How can I learn about the history of my town and house?

Question

I'm new to my town and can't seem to find a historical society, yet I live within the "historic section" of town. I know my house is over 100 years old but I'd really like to know more. I've talked to some elderly neighbors and found out some things, but I'm really looking for records and I don't know where to look. General help is appreciated, but I would love some specific websites. I live in Blackwood, New Jersey.

Answer 1

During the Great Depression the US government sent a bunch of historians around to write the histories of various towns. I found one of these in my local library - and my town wasn't very big in the 1930s. It was quite detailed, and although it obviously doesn't cover anything past the 30s it was very interesting to read and helped me understand what I was looking at as I walk around town.

As for your house, that's a bit harder. You can see when it was built and who owned it over the years by looking at the records in town hall.  

Answer 2

William's answer is good.  Your library may have a Genealogy room which may be helpful in locating the historical info.   Determining the original owners/builders of your home may go a long way in finding cogent information about the house.