Citizens United To Protect The Maurice River - CU Social: Woven Together: Immigration and Community Histories of the Wild and Scenic Maurice River Watershed / 8-6-26

Join CU Maurice River on Thursday, August 6, at 6:30 pm for the August CU Social "Woven Together: Immigration & Community Histories of the Wild and Scenic Maurice River Watershed." The Maurice River’s connection to its early inhabitants, settlements, and industries is inseparable from both Millville’s and Vineland’s origins.

The river fueled Millville’s early growth by providing water, food, and transportation, while the area’s sandy soil and extensive forests further encouraged development. Linda Jones will explain how Millville’s early growth and its industries were spawned, the immigrants it attracted, and the Maurice River’s significant role in the city’s beginnings.

Agriculture was more than an industry in Vineland—it was the cornerstone of its identity. Since its founding in 1861 as a planned community by Charles K. Landis, generations of residents built their lives around the land.  Naomi Ingraldi will explain how, as Vineland grew, it became a destination for immigrants seeking opportunity and a better future. These are the people whose cultures, traditions, and contributions made it into a thriving community. Today’s Vineland is reflection of this layered, remarkable history.

Linda S. Hruza-Jones is President of the Millville Historical Society’s Board of Trustees. Now retired, Linda taught U.S. History I and II at Millville Memorial High School for nearly three decades. She has also served as president and vice president of the Cumberland County Historical Society’s Board of Trustees. Born and raised in Vineland, Naomi Ingraldi joined the board of trustees of the Vineland Historical Society in 2020. As a result of a lifelong study of her hometown and its history, she currently serves as Secretary/Treasurer and Membership Chairperson of the Vineland Historical & Antiquarian Society.

If you'd like to have dinner at Merighi's, it is recommended you make a reservation for either before the presentation at 5 pm or afterwards at 8 pm.  For reservations please call the restaurant at 856-691-8051.