In recognition of days gone by, the municipality plans to put up several historical markers at a number of sites. Trinity Episcopal Church, Methodist Episcopal Church, Bridgeboro Grammar School, Cambridge School, New Riverside Cemetery, Fairview Christian Cemetery, the Conrow House, World War II Observation Tower and the Bridgeboro Bridge have been designated “historic sites” because of their significance to the town.
The effort stems from a request by the Delran Historical Society to allow it to identify a list of properties and old buildings that played a role in making Delran what it is today. “The project enhances Delran’s attractiveness to its residents and bolsters the town’s reputation as a caring community that takes pride in its history,” society president Mal Anderson said. “We want our residents to appreciate the places that helped create our town’s rich past and feel a sense of connection to it.”
Sites were selected after several years of work undertaken by the society’s Historic Site Marker Committee, which compiled a list of properties that have long stood out in the community. Society members brought the proposal to the Township Council earlier this year. “We thought that this should be an ongoing program,” Anderson said. “Initially, we would develop a short list of historic sites and go from there in ensuing years.” The mayor and council members loved the idea. “We fully supported it,” said Mayor Ken Paris, who acknowledged that he’s a bit of a history buff. “It’s interesting,” he said. “I think it’s great for the young kids to know the history of their town.”
In the coming months, each site will be marked with a small sign briefly describing its history. Even though many of the locations are known by residents, council President Gary Catrambone said the markers will give the general public a little insight into the history of Delran, which was established by the New Jersey Legislature on Feb. 12, 1880, from portions of Cinnaminson.
“The committee worked tirelessly to research and to develop a short list of sites that were most significant to our town, and we are very grateful and indebted to them for their commitment and dedication,” Catrambone said. “The fruits of their labor will be enjoyed by current residents and by future residents for decades to come. They will all be able to enjoy our unique heritage and rich history with a much deeper understanding than otherwise would have been possible.”
Posted: Monday, January 4, 2016 5:15 am in the Burlington County Times
By Todd McHale, staff writer
