Politics & Government

Shady Rest Preservation Funds Approved

Residents fill council meeting as money approved for urgent repairs to historic clubhouse.

Funds to undertake a preservation study and perform urgent repairs to the historic Shady Rest Clubhouse at Scotch Hills Golf Course were approved Tuesday night.

The $138K bond approval was met with applause and cheers from a standing-room only crowd.

Before the vote, several people spoke in support of preserving the historic building, which was famous for its entertainment and featured performances from jazz and blues greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Cab Calloway. 

John Shippen, the first American-born golf pro, and first African-American to compete in the U.S. Open in 1896, served as the head club pro from 1931 until 1960. 

Among those coming to the mic was former Scotch Plains Mayor Mauro Checchio, who also asked the council to consider revising the industrial zone surrounding the golf club. 
 
"You have a jewel here that would be very expensive to replace," said Checchio.

Deputy Mayor Colleen Gialanella explained that the council has been unanimous in supporting funds for preserving Shady Rest since long before the vote was on the agenda. 

Gialanella added that she would like to make sure a formal process is in place for those who want to donate to the project, noting that many groups had expressed interest in being involved.

Mayor Kevin Glover said that this vote was "his proudest vote" and also announced that "A Place for Us," the documentary on Shippen and Shady Rest, will be screened again on Oct. 17 at St. John's Baptist Church. 


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