SOMA Living May 2022

REAL ESTATE Living in South Orange for over 20 years, I’ve never felt as though our town subscribes to the ordinary idea of mundane suburbia. South Orange’s uniqueness comes from the many untold layers that have molded the town, and, perhaps specifically, the history of the brook that babbles down the Glen near Mountainside Road. After accepting the listing for 361 North Ridgewood Road, I learned the historical accounts of the brook’s once-famed healing benefits. During the mid 19th century, South Orange was a mecca for wellness, as the air was said to have pulmonary vitality and the water, untouched by noxious urbanism, was considered mineral-rich and healing. The foundation of the railroad through South Orange allowed New York City’s wealthiest elites easy access to enjoy their summer days here. The most prominent landmark of this time was the South Mountain House– a luxurious water-cure hotel and spa, located on what we now call North Ridgewood Road not far from the Orange Lawn Tennis Club. The Hotel was first built around 1830 and was later owned by Mr. Lord of Lord & Taylor in 1850. The magnificent wood Hotel and Spa could house 150 guests and was supervised by two physicians who would administer the water’s medicinal benefits. On August 23, 1890, the hotel unfortunately burnt down. Today, the only remaining relics of its existence are Mountain Station and Mountain House Road, both of which led the hordes of travelers to find their fountain of youth here. It can be fascinating uncovering South Orange’s past in relation to the familiar present-day fabric. These memories dwell beneath our everyday– the streets we walk, the parks our children play, and the homes in which we reside. Whether a destination for wealthy, youth-seeking tourists, or our current home and community, South Orange is undoubtedly a healthy and flourishing place to live.

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Natalie Farrell Sales Associate Weichert Real Estate C: 917-514-7541 O: 973-996-3674 sold@nataliefarrell.com NatalieFarrell.com

littlestages.com info@littlestages.com 973-762-2679 14 South Orange Ave. South Orange

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