The Bergen County Historical Society announced the date for the 2024 “Raise the Roof Gala” is set for Nov. 7. The event is dedicated to supporting the construction of a new 3,750-square-foot history museum and visitor center at Historic New Bridge Landing.
The celebration at Seasons in Washington Township will honor distinguished leaders with the prestigious New Jersey History Maker Award.
This year’s honorees include:
- Jim Kirkos, president and CEO, Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce, Meadowlands Live! Convention & Visitors Bureau
- Dr. Lisa Tank, acting president and chief medical officer, Hackensack University Medical Center
- Roger Gross, president, NIA National Realty
- Jeffrey Vasser, executive director, New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism (accepting in absentia)
- New Jersey Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way (invited)
“We look forward to bringing a dynamic new visitor center and museum building to life at Historic New Bridge Landing,” BCHS President Beverly Hashimoto said. “This facility will serve as the gateway to the site, a key Revolutionary War landmark, orienting visitors to its rich history while offering expanded space for educational programs and exhibits. It will showcase over 4,000 artifacts, textiles and documents that tell the story of Bergen County and early America.”
“Our honorees have each made significant contributions to advancing our community and shaping the future of New Jersey and Bergen County,” BCHS Building Chairperson Deborah Powell said. “Their leadership and dedication embody the spirit of progress and innovation, aligning with our mission to honor the past and inspire a deeper appreciation for the historical significance of our region. We celebrate their achievements as they continue to make history today.”
Raising the Roof
Fundraising for the new building at Historic New Bridge Landing began in 2023 and has successfully covered the planning, design and material procurement phases.
The project is led by Arcari + Iovino Architects, while critical engineering work has been completed by Persimmon Engineering LLC and Menlo Engineering Associates Inc.
Additional milestones have been finalized, including a traffic study by McDonough & Rea Associates Inc., a soil report by Johnson Soils Co. and an archaeological survey conducted by Chrysalis Archaeological Consultants.
Permits and land use authorizations have been secured with Bergen County and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring the project is ready to move forward. With these key preparatory phases completed, construction is slated to begin, and the building will be visitor-ready in time for our nation’s 250th Anniversary (“Semiquincentennial”) on July 4, 2026.
Historic New Bridge Landing is known as the location of the pivotal “Bridge That Saved a Nation,” where General George Washington and his troops retreated across the Hackensack River during the British invasion in November 1776.
At the gala, guests will enjoy an evening of lively entertainment, open bar and dinner, a silent auction, recognition of honorees and a shared commitment to preserving New Jersey’s history. For ticket information, please contact Bergen County Historical Society. The suggested attire is business casual with a patriotic flair.
