Welcome to the Preserve Shady Rest Committee

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 preserve and restore the historical significance of the Shady Rest Clubhouse at Scotch Hills Country Club. Submit to the National Register of Historic Places Nomination for review by the New Jersey Preservation Office to historically solidify Shady Rest’s landmark in history; to educate and present the rich history of Shady Rest and John Matthew Shippen, Jr. To create a multi-purpose center and museum to display memorabilia, photographs, artifacts, and oral stories of the Shady Rest and John Matthew Shippen, Jr. This would be open to the public.