Local History Research
at the
Riverdale Public Library
Local History Research Is Now Easier at the Riverdale Public Library
Explore Riverdale’s Story in Our Local History Collection
Riverdale has a long, proud history—and a community deeply connected to it. At the Library, we celebrate those roots by preserving and sharing the stories that shaped our town. Our Local History Collection was created so every patron can explore Riverdale’s past and keep its legacy alive.
In 2004, we were honored to receive an extraordinary donation from the family of the late Dorothea Walker, Riverdale’s Borough Historian. Her family’s contribution added rare and remarkable materials that continue to inspire researchers, students, and lifelong residents alike.
That same year, the New Jersey Historical Commission evaluated our collection and awarded us high marks for maintaining an acid‑free, pollution‑free environment—ensuring these treasures will be preserved for generations.
We invite you to stop in and browse:
Local memorabilia
Yearbooks
Photographs
Scrapbooks
Historical documents
And so much more
Because this collection is being built for the people of Riverdale, your input truly matters. We are actively gathering items such as deeds, newspaper clippings, letters, family photographs, and genealogies. Most of our current holdings are photocopies of original documents, and we welcome additional materials to help expand the record of our shared history.
If you have items you’d like to donate or loan—or suggestions for what we should include—please reach out. Together, we can continue preserving Riverdale’s story.
Research Links and Resources
Riverdale Local History Collection Online
What was Riverdale like back when? Check out the photos of people, places and things of Riverdale past.
Official website of the borough
Morris County Heritage Commission
The Commission ensures the preservation of historical information and provides resources to increase awareness of the people, places, and events that have given our area a special place in the history of New Jersey and America. Newsletters spotlighting local history, a newsletter archive, and information about current programs offered by the Commission are available.
The New Jersey Historical Society is a state-wide, private, non profit historical museum, library, and archives dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the rich and intricate political, social, cultural and economic history of New Jersey to the broadest possible audiences.
New Jersey Historical Commission
The mission of the New Jersey Historical Commission is to enrich the lives of the public by preserving the historical record and advancing interest in and awareness of New Jersey’s past.