Archives: This week in Chester History
This Week in Chester History
In 1978, the Observer-Tribune reported that a check for $2,500 from Chester Flea Market proceeds was presented to Welkind Neurological hospital by the Chester Lions Club. The gift was used for the purchase of two electronic beds. Other money was given to Chester Volunteer Fire Company, Police Athletic Association, and eye screenings for 3,400 students at West Morris Regional HS in Chester and St Joseph School in Mendham.
This Week in Chester History
In 1992, local man Howard Silverman was charged with two counts of writing a bad check and two counts of theft by deception. He had been caught multiple times in Mendham, Summit, Union Township, Mountainside, Springfield, and Short Hills. Detective Gary Janes said Silverman wrote a $148 check to the Shop-Rite store at the Chester Springs Shopping Center which led to his arrest in Chester.
This Week in Chester History
In 1984, the Observer-Tribune announced Chester’s largest science fair would be held at 1 pm, Saturday March 3 at the Black River School on North Road. Students from kindergarten to eighth grade and even professionals from the Morris Museum of Arts and Sciences were expected to participate, culminating in more than 100 displayed projects.
This Week in Chester History
In 1958, the Mendham-Chester Tribune reported that the Rotary Clubs of Chester and Bernardsville would meet to hear Dr. Hollington K. Tong, Ambassador of the United States to the Republic of China and Formosa (Taiwan) speak on current events. The meeting occurred during a period of high tension between the US and East Asia due to Cold War Era policies.
This Week in Chester History…
In 1955, the Mendham-Chester Tribune profiled Chester Borough Mayor Arnold A. Nichols. Serving his third term as the Democratic mayor of a Republican dominated council, Nichols insisted that he ran the government like his contracting firm. His plan was to answer questions and solve problems within the month they were raised, and leave behind a committee system. Each of the council members would be responsible to tackle all the problems as a group.
This Week in Chester History…
The Mendham-Chester Tribune reported in 1955 that a $0.02 per quart drop in the price of milk immediately affected dairy farms in the Chester area. Thirty local dairies received a letter from distributor Somerset Hills Dairy saying that unless the state retail price controls were reinstated, they would cease buying local milk in 1 month’s time.
This Week in Chester History…
In 1955, the Chester Township Committee approved an ordinance granting 5 vacation days and 5 sick days per year for all full-time Township employees. Among other items on the docket, the Committee also appointed Harry Brodeed of Oakdale Road to the Shade Tree Commission, and J. Ross Murray of Old Chester Road to the Local Assistance Board. Source: Mendham-Chester Tribune
This Week in Chester History…
The Mendham-Chester Tribune reported that John Apgar lost control of his car at the intersection of the Chester Road and Route 31, in 1937. Also in the car was David Apgar, John’s uncle, who suffered severe injuries and was taken to the hospital in an ambulance.
This Week in Chester History…
In 1937, Chester School, Chester Boy Scouts, and Camp 82 of the Patriotic Order of Americans responded to the Red Cross’ call to raise funds for those affected by flooded areas along the Ohio River and throughout the Mississippi River Valley. The Mendham-Chester Tribune said radio announcements about the devastation in 11 states inspired the groups to raise whatever they could.
This Week in Chester History…
Chester Township voted to increase its budget by $5,044.34, in 1938. According to the Mendham-Chester Tribune, new road equipment and the purchase of a site for the new Township Hall counted for $4,000 of the tax increase. Other items, such as a $50 appropriation to the Boy Scouts and a recreational program at Borough Hall made up the remainder of the budget.
