“Kramer Manor” is the captivating history of a Black Community located right here in Fanwood and Scotch Plains. It proudly marked its centennial in 1924 and, less than a year later, it celebrated another historic designation—inclusion in the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail. Kramer Manor, a neighborhood comprising approximately one hundred households, has a rich history. For most of its 100+ years it stood as an all-Black enclave, but today it has transformed into a thriving and desirable multicultural community of single-family homes and green spaces.
The Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood is honored to have Jill Jackson-Jones, a respected member of our community, along with Kramer Manor long time existing and former residents, as they share their insights into how their families contributed to this thriving community and educate us about Kramer Manor at our upcoming February 24th evening meeting. Jill, who grew up in the Kramer Manor neighborhood in the 1970’s and 1980’s, now resides in her childhood home. Her dedication to preserving the history of Kramer Manor is evident in her roll as a member of the Social Justice Matters (SJM) organization. Alongside Pamela Brooks, Kevin Eldridge and other Kramer Manor residents and SJM members, collaboratively spearheaded the process of tracing the history of Kramer Manor. Their efforts culminated in the successful application for Kramer Manor’s inclusion in the Black Heritage Trail. Beyond her remarkable contributions to the Kramer Manor history, Jill and her husband Felton Jones, own Savory Selections Catering, located on E. 2nd Street, Scotch Plains.
The Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood cordially invites you to join us for this timely meeting on Tuesday evening February 24th, starting at 7:30 PM. Prepare to be amazed by this remarkable history of this neighborhood of 51 acres. In 1924, it was purchased by a New York City-based real estate firm, Kramer Realities, Inc. The owners, brothers Harry and Hyman Kramer of Russian-Jewish heritage, actively marketed it as a destination for Black families. Join us as we delve into the obstacles faced and overcome by these pioneering buyers. Bring your family, friends and neighbors to this enriching meeting and embark on a journey through the captivating story and legacy of Kramer Manor. The meeting is free and open to all, and it is held at the historic Shady Rest Country Club, another significant landmark on the Black Heritage Trail. Located at 820 Jerusalem Road (at the corner of Plainfield Avenue) in Scotch Plains, the club offers a historic setting for refreshments and fellowship after the presentation. For further information please email Info@HistoricalSocietySPFNJ.org or call 908/322-6700 Extension 230.
The Kramer Manor history project represents a working research collaboration between local residents and member os Social Justice Matters, Inc., made possible by a H.E.A.R.T. (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) grant from the Union County Board of Commissioners.
The Osborn Cannonball House Museum, located at 1840 Front Street in Scotch Plains, will be open to the public from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
