Dover Area Historical Society

Join us for an American Tea prior to the Dover Free Public Library’s presentation of “Remembering the Ladies”. Space is limited and the first 30 RSVP’s will be guaranteed a seat for the tea.

Dover Area Historical Society Open Houses

The Dover Area Historical Society will host an Open House on January 24th from 1:00–4:00 PM.

Our February Open Houses will be featuring Dover Schools. Come explore our collection of yearbooks, learn who was in Dover’s first graduating class, and see how school buildings and campuses have changed over the years.

February Open House Dates:

• Saturday, February 14th — 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
• Wednesday, February 18th — 6:00–8:00 PM
• Saturday, February 25th — 1:00–4:00 PM

All open houses are weather permitting.

The Dover Area Historical Society mourns the loss of our passionate devoted docent and friend, Richard J. “Rick” Kelly. A lifelong resident of Dover, Rick shared his deep love for the town through his passion for history, photography, and storytelling. With his remarkable knowledge, carefully preserved photographs, and genuine affection for Dover, Rick brought the past to life for countless visitors. He will be missed by many and leaves us a challenge to continue his work.

Richard J. Kelly Obituary

Richard J. Kelly, age 75, passed away on December 20, 2025. A lifelong resident of Dover, New Jersey, Rick was born on March 22, 1950, and remained deeply connected to the community he called home throughout his life.

Rick had a deep appreciation for history and was an active member of the Dover Historic Society. He loved taking photographs, capturing moments both big and small, and found peace and joy in fishing. Above all, Rick treasured time spent with his family, especially making memories with his great-nephew Bryan, who brought him immense happiness.

Rick was predeceased by his parents, Claire M. Kelly and Robert T. Kelly, and his brothers, Brian R. Kelly and Kevin M. Kelly.

He is survived by his sister-in-law Bernadette Kelly; his nieces Victoria Marrero, Amber Kelly, his nephew Robert Kelly, nephew-in-law Jose Marrero; and his beloved great-nephew Bryan Marrero, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Family and friends are invited to honor Rick’s life at Tuttle Funeral Home in Randolph, New Jersey, on December 30, 2025 from 5:00pm-7:00pm. Please visit www.tuttlefh.com for more information or to leave an online condolence to the family.

Rick will be remembered for his quiet kindness, his love of history and photography, and the care he showed to those around him. His memory will live on in the stories, photographs, and moments he shared with the people who loved him.

Dover Area Historical Society and Nuestra Historia

Pathways Museum and Site Tours
Saturday, October 4, 2025
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
55 West Blackwell Street, Dover, NJ

Join us for a special day as the Dover Area Historical Society participates in the Pathways Museum and Site Tours and proudly opens Nuestra Historia, a powerful new exhibit honoring the history and contributions of Latino immigrants in Dover.

Explore a vibrant collection of photographs, artifacts, and personal stories that celebrate the rich cultural heritage and lasting impact of our Latino community.

This exhibit is more than history — it’s a tribute to the people who have helped shape Dover into the community it is today. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, reflect, and celebrate together!

🔗 Free and open to the public.

Dover Area Historical Society

Wednesday August 20th 3-5

55 West Blackwell Street, Dover

The author, Robert Mayer, will be presenting the story about the scientists behind the world’s first atomic bomb for the U.S. Army based on a true family story. Rob’s mother Sondra Meyer Mayer was from Dover and spent her early married years with her family here until the 1960s while her husband Irving worked at Picatinny Arsenal. Rob will share his family’s story, his father’s service in WWII and his work at Picatinny Arsenal in the development of the atomic recoilless rifle.

The Dover Area Historical Societies Museum House will be open Saturday, August 10, 2025 from 10am to 1pm. Come visit and see all the new things that have been going on.

June 23rd Dover Public Library 6:00-7:30 PM

Presenter: Amy Panetta, MA

Join Us for the Memorial Day Parade!
Come watch the Memorial Day Parade with us at the Dover Historical Society’s Museum House, located at 55 W. Blackwell Street.

Before or after the parade, stop in and explore the Museum — there’s a lot to see! We’ve been busy behind the scenes, and great things are happening at the Museum. Come find out what’s new!

Come Visit Us on Saturday, May 3rd!
We’re excited to welcome you to the Museum House from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Here’s what you can look forward to:
🎨 On the first floor, enjoy a selection of artwork by Bea Cook, currently on display.
🪑 On the second floor, check out our new acquisition—the original shoeshine chair from the Dover Train Station.
📚 On the third floor, we’re shining a spotlight on the amazing efforts of Nuestra Historia and their contributions to preserving our local history.

There’s been a lot happening at the Museum House, and we’re proud to share it all with the community. We hope to see you there!