In 1860 the name of our portion of the town was changed from Bloomfield to Montclair, and in 1868, by Act of State Legislature, we were set off from Bloomfield Township. With the election of Town officers the organization was effected and we became an independent township. With the conveniences of the two railroads connecting with New York, the town began a phenomenal growth, bringing to us an inflow of new citizens which has added largely to the material growth and beauty of the town. The fine churches, public school buildings, public library, Young Men's Christian Association building and clubhouse are evidences of what these new-comers have done for the religious, moral, social and educational advancement of the town, so that wherever we may be, whether in our own or foreign country, we are proud to say our home is in Montclair.

I take the following items from private memoranda: Electric connection was made with the town April 14th, 1896, and the light turned on at five o'clock P.M. The first electric street car was run through Montclair July 24th, 1898. So that in my memory we have advanced from the tallow candle through the periods of sperm oil, kerosene and gas to the electric light; from the two stages a day between here and Newark to thirty well filled trains from New York on the D., L. & W.R.R. and twenty-one on the Erie R.R., beside the trolley and automobile.