John W Rae

Mendhams John W Rae

The Mendhams is a region of New Jersey once home to the Rock-a-bye-Baby Railroad, early industries, and the mansions of millionaires. This visual history follows the region from the Revolutionary War to the Industrial Revolution, and from the Gilded Age to its transformation into a community for New York commuters. The photographs from years gone by allow both young and old to meander down the dirt road of Main Street, past the nation's oldest post office and over the bridges crossing streams that powered the early mills. Featured in The Mendhams are views of elaborate historic homes and businesses, including the mill where Jersey Lightning--New Jersey's first apple jack--was produced. Captured in over 200 images are moments in the lives of the people who made this community--not just early town officials, religious leaders, and gilded age millionaires but also store owners, housewives, and children.