Famous Residents of Westfield, New Jersey
Westfield, New Jersey, a charming suburban town located about 16 miles southwest of Manhattan, has been home to many notable people throughout its history. This picturesque community with its tree-lined streets and vibrant downtown has attracted celebrities, athletes, authors, and other public figures who appreciate its small-town feel and proximity to New York City.
Charles Addams - The Creator of The Addams Family
Perhaps one of Westfield's most famous former residents was Charles Addams, the cartoonist who created "The Addams Family." Born in Westfield in 1912, Addams grew up in a house on Elm Street and attended Westfield High School. Many believe that a house in Westfield served as inspiration for the spooky mansion in his cartoons. The town celebrates its connection to Addams with "AddamsFest," an annual October celebration that includes house tours, art exhibits, and family-friendly activities.
Sports Stars Who Called Westfield Home
Westfield has produced several notable athletes. Jeff Torborg, former Major League Baseball catcher and manager, was born and raised in Westfield. He caught no-hitters from both Nolan Ryan and Sandy Koufax during his playing career.
Dave Brown, who played quarterback for the New York Giants in the 1990s, is another Westfield native who made his mark in professional sports.
Chris Wojcik, a lacrosse All-American at Harvard who later became the head coach of Harvard's men's lacrosse team, also hails from Westfield.
Literary Figures and Journalists
Westfield has been home to several writers and journalists. Patricia Lay-Dorsey, a notable photographer and writer, spent part of her childhood in Westfield.
Charles Crandall, a poet known for his children's rhymes, lived in Westfield during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Thomas Mallon, a novelist, essayist, and critic whose works often focus on American history, grew up in Westfield and has mentioned the town in some of his writings.
Entertainment Industry Professionals
Several actors and entertainment professionals have ties to Westfield. Charlotte Forten Grimké, a famous actress, once lived in the town.
Andrew McCarthy, known for his roles in 1980s films like "Pretty in Pink" and "St. Elmo's Fire," spent part of his youth in Westfield.
Zach Braff, the actor and director famous for "Scrubs" and "Garden State," was born in South Orange but attended Westfield High School.
Political Figures
Westfield has connections to politics as well. Jon Bramnick, a prominent New Jersey state politician who served as the Republican Leader in the New Jersey General Assembly, has lived in Westfield for many years and maintained a law practice there.
Thomas Kean Jr., a New Jersey state senator and son of former New Jersey Governor Thomas Kean, is another political figure who has called Westfield home.
Current Residents
While many celebrities value their privacy, Westfield continues to attract notable residents due to its excellent schools, beautiful neighborhoods, and convenient location. The town offers a perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it appealing to professionals in various fields who work in New York City.
Some current residents keep a low profile, choosing Westfield precisely because they can live relatively normal lives away from the spotlight. You might spot a famous face at the local shops on East Broad Street or dining at one of the town's restaurants, but Westfield residents typically respect their privacy.
Why Celebrities Choose Westfield
Westfield offers several attractions for high-profile individuals. The town features excellent public schools, which makes it appealing to famous parents who want quality education for their children. The community is known for its safety, beautiful historic homes, and friendly atmosphere.
The direct train line to New York City makes commuting convenient for those who work in entertainment, sports, or other industries centered in Manhattan. At the same time, Westfield is far enough from the city to provide a genuine small-town experience.
The town's historic downtown area, with its mix of national retailers and local boutiques, provides shopping and dining options that rival those of larger cities, while still maintaining a charming, small-town character.
Westfield's Impact on Its Famous Residents
Many celebrities who grew up in Westfield have spoken fondly about their hometown. The community values and supports the arts, athletics, and education, which has helped nurture talent across various fields.
Westfield High School has a strong tradition of excellence in academics, sports, and performing arts, providing a foundation for many who later achieved fame. The town's proximity to New York City has also allowed young people with big dreams to access opportunities in entertainment, publishing, and other competitive fields.
Whether they were born and raised in Westfield or chose it as their home later in life, these famous residents have contributed to the town's rich cultural heritage and continue to bring recognition to this special New Jersey community.
