Passaic gets ready to celebrate 150th birthday. Volunteers wanted

Home to about 2,000 residents and on the cusp of becoming a major cog in the mighty American economic machine, Passaic officially became a city on April 2, 1873.

Today, with a diverse population of 70,000, the city is beginning to plan its 150th anniversary celebration.

Passaic has enjoyed a colorful history, and at various times as a world leader in industry, education and culture.

The early years

It started in 1873 when the city was primed for massive growth. The Dundee Dam and Dundee Canal, completed in 1861, provided the water and hydropower needed for an industrial boom. The land remained cheap and its proximity to New York added to its appeal.

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In the coming decades, scores of companies, including Botany Worsted Woolen Mills, founded in 1889, and the Forstmann Woolen Mills, which came to the city in the early 20th century, built factories and mills and created thousands of jobs. The manufacturing success brought a need for housing for thousands of workers.

"Our city has been defined by generations of immigrants, continually building a united community that celebrates the vibrancy of our differences," City Council President Gary Schaer said. "I am constantly inspired by Passaic’s storied past, and proud to witness history shaped by our residents.”

With this sudden surge of economic growth, Passaic boomed. Its goods were world renowned.

The community and its public schools fostered artists, including Hollywood recorder and film producer Saul Zaentz ("One Flew Over Cuckoo's Nest)," recording stars the Shirelles, NFL great Jack Tatum and scientists including Edith E. Sproul, a pathologist credited with developing the Pap smear.

"For 150 years, and even before, our city has served and continues to be an appealing landing place for those who wish to settle here seeking diverse opportunities," Mayor Hector Lora said. "This is especially the case for immigrants who have been attracted to Passaic by economic opportunity, which continues today."

While the city's fortunes have waxed and waned over the years, there is much to celebrate, say city leaders.

In hopes of addressing its rich history, the city created a Historic Preservation Commission consisting of seven regular members and two alternates, all city residents and at least three with in-depth knowledge of local history.

Currently, the city is accepting members to the commission and hopes to start planning for the anniversary as soon as possible. The commission will entertain proposals from various organizations and once formed decide on how exactly to commemorate the April 2 milestone.

Those interested should send letters of interest to the mayor's office.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Passaic gets ready to celebrate 150th birthday. Volunteers wanted