Howard and I grew up in Short Hills, NJ. It is home. Here are five things we love about our hometown.
- Lets Start with Short Hills Historic Character. Founded by Stewart Hartshorn 150 years ago, Short Hills is a charming oasis set in rolling hills. Hartshorn sought to design homes that would complement the natural beauty of the town. Some of the parks were landscaped by Frederick Olmstead, who also designed Central Park.
- 35 minute Midtown Direct Train: Hartshorn wisely brought train service to Short Hills, which was expanded with Midtown Direct service. Commuters love that in just 35 minutes they arrive in Midtown. And real estate values no doubt are enhanced with this service.
- Short Hills NJ’s Best Public Schools. Millburn-Short Hills boasts the finest school system in New Jersey. Many say one of the top schools in the nation. Given soaring private school tuition, it is reassuring that our kids receive a first class education locally. More than 97% of town graduates enrolled in college, many selecting Harvard, Yale, Wharton and other acclaimed universities. And its not just academics. Our public school offers a rich program of athletics and cultural activities (fun fact: Anne Hathaway starred in the high school production of Once Upon A Mattress). For those seeking private school, Pingry, Delbarton, Kent Place, and Newark Academy remain excellent local choices.
- Clubs and Recreation. Short Hills enjoys its own par 3 golf course, an olympic size pool, numerous baseball diamonds, soccer/football fields and an award winning 16.5 acre Arboretum (donated to the town by Hartshorn’s daughter, Cora). Township programs provide residents with a lively calendar of activities for all ages – from Arboretum nature walks for kids – to acclaimed lectures and computer programs at the Library. And nearby are two champion golf courses: Baltusrol (home of the US Open) and Canoe Brook. For tennis buffs, there is the historic Racquets Club, right in the center of town.
- Culture and Convenience. Theater enthusiasts love the Paper Mill Playhouse, the State Theater of New Jersey. Paper Mill even offers a summer training programs for young performers – many hoping to be the next Anne Hathaway! And after a long day when take-out is a necessity, no problem – chinese, thai and pizza are a dial tone away. We love shopping at the Short Hills Mall, weekend brunch at the Hilton, and religious services at the many township houses of worship – there indeed is no shortage of wonderful amenities.
For all these reasons we love Millburn-Short Hills. A gem. Our town.
About Cara Moxley
