The Delaware Valley Historical Society held its April meeting at Del Val with a special appearance by author James Davidson. Davidson spoke about his new book, “Gruesome and Grisly Murders of Hunterdon County,” on April 16.

Davidson has lived in Hunterdon County for 78 years, where he attended Hunterdon Central Regional High School. He later served on the school’s board of education. Davidson has written five other books, which mainly focus on the famous Lindbergh kidnapping and trial. He has spent a majority of his life studying history.

“I got a masters in history out of Lehigh [University], and I taught history at North Hunterdon and Hunterdon Central [high schools],” Davidson said. “Then I was an East Amwell historian starting about 1995.”

While discussing his book, Davidson shared a slideshow of fascinating stories, some even resonating with the audience as they occurred so nearby or they knew relatives of the people being discussed. Local historian and author Rick Epstein also presented during the event.

The Delaware Valley Historical Society was started by Epstein, Gaetano “Guy” DeSapio and Stacey Rister during the summer of 2025. The society’s purpose is to preserve and protect artifacts, along with creating community activities, such as RiverFest and the Eco Week & Green Fair.

Davidson’s book is being sold at Barnes & Noble and Amazon. The historical society wants readers to know that they can email delvalhistory@gmail.com if there is any historical information that they want preserved.