For the Westfield Historical Society’s First Wednesday Luncheon series in November, guests are welcome to a luncheon at Ferraro’s of Westfield 14 Elm St, Westfield, NJ 07090 of on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, beginning with check-in at 11:45am (usually ends @2:15).
It has been stated that “every baby born is first seen through the eyes of Virginia Apgar.” As the creator of the Apgar test for screening newborns, this trailblazing physician continues to have an impact on the health of newborns around the world. Born in our town of Westfield in 1909, Virginia graduated from Westfield High School in 1925 and went on to her illustrious medical career at Columbia University and the March of Dimes. Virginia was also known for her many friends and many interests’ including music, fly fishing and gardening. Come learn more about her inspirational life and legacy.
Barbara was born and raised in Westfield, graduated from Westfield High School, earned a Bachelors degree in History from Northwestern University and Masters and PhD degrees in Library and Information Science from Rutgers University.
Her professional career was spent in the online information industry working for The New York Times and Dow Jones. She was an adjunct professor at the Rutgers School of Communication and Information for many years.
Barbara is active in several volunteer organizations in town, including the Westfield Historical Society, the Westfield Adult School, the Westfield Service League and Westfield DAR chapter.
She is the author of “The Fates Were Favorably Inclined”, a history of Westfield, published in 2020.
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 1, 2026 . 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, 314 Mountain Ave., Westfield, NJ 07090; by Venmo to @Westfield-HistoricalSociety; or, online at https://www.westfieldhistoricalsociety.org/registration.
Registration and payments should be received by Thursday prior to the luncheon.
