Boonton Historical Society

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Until further notice, the Boonton Historical Society & Museum will be closed to the general public.

Please note that the Walking Tour of Historic Main Street scheduled for Sunday, May 31st has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Furthermore, the Christmas in July Sale scheduled for July 17th, 18th, and 19th has been postponed with a new date to be determined.

Boonton Historical Society

The Boonton Historical Society and Museum was founded in 1959 by a group of business people and others who were interested in preserving and promoting Boonton's history, which dates to the mid-1700s. The original village of Boonton now lies under the Jersey City Reservoir. Today's Boonton began in about 1829 as a result of the construction of the Morris Canal and the development of the New Jersey Iron Company.

John Taylor Building

The Society's extensive collection of Boonton historical material is housed in the landmark John Taylor Building at 210 Main Street. This house, which combines elements of Colonial Revival and Victorian Gothic styles, was built in 1897-8 for use as a residence and office for Dr. John L. Taylor. His wife Adelaide had received the land as a gift from her father, the Hon. John L. Kanouse.

Mission Statement

The Boonton Historical Society and Museum is a non-profit organization, incorporated in 1959, located in the town of Boonton, New Jersey. Its mission is to: 

  • Preserve and protect the town of Boonton's unique cultural, architectural and industrial history
  • Preserve and share the area's rich history, folklore, arts and humanities of the past and present
  • Encourage preservation and restoration of historic landmarks in the town
  • Protect and display the museum's collections
  • Provide educational programs, guided historical tours and exhibitions to a diverse population