LOVE: FRANKLIN LAKES STYLE

LOVE: FRANKLIN LAKES STYLE

BY

JACK GOUDSWARD.

As we enter June thoughts of engagements and weddings come to pass. But there was a time when an anniversary was cause for celebration and a holiday. This is the story of John and Susan Demarest.

John Demarest was born to Cornelius and Anna Ryerson on March 8, 1828 in Wyckoff New Jersey. Susan Demarest was born Susan Winter daughter of Peter and Margaret Pulis Winter in Campgaw on October 4, 1832.

John and Susan married in 1850 and removed to New York.  They stayed there for two years before returning to Crystal Lake. In Crystal Lake they operated a Grist Mill that supplied feed for the animals on local farms and the Cotton Mill that the father of Mr. Demarest founded.

On March 2, 1925 John and Susan celebrated their 75th Anniversary. This set off a holiday-schools were closed, business closed at noon, well wishers streamed into Crystal to congratulate them.” Silver Threads among the Gold” was sung by 250 school children, Governor Silzer telegraphed his congratulations along with President Calvin Coolidge informing them that they are the oldest married couple in the United States. The people of Wyckoff presented Mrs. Demarest with an armchair and Mr. Demarest with a walking care with gold band and two diamonds. At days end they received nearly 2000 people.

The John and Susan celebrated their 76th anniversary but her eyesight and hearing were failing. Mr. Demarest was described as being “As Spry as ever”. But in the fall of 1926 his health took a turn. On Feb. 3, 1927 he passed. He was almost 99 years of age. Susan passed on April 13, 1927 at the age of 95.

This is their story of love and devotion.