Collingswood, Restored begins with a discouraging description of a run-down business district in Collingswood in 1983 and details how the Collingswood Junior WomenÕs Club was moved to initiate a project that would help to improve the benign decay. Their initiative inspired a new volunteer group, Proud Neighbors of Collingswood, where goals expanded to include the historic preservation of the amazing housing stock in Collingswood. To this end, Proud Neighbors was instrumental in the development of the historic districts which led to the establishment of the Historic Preservation Commission in Collingswood. The group continued to raise money, launch innovative projects, and contribute to the community for over 40 years. The book shares their history and extensive accomplishments.
The book also contains "house biographies" from four decades' worth of house tour bookletsÑdescriptions of inspiring residents and the history, architecture, and decor of their living spaces. Written with charming detail, the book is an accidental time capsule, offering a comforting peek into the lives of neighbors who share a love of home, and of Collingswood., Historical Preservation, Community Revitalization, Gentrification, Home Care, Community Organizing, Town History, Frank and Carol Vita| | 233PAGES