The Museum of the ‘Old First Ward’ at St. Lucy’s Church
Anyone who is interested in Italian immigration into the state of New Jersey, especially those who resided in Newark or had relatives who did, should make an appointment to visit the Museum of the Old First Ward; the collection of photographs is outstanding. Curator Bob Cascella has done a phenomenal job putting together the definitive pictorial chronical of this iconic section of Newark. And thanks to Steve Niforatos for keeping the old neighborhood website going and bringing the happy memories back.
A visit will evoke nostalgic memories of a time long past, yet kept alive with the memorabilia and photographs collected through the years. Located on the lower level of the Community Center adjacent to the historic St. Lucy’s Roman Catholic Church, the parish was a haven for the Italian immigrant families. Almost all of the holdings of the Museum, including printed and manuscript materials and photographs are on display and feature many aspects of immigrant life in Newark, from the early 1900s through the 1960s in the ‘Old First Ward.’ The museum is located at 118 7th Avenue in Newark, New Jersey. Call 201-340-4966 to schedule an appointment to view the fascinating archives.
