Weird NJ
Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with two legends in the New Jersey scene, Mark Moran and Mark Sceurman, the masterminds behind Weird New Jersey. If you’ve ever been curious about the strange and unexplained corners of our state, you’re in for a treat.
Mark Moran and Mark Sceurman shared the fascinating story of how their iconic magazine came to be. It all started in the early '90s, long before the internet became a household staple. Mark Sceurman began by distributing Xeroxed newsletters to friends, which quickly gained traction through word-of-mouth and bootlegging. The magazine's grassroots beginnings are a testament to its authenticity and the genuine curiosity it sparked among New Jersey residents.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Weird New Jersey is its focus on local legends that often have a basis in fact. The Marks discussed how they would receive leads from readers, which would then send them on investigative journeys across the state. From the mysterious "Gates of Hell" in Clifton to the eerie "Shades of Death Road," their adventures have taken them to some of the most bizarre and unexplained places in New Jersey.
Weird New Jersey has come a long way from its humble beginnings. The magazine has evolved from black-and-white Xerox copies to a full-color, glossy publication. Despite the changes in format, the essence of Weird New Jersey remains the same: a dedication to uncovering and documenting the state's strangest stories. The magazine has also expanded its reach through books, a website, and even a series on the History Channel.
One of the most heartwarming parts of our conversation was hearing about the community that has grown around Weird New Jersey. The Marks shared stories of families who have been reading the magazine for generations, and how it has become a part of their lives. Whether it's a father taking his kids on a road trip to a haunted site or a group of friends exploring an abandoned building, Weird New Jersey has inspired countless adventures.
We recorded our conversation at the iconic Great Notch Inn, a roadhouse bar with a rich history. The Marks reminisced about their experiences at the bar, from being kicked out for wearing sneakers to playing gigs with their band. The Great Notch Inn is a testament to the kind of unique, local spots that Weird New Jersey loves to highlight.
Despite having covered so much ground, the Marks assured me that there are still plenty of stories left to tell. With new leads coming in all the time and the ever-changing landscape of New Jersey, Weird New Jersey shows no signs of slowing down. They continue to receive letters and emails from fans, many of whom provide new insights and updates on old stories.
If you’re new to Weird New Jersey or a long-time fan looking to reconnect, you can find them at [weirdnj.com](http://weirdnj.com). The website is a treasure trove of articles, photos, and updates. You can also follow them on social media to stay up-to-date with their latest adventures.
This experience was a fantastic journey through the weird and wonderful world of New Jersey. Mark Moran and Mark Sceurman have created something truly special with Weird New Jersey, and it was an honor to spend time with them. Be sure to check out their magazine, books, and website to dive deeper into the strange stories that make New Jersey unique.
