Tucked between two homes on Claremont Ave is the James Howe House which is believed to be the first home owned by a Black resident in Montclair. James Howe, once enslaved, was freed in 1817 and later left this home and land. Inside, history still lives in the details, from the original fireplace to the hand-built structure itself. This home may have been part of a growing free Black community right here in Montclair. Today, efforts are ongoing to preserve the house and uncover the full story. And, this Juneteenth, the community will gather again to honor that legacy and continue the work. 📍 369 Claremont Ave, Montclair Learn more on TheMontclairGirl.com ✍️ 🎥 lydiainnewyork #montclair #montclairnj #montclairhistory #njhistory #essexcounty