Howe House Newsletter March 2026
March is Women’s History Month
This month we honor the remarkable women who shaped our history, inspired our present, and propel our future forward. At Howe House, we celebrate the courage, creativity, and resilience of women from all walks of life—whether they walked these halls, led communities, or shared stories that light the way for others. Thank you to all the women who have contributed to the history and future of Howe House. Your strength, vision, and kindness continue to guide us.
Guided House Tour: Women of the House
The Crane House & Historic YWCA is a window on to the history of our nation from its early years as an independent country to a country embroiled in the civil rights struggle. On this special tour, hear the stories of the women who lived, worked, and played in the house. From the Crane wives, to the enslaved and paid workers of the house, to the women and girls of the African American YWCA, the Crane House & Historic YWCA has seen how a woman's role in the house and in society has changed over 200 years.
Missed our feature with Montclair History Center’s History at home? Watch it here: History at Home: The Howe Family History 2026
Saturday, March 21, 2026
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Crane House & Historic YWCA
110 Orange Road Montclair, NJ 07042
Join Champions for the Arts
With the loss of "third spaces," an increase in online socialization, and the dwindling of social clubs and groups, we are increasingly seeking a way to combat loneliness and isolation. Through their ability to bring people together in person and to connect our hearts to beat as one, the arts remain a powerful way to bring us closer to those around us.
In this open and inviting conversation, she shares concrete examples of successful audience outreach from her extensive field experience, as well as spotlighting young Champions for the Arts in the Montclair State University community. They're ready to pledge their commitment to forging dynamic strategies to strengthen the arts. Are you ready to join them?
This is a FREE event, but tickets are required.
Thursday, March 26th at 6PM | Presentation Hall in the School of Media & Communications
Howe House Presents the Sanctuary Table
You are invited to the table.
This Women's History Month, the Howe House is hosting The Sanctuary Table — an intimate brunch gathering for women to slow down, share, and be witnessed.
This year's theme: Ground, Gather, Grow.
Through storytelling, journaling, and a hands-on creative activity, we'll ground in what holds us, gather the stories that shaped us, and grow into who we're becoming.
Saturday, March 28, 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
The Howe House, Montclair, NJ
Seating is limited. Come as you are.
Save the Date!
Friends of the Howe House is bringing back our Juneteenth Cocktail Fundraiser for a second year! Mark your calendar for June 19, 2026 and get ready for an evening of community, culture, and celebration. More details coming soon — you won’t want to miss this one!
We are looking for sponsors for this upcoming event. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, please email info@friendsofthehowehouse.org.
A Tiny House, A Thousand Stories - Story #1875
Alice Hooe Foster’s story is woven into the very foundation of Montclair’s history—and it may have begun at the Howe House itself.
Local historians believe Alice Hooe Foster was born at the Howe House in the late 19th century, when the home served as a place of refuge and opportunity for newly freed African Americans building lives in Montclair. From those beginnings, Alice would go on to become one of the community’s earliest trailblazers.
In 1895, she made history as the first Black student to graduate from Montclair High School, breaking barriers at a time when opportunities for Black students were deeply limited. Her commitment to education and community did not stop there.
Alice later became one of the founding members of the Montclair YWCA, helping create a space dedicated to empowering women, supporting families, and strengthening the local community.
Alice Hooe Foster’s life reflects the promise of the Howe House itself—a place rooted in resilience, learning, and opportunity. Her achievements remind us that from humble beginnings can grow leaders who shape institutions and inspire generations.
As we continue to share the stories connected to the Howe House, Alice’s legacy stands as a powerful reminder of how this historic home helped nurture the trailblazers who helped build Montclair.
