CONNECTING PEOPLE TO LOCAL HISTORY

LOCAL HISTORY MATTERS

Local History Matters to Individuals
Local history matters because learning about history teaches essential skills. It pushes individuals to view the world from a different perspective. It teaches critical thinking when researching, like understanding biases and juggling multiple perspectives. This is especially relevant today, considering the availability of information online and the ever-growing need to examine reliability of information.

Local History Matters to Our Communities
Local history matters because towns are not communities without an understanding of the past. The traditions, stories and civic commemorations transforms our towns into communities. Telling these stories and continuing these local traditions help strengthen our community connection.

Local History Matters to Our Future
Local history matters to our future because by revisiting history in modern discussions, we can better understand the source of differing perspectives on issues we face in our community and in our country. History also serves as inspiration for current and future leaders. By looking back at role models in our community before us, it gives current leaders the insight and inspiration to move forward.

Visit the Programs & Events Page to see if there are any particular programs or events tied to one of the Somerset Hills Landmarks. Click Here

Somerset Hills Timeline

The Somerset Hills have a rich and varied history:

1733 – The name “Baskinridge” first appeared in the records of the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church. According to legend, early settlers saw wild animals “bask” on the ridge.

1749 – The Township of Bedminster was chartered on April 4, 1749 in the name of King George II. The township includes the historic villages of Burnt Mills, Vliettown, Pluckemin, Lamington, Pottersville, Greater Crossroads, and Bedminster.