Lou Costello – b. 1906 d. 1959
Paterson, NJ
Born Louis Francis Cristillo, the second and clown half of the famous comedy duo of Abbott and Costello. Costello’s hometown of Paterson has a city park dedicated to his memory.

Al Di Meola – b. 1954
Jersey City, NJ
World-renowned jazz guitarist, Di Meola has a discography that is as extensive as it is varied.

James Fenimore Cooper – b. 1789 d. 1851
Burlington, NJ
Early American writer, generally considered to be the first major American novelist. Perhaps most famous for “Last of the Mohicans”.
James Fenimore Cooper Society

Joe “Ducky” Medwick – b. 1911 d. 1975
Carteret, NJ
A star of the St. Louis Cardinals “Gashouse Gang” of the 1930s, Medwick was a feared hitter until a beaning in 1940 curtailed his effectiveness. A member of the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Thanks to Mike for verifying Joe’s birthplace!

“Marvelous” Marvin Hagler – b. 1954
Newark, NJ
World Middleweight champion, inducted in both the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame.
Thanks for this suggestion to Aaron Reddick.

Anne Hathaway – b. 1982
Millburn, NJ
Born in New York and raised in Millburn, began her career in television but has recently been in several very well-reviewed and received movies.

Roscoe Lee Browne – b. 1925 d. 2007
Woodbury, NJ
Well-known character actor, with a very distinctive low voice, which led to numerous voiceover jobs as well. Also a champion track star, teacher of French…

George Tice – b. 1938
Newark, NJ
One of the best-known fine-art photographers in the nation, Tice is a 10th generation New Jerseyan. Particularly fascinated with urban landscapes, his series on Paterson is well-respected.

Whitney Houston – b. 1963
Newark, NJ
Singer and actress. If you haven’t heard of her, what rock do YOU live under??

David Grisman – b. 1945
Hackensack, NJ
Noted mandolinist, newgrass composer, started the record label Acoustic Disc.
Thanks for this suggestion to William David.