For the Westfield Historical Society’s First Wednesday Luncheon series in January, guests are welcome to the luncheon at Echo Lake Country Club on Wednesday January 8th, 2025 beginning with check-in at 11:45am. History educator and Curator, Melissa Ziobro, will present her program on What America Sounds Like: 250 Years of American Music. 

This interactive, multi-media talk provides a look at the iconic music that helps us understand our shared history as we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence. Special emphasis is given to Thomas Edison, Paul Robeson, James P. Johnson, Frank Sinatra, Whitney Houston, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, Queen Latifah, Bon Jovi, and others from NJ who have contributed so much to the American music landscape.

Melissa Ziobro is a longtime educator and the Curator of the Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music, and Director of Public History at Monmouth University.

Those wishing to attend the luncheon may make a reservation by email to westfieldhistoricalsociety@gmail.com; or, by calling 908-654-1794, before Thursday, January 2nd. Please advise if there are special dietary needs. The luncheon fee of $40 (WHS members) or $45 (non-members) includes a three-course meal, coffee/tea, and gratuity. The luncheon fee should be paid in advance (check payable to Westfield Historical Society) by mailing to Westfield Historical Society, P.O. Box 613, Westfield, NJ  07091; by Venmo to @Westfield-HistoricalSociety; or, here at the Registration tab at the top of this page. Registration and payments should be received by Thursday prior to the luncheon. Attendees should check the club’s dress code and guest policies at: echolakecc.org/guest-info