Picatinny: Born 1880, still thriving today

SPARTA — The Sparta Historical Society will feature Dr. Patrick J. Owens giving a special presentation on the history of Picatinny Arsenal, with many rarely-seen photos. The program will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 10. Not much is commonly known about the origins and present day importance of Picatinny Arsenal, covering nearly 6,500 acres in our backyard. Originally established by the War Department as Dover Powder Depot, Picatinny Arsenal is now the Joint Center of Excellence for Armaments and Munitions, providing products and services to all branches of the U.S. military. Its role has changed through the years - critical functions have included research and development, instruction in weaponry sciences, and munitions manufacturing. Patrick J. Owens received a PhD in U.S. History from the University of Notre Dame in 1976. He has been the Army Historian at Picatinny Arsenal since 1988. This event will be held in the lower level of the Sparta Ambulance Squad Building, 14 Sparta Avenue. Refreshments will be served. Admission is free to members, $1 for students, $3 for non-members. For more information, please contact Program Chairman Marjorie Strohsahl at 973-729-5153.