Portrait of the Rose City: A History of Madison, New Jersey

by Frank Esposito

Overview

Written by an acclaimed historian and committee of local experts, this book takes readers on an extraordinary journey into the heart of community, connection, resilience, and reinvention. It seamlessly weaves meticulous research and photos, with compelling storytelling to bring to life the exceptional community of Madison, New Jersey.
Portrait of the Rose City offers a fascinating account into how a community can grow from humble beginnings to play an integral role in some of the most important moments in this country's history and to serve as a role model for small towns everywhere.
Throughout its long history, Madison has navigated challenges that have tested communities nationwide: wars, civil unrest and social inequity, pandemics, industrial and technological revolutions. Unlike many towns that faltered under such pressures, Madison thrived, emerging stronger each time. The secret to Madison's success lies in its tradition of civic cooperation, mutual respect, and effective leadership, providing a model for other communities seeking sustainable growth and to not just survive, but to thrive. What is truly amazing about Madison is the belief of its residents that people working together can accomplish virtually anything.
Welcome to Madison, New Jersey.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798992744637
Publisher:	Free Public Library of the Borough of Madison
Publication date:	03/20/2025
Pages:	348
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 10.00(h) x 0.81(d)

About the Author

Frank J. Esposito received a B.A. in Social Studies and an M.A. in History from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in 1965 and 1969, respectively, and a Ph.D. in American History from Rutgers University in 1976. From 1970 to 2021, he taught history at Kean University, where he served at various times as a Dean, Vice President for Academic Affairs, University Ombudsman and Interim President. He was also awarded a Kean Presidential Award for Distinguished Teaching in 1995 and an Award for Distinguished Service by School Leadership Team 1 of Newark, NJ Public Schools. Also in 1995, he played a principal role in the development of legislation leading to the passage of New Jersey’s Charter School law. In 2009, Esposito was a candidate for New Jersey Lt. Governor on the Independent ticket with gubernatorial candidate Chris Daggett.
Dr. Esposito is the author of nine books, and over 100 newspaper and journal articles. His published books include Travelling New Jersey (1978); The Madison Heritage Trail: An Intimate History of a Community in Transition (1984); Public School Choice: National Trends and Initiatives, NJ Department of Education, 1988; Victorian New Jersey (2005) with Donald Lokuta; Images of America: Ocean City, NJ (Vol.1, 1996, Vol. 2, 1998); with Robert J. Esposito; Manhattan’s Musical Heritage (2005), with Tara Esposito; Kean University (2017) with Erin Alghandoor, Elizabeth Hyde, and Jonathan Mercantini; and The Secret History of the Jersey Devil with Brian Regal.
He and his wife, Sherry, live in Ocean Township, New Jersey.