computer Science and an MBA. A recent retiree and new resident of Ridgewood, Rina talks about why she chose Ridgewood and how she is becoming involved in the community.