The van Hovenberg & Leonhard Families

This series of six photographs were found in the effects of Alfred Andrew van Hovenberg. They provide important visual information about the van Hovenberg (or van Hoevenberg) family in the Haledon-Paterson area of New Jersey, as well as about the Leonhard family. Except for the two 1895 photographs, which are clearly focused on the van Hovenberg side, the other photos have so far been only tentatively analyzed.

November 5, 1895 This photograph is discussed at the entrance to the site. For many years, a copy of this photograph was the sole reference to this period for many in the family. Most of the identifications were made by the daughters of James Jacob van Hovenberg.

November 5, 1895 As noted, this photo and its companion above were on the occasion of Sarah Jane van Hoevenberg Thompson's 77th birthday. Uncertainty remains about several of the females in the photographs, but the identifications here are very important for determining the likely composition of other photos in the group.

van Hovenberg, 1894 This photograph is the reverse image of the above (note the rock and tree), and shows a large gathering apparently of the Leonhard relatives with a handful of van Hovenbergs. Also note the gate to the property in the upper right, the backdrop to the first 1895 photo, above.

van Hovenberg, 1894 This photograph, showing children in a traditional maypole procession, was taken directly facing the house and includes several individuals in the first photograph.

Undated, perhaps 1893 It was customary at the Leonhard estate - where nearly all of these photos were taken - to eat meals on the back porch during the summer. We guess that that is the location of this photograph, which again presents a smattering of van Hovenbergs, Leonhards, and many unidentifieds.

Undated This photograph is completely incomprehensible at the present time, and is included solely because several of the individuals in it are in the previous photographs. Any input would of course be welcomed.