The Mission of the Union County Historical Society
The Union County Historical Society of New Jersey was formally incorporated by an Act of the 93rd Legislature on April 1, 1869. From its earliest days, the Society has championed the collection and preservation of historical relics, manuscripts, books, records, and documents connected to the territory once encompassed by Elizabethtown and what is now Union County.
Our purpose is simple yet powerful: to encourage research, safeguard the county’s historical legacy, and share the stories that shaped Union County’s place in New Jersey history.
Powered by Community Membership
The Society thrives through the commitment and generosity of its members. Made up of residents, historians, and community partners who share a passion for preserving local heritage, our membership is the backbone of every project we undertake.
UCHS has no paid staff—every function of the organization is carried out by our Executive Board and dedicated volunteers. This tradition of community stewardship is one of the Society’s most defining characteristics.
Dr. Carl G. Hanson House
A landmark in Cranford and a lasting symbol of service, the Dr. Carl G. Hanson House stands as one of the most important fixtures of the Union County Historical Society. The home is named in honor of Dr. Carl G. Hanson (1905–1980), a respected pediatrician, World War II medical director, community leader, and longtime Cranford resident.
Dr. Carl G. Hanson
Dr. Hanson served as Chief of Pediatrics at Muhlenberg Hospital in Plainfield, later becoming a pioneering figure in pediatric residency training. Beyond medicine, he was deeply engaged in civic life—organizing the Cranford Physicians Club, helping establish the Union County Mental Hygiene Clinic, serving as medical director of Cranford Civil Defense during World War II, and remaining active in numerous professional and cultural organizations.
Today, the Hanson House serves as the home of the Society, hosting meetings, archival work, exhibitions, and community programs. It stands as both a functional headquarters and a historical artifact in its own right.
Preserving Union County’s Story
UCHS remains committed to documenting the pivotal people, places, and events that define Union County’s history. Through publications, programs, student awards, exhibitions, and collaborative partnerships across the region, we work to make history accessible to all. Whether through archival preservation, storytelling initiatives, or community engagement, the Society continues to honor its founding purpose—ensuring that the history of Union County is studied, remembered, and shared for generations to come.
From the Archives
From Edison’s first electric village to the USS Maine memorial, Issue 147 highlights Union County history and Society events.
Student awards, upcoming UCHS meetings, and a deep dive into New Jersey’s historic trolley systems in Issue 143.
From Fort McHenry to Springfield’s “Give ’em Watts” moment, Issue 120 blends national history with Union County memories and landmarks.
Our longtime friend and Society Treasurer, Bill Frolich, sadly passed away on September 30th 2021. He was 101 years old, a 45-year member of UCHS, and the writer/editor of our Newsletter. Bill and his extraordinary knowledge of Union County history will be greatly missed.