Freehold Resident Honored For Work in History

It did not take Freehold resident Cheryl Cook long to find something to do with her time after retiring from the Monmouth County Library system more than a decade ago.

For her work in preserving the local history Cook will be presented with the 2013 Jane G. Clayton Award on Archives and History Day at the library headquarters on October 12. “Without question, Cheryl Cook is deserving of this recognition of her achievements,” Monmouth County Clerk M. Claire French said. “I look forward to presenting the award to her on Archives and History Day.”

When her time as the Head of Collection Development ended in 1999 Cook turned her attention to preserving the history of Freehold Township. Cook’s work included opening the museum for Early Childhood Education at the West Freehold Schoolhouse. She also helped establish the Oakley Farm Museum which opened in 2002. Since that time more than 15 Eagle Scouts have worked to restore the property which includes a 19th century blacksmith shop.

Cook was also one of the founders of the Freehold Township Heritage Society in 2003 which has raised funds for several projects including restoring the Georgia Road Schoolhouse which opened in 2010 and was also involved in founding the Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County in 2006.

French said all this and more makes Cook a worthy recipient of the award. “These are but a few of Cook’s many achievements that have enhanced the preservation of historic buildings and enabled public history education and programs.”

A press release from the county said the Clayton award is presented to people “who, over a substantial number of years, have made exceptional contributions to the awareness, understanding or preservation of Monmouth County history.” It was named after the former Monmouth County Clerk who created the Monmouth County Archives.