The Preserve Shady Rest Committee is comprised of local residents and supporters who believe in the importance of preserving the history of the Shady Rest Golf and Country Club, the first African American owned and operated country club in the United States. It was formed in 2013 and since its inception the Committee has worked tirelessly to make Scotch Plains residents and fellow New Jerseyians aware of the historic gem in our midst. Former Scotch Plains Mayor, Kevin Glover, was one of many who realized the significance of the Shady Rest Golf Club. The Committee has made great strides when it comes to sharing and preserving the history of this landmark: from attending local council meetings to ensure improvements to the building, petitioning the New Jersey Historical Society for recognition as a state landmark, and hosting educational events. The committee continues to fulfill its mission.
It is our mission to educate and present the rich history of Shady Rest and John Shippen, Jr.; preserve and restore the Shady Rest Clubhouse and to create a multi-purpose center and museum to display memorabilia, photographs, artifacts, and oral stories of the Shady Rest that is open to the public.
