Sally Matz Founder and President Emerita of the Cragsmoor Historical Society
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Sally Matz, founder of the Cragsmoor Historical Society and a devoted advocate for preserving the history, architecture, and artistic heritage of our beloved community.
Sally’s connection to Cragsmoor was deep and enduring. She understood that our community’s history is more than a collection of dates and buildings; it is the story of the people, artists, visionaries, and generations who shaped life on the mountain. Her work helped ensure that these stories would be preserved and shared with future generations.
One of Sally’s most important contributions was her early effort to raise funds to restore the Cragsmoor Stone Church, an architectural landmark central to the community’s heritage. Her commitment to saving this historic building reflected her determination to protect the places that give Cragsmoor its distinctive character. That dedication continued through her work to restore the Cragsmoor Federated Church, which became the home of the Cragsmoor Historical Society. Through these efforts, Sally helped preserve not only a historic structure but also a place where the community could gather, learn, and celebrate its shared past.
Sally also devoted herself to documenting the people who made Cragsmoor special. By recognizing the importance of these individuals and the many others connected to our community, Sally helped keep their contributions alive in our collective memory.
The Cragsmoor Historical Society stands as a lasting expression of Sally’s vision, determination, and love of local history. The collections, photographs, documents, historic buildings, and stories we work to preserve today are part of the legacy she helped establish.
As we remember Sally, we are grateful for her dedication and for the foundation she laid for those who continue this important work. Her contributions will remain part of Cragsmoor’s history, just as the history she worked so hard to preserve will remain part of our community’s future.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Sally’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved her. May we honor her memory by continuing to care for the places, stories, and traditions that make Cragsmoor so special.
The Cragsmoor Historical Society