WEEKEND HISTORICAL HAPPENINGS
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Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, October 11 - 13 - Atlantic City, Atlantic County
Day of the Girl at Absecon Lighthouse
Children Friendly
Absecon Lighthouse is a state-owned historic property administered by the non-profit Inlet Public/Private Association. Located at 31 South Rhode Island Avenue in Atlantic City, it is open to visitors Thursdays through Mondays, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. For more information, call 609-449-1360 or visit www.abseconlighthouse.org.
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Saturday, October 12 - Manalapan, Monmouth County
Archives and History Day
Join over fifty history organizations who will have exhibit tables for this annual event at the Monmouth County Library Headquarters in Manalapan that began in 1996. Stop by on Saturday and learn about New Jersey's fascinating history and the interesting work and programs offered. The day will include a keynote address by historian Marc Mappen on his latest book, Prohibition Gangsters: The Rise and Fall of a Bad Generation, the Monmouth County History Forum, a seminar on National History Day, tours of the Monmouth County Archives, a history Game with many free prizes, and award presentations.
This event is free to attend. For a program of events on Saturday, visit http://co.monmouth.nj.us/page.aspx?Id=4177.
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Saturday, October 12 - Mount Laurel, Burlington County
Tour Paulsdale
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
Paulsdale is open to the public for Second Saturday Tours at 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm. Paulsdale is the birthplace of Quaker suffragist Alice Paul. Tours include a 15-minute presentation about Alice Paul's life and work and a guided tour of the first floor of the property where visitors learn about the Paul family's daily life in the house and its present day use as a girl's leadership center. Tours are $5.00
Paulsdale is located at 128 Hooton Road, Mt. Laurel. For information about group tours or future tour dates, contact the Alice Paul Institute at 856-231-1885, e-mail info@alicepaul.org, or visit www.alicepaul.org/events.
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Saturday, October 12 - Elizabeth, Union County
Historical Reenactment
Children Friendly
The Historic Midtown Elizabeth Special Improvement District presents the 7th Annual Historic Reenactment on Saturday from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm in front of the First Presbyterian Church at 42 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ. Reenactors come to Midtown Elizabeth to recreate a Revolutionary War tactical battle, which includes period clothing and weapons. The troops set up camp on the front lawn of the Church. A doctor and his assistant set up their station to teach visitors about revolutionary medicine, and aid the men who are wounded in battle. Families from all over Union County gather outside the Church and along the sidewalk to watch as the British Troops and the American Troops reenact the tactical battle. During the event, visitors are also able to take tours of the Presbyterian Church’s museum and historical cemetery. This event is free. For more information, visit www.elizabethsid.org.
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Saturday, October 12 - Madison, Morris County
Cemetery Tour
At 2:00 pm, join Robert as he gives a tour of Hillside Cemetery with a focus on Revolutionary Madison. Please meet at the cemetery, 158 Main Street, Madison, NJ. Advance registration recommended. Please call 973-377-2982 x13. Admission $10 for non-members and $5 for members (includes museum admission).
The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts is open Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm. The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts is located at 9 Main Street in Madison, NJ just two blocks from the Madison train station. For information, please call 973-377-2982 x10 or visit www.metc.org.
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Saturday, October 12 - Oradell, Bergen County
Nathan Pacheco - Songs of our Heritage
On Saturday at 8:00 pm, The Water Works Conservancy, Inc. is presenting an amazing concert - One Night Only - Nathan Pacheco: Songs of our Heritage, with Young Artist Katherine Henly, at the River Dell High School Auditorium, 55 Pyle Street, Oradell, NJ. The Concert will benefit WWC and historic preservation.
Nathan Pacheco is a rising young crossover classical/pop star (the new Josh Groban), who will be performing at Carnegie Hall in December, but you can hear him and his orchestra at River Dell High School! Nathan was discovered by Yanni and toured Europe for 2 years with Yanni, before returning to the United States to do two PBS Specials, "Introducing Nathan Pacheco" and "A Christmas Special with Nathan Pacheco." He has recently performed in Salt Lake City with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and with the San Diego Pops - and in December at Carnegie Hall!
Katherine Henly is a local resident who graduated from River Dell High School and is now making her way in NYC. She spent the last two summers performing as a young artist at Glimmerglass Opera in Cooperstown, and this past summer performed in New York City in lead roles in two musicals.
Tickets are $40 in advance, $25 for students, and $45 at the door. To order tickets in advance, click here. For more information, call 201-265-1000 or visit www.hwwc.org.
Nathan Pacheco is a rising young crossover classical/pop star (the new Josh Groban), who will be performing at Carnegie Hall in December, but you can hear him and his orchestra at River Dell High School! Nathan was discovered by Yanni and toured Europe for 2 years with Yanni, before returning to the United States to do two PBS Specials, "Introducing Nathan Pacheco" and "A Christmas Special with Nathan Pacheco." He has recently performed in Salt Lake City with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and with the San Diego Pops - and in December at Carnegie Hall!
Katherine Henly is a local resident who graduated from River Dell High School and is now making her way in NYC. She spent the last two summers performing as a young artist at Glimmerglass Opera in Cooperstown, and this past summer performed in New York City in lead roles in two musicals.
Tickets are $40 in advance, $25 for students, and $45 at the door. To order tickets in advance, click here. For more information, call 201-265-1000 or visit www.hwwc.org.
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Saturday, October 12 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County
Corn Harvest
Children Friendly
A classic scene from America's past will be recreated at Howell Living History Farm on Saturday when the fields of ripening corn are cut and shocked against a landscape of early fall colors.
Visitors can join in the work and fun from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, helping farmers harvest corn in the fields, shell and grind corn, and make cornbread in the farmhouse kitchen.
Visitors can join in the work and fun from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, helping farmers harvest corn in the fields, shell and grind corn, and make cornbread in the farmhouse kitchen.
Howell Living Farm represents typical farm life between 1890 and 1910. The farm is operated by the Mercer County Parks Commission. It is located at 70 Wooden's Lane, Lambertville, NJ. For more information or to register for the program, call 609-737-3299. www.howellfarm.org
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Saturday - Sunday, October 12 - 13 - Morris County
Pathways of History
Children Friendly
This year's two-day, admission-free event features sixteen historic groups offering nineteen distinctive sites to visit! Now in its fourth year, the Pathways of History Tour began when neighboring museums in Boonton, Boonton Township, Butler, Kinnelon, and Montville Township opened their doors simultaneously to entice the public to visit. This year, the original five are honored to be joined by historical groups, their museums, and buildings in Denville, Lake Hopatcong, Lincoln Park, Mine Hill, Mount Tabor, Pequannock Township, Randolph, Rockaway Township, Roxbury, and West Milford. The enthusiastic Pathways hosts are opening their doors in a grand joint welcome on Saturday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm.
Something for everyone is included in this year's event. Whatever your interest, it's covered in this notable assemblage of small, volunteer-run historic groups. At first glance, the 2013 tour might seem to be an eclectic grouping of properties and buildings to explore. Not so! True to the Pathways mission, all are indelibly linked to each other and to the past in many ways. The earliest link dates to New Jersey's original inhabitants, the Lenape people. Their legacy colors our communities with descriptive place names like Macopin, Pequannock, Rockaway, Hopatcong, and Succasunna.
Morris County has been called The Military Capital of the American Revolution, connecting all of our Pathways sites in some way. General Washington really did sleep in the Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House in Towaco (Montville Township)! The general's expense account documents his June 1780 stay in the house.
During the Revolution, area iron mines and forges produced supplies and munitions for Washington's Continental Army. In the years following the war, thanks to an abundance of iron ore, timber to fuel the forges, and swift waterways to provide power, Morris County became a leader in the iron ore industry. Its ubiquitous effects are seen in exhibits at the Ford-Faesch Ironmaster's House in Rockaway Township, the Bridget Smith House in Mine Hill, the Brundage House in Randolph, and the Boonton Museum. The King Store and King House Museums will present Roxbury Living History Day/It's all about Iron on Sunday.
Considered one of the most unique of America's towpath waterways, the Morris Canal commenced operation in 1831. Crossing the state from Phillipsburg to Jersey City, a distance of 102 miles, it played a major role in the movement of iron ore, coal, and freight for almost a century. The Pathways towns along the canal include: Landing (Lake Hopatcong), Ledgewood (Roxbury), Rockaway Township, Denville, Boonton Township, Boonton, Montville Township, and Beavertown (Lincoln Park). Artifacts and information about the Morris Canal are featured at the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, the Boonton Museum, and the Beavertown Museum (Lincoln Park). For more information and site directions, call 973-316-0976 or visit www.pathwaysofhistorynj.com
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Something for everyone is included in this year's event. Whatever your interest, it's covered in this notable assemblage of small, volunteer-run historic groups. At first glance, the 2013 tour might seem to be an eclectic grouping of properties and buildings to explore. Not so! True to the Pathways mission, all are indelibly linked to each other and to the past in many ways. The earliest link dates to New Jersey's original inhabitants, the Lenape people. Their legacy colors our communities with descriptive place names like Macopin, Pequannock, Rockaway, Hopatcong, and Succasunna.
Morris County has been called The Military Capital of the American Revolution, connecting all of our Pathways sites in some way. General Washington really did sleep in the Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House in Towaco (Montville Township)! The general's expense account documents his June 1780 stay in the house.
During the Revolution, area iron mines and forges produced supplies and munitions for Washington's Continental Army. In the years following the war, thanks to an abundance of iron ore, timber to fuel the forges, and swift waterways to provide power, Morris County became a leader in the iron ore industry. Its ubiquitous effects are seen in exhibits at the Ford-Faesch Ironmaster's House in Rockaway Township, the Bridget Smith House in Mine Hill, the Brundage House in Randolph, and the Boonton Museum. The King Store and King House Museums will present Roxbury Living History Day/It's all about Iron on Sunday.
Considered one of the most unique of America's towpath waterways, the Morris Canal commenced operation in 1831. Crossing the state from Phillipsburg to Jersey City, a distance of 102 miles, it played a major role in the movement of iron ore, coal, and freight for almost a century. The Pathways towns along the canal include: Landing (Lake Hopatcong), Ledgewood (Roxbury), Rockaway Township, Denville, Boonton Township, Boonton, Montville Township, and Beavertown (Lincoln Park). Artifacts and information about the Morris Canal are featured at the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, the Boonton Museum, and the Beavertown Museum (Lincoln Park). For more information and site directions, call 973-316-0976 or visit www.pathwaysofhistorynj.com
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Saturday - Sunday, October 12 - 13 - Somerset County
Somerset County Weekend Journey Through the Past
Children FriendlySomerset County Weekend Journey Through the Past
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Somerset County's eighth annual Weekend Journey through the Past, a collaborative heritage tourism program, will showcase 24 significant historic sites countywide that will be open to the public free of charge on Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm. There will be a wide range of tours and activities to provide an enjoyable free weekend outing for the entire family.
This annual event, initiated and widely promoted by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission in cooperation with the county Board of Freeholders, brings the past to life through the dedicated efforts of the many participating historical societies and organizations, municipal historic commissions and their enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers.
Through the enthusiastic involvement, collaborative partnerships and support of Somerset County's many historic societies and commissions, the event features many special activities, including a contest for prizes; interpreted tours led by costumed docents; special collections and exhibitions; period military drills and encampment with living history reenactors; open-hearth cooking; colonial tavern life; traditional blacksmithing; 19th-century firefighting wagons and apparatus and much more.
There also will be antiques sales; arts and crafts; live period music performances and participatory colonial dance instruction; a scheduled theatrical performance; guidance on genealogical resources; daily chores of 18th century life; military history; demonstrations; local history videos; antique cameras, music boxes and unique musical instrument collections; participatory activities; interesting architecture; access to some sites not generally open to the public.
For comprehensive details, participating historic sites featured this year (including two new, first-time participating sites), information about how to qualify to win one of many pre-paid gasoline gift cards and advance information about the new "What in the World is That" kids/family detective investigation activity, visit www.SCHistoryWeekend.com or call 908-231-7110.
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Saturday - Sunday, October 12 - 13 - Bound Brook, Somerset County
Old Presbyterian Graveyard Tours
Children Friendly
The Old Presbyterian Graveyard in Bound Brook is the final resting place of Bound Brook’s earliest citizens, as well as many Revolutionary War soldiers, veterans of the Mexican War, and the Civil War.
Come and learn about this hallowed ground on Saturday from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and on Sunday from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm. See the impressive artwork on memorial stones. Learn the meaning behind the inscriptions and epitaphs. Glimpse into the hearts and minds of Bound Brook’s earliest citizens.
Bound Brook Memorial Library Reference Librarian Mary Nelson will provide guided tours of the graveyard. The tours will feature the intact gravestones of fifteen Revolutionary War soldiers and the gravesite of Dr. William McKissack, a captain in the Revolutionary War and a founder of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons for the State of New Jersey.
Somerset County resident Natalie Zaman will demonstrate how to make grave rubbings.
The Old Presbyterian Graveyard is located on the corner of East Street & East High Street, adjacent to Bound Brook Library, Bound Brook, NJ.
This event is part of Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission’s Weekend Journey Through the Past. It is free and open to the public. For more information, call 732-356-0043.
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On Saturday and Sunday, historical museums and heritage organizations throughout Sussex County will join with the Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council for a Heritage weekend. It is a wonderful opportunity to explore the history and uniqueness of Sussex County. Several participating organizations will be open Byram Historical/Roseville Schoolhouse Museum, DAR Elias Van Bunschooten Museum, Franklin Mineral Museum, Franklin Historical/Heritage Museum, High Point Monument State Park, Ogdensburg Historical Schoolhouse and Firehouse Museum, Peter's Valley Craft Center, Space Farms Museum, Sterling Hill Mining Museum, Stillwater Historical Museum, Sussex County Harvest and Honey Festival, Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council, Sussex County Historical Society, Vernon Historical Price's Switch Schoolhouse, Walpack Historical Van Campen Inn, Waterloo Village Heritage Day. The societies do not charge admission - but appreciate donations.
*Please note that due to the Federal Government shutdown, any sites located within the Delaware Gap National Recreation area remain CLOSED.*
The Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council is located at 133 Spring Street, Newton, NJ. For additional information or an updated schedule of corresponding events go to www.scahc.org or call 973-383-0027.
Come and learn about this hallowed ground on Saturday from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and on Sunday from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm. See the impressive artwork on memorial stones. Learn the meaning behind the inscriptions and epitaphs. Glimpse into the hearts and minds of Bound Brook’s earliest citizens.
Bound Brook Memorial Library Reference Librarian Mary Nelson will provide guided tours of the graveyard. The tours will feature the intact gravestones of fifteen Revolutionary War soldiers and the gravesite of Dr. William McKissack, a captain in the Revolutionary War and a founder of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons for the State of New Jersey.
Somerset County resident Natalie Zaman will demonstrate how to make grave rubbings.
The Old Presbyterian Graveyard is located on the corner of East Street & East High Street, adjacent to Bound Brook Library, Bound Brook, NJ.
This event is part of Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission’s Weekend Journey Through the Past. It is free and open to the public. For more information, call 732-356-0043.
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Saturday - Sunday, October 12 - 13 - Sussex County
Sussex County Heritage Tour
Children Friendly+(2).JPG)
*Please note that due to the Federal Government shutdown, any sites located within the Delaware Gap National Recreation area remain CLOSED.*
The Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council is located at 133 Spring Street, Newton, NJ. For additional information or an updated schedule of corresponding events go to www.scahc.org or call 973-383-0027.
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Saturday - Sunday, October 12 - 13 - Morristown, Morris County
Saturday - Sunday, October 12 - 13 - Morristown, Morris County
International Steampunk City at Speedwell
Steampunk is a whimsical genre based around the Age of Steam. Steam City is a little like a Renaissance Faire, only focused on a 19th-century world of mad science and madcap adventure. All are welcome! Come dressed any way you’d like – and you don’t need to know anything special or be part of any group or organization. Come out, bring your family, have some fun, meet nice people, and support a fantastic cause!
Tickets are available in advance at http://jme.ticketleap.com/iscs13 - save money and time by buying your tickets in advance. They'll be waiting for you at the door! The event is open from 12:00 noon - 6:00 pm Saturday and Sunday and held rain or shine.
The event benefits its location - Historic Speedwell - the birthplace of the telegraph!
Entertainment by the White Elephant Burlesque Society, one of the most talented purveyors of song, dance and cabaret in the world; the most danceable tupperware band in the world, AHaloCalledFred; the 19th-century-and-beyond bullwhip show of George Bogorad; and more!
The professional historians and keepers of Speedwell will be speaking and giving demonstrations, including:
· What is Steampunk?
· On The Crystal Palace Exhibition
· Victorian Fashion - A historical view
· Learn about the telegraph - at its birthplace!
· The history of steam power
There's also singer-songwriter David W. Jacobsen, a veteran performer, recently featured in the New York Times! There will be live blacksmithing demonstrations throughout the day; a discussion on occultism and Victorian spiritualism by Kevin P. Meares; folk, traditional, and humorous music by Wolfsong & Jonny; storyteller Karen Ulric; author Eden Unger Bowditch; and cosplayer and costumer Mia Siegert, plus Steampunk singer-songwriter Jeff Mach.
The International Steampunk City is a concept developed and created by Jeff Mach. It is a blueprint for creating a charity benefit to help museums and historic buildings gain visibility, funding, and enthusiastic visitors, as well as bringing tourism and good times to a historic town!
Steam City at Speedwell is an interactive festival in the park, on a beautiful autumn weekend, when people can come out and have a good time. Feel free to dress however you’d like, bring family and friends, and get ready for a great time! Historic Speedwell is located at 333 Speedwell Ave, Morristown, NJ. For more information, visit www.internationalsteampunkcity.com.
Tickets are available in advance at http://jme.ticketleap.com/iscs13 - save money and time by buying your tickets in advance. They'll be waiting for you at the door! The event is open from 12:00 noon - 6:00 pm Saturday and Sunday and held rain or shine.
The event benefits its location - Historic Speedwell - the birthplace of the telegraph!
Entertainment by the White Elephant Burlesque Society, one of the most talented purveyors of song, dance and cabaret in the world; the most danceable tupperware band in the world, AHaloCalledFred; the 19th-century-and-beyond bullwhip show of George Bogorad; and more!
The professional historians and keepers of Speedwell will be speaking and giving demonstrations, including:
· What is Steampunk?
· On The Crystal Palace Exhibition
· Victorian Fashion - A historical view
· Learn about the telegraph - at its birthplace!
· The history of steam power
There's also singer-songwriter David W. Jacobsen, a veteran performer, recently featured in the New York Times! There will be live blacksmithing demonstrations throughout the day; a discussion on occultism and Victorian spiritualism by Kevin P. Meares; folk, traditional, and humorous music by Wolfsong & Jonny; storyteller Karen Ulric; author Eden Unger Bowditch; and cosplayer and costumer Mia Siegert, plus Steampunk singer-songwriter Jeff Mach.
The International Steampunk City is a concept developed and created by Jeff Mach. It is a blueprint for creating a charity benefit to help museums and historic buildings gain visibility, funding, and enthusiastic visitors, as well as bringing tourism and good times to a historic town!
Steam City at Speedwell is an interactive festival in the park, on a beautiful autumn weekend, when people can come out and have a good time. Feel free to dress however you’d like, bring family and friends, and get ready for a great time! Historic Speedwell is located at 333 Speedwell Ave, Morristown, NJ. For more information, visit www.internationalsteampunkcity.com.
Sunday, October 13 - Jersey City, Hudson County
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
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Sunday, October 13 - Morristown, Morris County
Exhibit Opening
On Sunday, Macculloch Hall Historical Museum opens a new exhibition about topics that helped shape our world. "Controversies: The More Things Change..." opens new territory for the Museum, presenting challenging subject matter that may not be suitable for casual dinner conversation. This new exhibit explores topics that helped shape our world through local history events which had national significance:medical experimentation, immigration, and the right to die.
"Controversies: The More Things Change..." inspires people to consider, even reconsider, the ways in which they think about these important, frequently debated issues. The exhibit explores local history events which had national significance: the 1833 Antoine LeBlanc murder trial and public execution; the immigration issues of the late nineteenth century as depicted by political cartoonist Thomas Nast, a Morristown resident, and the 1976 Karen Ann Quinlan "right to die" case.
The museum is making a major departure in exhibit presentations with "Controversies." Where most exhibits typically provide detailed information about the objects on view, "Controversies" offers limited information about the objects, essentially forcing personal thought, and inspiring discussion, about the areas represented. Each object and concept in the exhibit represents a part of New Jersey's history - specifically Morris County's history. The ideas expressed through the historical objects in the exhibit, however, are not confined to New Jersey boundaries- the significant concerns raised by the important and controversial issues showcased in this exhibit continue to be debated throughout the United States and the world.
"We wanted to give our visitors a chance to participate in an exhibit in a new way - to have a reaction without being guided by the institution's interpretation of what the objects represent, which labels typically provide," said Executive Director Carrie Fellows. Instead, curator's books of supplementary information will be available within the exhibit, should the visitor want to learn more, drawn from primary sources like news articles, contemporary commentary, and images. Visitors are encouraged to leave comments about the themes presented.
The exhibition was inspired when Fellows and Ryan C. Hyman, the Museum's curator, heard Burt Logan, Executive Director of the Ohio Historical Society speak at a conference about the organization's groundbreaking "Controversy: Pieces You Don't Normally See" exhibit, and its sequel, "Controversy 2: Pieces We Don't Normally Talk About". During his talk, Mr. Logan strongly encouraged other museums to adapt the concept and develop similar exhibits. Inspired by the presentation, Hyman and Fellows began discussing how they might create an exhibit using themes from the Morris area's rich history.
"Controversies: The More Things Change..." opens on Sunday October 13, 2013 and will be on view during Museum touring hours through June 2014. Please note the subject matter may not be suitable for all audiences. Visitor discretion advised. Recommended for visitors 12 years of age and up.
Macculloch Hall Historical Museum preserves the history of the Macculloch-Miller families, the Morris area community, and the legacy of its founder W. Parsons Todd through its historic site, collections, exhibits, and educational and cultural programs. The Museum is open for house and exhibit tours on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. The last tour leaves at 3:00 pm. Adults $8; Seniors & Students $6; Children 6 - 12 $4. Members and children under 5 are free. For more information, call 973-538-2404 ext. 10, or visit www.maccullochhall.org. Macculloch Hall Historical Museum is located at 45 Macculloch Avenue, Morristown, NJ.
Exhibit Opening
On Sunday, Macculloch Hall Historical Museum opens a new exhibition about topics that helped shape our world. "Controversies: The More Things Change..." opens new territory for the Museum, presenting challenging subject matter that may not be suitable for casual dinner conversation. This new exhibit explores topics that helped shape our world through local history events which had national significance:medical experimentation, immigration, and the right to die.
"Controversies: The More Things Change..." inspires people to consider, even reconsider, the ways in which they think about these important, frequently debated issues. The exhibit explores local history events which had national significance: the 1833 Antoine LeBlanc murder trial and public execution; the immigration issues of the late nineteenth century as depicted by political cartoonist Thomas Nast, a Morristown resident, and the 1976 Karen Ann Quinlan "right to die" case.
The museum is making a major departure in exhibit presentations with "Controversies." Where most exhibits typically provide detailed information about the objects on view, "Controversies" offers limited information about the objects, essentially forcing personal thought, and inspiring discussion, about the areas represented. Each object and concept in the exhibit represents a part of New Jersey's history - specifically Morris County's history. The ideas expressed through the historical objects in the exhibit, however, are not confined to New Jersey boundaries- the significant concerns raised by the important and controversial issues showcased in this exhibit continue to be debated throughout the United States and the world.
"We wanted to give our visitors a chance to participate in an exhibit in a new way - to have a reaction without being guided by the institution's interpretation of what the objects represent, which labels typically provide," said Executive Director Carrie Fellows. Instead, curator's books of supplementary information will be available within the exhibit, should the visitor want to learn more, drawn from primary sources like news articles, contemporary commentary, and images. Visitors are encouraged to leave comments about the themes presented.
The exhibition was inspired when Fellows and Ryan C. Hyman, the Museum's curator, heard Burt Logan, Executive Director of the Ohio Historical Society speak at a conference about the organization's groundbreaking "Controversy: Pieces You Don't Normally See" exhibit, and its sequel, "Controversy 2: Pieces We Don't Normally Talk About". During his talk, Mr. Logan strongly encouraged other museums to adapt the concept and develop similar exhibits. Inspired by the presentation, Hyman and Fellows began discussing how they might create an exhibit using themes from the Morris area's rich history.
"Controversies: The More Things Change..." opens on Sunday October 13, 2013 and will be on view during Museum touring hours through June 2014. Please note the subject matter may not be suitable for all audiences. Visitor discretion advised. Recommended for visitors 12 years of age and up.
Macculloch Hall Historical Museum preserves the history of the Macculloch-Miller families, the Morris area community, and the legacy of its founder W. Parsons Todd through its historic site, collections, exhibits, and educational and cultural programs. The Museum is open for house and exhibit tours on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. The last tour leaves at 3:00 pm. Adults $8; Seniors & Students $6; Children 6 - 12 $4. Members and children under 5 are free. For more information, call 973-538-2404 ext. 10, or visit www.maccullochhall.org. Macculloch Hall Historical Museum is located at 45 Macculloch Avenue, Morristown, NJ.
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Sunday, October 13 - Holmdel, Monmouth County
Blacksmithing Demonstration and Music
Children Friendly
Blacksmithing Demonstration and Music
Children Friendly
On Sunday, visit Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel to take a step back in time to watch blacksmiths perform their craft. They will be shaping iron into everyday products. Blacksmiths were as common as an auto mechanic in towns and on farms of the 1890s. Also, join music man Rich Marzec as he performs songs from the turn of the century on the farm. This free event runs from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Historic Longstreet Farm is located at 44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel, NJ. For more information, call 732-946-3758 or visit www.monmouthcountyparks.com.
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Sunday, October 13 - Lawrence Township, Mercer County
New Jersey Presbyterians and the American Revolution
On Sunday, the Lawrence Historical Society presents the 10th Annual Mary Tanner Lecture at 2:00 pm in the Sweigart Auditorium at Rider University. Professor John Fea of Messiah College will present a lecture entitled "New Jersey Presbyterians and the American Revolution." One cannot understand the American Revolution in New Jersey and the larger mid-Atlantic without recognizing the vital role played by the leaders and members of the Presbyterian Church. Yet these patriotic Calvinists who, among other things, founded Maidenhead (now Lawrence) are rarely mentioned in the stories we tell about the Revolution in this region. This lecture sets out to correct this oversight by examining the Revolution as a "Presbyterian rebellion."
John Fea (Ph.D, Stony Brook University, 1999) is Professor of American History and Chair of the History Department at Messiah College in Grantham, Pennsylvania. His first book, The Way of Improvement Leads Home: Philip Vickers Fithian and the Rural Enlightenment in Early America (University of Pennsylvania Press, 2008), was chosen as the Book of the Year by the New Jersey Academic Alliance and an Honor Book by the New Jersey Council for the Humanities. His recent book Was America Founded as a Christian Nation: A Historical Introduction (Westminster/John Knox Press, 2011) was one of three finalists for the George Washington Book Prize, one of the largest literary prizes in the United States. His book Why Study History?: Reflecting on the Importance of the Past will appear in 2013.
The lecture is free and open to the public. Rider University is located at 2083 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrence Township, NJ. www.thelhs.org
John Fea (Ph.D, Stony Brook University, 1999) is Professor of American History and Chair of the History Department at Messiah College in Grantham, Pennsylvania. His first book, The Way of Improvement Leads Home: Philip Vickers Fithian and the Rural Enlightenment in Early America (University of Pennsylvania Press, 2008), was chosen as the Book of the Year by the New Jersey Academic Alliance and an Honor Book by the New Jersey Council for the Humanities. His recent book Was America Founded as a Christian Nation: A Historical Introduction (Westminster/John Knox Press, 2011) was one of three finalists for the George Washington Book Prize, one of the largest literary prizes in the United States. His book Why Study History?: Reflecting on the Importance of the Past will appear in 2013.
The lecture is free and open to the public. Rider University is located at 2083 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrence Township, NJ. www.thelhs.org
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Sunday, October 13 - Ledgewood, Morris County
Museums at Drakesville Living History Day
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
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On Sunday between 12:00 noon and 4:00 pm, the Roxbury Historical Trust will be hosting their annual Living History Day event at the eighteenth century Silas Riggs Saltbox House, the historic King House and the King Store Museums. The purpose of the event is to briefly bring to life and deepen understanding of our shared heritage. This year's event will focus on New Jersey’s rich history of iron mines, forges and foundries which underpinned the early industrial development of the United States.
Joe Macasek and Bierce Riley of the Society for Industrial Archeology - Roebling Chapter, will be on-hand to explain the bloomery iron process in detail and show examples and artifacts recovered from local forge sites. Colonel Dennis Cassidy will demonstrate the blacksmith trade and Mendham metallurgist Dr. Mike Zedalis will explain the science behind iron processing and applications. Besides iron, there will be musical entertainment for adults and children alike by the popular Claire Reynolds along with hot dogs, antique cars, pumpkin decorating, and children’s games.
The sites are located at 213 Main Street in the Ledgewood Village section of Roxbury Township. Tours are free and historic interpreters will be on hand. For more information, call 973-927-7603 or visit www.roxburynewjersey.com.
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Joe Macasek and Bierce Riley of the Society for Industrial Archeology - Roebling Chapter, will be on-hand to explain the bloomery iron process in detail and show examples and artifacts recovered from local forge sites. Colonel Dennis Cassidy will demonstrate the blacksmith trade and Mendham metallurgist Dr. Mike Zedalis will explain the science behind iron processing and applications. Besides iron, there will be musical entertainment for adults and children alike by the popular Claire Reynolds along with hot dogs, antique cars, pumpkin decorating, and children’s games.
The sites are located at 213 Main Street in the Ledgewood Village section of Roxbury Township. Tours are free and historic interpreters will be on hand. For more information, call 973-927-7603 or visit www.roxburynewjersey.com.
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Sunday, October 13 - Trenton, Mercer County
Planning & Architectural Successes of the Mayor Arthur Holland Era
The Trenton Museum Society will host a Panel Discussion on the topic of "Planning & Architectural Successes of the Mayor Arthur Holland Era." The panel discussion will be held on Sunday from 2:00 - 3:30 pm.
Arthur Holland served as mayor of Trenton through much of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. Trenton Museum Society especially appreciates Holland's decision in the early 70s to renovate the historic Ellarslie Mansion (formerly used as the "Monkey House") in Cadwalader Park, creating the Trenton City Museum in the mansion. But Mayor Holland's accomplishments go far beyond establishing a city arts and history museum. Mayor Holland's integrity and commitment to Trenton's potential encouraged successive governors, particularly Governor Kean, to invest millions in state construction in Trenton. The panelists will discuss their personal experiences while working with Mayor Holland on specific projects. Projects will be rated as successes, near-successes, small gains, and missed opportunities.
Is it too soon to have a true historical perspective on the projects of the Holland Administration? Is there unfinished business that can still be accomplished? Audience members will have an opportunity to weigh in on these questions.
John Clarke and Thomas Ogren, former Directors of the Trenton Department of Housing and Development under Mayor Art Holland, will participate in the panel discussion. There will be an opportunity for participants in specific projects to join the panel while those projects are discussed. David Bosted, who worked as a regional planner at the NJ Division of State & Regional Planning during the Art Holland Administration and is a Trustee of the Trenton Museum Society, will introduce the panelists and provide a context for the panel discussion.
Admission $10. Free for Trenton Museum Society Members. For more information call 609-989-1191 or e-mail tms@ellarslie.org.
Arthur Holland served as mayor of Trenton through much of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. Trenton Museum Society especially appreciates Holland's decision in the early 70s to renovate the historic Ellarslie Mansion (formerly used as the "Monkey House") in Cadwalader Park, creating the Trenton City Museum in the mansion. But Mayor Holland's accomplishments go far beyond establishing a city arts and history museum. Mayor Holland's integrity and commitment to Trenton's potential encouraged successive governors, particularly Governor Kean, to invest millions in state construction in Trenton. The panelists will discuss their personal experiences while working with Mayor Holland on specific projects. Projects will be rated as successes, near-successes, small gains, and missed opportunities.
Is it too soon to have a true historical perspective on the projects of the Holland Administration? Is there unfinished business that can still be accomplished? Audience members will have an opportunity to weigh in on these questions.
John Clarke and Thomas Ogren, former Directors of the Trenton Department of Housing and Development under Mayor Art Holland, will participate in the panel discussion. There will be an opportunity for participants in specific projects to join the panel while those projects are discussed. David Bosted, who worked as a regional planner at the NJ Division of State & Regional Planning during the Art Holland Administration and is a Trustee of the Trenton Museum Society, will introduce the panelists and provide a context for the panel discussion.
Admission $10. Free for Trenton Museum Society Members. For more information call 609-989-1191 or e-mail tms@ellarslie.org.
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Sunday, October 13 - Farmingdale, Monmouth County
All Hallows' Eve
Children Friendly
Below is the schedule of activities for the day!
10:00 am – Admissions opens
10:30 am – Activities begin
12:00 pm - 4:00pm - Wagon rides outside of Visitor's Center
12:00 pm - Puppet show at Bakery
12:30 pm - Costume parade: line up in age groups 0-3, 4-7, 8-12
1:00 pm – 1:30pm – Costume prizes for children under 12 in front of General Store
2:30 pm – Puppet show at Bakery
3:30 pm – Puppet show at Bakery
Other events include:
• Cider pressing at Manager’s House (10:30 am – 4:00 pm)
• Children’s games and town ball at Gardner’s Cottage (10:30 am – 4:00 pm)
• Cooking in Manager’s House (10:30 am – 4:00 pm)
• Storytelling in Carriage House (1:00 - 4:00 pm)
• Pumpkin painting at Carriage House (10:30 am – when pumpkins run out; limited quantity, first come first serve)
• Arts and crafts across from Carriage House
• Face painting/balloon art/glitter tattoos (10:30 am – 4:00 pm) next to General Store
Allaire Village, Incorporated is licensed by the State of New Jersey to operate the 40-acre, Historic Village at Allaire, the site of James P. Allaire's Howell Iron Works Company in the 1830s. Allaire Village, Inc. receives no state funding towards the educational programming presented throughout the year, but is strongly supported through private donations, membership fees, fund-raising events, and patronage of their retail stores.
The Historic Village at Allaire is located in Allaire State Park, 4265 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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Sundays Through November 30, 2013 - Lakehurst, Ocean County
Pittis - Doctor - Mayor - Postmaster
The Borough of Lakehurst Historical Society announces a special exhibit about an important resident - "PITTIS - Doctor - Mayor - Postmaster". Dr. Pittis was the local physician for Lakehurst and Manchester from the turn of the 19th century until World War II. He would make house calls all the way to Whiting in his horse-drawn buggy. Later in life, he became a physician at the Jersey City Medical Center. Dr. Harold Pittis was the son of Thomas Kearn Pittis and Susan null Henrietta Collins. Harold was the fourth of ten children; eight brothers and one sister, all from Plainfield, New Jersey.
Dr. Harold received his MD in 1901 from McGill University, Montreal, Canada, where he met his wife Ruth. He and Ruth were married on January 8, 1900 at St. Mark's Church in Malone, New York. In the 1910 census, Dr. Pittis was living on Union Avenue, Lakehurst, with his wife and son Harold, who had received his MD from McGill University in 1937.
Dr. Harold Pittis was not only the town physician, but also Lakehurst's first postmaster, beginning in November 1918. He was reappointed twice and served until August 16, 1929. He financed the construction of the first post office.
The museum is open Wednesdays and Sundays from 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm. The Lakehurst Historical Society Museum is located at 300 Center Street, Lakehurst, NJ. For more information, call 732-657-8864 or click here.
Dr. Harold received his MD in 1901 from McGill University, Montreal, Canada, where he met his wife Ruth. He and Ruth were married on January 8, 1900 at St. Mark's Church in Malone, New York. In the 1910 census, Dr. Pittis was living on Union Avenue, Lakehurst, with his wife and son Harold, who had received his MD from McGill University in 1937.
Dr. Harold Pittis was not only the town physician, but also Lakehurst's first postmaster, beginning in November 1918. He was reappointed twice and served until August 16, 1929. He financed the construction of the first post office.
The museum is open Wednesdays and Sundays from 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm. The Lakehurst Historical Society Museum is located at 300 Center Street, Lakehurst, NJ. For more information, call 732-657-8864 or click here.
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Saturdays and Sundays Through October 27, 2013 - Ringwood, Passaic CountyGrounds and Garden Tour
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Through June 30, 2014 - Piscataway, Middlesex County
Got Work? Exhibit
View the exhibit "Got Work? New Deal/WPA in New Jersey" at the 1741 Cornelius Low House Museum in Piscataway. The museum is open Tuesday - Friday, 8:30 - 4:00 pm and Sunday afternoons from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. The exhibit will run through June 30, 2014.
The Cornelius Low House, built in 1741, was the home to its namesake and is only one of two remaining buildings from historic Raritan Landing. This high-style Georgian mansion is listed on the National Register and operated by the Middlesex County Cultural and Heritage Commission. Admission to the museum is FREE. The museum is located at 1225 River Road, Piscataway, NJ . For more information, visit
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The Museum of Early Trades and Crafts presents "Ghosts, Ghouls, & Gravestones: The Trades of Burial," which will examine the progression of the burial trade. Passing away from this world was once a family affair, but over time, the process spread through the social and economic ties of the community. By 1900, a robust funeral industry had developed that saw to a family's every need. The exhibit will also explore the strict protocols that dictated mourning and the artistry in gravestones.
Regular Museum admission is $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for seniors, students & children (ages 6 and older), and free for members and children under 6. Family maximum admission $13.00. The Museum is open Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm. The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts is located at 9 Main Street in Madison, NJ just two blocks from the Madison train station. For information, please call 973-377-2982 x10 or visit www.metc.org.
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Often overlooked as a decorative art form, maps are ideal artifacts for exploring New Jersey history. Stories of New Jersey’s social, economic, military, environmental and political history – as well as the state’s role in the history of American transportation – can be told through the visual splendor of the Garden State’s historic maps.
Opening on September 7 and running through February 23, 2014, “Where in the World is New Jersey? Historical Maps of the Garden State” is comprised of nearly 100 maps depicting the colony and state of New Jersey from 1635 through 1950 on display at the New Jersey State Museum.
This unprecedented exhibition provides the visitor with an introductory survey of historical maps depicting the colony and state of New Jersey from 1635 until 1950. The nearly 100 maps on display – most of which are original hand-colored copperplate engravings or chromolithographs – come from the collections of four public institutions – the New Jersey State Museum, State Archives, State Library, and Special Collections and University Archives at Rutgers University, New Brunswick. They were selected for their rarity, their ability to convey aspects of New Jersey history, and their artistic merit – underscoring the dual role of maps as both works of art and utilitarian tools essential to the human experience.
The New Jersey State Museum, located at 205 West State Street in Trenton, NJ is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 am - 4:45 pm. The Museum is closed Mondays and all state holidays. The NJ State Museum has a “suggested” admission fee. For more information, visit www.statemuseum.nj.gov or call the recorded information line at (609) 292-6464. On weekends, free parking is available in lots adjacent to and behind the Museum. Please visit www.trentonparking.com for a number of options for parking in downtown Trenton during the week.
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The Harrison Township Historical Society's fall exhibition, Under the Sea: Our Prehistoric Past is on display through Saturday, December 14, 2013.
This new installation, which features rare fossil specimens on loan from the New Jersey State Museum, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, and private collections, explores how fossil discoveries at 19th century marl mining operations around Mullica Hill attracted the interest of such notable early paleontologists as Yale's Othniel Marsh and Philadelphia's Charles Lyell, Timothy Conrad and William Gabb. As guest curator, Shirley S. Albright, retired Assistant Curator of Natural History, New Jersey State Museum has written, the historic significance of the classic Mullica Hill fossil locality cannot be underestimated. The exhibits show the diversity of prehistoric faunal life inhabiting the ancient ocean that covered Harrison Township, as well as Pleistocene fossils transported southward by melting glaciers.
The exhibition also discusses the area's geology and native stone deposits with photos of buildings constructed of limonite, or Jersey sandstone, that survive in the area from the 18th and 19th centuries.
With over sixty specimens, an introductory video, and activities for children in the gallery and to take home, Under the Sea offers insights into the area's ancient past for the entire family, and admission is free.
The Harrison Township Historical Society's Old Town Hall Museum is located at 62-64 South Main Street, Mullica Hill, NJ. The Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays, 1:00 - 4:00 pm, through December 14, 2013. For more information, call 856-478- 4949 or visit www.harrisonhistorical.com.
Through February 2014 - Madison, Morris County
Ghosts, Ghouls, & Gravestones Exhibit
Children Friendly Site
Regular Museum admission is $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for seniors, students & children (ages 6 and older), and free for members and children under 6. Family maximum admission $13.00. The Museum is open Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm. The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts is located at 9 Main Street in Madison, NJ just two blocks from the Madison train station. For information, please call 973-377-2982 x10 or visit www.metc.org.
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Through Sunday, February 23, 2014 - Trenton, Mercer County
Historic Maps of the Garden State Exhibit
Children Friendly Activities
Opening on September 7 and running through February 23, 2014, “Where in the World is New Jersey? Historical Maps of the Garden State” is comprised of nearly 100 maps depicting the colony and state of New Jersey from 1635 through 1950 on display at the New Jersey State Museum.
This unprecedented exhibition provides the visitor with an introductory survey of historical maps depicting the colony and state of New Jersey from 1635 until 1950. The nearly 100 maps on display – most of which are original hand-colored copperplate engravings or chromolithographs – come from the collections of four public institutions – the New Jersey State Museum, State Archives, State Library, and Special Collections and University Archives at Rutgers University, New Brunswick. They were selected for their rarity, their ability to convey aspects of New Jersey history, and their artistic merit – underscoring the dual role of maps as both works of art and utilitarian tools essential to the human experience.
The New Jersey State Museum, located at 205 West State Street in Trenton, NJ is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 am - 4:45 pm. The Museum is closed Mondays and all state holidays. The NJ State Museum has a “suggested” admission fee. For more information, visit www.statemuseum.nj.gov or call the recorded information line at (609) 292-6464. On weekends, free parking is available in lots adjacent to and behind the Museum. Please visit www.trentonparking.com for a number of options for parking in downtown Trenton during the week.
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Through December 14, 2013 - Harrison Township, Gloucester County
Under the Sea: Our Prehistoric Past
Children Friendly
This new installation, which features rare fossil specimens on loan from the New Jersey State Museum, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, and private collections, explores how fossil discoveries at 19th century marl mining operations around Mullica Hill attracted the interest of such notable early paleontologists as Yale's Othniel Marsh and Philadelphia's Charles Lyell, Timothy Conrad and William Gabb. As guest curator, Shirley S. Albright, retired Assistant Curator of Natural History, New Jersey State Museum has written, the historic significance of the classic Mullica Hill fossil locality cannot be underestimated. The exhibits show the diversity of prehistoric faunal life inhabiting the ancient ocean that covered Harrison Township, as well as Pleistocene fossils transported southward by melting glaciers.
The exhibition also discusses the area's geology and native stone deposits with photos of buildings constructed of limonite, or Jersey sandstone, that survive in the area from the 18th and 19th centuries.
With over sixty specimens, an introductory video, and activities for children in the gallery and to take home, Under the Sea offers insights into the area's ancient past for the entire family, and admission is free.
The Harrison Township Historical Society's Old Town Hall Museum is located at 62-64 South Main Street, Mullica Hill, NJ. The Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays, 1:00 - 4:00 pm, through December 14, 2013. For more information, call 856-478- 4949 or visit www.harrisonhistorical.com.
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Some event listings courtesy of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey
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