In the mid-2000s, Sandra McAllister climbed the stairs to the second floor of the Kearny Library and stepped into the long-closed Kearny Museum. After years of being shut to the public, the space had become a catchall for donated “historical” items left behind by well-meaning residents. “There were piles everywhere of people’s…
The deed describing the land that includes present-day Kearny, N.J., is among the oldest surviving New Jersey land-purchase deeds from Native Americans that still exists in its original form. It reflects one of many land transactions that occurred during the early period of European colonization in North America. The deed is preserved in the collections…
Looking to learn a new skill such as sign language, kickboxing, Japanese, or charcoal sketching? For over 40 years, Kearny Adult School has been offering lifelong learning through evening courses and community education programs rooted in the town’s rich industrial and immigrant history. While traditionally offering English as a Second Language classes, Kearny’s Adult School…
In Kearny, some say Robbie Burns Day—celebrated each year on Jan. 25—is even bigger than St. Patrick’s Day. Also known as Burns Night, the event honors the life and poetry of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns, who was born in 1759. The celebration holds special meaning in Kearny, where, at one time, more than half…
Looking to sharpen your musical skills in 2026? Paz Music Academy in Kearny makes it easy to get started with affordable lessons and instrument rentals for all ages and skill levels. Offering instruction in piano, guitar, voice, violin, saxophone, bass, drums, and ukulele, students can explore classical, jazz, pop, or rock in a supportive, confidence-building…
The Christmas season officially ends on Jan. 6 with the Feast of the Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day. For Catholics, this great feast celebrates the visit of the Magi or wise men to the infant Jesus, and it also commemorates Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River by St. John the Baptist, Father Joe…
Michele and Joe Sarowski were married in a Christmas-themed wedding on a blustery day in December 1979, a celebration befitting Santa and Mrs. Claus. Joe, a volunteer fireman, later became a police officer in Lyndhurst. Michele taught at St. Stephen’s in Kearny. However, they are most known for their work as Mr. and Mrs. Claus. …
More Kearny families are facing hardship this holiday season than ever before, but the Kearny Giving Tree is helping ensure they still enjoy a merry Christmas—thanks to the generosity of residents, organizations, and businesses. For decades, the Kearny Giving Tree has matched Kearny families in need with local gift givers. The Kearny-Belleville Elks #1050…
From sports enthusiasts and Scottish friends to dog lovers, music fans, and even the hard-to-shop-for, Kearny’s downtown shops offer a world of gifts—perfect for spreading holiday cheer and finding something truly special for everyone on your list. Kearny Life shopped downtown in search of the perfect gift for everyone on our list. Here are our…
When Nell Santos learned in 2012 that she was expecting a long-awaited baby girl after giving birth to two boys, she was overjoyed. Nicolle arrived on Oct. 19, 2022, in an uncomplicated delivery, but doctors quickly discovered she had been born with Down syndrome. “On that day, I received the most precious gift God…