Bayonne Community Museum
| Company type | Non-profit |
|---|---|
| Industry | Museum |
| Founded | October 2002 |
| Headquarters | Bayonne , United States |
| Products | Exhibits, cultural events |
| Owner | City of Bayonne |
| Website | bayonnecommunitymuseum |
The Bayonne Community Museum is situated within the Bergen Point neighborhood of Bayonne, located in Hudson County, New Jersey, United States.
History
The building originally known as the Bayonne Trust Company was crafted under the direction of architect Lansing C. Holden Sr., showcasing the principles of Beaux-Arts architecture. Construction commenced on May 1, 1912, undertaken by Wells & Marvin from New York, with granite elements supplied by the George Brown Company. Though initially estimated at $100,000, the final cost reached $150,000. The bank officially opened its doors on November 8, 1913. Its first tenant, the Commercial Trust Company, operated until its dissolution in 1948, after which ownership transferred to United Jersey Bank. Later proprietors included Summit Bank and Fleet National Bank. Following the merger between FleetBoston Financial and Summit Bancorp in 2001, the city acquired the property on December 19 of that year.
On August 8, 2006, this edifice was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Before the City of Bayonne took possession, continuous banking operations contributed to maintaining the building’s original architectural features. Renovations during the 1970s introduced drop ceilings that obscured three stained glass windows. In 1979, the initial bronze doors were replaced with modern glass and oxidized bronze aluminum double doors. The structure is a two-story construction made from Vermont granite and is distinguished by fluted Ionic columns framing the main entrance, topped by segmented arch windows. A pedimented portico carries a stone lintel inscribed with "Incorporated 1902." The original granite steps remain well-preserved alongside a contemporary wrought iron handrail. Large gilded lamps flank both sides of the entryway.
Museum
In October 2002, Fleet Bank gifted the building to the City of Bayonne. Renamed the Bayonne Community Museum, this non-profit institution is actively assembling a collection comprising various artifacts and donated items. Plans for opening include completing renovations and installing an inaugural exhibit.
In September 2010, Hudson County allocated $240,000 to aid in redeveloping the facility. Although restoration expenses have exceeded the initial projection of $3.1 million, work continues with projects such as refurbishing the terrazzo flooring. In January 2012, a $175,000 contract was approved by Bayonne City Council for installing a new HVAC system.
While regular public access has not yet commenced, the venue is currently available for hosting both public and private functions.
See also
- Hale-Whitney Mansion
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Hudson County, New Jersey
- Exhibitions in Hudson County
External links
- Bayonne, New Jersey
- Museums in Hudson County, New Jersey
- Bank buildings on the National Register of Historic Places in New Jersey
- Commercial buildings completed in 1912
- Beaux-Arts architecture in New Jersey
- National Register of Historic Places in Hudson County, New Jersey
- 2002 establishments in New Jersey
- New Jersey Register of Historic Places
- Buildings and structures in Bayonne, New Jersey