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Historic Preservation Commission
The City of Passaic’s Historic Preservation Commission is dedicated to identifying, protecting, and celebrating the historic and cultural resources that define Passaic’s unique identity. Established to preserve the city’s architectural and cultural legacy, the Commission works to recognize the places, structures, and stories that have shaped Passaic from its earliest days to the present.
From its origins as a Dutch settlement in the 1600s to its emergence as a thriving industrial city in the 19th and 20th centuries, Passaic’s history reflects the contributions of generations of residents who helped build a diverse and dynamic community. The Commission’s efforts help ensure that this legacy is honored and preserved for future generations through education, documentation, and preservation initiatives.
Explore the sections below to discover more about Passaic’s historical journey, landmarks, and people:
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Centennial Paid Fire Department
View historic photos of the Centennial Paid Fire Department and its crew.
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City of Passaic's 150th Anniversary
Learn about Passaic’s origins, milestones, and transformation over the past 150 years.
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Famous People
Celebrate the achievements of notable individuals who have called Passaic home, including trailblazers like the all-girl vocal group The Shirelles.
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Historical Places Pre-1920
Explore photos and records of early buildings and landmarks that highlight the city’s growth before the 1920s.
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Historical Places Post-1920
Discover sites that illustrate Passaic’s continued evolution throughout the 20th century and beyond.
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Memorial Day Celebration
Learn about the dedication of the Cenotaph in Armory Park on Decoration Day, May 30, 1924.
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Montauk Theatre
Opened up in January 1924, the new Montauk Theatre was one of the pre-eminent venues in Northern New Jersey for live stage shows, silent and then talking movies and other forms of popular entertainment.
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NJ Black Heritage Trail – Rev. James H. Penn
NJ Black Heritage Trail – Rev. James H. Penn - Learn the legacy of Rev. James H. Penn, Passaic’s first African American lawyer and civil rights advocate, honored with a New Jersey Black Heritage Trail marker at Mt. Zion Baptist Church.