Memorializing a great man

Sussex County lost one of its distinguished citizens last month. Joseph Quinn was an icon; generous, civic minded, and a gentle soul with an Irish wit who will be remembered with fondness by many. I had occasion to meet Joe several years ago when I asked him to do a program for the Franklin Historical Society about his growing up years in Franklin. His lecture, along with some historical slides and photos was enjoyed by many. When the Irish Cottage Restaurant opened its doors, I invited Joe to go for lunch with my husband and me. As things happen, we got busy and kept postponing the date, and finally in April we got together for our predetermined lunch date. Joe was his usual charming self, and provided great company during our lunch. He reiterated his stories about his growing up years in the early 1900’s in Franklin, telling us how Mr. Catlin, the new superintendent of the N.J. Zinc Co, had requested that his father move the location of Quinn’s Hotel, because they had determined that it was the place where they wanted to drill the shaft for the new zinc mine. He also spoke of the escapades of the peddlers of the day, who came by train to sell their goods to the townspeople, and the efforts of Police Chief Herb Irons to maintain law and order. He was proud that his mother had started the Sussex County Chapter of the American Red Cross at Quinn’s Hotel in Franklin, and he supported the organization to his dying day. My regret is that we did not make Joe’s acquaintance sooner. To a wonderful man, great humanitarian, and one who will be missed by myself and my husband, and countless others, may he rest in peace. Betty Allen past president, Franklin Historical Society