NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 7/11/20 - 7/12/20

 New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

Want to submit an event? Use our event submission form.

Saturday, July 11 - Wall Township, Monmouth County
July Flea Market - CANCELLED

The Historic Village at Allaire is hosting a Flea Market as a fundraiser on Saturday, from 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. The event is held in the Show Field of Allaire State Park. There is $2 per person admission fee for the event and summer parking rules are in effect at the park. With more than 100 vendors displaying new, used, and collectible treasures of all types, there will be something for everyone.

Shop all day, visit the on-site food vendor, or spend some time in the Historic Village. The General Store will also be open beginning at 11:00 am (an admission fee applies to visit the village grounds). This event is a fundraiser, benefiting the historic and educational programs presented at the Historic Village at Allaire by the non-profit organization, Allaire Village, Incorporated. The rain date is Sunday, July 12.

The Historic Village at Allaire is located at 4263 Atlantic Avenue, Farmingdale, NJ. For more information, contact the Allaire Village office during business hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, at 732-919-3500 or visit www.allairevillage.org.

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Saturday, July 11 - Island Heights, Ocean County

Island Heights Cottage Museum Open

As restrictions ease, Island Heights Cultural & Heritage Association has decided to open the Cottage Museum, starting Saturday between 1:00 and 3:00 pm, for visits and tours by appointment only, with the following guidelines:

Limit to 4 guests
Hand sanitizer will be available
Masks must be worn
No bathroom
Social distancing will be enforced
Door will be locked while tour is in progress

Please call 732-929-2646 to set up an appointment to visit the our Cottage Museum, located at 105 Simpson Avenue, Island Heights, NJ. For more information, visit http://islandheightsboro.com/cultural.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 11 - 12 - Wildwood, Cape May County

George Boyer Museum Open

The Wildwood Historical Society's George Boyer Museum will be open during the summer on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm and Sundays from 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm.

It's FREE to visit the Wildwood Historical Society! Voted the 5th best attraction in Wildwood according to TripAdvisor, we make an excellent rainy day activity. Ask for our scavenger hunt -- children love it! Park in our parking lot to avoid parking meters. The George Boyer Museum is located at 3907 Pacific Ave, 3907 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood, NJ. For more informatio, call 609-523-0277, email wildwoodhistoricalsociety@hotmail.com, or visit www.WildwoodHistoricalMuseum.com.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 11 - 12 - Cape May, Cape May County

Historic Cold Spring Village Open
Family Friendly

Cold Spring Village is now open! While at Historic Cold Spring Village, masks are to be worn at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Please practice physical distancing (6 feet) and be mindful of other guests and Village staff.  For more information, please review the signs at the admission gates for information regarding activities at the Village. Please also understand that due to Covid-19 restrictions not all buildings on Village grounds will be accessible. The Route 9 entrance is closed; the Village Seashore Road (Route 626) entrance is located adjacent to the Cold Spring Grange Restaurant and Cold Spring Brewery at 735 Seashore Road, Cold Spring, Cape May, NJ.

The village is located, three miles north of Victorian Cape May and a mile and a half west of the southern terminus of the Garden State Parkway. Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 are admitted free. Unlimited free admission is available with Village membership. The Nature Trail at Bradner’s Run is open to the public for free self-guided tours. Visit the Country Store, Cold Spring Brewery and Cold Spring Grange Restaurant. For more information on events, membership, volunteering, call 609-898-2300, ext. 10, or visit www.hcsv.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 11 - 12 - Camden, Camden County

Battleship New Jersey Fire Power Tour
Family Friendly

This self guided tour of the overall view of the Battleship New Jersey takes guests five levels up and two decks below. The Main Deck features an Exhibit Museum that encompasses the 48 years in and out of service. Guides are available for questions in the Captain's Quarters and CEC.

Active Military, World War II Veterans and former Crew Members of BB-62 are asked to stop at the Box Office in the Battleship NJ Visitor's Center. Proudly inform our Ticketing Staff of your service to our Great Nation and receive a complimentary ticket to board the "Big J".

* All guests will be screened in the Visitors Center before entering the Battleship’s Pier, must wear a face covering and practice social distancing.
* Please check your email after purchase for your ticket to either print or save to your mobile device and take with you for check-in in the Visitors Center.

Firepower tour tickets are available to use at any date and time we are open for tours. Admission: Adult are $24.95 and children ages 5-11, veterans, and seniors (62+) are $19.95. Tickets can be purchased online. Battleship New Jersey is located at 62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ. For more information, call 856-966-1652 or visit www.battleshipnewjersey.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 11 - 12 - Cape May, Cape May County
Emlen Physick Estate Tour
Family Friendly Tour

Take a guided tour of Cape May's Emlen Physick Estate, the magnificent Stick Style mansion attributed to renowned Victorian architect Frank Furness. A tour of the 15 beautifully restored rooms gives you a glimpse into the lifestyle of this Victorian-era Cape May family. Physick Estate Tours take approximately 45 minutes and end with a visit to the 1876 Carriage House where you can see the current exhibit in the Carroll Gallery. Tours will be at 11:15 am, 12:30, 1:45, and 3:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for children (ages 3-12). Tickets can be purchased online or at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Sponsored by Cape May MAC. For more information and to reserve tickets, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 11 - 12 - Cape May, Cape May County
Historic Haunts House Tour
Family Friendly Tour

Visit the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate to learn about the Victorians' fascination with spiritualism and today's method of "ghost hunting." This is a 30 minute tour of the first and second floors of the museum. The tour is held at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Tours will be at 6:30 and 7:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for children (ages 3-12). Tickets can be purchased online or at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Sponsored by Cape May MAC. For more information and to reserve tickets, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 11 - 12 - Lower Township, Cape May County
Climb the Cape May Lighthouse
Family Friendly Site

The Cape May Lighthouse is an 1859 structure with 199 steps to the watch gallery for a panoramic view of the Jersey Cape and Atlantic Ocean. For those who choose not to climb, the Oil House contains a fully-accessible Visitors' Orientation Center and a Museum Shop stocked with maritime accessories and lighthouse memorabilia. Open 10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Cape May Point State Park is located in Lower Township, NJ. Admission to the Visitors' Orientation Center and the ground floor of the lighthouse is free. Tower admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12). Children under 3 and active military are FREE. Sponsored by Cape May MAC. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 11 - 12 - Lower Township, Cape May County
World War II Tower Lookout Museum and Memorial Open
Family Friendly Site

Fire Control Tower No. 23 on Sunset Boulevard is New Jersey's last freestanding World War II tower, part of the immense Harbor Defense of the Delaware system known as Fort Miles. After an award-winning restoration in 2009, visitors can climb to the 6th floor spotting gallery while learning about the homeland defense efforts during World War II. The ground floor of the tower, the All Veterans Memorial, and boardwalk interpretive panels are fully accessible. Open Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am - 2:30 pm. Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-12) (one child free with paying adult). The World War II Lookout Tower is located on Sunset Boulevard in Lower Township, near Cape May Point. Sponsored by Cape May MAC. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Sunday, July 12 - Cape May, Cape May County

Painted Ladies, Porches & More! Walking Tour

Take a walk from the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate to the Washington Street Mall with a knowledgeable guide and experience charming Cape May, a National Historic Landmark city, up close. Delight in beautiful gardens as you learn about Victorian architecture and Cape May’s colorful history along the way. Discover the interesting features of various Victorian styles and learn why front porches were so important to Victorian social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended. 

The tour lasts 45 minutes and begins at 9:30 am.  Tickets are $15 per adult and $10 per child ages 3-12 years old. The tour begins at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ.

Tickets are limited to help maintain social distance. We ask that you bring and wear your own mask during the tour. Tickets will be refunded and admission denied to ticket holders, for whatever reason, decline to or cannot wear a mask. Refunds will be handled by phone or mail.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.capemaymac.org. Cape May MAC is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. Cape May MAC membership is open to all. For information about year-round schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, visit Cape May MAC’s website at www.capemaymac.org.

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Some event listings courtesy of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey

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An Excerpt from "A Rock Solid History of Hawthorne, New Jersey"

An Excerpt from A Rock Solid History of Hawthorne, New Jersey
Written by Veronica MacDonald Ditko

1 THE EARLY DAYS

Hawthorne may be the place where you live or visit, but did you know that the ground and many things surrounding you tell a story of the land that goes back billions of years?

It is through the science of rocks, geology, that you can learn about this history. And what an interesting history it is. The rocks are pretty awesome too.

The land here was formed from volcanoes. But they were not the cone volcanoes you see in Hawaii, Japan, or Pompeii, Italy; rather the lava oozed out of fissures, or cracks, in the Ramapo Mountains.

Imagine living in a desert about 200 million years ago, with alps rising far to the east and to the west, and small dinosaurs running around, too. That is what Hawthorne looked like.

This large plain would have resembled the Serengeti Desert plain in Kenya. It likely spanned from North Carolina up to Prince Edward Island, Canada, or about 1,500 miles. It may have been even longer than that, geologists think.

All the land in the world was also one big mass at that time, called Pangaea. That means Morocco in Africa would have been just a short car ride away.

This area was a dry grassland, since fossils of trees have never been found. Fossils are considered rocks too. There was a dry season and wet season with monsoons, which caused heavy rains that flooded the land because it was too dry to absorb it. (See fossils here from the Goffle Brook in Hawthorne and Duck Pond in Ridgewood!)

It is in the reddish brown stone and brown sandstone rock (also called arkose rock) where smaller dinosaurs made their footprints and left their bones behind when they died. This was just the beginning of the evolution of the dinosaurs before they became great, colossal giants.

When people found dinosaur bones way back when, they didn’t know what they were. Some thought they were dragons while others thought the bones were just rocks, nothing more.

Many small dinosaurs used to roam Northern New Jersey, such as the Hadrosaurus (see to the right, photo courtesy of the Library of Congress), which had a bill like a duck and powerful hind legs. The Hadrosaurus is the state dinosaur of New Jersey.

Dinosaur tracks from this time period were the size of elephants’, but most were smaller, like antelope hoof prints. Dinosaur footprints were revealed recently during construction in the nearby towns of Montclair and Woodland Park. This can happen any time rock ridges are cut to make way for housing.

Later, during the Ice Age, glaciers sailed slowly across the land, moving rocks and forming ridges and valleys. Lafayette Avenue is actually a glacial canyon. Many rocks found in the Goffle Brook, both large and small, were brought here by glaciers long ago.

Hawthorne grew to be part of the first range of the Watchung Mountains. Here, the mountains are mostly basalt rock, a reddish-purple rock some say casts a lovely purple glow on summer evenings.
The picture to the left features basalt rocks in the Ashley Heights area of Hawthorne.

2 When Humans Arrived

New Jersey today is one of the most densely populated states in the country. It wasn’t always this way. A few thousand years ago, Native Americans, also called “Indians,” mostly from the Lenape tribe, lived in this area. The three clans that lived in the area were the Tappan, Aquakannok, and Achensachys or Hackensack.

Slowly, Europeans came across the Atlantic Ocean in large ships and purchased or took the land from the Indians. These people in Northern New Jersey were mostly from England and The Netherlands. They are also known as the British and the Dutch.

Native Americans lived off the land differently than the Europeans. They lived in a hunting and gathering way. That means they hunted the animals they needed and also gathered food from the land as needed, such as berries and other plants. Indians also moved often to find the foods or water they needed.

Large rocks, such as the Glen Rock at the corner of Doremus Avenue and Rock Road in the nearby town of Glen Rock, were used as landmarks and meeting places to help guide Native Americans from place to place.

A boulder along the Passaic River in the town of Garfield has a bear paw print and a fish. It dates back several hundred years, however some feel it is fake. This petroglyph may have helped Native Americans find food.

Rocks were also used as places of shelter by the Native Americans from rain, snow, and wind. Broken slabs of rock on Garret Mountain in Woodland Park slid down the side of the mountain and created natural tents that the Indians used for shelter. Caves were also like little homes where Indians could camp out.

How do we know Native American’s lived here? Well, they left behind many things that are actually rocks. These included arrowheads (also called projectile points) they sharpened out of rocks and used for many purposes including spearing animals and fish.

About 6,000 projectile points were found by Max Schrabisch in the Passaic River and are now in the Paterson Museum. (See to the left some of Schrabisch’s projectile points in the collection at the Paterson Museum.) Many pieces of pottery and Indian arrowheads have been found in the Goffle Brook too. A small island next to the Rea Avenue bridge is believed to have been where Native Americans once camped.

The Lenape also built walls called fishing weirs in rivers, which helped them catch fish to eat. There are two in the Passaic River in the town of Fair Lawn, one is between the Fair Lawn Avenue Bridge and Maple Avenue Bridge. The other is across from Fair Lawn Memorial Middle School. (See below a photo of the weir across from the middle school, courtesy of Tony DeCondo.)

It is not known if Native Americans built the weirs, or if Europeans copied Native Americans when they built them.

As many as 11 fishing weirs once existed in the Passaic River, but due the building of factories and homes along the river, most of them were destroyed. If you look at an aerial satellite map of the Passaic River in Fair Lawn, you can see the outlines of the two fishing weirs still remaining.

A wampum bead factory was thought to have operated on Goffle Hill Road (or possibly Goffle Road by Braen Avenue) by a Dutch family by the name of Stolz near the boundary with Bergen County from about 1700 to 1770.

Wampum beads were made from the white, blue, and purple hearts of the clamshell. These shells probably came from Long Island in New York! Then they were tied onto strings made of native hemp, which is a long grass, and woven into belts.

Wampum was important because it was presented to European settlers like the French and British to help agreements be made, and were re-strung and traded back to Native Americans when European officers wanted to give gifts.

About the Book
Children learn best through tangible objects like rocks. “A Rock Solid History of Hawthorne, New Jersey” explores the history of Hawthorne, New Jersey through rocks, and inspires school-aged youngsters to look at their surroundings, learn from what they can touch and see, and keep searching for more. The book runs through prehistoric times to present day in Hawthorne with compelling language, photos, and go-get-‘em encouragement. Children will not even realize they are absorbing history and learning some earth science along the way.


Where to Buy the Book
Bookends
211 E Ridgewood Avenue
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Phone: 201-445-0726
www.book-ends.com

The Curious Reader
229 Rock Road
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
Phone: 201-444-1918
www.thecuriousreaderbooks.com

Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Rock-Solid-History-Hawthorne-Jersey/dp/0692097104

Barnes & Noble
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-rock-solid-history-of-hawthorne-new-jersey-veronica-macdonald-ditko/1129219465

About the Author
Veronica MacDonald Ditko is a lover of history and has written many articles of local historical interest in New Jersey in publications such as Weird New Jersey and The Jewish Standard. Even more important to her is sharing this information in compelling language for both adults and children. Her first published book is “A Rock Solid History of Hawthorne, New Jersey,” where she illustrates local history for school-aged children through something tangible – rocks. Veronica has also written for newspapers in Massachusetts and New Jersey, as well as mainstream, business and trade magazines. She is the face behind the longtime “An Accidental Anthropologist” blog in Northern New Jersey where she explored why we do what we do with Seinfeld-esque humor. You can learn more about her at www.authorditko.com or follow her at @authorditko on Facebook and Instagram. 

Do you enjoy the articles and features that The History Girl produces each week? 

If so, consider a donation to keep the movement going!

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“A Rock Solid History of Hawthorne, New Jersey” July 2020 Book Giveaway

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4th of July NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 7/4/20 - 7/5/20

 New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

Want to submit an event? Use our event submission form.

Friday - Sunday, July 3 - 5 - Wall Township, Monmouth County

American Flag Celebration

Join the Historic Village at Allaire as they Celebrate the USA in their beautiful Chapel for a one-of-a-kind display of Vintage American Flags from the Historic Allaire Collection. Rarely put on display, these flags represent the heart of American History. Get an up close view of each stitch, star, and detail of these treasured flags of the past. $2 per person to view the flags on display.

There will be COVID-19 food services on-site all three days of the event by Pilsen Gourmet.

Village general admission: The pre-registration price is $5.00 for ages 4 and up. At the gate, day of the admission price is $7.00 for for ages 4 and up. Under 3 are free. The historic buildings will be open from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm.

The Historic Village at Allaire is located at 4263 Atlantic Avenue, Farmingdale, NJ. For more information, contact the Allaire Village office during business hours, Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, at 732-919-3500 or visit www.allairevillage.org.

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Through Saturday, July 4

New Jersey's Declarations of Independence
Virtual Program

As the Continental Congress debated the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, New Jersey's own Provincial Congress met in Burlington to vote for American independence and adopt a Constitution for New Jersey.

Among the delegates in Burlington were Old Dutch Parsonage's Rev. Jacob Rutsen Hardenbergh and Col. Frederick Frelinghuysen. With their historic home as our backdrop and touchstone, we'll explore New Jersey's Charter (June 24, 1664), instructions to delegates to the Continental Congress (June 22, 1776) and first Constitution (July 2, 1776) with new videos every other day from June 22 to July 4, 2020. Go here for more information and to see the videos: https://www.facebook.com/events/330655837926780

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Saturday, July 4 - Wildwood, Cape May County

George Boyer Museum Open

The Wildwood Historical Society's George Boyer Museum will be open during the summer on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm and Sundays from 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm. The museum will be open Saturday, July 4.

It's FREE to visit the Wildwood Historical Society! Voted the 5th best attraction in Wildwood according to TripAdvisor, we make an excellent rainy day activity. Ask for our scavenger hunt -- children love it! Park in our parking lot to avoid parking meters. The George Boyer Museum is located at 3907 Pacific Ave, 3907 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood, NJ. For more informatio, call 609-523-0277, email wildwoodhistoricalsociety@hotmail.com, or visit www.WildwoodHistoricalMuseum.com.

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Saturday, July 4

"Virtual Independence Day Ice Cream Social"
Virtual Program

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

Log On One, Log On All, and Partake In
The Grover Cleveland Birthplace Memorial Association's
Very 1st "Virtual Independence Day Ice Cream Social" on Saturday!

"TURN ON" - your PC, Tablet, or Smart Phone

"TUNE IN" - go to www.presidentcleveland.org

"DROP IN" (Online, of course!) and expand your mind and holiday spirit with a variety of July 4th experiences that focus on "Caldwell's Own" U. S. President, Grover Cleveland, and some amazing Independence Day fun-facts and trivia about our town.

Fun Facts - Trivia - Activities - Recipes - Crafts Amazing History Stories - Really Bad Jokes

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Saturday, July 4 - Morristown, Morris County

“Revolutionary Times” Goes Virtual on July 4th
Virtual Program

COVID-19 is not about to stop a Morris County Fourth of July tradition — it’s just going to make it a virtual celebration for one year. The Morris County Tourism Bureau, the Morristown National Historical Park, Washington Association of New Jersey, and partners intend to celebrate America’s birthday in Morris County with a unique version of the annual Revolutionary Times events.

It will feature some colorful history of the Declaration of Independence, including the annual reading by costumed rangers Eric Olsen and Tom Winslow, of Morristown National Historical Park.

Residents will be able to view the program on Morristown National Historical Park’s Facebook page beginning at 1:00 pm on Saturday. To view the event, visit https://www.facebook.com/MorristownNPS.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 4 - 5 - Lower Township, Cape May County
Climb the Cape May Lighthouse
Family Friendly Site

The Cape May Lighthouse is an 1859 structure with 199 steps to the watch gallery for a panoramic view of the Jersey Cape and Atlantic Ocean. For those who choose not to climb, the Oil House contains a fully-accessible Visitors' Orientation Center and a Museum Shop stocked with maritime accessories and lighthouse memorabilia. Open 10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Cape May Point State Park is located in Lower Township, NJ. Admission to the Visitors' Orientation Center and the ground floor of the lighthouse is free. Tower admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12). Children under 3 and active military are FREE. Sponsored by Cape May MAC. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, July 4 - 5 - Lower Township, Cape May County
World War II Tower Lookout Museum and Memorial Open
Family Friendly Site

Fire Control Tower No. 23 on Sunset Boulevard is New Jersey's last freestanding World War II tower, part of the immense Harbor Defense of the Delaware system known as Fort Miles. After an award-winning restoration in 2009, visitors can climb to the 6th floor spotting gallery while learning about the homeland defense efforts during World War II. The ground floor of the tower, the All Veterans Memorial, and boardwalk interpretive panels are fully accessible. Open Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am - 2:30 pm. Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-12) (one child free with paying adult). The World War II Lookout Tower is located on Sunset Boulevard in Lower Township, near Cape May Point. Sponsored by Cape May MAC. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Sunday, July 5 - Cape May, Cape May County

Painted Ladies, Porches & More! Walking Tour

Take a walk from the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate to the Washington Street Mall with a knowledgeable guide and experience charming Cape May, a National Historic Landmark city, up close. Delight in beautiful gardens as you learn about Victorian architecture and Cape May’s colorful history along the way. Discover the interesting features of various Victorian styles and learn why front porches were so important to Victorian social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended. 

The tour lasts 45 minutes and begins at 10:00 and 11:30 am.  Tickets are $15 per adult and $10 per child ages 3-12 years old. The tour begins at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ.

Tickets are limited to help maintain social distance. We ask that you bring and wear your own mask during the tour. Tickets will be refunded and admission denied to ticket holders, for whatever reason, decline to or cannot wear a mask. Refunds will be handled by phone or mail.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.capemaymac.org. Cape May MAC is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. Cape May MAC membership is open to all. For information about year-round schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, visit Cape May MAC’s website at www.capemaymac.org.

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Sunday, July 5 - Cape May, Cape May County
Emlen Physick Estate Tour
Family Friendly Tour

Take a guided tour of Cape May's Emlen Physick Estate, the magnificent Stick Style mansion attributed to renowned Victorian architect Frank Furness. A tour of the 15 beautifully restored rooms gives you a glimpse into the lifestyle of this Victorian-era Cape May family. Physick Estate Tours take approximately 45 minutes and end with a visit to the 1876 Carriage House where you can see the current exhibit in the Carroll Gallery. Tours will be at 11:15 am, 12:30, 1:45, and 3:00 pm on Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for children (ages 3-12). Tickets can be purchased online or at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Sponsored by Cape May MAC. For more information and to reserve tickets, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Some event listings courtesy of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey

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NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 6/27/20 - 6/28/20

 New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

Want to submit an event? Use our event submission form.

Saturday, June 27 - Westfield, Union County

Westfield Historical Society Walking Tour: What Makes a Neighborhood? – Tremont Avenue

On Saturday from 9:00 – 11:00 am, the sixth in a very popular series of architectural walking tours will take place on Tremont Avenue. Scale, proportions, and materiality will be discussed. 

The intent of this tour is to honor the beautiful streetscapes and the diverse architectural styles that remain centuries later. Gregory Blasi, R.A. local architect and principal of Vincentsen & Blasi Architects and Westfield Historical Society President, will lead the tour and answer questions.

The tour will accommodate 20 attendees, but additional tours will be scheduled if interest warrants. It will take place rain or shine. Participants are encouraged to wear face masks, bring hand sanitizer, and practice appropriate social distancing. The tour meet-up location will be provided to registrants. Please RSVP by email to westfieldhistoricalsociety@gmail.com; or call 908-654-1794.

A donation to the Westfield Historical Society would be appreciated: $5 for members, and $10 for non-members, and will be collected at the start of the tour. Membership information will be available.

The Westfield Historical Society celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018. Since 1968, the 501(c)(3) non-profit Westfield Historical Society has worked to preserve, interpret and encourage interest in history, Westfield, and its residents through educational efforts and community outreach programs. For more information, visit www.westfieldhistoricalsociety.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, June 27 - 28 - Lower Township, Cape May County
Climb the Cape May Lighthouse
Family Friendly Site

The Cape May Lighthouse is an 1859 structure with 199 steps to the watch gallery for a panoramic view of the Jersey Cape and Atlantic Ocean. For those who choose not to climb, the Oil House contains a fully-accessible Visitors' Orientation Center and a Museum Shop stocked with maritime accessories and lighthouse memorabilia. Open 10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Cape May Point State Park is located in Lower Township, NJ. Admission to the Visitors' Orientation Center and the ground floor of the lighthouse is free. Tower admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12). Children under 3 and active military are FREE. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, June 27 - 28
Virtual Quilt and Fiber Arts Show
Virtual Program

Historic Cold Spring Village is holding its annual Cape May Quilt and Fiber Show virtually on Saturday and Sunday. 

This innovative approach to the quilt show is sparked by the current restrictions and the Historic Cold Spring Village’s concern for participants, visitors and staff’s health and safety. Folks may visit the website, vote on Facebook, watch a Facebook live demonstration or join a Zoom lecture.  Details on the event will be found on the HCSV website https://hcsv.org/quilt-fiber-arts-show/. 

The traditional quilt show will be on the Village’s Facebook pages and you will be able to vote on your favorites. Additionally, you will be able to vote for the Cold Spring Brewery Trapunto Challenge and the Camaco Quilt Guild Alphabet Challenge. To enter, please visit the website for quilt show entries and instructions. Relax at home and watch throughout the day. 

Demonstrations include weaving, felted dryer balls, nine patch quilt blocks, favorite tools and their uses, English Paper piecing, history of the hanky, two methods of hand applique, and more.  These demonstrations will be seen on Facebook from the demonstrators’ home pages. The master list noting times will be found on the Historic Cold Spring Village Facebook Page and website.

There will be 3 lectures. A History of Socks, History of Log Cabin Quilting, and Trapunto Quilts. For more information, call 609-898-2300, ext. 10, or visit www.hcsv.org.

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Sunday, June 28 - Cape May, Cape May County

Painted Ladies, Porches & More! Walking Tour

Take a walk from the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate to the Washington Street Mall with a knowledgeable guide and experience charming Cape May, a National Historic Landmark city, up close. Delight in beautiful gardens as you learn about Victorian architecture and Cape May’s colorful history along the way. Discover the interesting features of various Victorian styles and learn why front porches were so important to Victorian social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended. 

The tour lasts 45 minutes and begins at 10:00 and 11:30 am.  Tickets are $15 per adult and $10 per child ages 3-12 years old. The tour begins at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ.

Tickets are limited to help maintain social distance. We ask that you bring and wear your own mask during the tour. Tickets will be refunded and admission denied to ticket holders, for whatever reason, decline to or cannot wear a mask. Refunds will be handled by phone or mail.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.capemaymac.org. Cape May MAC is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. Cape May MAC membership is open to all. For information about year-round schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, visit Cape May MAC’s website at www.capemaymac.org.

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Through Saturday, July 4

New Jersey's Declarations of Independence
Virtual Program

As the Continental Congress debated the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, New Jersey's own Provincial Congress met in Burlington to vote for American independence and adopt a Constitution for New Jersey.

Among the delegates in Burlington were Old Dutch Parsonage's Rev. Jacob Rutsen Hardenbergh and Col. Frederick Frelinghuysen. With their historic home as our backdrop and touchstone, we'll explore New Jersey's Charter (June 24, 1664), instructions to delegates to the Continental Congress (June 22, 1776) and first Constitution (July 2, 1776) with new videos every other day from June 22 to July 4, 2020. Go here for more information and to see the videos: https://www.facebook.com/events/330655837926780

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Some event listings courtesy of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey

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NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 6/20/20 - 6/21/20

 New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

Want to submit an event? Use our event submission form.

Friday, June 19 - Cape May, Cape May County

Virtual Opening of Harriet Tubman Museum

Virtual Event

Join us on Juneteenth for our Virtual Opening of the Harriet Tubman Museum and a Walk for Social Justice in Cape May!

* Special Guest Speakers

* Virtual Tour of the New Harriet Tubman Museum

* A Discussion on Preservation of Black Cultural Heritage Sites

* Music & Inspiration to Continue the Conversation

Via live stream on Facebook Live and YouTube. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/harriettubmanmuseum.

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Sunday, June 21 - Cape May, Cape May County

Painted Ladies, Porches & More! Walking Tour

Take a walk from the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate to the Washington Street Mall with a knowledgeable guide and experience charming Cape May, a National Historic Landmark city, up close. Delight in beautiful gardens as you learn about Victorian architecture and Cape May’s colorful history along the way. Discover the interesting features of various Victorian styles and learn why front porches were so important to Victorian social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended. 

The tour lasts 45 minutes and begin at 10:00 and 11:30 am.  Tickets are $15 per adult and $10 per child ages 3-12 years old. The tour begins at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ.

Tickets are limited to help maintain social distance. We ask that you bring and wear your own mask during the tour. Tickets will be refunded and admission denied to ticket holders, for whatever reason, decline to or cannot wear a mask. Refunds will be handled by phone or mail.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.capemaymac.org. Cape May MAC is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. Cape May MAC membership is open to all. For information about year-round schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, visit Cape May MAC’s website at www.capemaymac.org.

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Some event listings courtesy of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey

Read More

NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 6/13/20 - 6/14/20

 New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

Want to submit an event? Use our event submission form.

Saturday, June 13 - Cape May, Cape May County
Spring Celebration Garden Tour

Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) announces its first tour since March, The Spring Celebration Garden Tour, on Saturday (rain date Sunday) from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Cape May MAC cancelled all public events after the state shutdown in March due to the COVID-19 virus; this is the first Cape May MAC tour since then, and a wonderful celebration of spring, beauty, and hope! 

Here is your invitation to step past the frontage and explore the private plants and blooms of some of the Cape May area’s most dedicated gardeners. See their private landscape designs and take home ideas for your own gardens. Smell and see what’s blooming and flourishing in several different seashore locations dominated by sunlight, ocean breezes, sand and salt, but each uniquely situated. Physick Estate gardens are included! Admission is $20. Maps will be available the day of the tour outside on the grounds of the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Tickets are limited to help maintain social distance. 

Special note: We ask that ticket holders bring and wear their own masks as this is a ticketed event at private homes. Masks will be provided on request. Tickets will be refunded and admission denied to ticket holders who, for whatever reason, decline to or cannot wear a mask. Refunds will be handled by phone or email. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.capemaymac.org. Cape May MAC is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. Cape May MAC membership is open to all. For information about year-round schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, visit Cape May MAC’s website at www.capemaymac.org.

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Saturday, June 13 - Somerville, Somerset County
Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar: Caesar, Cincinnatus and Gloriana

Virtual Event

Classical Greece and Rome were woven into the popular culture of Revolutionary America just as they were in Elizabethan England when Shakespeare wrote Julius Caesar.

Join us online at 10:30 am on Facebook to explore the resonance of this play in the Elizabethan era as Shakespeare’s contemporaries considered the loss of a long-reigning monarch and again in the Revolutionary War as General Washington eschewed military dictatorship for civilian rule by Congress.

Log on to www.facebook.com/WallaceDutch to join the discussion. Resources will also be available to view at https://njparksandforests.org/historic/olddutch-wallace/odwh-events.htm.

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Some event listings courtesy of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey

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“Freedomland U.S.A.: The Definitive History” June 2020 Book Giveaway

Read More

NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 6/6/20 - 6/7/20

 New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

Want to submit an event? Use our event submission form.

Sunday, June 7 - Union Township, Union County
Hannah Caldwell Day

Hannah Caldwell Day will be commemorated by the Union Township Historical Society at the Caldwell Parsonage, 909 Caldwell Avenue, Union, on Sunday from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. Rev. James Caldwell, portrayed by Doc Burkhardt, will greet visitors. He'll recall the heroism of his wife during the American Revolution, following the Battle of Connecticut Farms on that fateful day - June 7, 1780.

Observance of current social-distancing guidelines will make this a historic first for the Union Township Historical Society, which was founded in 1957. Entrance to the museum will be restricted to one individual or one couple or one family at a time to take a self-guided tour for ten minutes. Gloves will be provided, but guests are requested to bring and wear their own masks.

The UTHS was required to cancel tours in March and programs in April and May. Each of those would have produced much needed revenue for the centuries-old house. It is hoped that members of the community would consider an in-person contribution or an online donation at www.unionnjhistory.com. For more information, call 908-591-4377.

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Some event listings courtesy of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey

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