Ferromonte Historical Society of Mine Hill Inc.

The Ferromonte Historical Society of Mine Hill Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the historical heritage of Mine Hill, New Jersey. The society operates and manages the Bridget Smith House Museum, which is a significant historical site in the area.

Purpose and Activities

The Ferromonte Historical Society focuses on the preservation and interpretation of local history, particularly the mining industry that once thrived in Mine Hill. The society organizes tours, exhibits, and educational programs to educate the public about the region's rich industrial past and its impact on the community.

Bridget Smith House Museum

The Bridget Smith House, built in 1855, serves as a museum showcasing the lives of mining families during the 19th century. It is one of the last remaining examples of working-class housing from the era of iron mining in northern New Jersey. The museum highlights the experiences of women and families who lived in the house and provides insight into the iron ore mining history that dominated the region.

Historical Significance

The Bridget Smith House is listed on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places and is part of the New Jersey Women’s Heritage Trail. It symbolizes the practical yet challenging life of Irish immigrant families who came to work in the mines during the 19th century.

Community Engagement

The Ferromonte Historical Society engages with the community through various events and activities, fostering an appreciation for local history and encouraging the preservation of historical sites. The society also collaborates with local authorities and historical architects to ensure the restoration and maintenance of historical properties in the area.

[1] https://www.morriscountynj.gov/Departments/Heritage-Commission/Directory-of-Historic-Morris-County/Historical-Associations-and-Local-Museums [2] http://ferromonte.org [3] https://visitingamuseum.com/2024/08/13/ferromonte-historical-society-of-mine-hill-bridget-smith-house-124-randolph-avenue-mine-hill-nj-07803/ [4] https://www.journeythroughjersey.com/sites/bridget-smith-house-museum/ [5] https://morriscountyhistory.org/history-marks-the-spot-mine-hill-wharton/