MONTCLAIR, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Montclair History Center. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.
The Montclair History Center is transforming its rich collection of oral histories into vibrant, story‑driven radio episodes and blog features—inviting the community to hear Montclair’s past directly from the people who lived it.
In partnership with Radio Free Montclair, the History Center has launched a growing series of themed radio episodes that weave together decades of lived experience. Early episodes explore childhood play and neighborhood grocery stores, while upcoming installments dive into World War II, the Great Depression, Montclair schools, race in Montclair, and more.
Once each episode completes its on‑air run at Radio Free Montclair, the audio is shared on the Montclair History Center website and it’s reimagined as an accessible, narrative‑style blog post—perfect for readers who want to savor the stories at their own pace.
As Executive Director Angelica Diggs notes: “This is the culmination of a project that started in 2018, when we first invited residents with long histories in Montclair to share their memories with us.”She adds that the new multi-platform approach “makes it available to people in the media they prefer.”
Most of the interviews were conducted by Montclair History Center staff and Trustees in collaboration with Montclair State University students enrolled in Dr. Chris Matthews’ archeology classes. Broadcasting interns from Montclair State University have shaped the audio into polished, compelling radio episodes.
Vice President Helen Fallon emphasizes their value: “These interviews are rich with historical details, fun facts, and memories of big events and almost-forgotten moments. In addition to great listening, they are an invaluable research resource.”
“We just Played,” blog post with links to radio episode audio: “We Just Played”: Childhood in Montclair, 1930s–1960s — Montclair History Center
“Memories from the Aisles: Grocery Shopping in Montclair’s Past” blog post with links to radio episode audio: Memories from the Aisles: Grocery Shopping in Montclair’s Past — Montclair History Center
View the Radio Free Montclair schedule for current episodes at: www.radiofreemontclair.org
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