Next Tuesday, September 3, the Verona Historical Society will have a presentation and book signing by Rich Kennedy, the author of a new book on the Essex Mountain Sanatorium.
Founded in 1907, this tuberculosis hospital high on the hill above Verona grew to become one of the finest treatment centers in the nation, expanding into a complex of 20 buildings that encompassed nearly 300 acres. Kennedy, an amateur historian, has amassed a collection of photographs culled from libraries, historical societies and private collections to pay a final, lasting tribute to this once grand institution, which is now lost to time.
“In his work, Rich has captured the true essence of the sanatorium—its buildings and its people. Although the buildings no longer stand, with this timeless tribute its proud and shining story will not be forgotten.” says VHS President Robert Williams.
The event will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the Verona Community Center, 800 Bloomfield Avenue. Kennedy will present on the history of the institution and the lure that enticed him and so many others to explore it in the years shortly before its demolition. He will talk about his many interesting finds and, among other details, mention the tunnel system that connected some of the buildings–some of which are thought to still survive and the legend of the tunnels connecting the penitentiary to the west with the Overbrook asylum to the east. His book will be available for purchase.
For more information, contact Julie by e-mail or at v973-857-1968.
Image reprinted with permission from “Essex Mountain Sanatorium”, by Richard A. Kennedy. Available from the publisher, Arcadia Publishing online at www.arcadiapublishing.com or by calling 888-313-2665. You can also buy it through Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble
