08/07/2026
As we continue our America 250 celebrations through 2026, the Mayor's Historic Committee is proud to spotlight some of our hidden figures whose contributions span far beyond our small community.
A prominent New Jersey physician, Dr. Blachly was one of the original founders of the New Jersey Medical Society in 1776, the oldest professional medical society in the United States. Practicing in Mendham, Dr. Blachly provided critical surgical and medical care to local militias and Continental troops stationed at Jockey Hollow during the Revolutionary War.
On the family farm in Mendham, located at the corner of Cherry Lane and Talmage Road, Dr. Blachly conducted a "college of surgery." Among his students were Dr. William Leddell, Dr. Hezekiah Stites Woodruff, and Dr. John C. Budd.
Dr. Blachly was married to Mary Cooper Wick, daughter of Henry and Mary Wick, owners of the historic Wick Farm, now part of Morristown National Historical Park. Through his marriage and eventual inheritance of the Wick estate, the Blachly family became one of the most significant and influential landholding families in Morris County. Dr. Blachly is buried in Hilltop Cemetery.
In commemorating America 250, we recognize Mendham's own Dr. Blachly and the important role local community members played in laying the foundation of our nation.
