Then & Now
by Highlands Historian Stella Bailey
In the many days gone by in the Town of Highlands, and especially, in the Village of Highland Falls, there were many stores and businesses which no longer exist. No more Ben Franklin 5&10; no more movie theatre; Sweet Shop; Pickwick; cigar store; dress shop and so on. There was always a good bakery and counting down the years there were over 14 in the village. The businesses that have stood the test of time are C.D. Parry — in business since the 1800s — Hogan and Bevan since 1918 and Park Restaurant since 1956, says The News of the Highlands. Some new ventures have shown up but not many survive the larger shopping centers elsewhere.
However, one organization has stood the test of time. The Town of Highlands Historian Society is celebrating their 40th anniversary this December. They had hoped to have a summer open house with a lot of fanfare for this great occasion but, like everywhere else, the COVID put a stop to that.
In 1980, a group of interested citizens began the momentum to establish a permanent historical society and officers were elected. The first home was in the Fort Montgomery School where one room was used for activities. In 1983 after much renovating the Society was able to move into the first floor of Village Hall. Then the Society was able to be more active; gather members and hold lectures, etc. and be more active with the public.
Unfortunately for the Society, the village and police needed more room and the Society had to move out. With no suitable place to go everything went into storage about Charles Bough’s insurance business. In 1995 re-organization took place again and through the assistance of Mayor Joseph D’Onofrio, the Society moved once again to Village Hall, but on the second floor. In this burgeoning space they have served their mission statement by preserving local history for 40 years!
The Historical Society has much to offer the local public and many visitors who stop by. There are veterans displays, school displays and memorabilia of all kinds to interest everyone. The old newspapers, since 1891, are available to look at on Microfilm; the best research tools we have of life in the Town of Highlands. There is also individual research files for searching for past family members. These are very much in demand with email and telephone inquiries from all over the world!
It is nothing short of a miracle that the Town of Highlands Historical Society has managed to remain a valuable part of the community for these 40 years! They receive no state, federal or local funding and depend solely on membership, donations and grants to stay in business. Please consider joining the Society or perhaps giving a membership as a Christmas gift.
After 40 years, the membership dues have never gone up. Individual is only $12 and family $15 a year. Other categories are available at minimum cost. This well help keep the Society in business for another 40 at least!
Have a very happy Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year.
