By Jennifer Ersalesi
The historical contributions of individuals and families to what is now known as the Borough of Rutherford help our community understand how our town was developed and changed throughout multiple centuries. Not only did people from the past help lay the foundation for what Rutherford is today, but they were also pivotal in the design and construction of much of the architecture and roadways that still exist here. This is Rutherford interviewed the Chairman of the Rutherford Historic Preservation Society, Ed Gajda, to learn more about what this newly formed non-profit organization is doing to preserve Rutherford's history and educate the community.
TIR: The Rutherford Historic Preservation Society focuses on identifying and preserving historic properties, recognizing people who have made historic contributions to our town, and educating the community about the rich history of Rutherford. Why do you believe upholding the RHPS's mission and goals is important?
Ed Gajda: Many towns in northern New Jersey sprouted up in the mid to late 1800s due to their proximity to New York City and the building of the railroads. None benefited more than Rutherford due to its geographical location, being the first train stop and closest to the ferries to Manhattan. For 70 years, from the 1850s to the mid-1920s, Rutherford attracted affluent families and investors who built businesses and magnificent homes, transforming Rutherford from farmlands to the beautiful residential and commercial properties we have today. We should not take this advantage for granted. It
should be preserved. Statistics have shown that homes and businesses located within “Historic Districts” are valued at a 15% to 20% higher value than those elsewhere. This means that they command higher prices, resulting in a more affluent community, benefiting the Borough, businesses, and homeowners.
Besides the architecture, Rutherford has an incredible list of notables, and we have not forgotten those who have served. There are monuments throughout the Borough honoring the heroes who have served or made the ultimate sacrifice from the Civil War to 9-11. Our mission, through our informative interactive website, newsletter, and social media presence, is to promote the appreciation of all of Rutherford’s remarkable architecture, people, and history.
TIR: When did you become involved in RHPS? What is your current role?
EG: I owned a construction/contracting business for 35 years before retiring in 2017. I moved to Rutherford in 2020, applied for and was appointed to the Borough-sponsored Historic Preservation Committee (RHPC) in 2021. I was elected chairman in 2022. Later that year we decided to become an independent, non-profit organization and in November the Rutherford Historic Preservation Society (RHPS) was established and in December, held its first meeting in the Rutherford Library.
TIR: Who is welcome to join the RHPS?
EG: The RHPS welcomes anyone of any age to join. Memberships fall into two general categories, passive and active. Passive memberships are for those who want to contribute but do not have the time or want to attend meetings or participate in events. There are several levels of passive memberships ranging from Individual, Family, Student and
Senior up to Corporate Sponsorships. Members will receive Quarterly Newsletters, Event Notifications, and discounts on Sponsors' merchandise and events. To learn more about these levels of membership, click here.
Active Memberships, or becoming a member of the Executive Committee, requires an application, and once accepted the member is required to pay annual dues, attend monthly meetings, assist with events, and participate in the operation and management of the Society.
TIR: How often and where does the RHPS meet?
EG: Executive Committee meetings, open to committee members and invited guests only, met on the third Tuesday of every month at the “King House” (491 Riverside Avenue, Rutherford). General meetings, open to all members, occur periodically. The time and location are announced in advance.
TIR: What are some of the RHPS's current projects and events?
EG: We participate in almost every town event, festival, and parade. Every year in May (National Historic Preservation Month) we honor three homeowners for stewardship of their architecturally historic homes. Currently, we are preparing for our upcoming “Historic Fall Yard Sale”. We also work with the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce and their “Member Socials”, providing historical information about the organization or the building they occupy. We are also working on a third installment of our popular “Walking Tours”. Click here to learn more about the previous Walking Tours.
TIR: Anything else you would like to add?
EG: Yes, the RHPS is an independent, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, managed by dedicated and talented volunteers, and we depend upon the financial support of the community. Through Memberships, Corporate Sponsorships, fundraising, and donations we can provide information, participate in town events, and assist with preservation projects. Please support our effort. Learn more on our website.
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