Families Connecting with History

Working at Allaire Village has given me such an appreciation for how special the Village and Allaire State Park is to the community and local residents. Every week I get emails and messages on our Facebook page from people who grew up near Allaire, spends time with their family theire, and have a deep connection to the site. 

Since we opened as a historic museum in 1957, many people tell me stories of their parents or grandparents who were historic interpreters in the past, much like our villagers are now! I've even heard from visitors whose families used to live at Allaire in the early 20th century, when it was still a residential community.

A few weeks ago, a woman messaged us over Facebook, asking if we had photos from the 1930's era. Back then, what is now the Carpenter's Shop was DeLisle's, and served as a restaurant, inn, and (allegedly) a speakeasy. The building also served as the local area's Boy Scout Headquarters. The Boy Scouts were the first group that began to restore the historic buildings- so we owe them a lot! 

I sent over some photos we have from that period, which I attached to this post.  The woman was so happy, she said that her grandfather used to be the caretaker at Allaire in the 20's, and her grandmother lived there as a child. She shared that her grandmother was able to visit Allaire before she passed away, and that her face lit up. 

I love hearing stories like that. It reminds me that Allaire is not just an operating museum, it is one steeped in history that spans from the 1830's to today. It's really lovely to be able to help people put together their own history. 

Do you have any special family connections to the Village?