WEEKEND HISTORICAL HAPPENINGS
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Friday, December 6 - Jersey City, Hudson County
Christmas Tree Lighting
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
Bundle up and bring the whole family to welcome in the holiday season and enjoy this annual event in Jersey City's treasure, The Historic Jersey City & Harsimus Memorial Park, located at 435 Newark Avenue, Jersey City. Free but donations welcomed. For more information, call 201-707-0738 or 973-204-9888 or visit www.jerseycitycemetery.org.
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Saturday, December 7 - Salem, Salem County
26th Annual Yuletide Open House Tour
On Saturday, tour homes in historic Salem as Main Street Salem hosts the 26th Annual Yuletide Open House Tour from 1:00 - 6:00 pm. Visit historic homes, churches, and museums, featuring quilting demonstrations, exhibits, and characters from the past. Shop for antiques, local art and collectibles. Tickets are $15 each the day of the event for adults. For additional information, call 856-935-8800 or 856-339-0400. Make a day of it: The Salem Magic of Christmas Parade will be held at 11:00 am Saturday and the Town Tree Lighting will be held at 6:30 pm. For more information, visit www.salemcitynj.com or www.facebook.com/salemyuletidetour.
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Saturday, December 7 - Newton, Sussex County
Civil War Christmas
Children Friendly
The Sussex County Historical Society is hosting a Civil War Christmas on Saturday from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. The event will feature a visit with Abraham and Mary Lincoln. Enjoy light refreshment and the music of "Cracked Walnuts." You will also have an opportunity to view our new exhibits of items from the Newton Fire Museum. This event is free.
The event will be held at the Hill Museum, home of the Sussex County Historical Society, 82 Main Street, Newton NJ. For more information, call 973-383-6010, e-mail sussexcountyhs@gmail.com, or visit www.sussexcountyhistory.org.
The event will be held at the Hill Museum, home of the Sussex County Historical Society, 82 Main Street, Newton NJ. For more information, call 973-383-6010, e-mail sussexcountyhs@gmail.com, or visit www.sussexcountyhistory.org.
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Saturday, December 7 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County
Christmas on the Farm
Children Friendly
St. Nick, his elves, and a jingling sleigh loaded with cookies, coal, and holiday cheer will arrive at Howell Living History Farm on Saturday, highlighting an all-day program, "Christmas on the Farm."
St. Nick's sleigh will descend from the Farm's northern slopes at 12:00 noon. Its white-bearded navigator will check Christmas lists and give out treats (or coal, as the case may be) until 3:00 pm.
The celebration begins at 10:15 am, when children can climb aboard a horse-drawn work wagon for a ride to the woods to cut down a Christmas tree. All children will be given a chance to take a turn helping farmers cut the tree with a two-man saw. Afterwards, all visitors can help decorate the tree with ear corn, pinecones, and other natural ornaments. Helpers will be treated to hot apple cider and cookies.
Gift baskets, sleighbells, wreaths and other items will be available for sale in the Visitor Center gift shop. Featured will be handmade gifts and ornaments crafted by the Pleasant Valley Stitchers.
A children's craft program, "Beaded Wire Ornament," will be held on a walk-in basis, from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. Projects take 20 minutes to complete and cost $3 each. Groups (eight or more) must pre-register.
St. Nick's sleigh will descend from the Farm's northern slopes at 12:00 noon. Its white-bearded navigator will check Christmas lists and give out treats (or coal, as the case may be) until 3:00 pm.
The celebration begins at 10:15 am, when children can climb aboard a horse-drawn work wagon for a ride to the woods to cut down a Christmas tree. All children will be given a chance to take a turn helping farmers cut the tree with a two-man saw. Afterwards, all visitors can help decorate the tree with ear corn, pinecones, and other natural ornaments. Helpers will be treated to hot apple cider and cookies.
Gift baskets, sleighbells, wreaths and other items will be available for sale in the Visitor Center gift shop. Featured will be handmade gifts and ornaments crafted by the Pleasant Valley Stitchers.
A children's craft program, "Beaded Wire Ornament," will be held on a walk-in basis, from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. Projects take 20 minutes to complete and cost $3 each. Groups (eight or more) must pre-register.
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, December 7 - Holmdel, Monmouth County
Christmas Sing-a-Long
Children Friendly
On Saturday, visit Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel to visit with Rick Garland as he plays the piano for an old-fashioned sing-a-long appropriate for the holiday season! 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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On Saturday, tour the magnificent 1719 Trent House Museum, decorated for the holidays by the talented members of the Garden Club of Trenton. At 3:00 pm, special holiday choral music will be provided in the Trent House by the Capital Singers of Trenton, directed by Richard Loatman. The Trent House Museum Shop features special items and seasonal gifts. Complimentary refreshments.
Beautifully designed table arrangements and decorated wreaths will be for sale, created by the Garden Club of Trenton. Plus cut Christmas trees, undecorated wreaths, and loose fresh greens (holly, ivy, yew, boxwood, juniper, winterberry, pine and magnolia) courtesy of Kales Nursery in Princeton. Event proceeds will benefit the curatorial work and educational programming of the non-profit Trent House Association. Please note that the tree, wreath and greens sale runs Thursday December 5 through Saturday, December 7 from 12:30 - 5:00 pm.
The 1719 William Trent House is the oldest building in our state capital. A Georgian-style manor house restored to its former glory and carefully furnished as it would have been in the early 18th century, it is located at 15 Market Street, Trenton, NJ adjacent to the Hughes Justice Complex. Ample free parking. For more information, call 609-989-0087 or visit www.williamtrenthouse.org.
Historic Cold Spring Village opens its Homespun Holidays season with Wassail Day on Saturday from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. The Village paths come alive with the sounds and smells of wintertime at this free event. Select buildings will also be open where guests can enjoy hot beverages and treats served by historical interpreters in period clothing. Visitors can meet Father Christmas in the Country Store from 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride throughout the festively decorated Village grounds for a small donation. Guests can also enjoy live holiday music and a model railway exhibit in the Welcome Center.
Holiday traditions continue each Saturday in December through the 21st. The Country Store will be open from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm and stocked with unique holiday gift ideas including traditionally-processed wool, artisan crafts for the home, books, hand-knit caps, wooden toys and old fashioned candy. Also on Saturdays, visitors can enjoy carriage rides throughout the Village from 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm, see a model railway exhibit from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm in the Welcome Center, and meet Father Christmas at the Country Store from 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm. The Country Store will also be open Sundays from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Tewksbury, Hunterdon County
10th Annual Christmas Antique Show
Victorian Christmas at Millbrook Village
Children Friendly
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Saturday, December 7 - Holmdel, Monmouth County
Christmas Sing-a-Long
Children Friendly
On Saturday, visit Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel to visit with Rick Garland as he plays the piano for an old-fashioned sing-a-long appropriate for the holiday season! 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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Saturday, December 7 - Trenton, Mercer County
Holiday Open House and Greens Sale
Beautifully designed table arrangements and decorated wreaths will be for sale, created by the Garden Club of Trenton. Plus cut Christmas trees, undecorated wreaths, and loose fresh greens (holly, ivy, yew, boxwood, juniper, winterberry, pine and magnolia) courtesy of Kales Nursery in Princeton. Event proceeds will benefit the curatorial work and educational programming of the non-profit Trent House Association. Please note that the tree, wreath and greens sale runs Thursday December 5 through Saturday, December 7 from 12:30 - 5:00 pm.
The 1719 William Trent House is the oldest building in our state capital. A Georgian-style manor house restored to its former glory and carefully furnished as it would have been in the early 18th century, it is located at 15 Market Street, Trenton, NJ adjacent to the Hughes Justice Complex. Ample free parking. For more information, call 609-989-0087 or visit www.williamtrenthouse.org.
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Saturday, December 7 - Cape May, Cape May County
Wassail Day at Historic Cold Spring Village
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
Holiday traditions continue each Saturday in December through the 21st. The Country Store will be open from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm and stocked with unique holiday gift ideas including traditionally-processed wool, artisan crafts for the home, books, hand-knit caps, wooden toys and old fashioned candy. Also on Saturdays, visitors can enjoy carriage rides throughout the Village from 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm, see a model railway exhibit from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm in the Welcome Center, and meet Father Christmas at the Country Store from 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm. The Country Store will also be open Sundays from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.
Historic Cold Spring Village is located on Route 9, three miles north of Victorian Cape May and a mile and a half west of the southern end of the Garden State Parkway. For more information, call 609-898-2300, ext. 10 or visit the Village www.hcsv.org.
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Saturday, December 7 and 14 - Rahway, Union County
Holiday Candlelight Evenings
The Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum Association will be hosting their annual Holiday Candlelight Evening Tours, Saturday, December 7 and 14, from 6 to 9 p.m. in the museum building located at 1632 St. Georges Avenue, Rahway, NJ at the corner of Westfield Avenue.
This year, as always, the old tavern building, housing the museum, will be decorated for the holidays as it might have been circa 1800. All the rooms will be aglow in candlelight, and live period music will entertain the evening’s guests with Christmas carols and 19th century holiday melodies. This program is open to the public and all ages are welcome.
This year’s celebration will once again feature the holiday music of nationally renowned musician and singer, Linda Russell. She entertains audiences with ancient carols, interwoven with Yuletide poems, folklore and even recipes.
Tickets are $12 at the door for adults, $10 for members and seniors, $5 for students, and children under 5 are free. All tickets can be purchased at the door. The price includes hearty appetizers, beer, wine, cider and soft drinks. All proceeds from both evenings will benefit the continued restoration and interpretation of this 18th century landmark. For more information, call 732-381-0441 or visit www.merchantsanddrovers.org.
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This year, as always, the old tavern building, housing the museum, will be decorated for the holidays as it might have been circa 1800. All the rooms will be aglow in candlelight, and live period music will entertain the evening’s guests with Christmas carols and 19th century holiday melodies. This program is open to the public and all ages are welcome.
This year’s celebration will once again feature the holiday music of nationally renowned musician and singer, Linda Russell. She entertains audiences with ancient carols, interwoven with Yuletide poems, folklore and even recipes.
Tickets are $12 at the door for adults, $10 for members and seniors, $5 for students, and children under 5 are free. All tickets can be purchased at the door. The price includes hearty appetizers, beer, wine, cider and soft drinks. All proceeds from both evenings will benefit the continued restoration and interpretation of this 18th century landmark. For more information, call 732-381-0441 or visit www.merchantsanddrovers.org.
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Saturday, December 7 - Mount Laurel, Burlington County
Paulsdale Holiday Open House
Paulsdale is open to the public for a Holiday Open House from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Paulsdale is the birthplace of Quaker suffragist Alice Paul. The home will be decorated in Quaker fashion by the Mount Laurel Garden Club and guests can peruse the gift shop, enjoy tours of the house, refreshments and more. Learn about Alice Paul's life and work and the site's present day use as a girl's leadership center. Admission is free.
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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10th Annual Christmas Antique Show
The Tewksbury Historical Society's 10th annual Christmas Antique Show will be held at the Old Turnpike School, 171 Old Turnpike Road (Route 517) Califon, NJ. The show will run Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is $8.00 per person. Over 40 quality antique and collectibles dealers from New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania return every year. Be sure to visit the society's tables to find the new Tewksbury afghan, as well as local books, prints, postcards and more for sale for your holiday shopping. For more information, visit www.tewksburyhistory.net, e-mail tewksburyhistory@earthlink.net, or call the Tewksbury Historical Society Headquarters at 908-832-6734.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Hardwick, Warren CountyVictorian Christmas at Millbrook Village
Children Friendly
Visit Millbrook Village in the Delaware Gap National Recreation Area and step back into another era where the toys and games did not need batteries. The buildings will be decorated with old time decorations and volunteers and park staff in period clothing will demonstrate how the season was celebrated in years past on Saturday from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. Children can make a decoration or play with some of the wonderful old time toys and games that will be in the parlor. Music, singing and some country style entertainment will be enjoyed in the church in the mid afternoon. Join in and celebrate the season. Light seasonal refreshments will be served.
On Sunday beginning at 5:00 pm, participate in an old-fashioned Christmas service and carol singing in the Millbrook Church, followed by a fellowship get together in the VanCampen Farmhouse. Enjoy the friendship and warmth of the season in an old time atmosphere where Peace and Good Will prevail. Light seasonal refreshments will be served. For more information, including directions and GPS coordinates, visit www.millbrooknj.com.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8, 14 - 15 - South Bound Brook, Somerset County
Home for the Holidays at the Abraham Staats House
The Abraham Staats House will be decked out in festive finery and hosting a number of musical programs for the two weekends of Holiday at the Abraham Staats House! Built circa 1740, the house was home to the Staats family for nearly two centuries and is now under the care of the Borough of South Bound Brook.
On December 7 - 8 and 14 - 15, from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm, the public is invited for a holiday visit of this special historic home, festively and individually decorated by South Bound Brook community organizations in celebration of the holiday season.
Stroll through the many rooms, learn about the history of the home, and get in the holiday spirit as you enjoy the seasonal displays and exhibits, and music of the 18th century on the dulcimer, guitar, and fiddle and offered throughout the house by Tom Harabin, president of the Friends of Abraham Staats House organization, which is hosting the event.
Enjoy music of the season as well during the Holiday at the Abraham Staats House weekends. On Saturday, December 7, the Franklin Township High School Madrigal Singers, directed by Tim Walton, will perform at 2:00 pm. The following day, on Sunday, December 8, enjoy the sounds of the Somerville High School Jazz ensemble under the direction of Mr. Matt Krempasky. The group will perform at 1:00 p.m.
On Saturday, December 14, members of the South Bound Brook Robert Morris School Gold Band, directed by Mr. Frank Parente, will perform at 2:00 p.m. (Please note: the sound of these musical programs will carry throughout the house; however, those who desire seating should come prior to performance start time: seating is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis.)
Admission and parking is free and donations are accepted. The Abraham Staats House is located at 17 Von Steuben Lane, South Bound Brook. For more information, call 732-560-0645 or visit www.staatshouse.org.
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Home for the Holidays at the Abraham Staats House
On December 7 - 8 and 14 - 15, from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm, the public is invited for a holiday visit of this special historic home, festively and individually decorated by South Bound Brook community organizations in celebration of the holiday season.
Stroll through the many rooms, learn about the history of the home, and get in the holiday spirit as you enjoy the seasonal displays and exhibits, and music of the 18th century on the dulcimer, guitar, and fiddle and offered throughout the house by Tom Harabin, president of the Friends of Abraham Staats House organization, which is hosting the event.
Enjoy music of the season as well during the Holiday at the Abraham Staats House weekends. On Saturday, December 7, the Franklin Township High School Madrigal Singers, directed by Tim Walton, will perform at 2:00 pm. The following day, on Sunday, December 8, enjoy the sounds of the Somerville High School Jazz ensemble under the direction of Mr. Matt Krempasky. The group will perform at 1:00 p.m.
On Saturday, December 14, members of the South Bound Brook Robert Morris School Gold Band, directed by Mr. Frank Parente, will perform at 2:00 p.m. (Please note: the sound of these musical programs will carry throughout the house; however, those who desire seating should come prior to performance start time: seating is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis.)
Admission and parking is free and donations are accepted. The Abraham Staats House is located at 17 Von Steuben Lane, South Bound Brook. For more information, call 732-560-0645 or visit www.staatshouse.org.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Essex County
Essex County Historic Holiday Tours
Children Friendly
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The Essex County 2013 Historic Holiday House Tour enables the public is invited to take a self-guided tour of the homes and grounds decorated for the holidays. The fifth annual tour has been expanded to include seventeen sites this year around Essex County! The sites will all be decorated for the holidays and open to the public on Saturday and Sunday. The tour includes perennial favorites, such as the Crane Homestead at West Caldwell, the Grover Cleveland Birthplace at Caldwell, Kip’s Castle in Verona, the Walther House at the Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens at Montclair and the Canfield-Morgan House and Museum at Cedar Grove.
Newcomers include the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills, Oakeside Bloomfield Cultural Center in Bloomfield, and the Salvatorian Fathers Catholic Church in Verona.
The public can visit each site at their own pace. The houses will be exquisitely decorated for the holidays and be open for public viewing. Each site will offer something unique, including musical entertainment, refreshments or educational programs. There may be an admission fee at some locations. For more information, call 973-239-2485 or visit www.essexcountynj.org. The complete list of Historic Holiday House sites, hours, and admission fees can be found here.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Tuckerton, Ocean County
11th Annual Christkindlmarkt
Children Friendly
Enjoy two spectacular days of a holiday market and fair under a huge heated tent at the Tuckerton Seaport from 10:00 am - 8:00 pm on Saturday and 10:00 - 4:00 pm on Sunday. There will be horse-drawn cart rides, children's rides, family craft activities, Santa carving demos, Gluhwein ~ hot mulled wine, fabulous food, refreshments, and entertainment. This year’s event will feature three New Jersey Wineries: Valenzano, Tomasello, and DiMatteo. Sampling and sales of these select local wines will be available. Admission: $3.00 per person. The Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen's Museum is located at 120 West Main Street in Tuckerton. Free shuttle bus service will be available throughout Christkindlmarkt between the Seaport and Tip Seaman County Park. For more information, call 609-296-8868 or visit www.tuckertonseaport.org.
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Essex County Historic Holiday Tours
Children Friendly
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Newcomers include the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills, Oakeside Bloomfield Cultural Center in Bloomfield, and the Salvatorian Fathers Catholic Church in Verona.
The public can visit each site at their own pace. The houses will be exquisitely decorated for the holidays and be open for public viewing. Each site will offer something unique, including musical entertainment, refreshments or educational programs. There may be an admission fee at some locations. For more information, call 973-239-2485 or visit www.essexcountynj.org. The complete list of Historic Holiday House sites, hours, and admission fees can be found here.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Tuckerton, Ocean County
11th Annual Christkindlmarkt
Children Friendly
Enjoy two spectacular days of a holiday market and fair under a huge heated tent at the Tuckerton Seaport from 10:00 am - 8:00 pm on Saturday and 10:00 - 4:00 pm on Sunday. There will be horse-drawn cart rides, children's rides, family craft activities, Santa carving demos, Gluhwein ~ hot mulled wine, fabulous food, refreshments, and entertainment. This year’s event will feature three New Jersey Wineries: Valenzano, Tomasello, and DiMatteo. Sampling and sales of these select local wines will be available. Admission: $3.00 per person. The Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen's Museum is located at 120 West Main Street in Tuckerton. Free shuttle bus service will be available throughout Christkindlmarkt between the Seaport and Tip Seaman County Park. For more information, call 609-296-8868 or visit www.tuckertonseaport.org.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 and 14 - Walpack, Sussex County
Walpack Christmas
Children Friendly
Join the Walpack Historical Society for a "Walpack Christmas" at the Rosenkrans Museum, Main Street, Walpack Center, NJ within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The celebration and open house will take place on Saturday, December 7 and December 14 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm and on Sunday, December 8 from 3:30 - 4:30 pm.
The museum, a circa 1850 one and a half story frame building with eyebrow windows, was once the typical style of home in the Delaware River Valley. It will be decorated for the holidays in the old-fashioned way. Refreshments will be served and live music will be performed. The event is free and the public is invited. All ages are welcome. For more information, call 973-948-4903 or visit www.walpackhistory.org.
Walpack Christmas
Children Friendly
The museum, a circa 1850 one and a half story frame building with eyebrow windows, was once the typical style of home in the Delaware River Valley. It will be decorated for the holidays in the old-fashioned way. Refreshments will be served and live music will be performed. The event is free and the public is invited. All ages are welcome. For more information, call 973-948-4903 or visit www.walpackhistory.org.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Jefferson Township, Morris County
Christmas in the Village
Children Friendly
The Jefferson Township Museum, also known as the George Chamberlain House, will reopen for the "Christmas in the Village" celebration. Opening hours for the Museum Christmas Weekend are 10:00 - 4:00 pm on Saturday and 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm on Sunday. "Sugar and Spice" is the theme of this year's decorations. The Christmas celebration is the only time the antique harmonium in the parlor is played. The museum is decorated by members of the Museum Garden Club and the Jefferson Township Historical Society. Docents dressed in period costumes will be on hand, and hot cider will be served outside by the pot-bellied stove. Mrs. Santa Claus will be making an appearance. Admission to the museum is free. The Jefferson Township Museum is located at 315 Dover-Milton Road, Jefferson, NJ. Be sure to visit Miss Elizabeth's Shoppe located in the original kitchen of the museum, where small antiques, collectibles, handmade and handcrafted items will be offered for sale for your holiday shopping. For more information, call 973-697-0258 or visit www.jthistoricalsociety.org.
Christmas in the Village
Children Friendly
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Bedminster, Somerset County
Celebrate Christmas Past and Present in Bedminster
Children Friendly
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Step back in time (to the winter of 1778-79) and visit Bedminster’s historic Jacobus Vanderveer House and Museum on Saturday and Sunday when it opens its wreath-clad doors for the eleventh annual Colonial Christmas show house and tour for two consecutive weekends.
The fundraiser features: house tours, artisans selling handmade items, Colonial holiday decorations, Colonial musicians and reenactors, Santa visits, and permanent exhibits - The Kitchen Hearth, The Vanderveer Parlor, The Knox Bedroom, and the Lumber Room.
* 10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Vendors
* 10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Colonial Re-enactors
* 11:00 am - 1:00 pm – The Enslows perform Colonial American Christmas Music
* 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm – Santa Visit
Sunday, December 8
* 10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Vendors
* 10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Colonial Re-enactors
* 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm – Santa Visit
* 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm – Choral Group Performance
* 4:00 pm - 50/50 Raffle Drawing, House Raffle Drawing
Admission is $10 (children 12 and under, free). The house is open from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Thursday through Sunday, December 5 - 8. The Jacobus Vanderveer House is located at 955 Route 202/206, Bedminster, NJ, behind River Road Park. The entrance to the house is via River Road Park. For more information, call 908-396-6053 or visit www.jvanderveerhouse.org.
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In addition to the regular coaches that make up the train, make your day extra special by purchasing limited tickets for a nostalgic Christmas ride aboard the museum's elegant 1927-era Central Railroad of New Jersey (CNJ) Club Car, Jersey Coast. Specially decorated for the Christmas holidays in a pre-World War II style, the car has the warm look and feel of a private club with individual leather chairs, mahogany interior accented with stained glass, built-in tables and period ceiling fans. The Jersey Coast, recalls the 1930s when the CNJ operated its deluxe coach train, The Blue Comet, between Jersey City and Atlantic City, NJ. The striking, authentic exterior paint scheme of cream and blue reminds one of a comet streaking through space. It is the only car of its type operating in New Jersey.
So round up your family and friends and climb aboard for some great Christmastime fun and laughter! Ordering tickets is fast and easy! Trains depart at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, and 4:00 pm each day, rain, sleet, or shine. The Whippany Railroad is located at 1 Railroad Plaza, at the Intersection of Route 10 West & Whippany Road in Whippany, NJ. Train fare: Adults: $14.00, Children (under 12): $9.00, Infants (1 year and under): Free.
To order tickets and for more information, visit www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net or call 973-887-8177. The Whippany Railway Museum, a 501 (c) 3 non-profit Operating Heritage Railroad that is staffed by volunteers. Donations from the public help to keep the museum operational, but funds are still required to support this unique New Jersey treasure. Proceeds from the train rides further enhance the Museum's mission and its historic preservation efforts.
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Celebrate Christmas Past and Present in Bedminster
Children Friendly
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The fundraiser features: house tours, artisans selling handmade items, Colonial holiday decorations, Colonial musicians and reenactors, Santa visits, and permanent exhibits - The Kitchen Hearth, The Vanderveer Parlor, The Knox Bedroom, and the Lumber Room.
Schedule of Events
Saturday, December 7* 10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Vendors
* 10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Colonial Re-enactors
* 11:00 am - 1:00 pm – The Enslows perform Colonial American Christmas Music
* 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm – Santa Visit
Sunday, December 8
* 10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Vendors
* 10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Colonial Re-enactors
* 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm – Santa Visit
* 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm – Choral Group Performance
* 4:00 pm - 50/50 Raffle Drawing, House Raffle Drawing
Admission is $10 (children 12 and under, free). The house is open from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Thursday through Sunday, December 5 - 8. The Jacobus Vanderveer House is located at 955 Route 202/206, Bedminster, NJ, behind River Road Park. The entrance to the house is via River Road Park. For more information, call 908-396-6053 or visit www.jvanderveerhouse.org.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Morristown, Morris County
Winter on the Home Front: A Civil War Christmas
Children Friendly
Learn what life was like on the home front and in a Union Army encampment during the Civil War at Historic Speedwell on Saturday from 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm. At the encampment, visit with soldiers near their authentically reproduced huts, where they will prepare their holiday meal over a campfire. Enjoy a Civil War Era Officer’s Ball complete with period music, costumes and dance. Tour the Vail Home decorated to the mid-19th century, as family members prepare to send care packages to loved ones on the front. Make a craft to take home and enjoy hot-mulled cider and holiday cookies next to a roaring fire. Admission: $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 for children 4-16, and children under 4 are free. For more information, call 973-285-6538 or visit www.speedwell.org.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Ocean Township, Monmouth County
Holiday Open House
Children Friendly
What better way to launch this year's holiday season than a visit to the Eden Woolley House the first weekend of December? For two days from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday, the Museum is transformed for the holidays. One gallery is bedecked with model trains and miniature houses. Another is turned into a charming Museum Shop and Bakery, packed full of home-made treats and locally crafted items - from hand-knit hats and toys, to hand-quilted throws and table runners, to hand-sewn doll outfits. It's the perfect time and place to shop local for one-of-a-kind, work-of-art holiday gifts.
The Holiday Weekend is also the premiere of the Museum's mini-exhibit on the history of Asbury Park High School, featuring vintage photos, school newspapers, yearbooks, and memorabilia. The story of the school is a fitting complement to the Museum's major exhibit: "Asbury Park: The History of a Jersey Gem," currently on display. Whether Asbury alums (as many from the Township of Ocean were, as we were a sending district until the opening of Ocean Township High School in 1965) or newcomers to the area, guests will find the facts, photos, and artifacts of both exhibits well worth the visit.
There is something for everyone. Children will have fun finding the hidden treasures in "History Hunt." Children and adults alike can enjoy the model train encircling Steinbach's Department Store, Christmas 1955. Those who have bought their raffle tickets will learn at 3:00 pm on Sunday this year's winner of the Museum's hand-made quilt.
Suggested donation is $3.00. Children are admitted free. The Eden Woolley House is located at 703 Deal Road, Ocean Township, NJ. For more information, call 732-531-2136 or visit www.oceanmuseum.org.
Holiday Open House
Children Friendly
The Holiday Weekend is also the premiere of the Museum's mini-exhibit on the history of Asbury Park High School, featuring vintage photos, school newspapers, yearbooks, and memorabilia. The story of the school is a fitting complement to the Museum's major exhibit: "Asbury Park: The History of a Jersey Gem," currently on display. Whether Asbury alums (as many from the Township of Ocean were, as we were a sending district until the opening of Ocean Township High School in 1965) or newcomers to the area, guests will find the facts, photos, and artifacts of both exhibits well worth the visit.
There is something for everyone. Children will have fun finding the hidden treasures in "History Hunt." Children and adults alike can enjoy the model train encircling Steinbach's Department Store, Christmas 1955. Those who have bought their raffle tickets will learn at 3:00 pm on Sunday this year's winner of the Museum's hand-made quilt.
Suggested donation is $3.00. Children are admitted free. The Eden Woolley House is located at 703 Deal Road, Ocean Township, NJ. For more information, call 732-531-2136 or visit www.oceanmuseum.org.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 and 14 - 15 - Whippany, Morris County
22nd Annual Santa Claus Special
Children Friendly
New Jersey's Original Santa Claus Special celebrates its 22nd continuous year of operation in 2013. Celebrate the wonderful Christmastime spirit and joy with a ride on the Whippany Railway Museum's Santa Claus Special! Tickets for this annual Christmas tradition make great gifts for the kids and the entire family. The 10-mile, 45-minute round trip excursion from Whippany to Roseland and return allows passengers time to enjoy the festivities of the season and the merriment on the train. All of our past trips over the last 21 years have been complete sell-outs, and seeing the excited faces of the children as they climb aboard the Christmas holiday-decorated trains, ensures an afternoon for family fun. During each excursion, Santa makes his way through the train and visits with the children on-board. Santa's helpers follow along, giving the kids a special gift from Santa. Be sure to bring your camera and take pictures of the kids with Santa, so they can always remember their day on-board the train!
In addition to the regular coaches that make up the train, make your day extra special by purchasing limited tickets for a nostalgic Christmas ride aboard the museum's elegant 1927-era Central Railroad of New Jersey (CNJ) Club Car, Jersey Coast. Specially decorated for the Christmas holidays in a pre-World War II style, the car has the warm look and feel of a private club with individual leather chairs, mahogany interior accented with stained glass, built-in tables and period ceiling fans. The Jersey Coast, recalls the 1930s when the CNJ operated its deluxe coach train, The Blue Comet, between Jersey City and Atlantic City, NJ. The striking, authentic exterior paint scheme of cream and blue reminds one of a comet streaking through space. It is the only car of its type operating in New Jersey.
So round up your family and friends and climb aboard for some great Christmastime fun and laughter! Ordering tickets is fast and easy! Trains depart at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, and 4:00 pm each day, rain, sleet, or shine. The Whippany Railroad is located at 1 Railroad Plaza, at the Intersection of Route 10 West & Whippany Road in Whippany, NJ. Train fare: Adults: $14.00, Children (under 12): $9.00, Infants (1 year and under): Free.
To order tickets and for more information, visit www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net or call 973-887-8177. The Whippany Railway Museum, a 501 (c) 3 non-profit Operating Heritage Railroad that is staffed by volunteers. Donations from the public help to keep the museum operational, but funds are still required to support this unique New Jersey treasure. Proceeds from the train rides further enhance the Museum's mission and its historic preservation efforts.
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Saturday - Sunday - December 7 - 8 and 14 - 15 - Montague, Sussex County
Old Fashioned Holiday Tours
Family Friendly
M.A.R.C.H. will kick off its free 2013 Old Fashioned Holiday Tours this year at the Foster-Armstrong House on Saturday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Six specially decorated rooms will be open on December 7, Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.
A very special candlelight tour with a luminary light walkway is scheduled for Sunday, December 8th from 5:00 - 7:30 pm. All dates are weather permitting and cookies and cider will be available.
The decorative theme for 2013 is "A Natural Holiday". Each tree in the rooms will be decorated with different types of ornaments. There will also be a natural decoration workshop with pine cones set up in the Cole Room and handmade ornaments from our crafters will be for sale in The Foster General Store. The Foster-Armstrong House is located at 320 River Road / C.R. 521 in Montague, NJ, about 1 mile north of the Milford-Montague Bridge. For more information, visit www.montaguehistory.org.
Old Fashioned Holiday Tours
Family Friendly
A very special candlelight tour with a luminary light walkway is scheduled for Sunday, December 8th from 5:00 - 7:30 pm. All dates are weather permitting and cookies and cider will be available.
The decorative theme for 2013 is "A Natural Holiday". Each tree in the rooms will be decorated with different types of ornaments. There will also be a natural decoration workshop with pine cones set up in the Cole Room and handmade ornaments from our crafters will be for sale in The Foster General Store. The Foster-Armstrong House is located at 320 River Road / C.R. 521 in Montague, NJ, about 1 mile north of the Milford-Montague Bridge. For more information, visit www.montaguehistory.org.
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Holiday greenery, ribbons, hydrangeas, magnolia leaves and lots of clever decorating ideas will greet visitors at the 1845 Doric House at 114 Main Street in Flemington, NJ starting Sunday, December 1, the day of borough's holiday parade. The museum, open at no charge by the Hunterdon County Historical Society, also will welcome guests for tours on the following two weekends, December 7-8 and 14-15. Hours each day are 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Admission is free.
The imaginative holiday décor created by the Community Garden Club of Hunterdon based in Whitehouse and the Hunterdon Hills Garden Club of High Bridge adds much to the tour both inside and outside the house. Decorating committee Co-Chairs Debi DeLorenzo and Barbara Stawicki for the Whitehouse club and Chair Chris Endris of the High Bridge club, report they are working in tandem this year. Evergreens, gold bows, white paper angels, three-dimensional gold paper stars, hydrangeas, amaryllis and apple roses will wreath the elliptical staircase, adorn the tree and beautifully decorate the formal parlor and dining room. The table will be set for Christmas dinner. Visitors will find many clever ideas to copy for their homes. Docents in every room will tell the stories of the antique furnishings and what mid-1800s life in Flemington was like.
As an added treat, the newly renovated research library adjoining the museum will feature a tree and a display of holiday greeting cards from the Society’s Lorena Cole Vincent Collection, and other late 19th and early 20th century greeting cards from several Hunterdon County families.
Besides the holiday decorations, guests will see new appointments in the parlor, including an 1845 Argand-style whale oil chandelier created by Charles Tiffany of New Hope, an 1830 portrait of Anna Hope Foster of Clinton (hanging over a Chippendale-style desk made by her father in 1790), and new 19th-century-style lace panels at the windows. In the foyer, the Society has added a collection of nine walking sticks dating from 1722 to 1917.
The Doric House was built by Mahlon Fisher, a country carpenter of ability and taste, for his private residence. He also erected several other Flemington residences in the same style that are considered some of the best of their type in the U.S. but the Doric House is the only one remaining in non-commercial use. For more information, call 908-782-1091 or visit www.hunterdonhistory.org.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Morris Township, Morris County
1920s Farmhouse Christmas
Children Friendly
Partake in a 1920s farmhouse Christmas at Fosterfields Living Historical Farm on Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm. Christmas festivities and preparations at Fosterfields include a horse-drawn wagon to the Farmhouse, farm chores, time with all of the farm animals, wood stove cooking, creating English Christmas “crackers” that pop, learning about knitting and darning, listening to seasonal music played on the piano, and perhaps tasting warm, roasted chestnuts. Admission is $6 per adult and $4 for children ages 4 to 16, $2 for toddlers (ages 2-3), and children under two years old are free. Fosterfields is located at 73 Kahdena Road, Morris Township, NJ 07960. For more information visitwww.morrisparks.net/aspparks/ffmain.asp.
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You are invited to the 61st annual reenactment dress rehearsal of Washington's Crossing on Sunday from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. The crossing to New Jersey will occur at 1:00 pm! The Christmas Crossing, which General Washington and his brave troops performed, will occur on Christmas Day at 1:00 pm. Cost to attend the dress rehearsal is $8 for adults, $4 for children age 5 – 11, and free for children under age 5. Proceeds support future crossings.
During the dress rehearsal, the troops cross the river in uniform just as they do on Christmas Day, plus additional activities and demonstrations take place throughout the historic village. Washington Crossing Historic Park commemorates the site of General George Washington’s famous Delaware River crossing on Christmas Day 1776. The 500 acre park also includes the Thompson-Neely House, an 18th century farmhouse used as a hospital to care for sick and wounded Continental soldiers, and Bowman’s Hill Tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Recreational areas of the Park are available for picnicking, hiking and wildlife-watching.
Washington Crossing Historic Park is located at the intersection of Routes 32 and 532 over the bridge in Pennsylvania. This program is sponsored by the non-profit Friends of Washington Crossing Park in partnership with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. For more information, call 215-493-4076 or visit www.washingtoncrossingpark.org.
Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 and 14 - 15 - Flemington, Hunterdon County
Holiday Open House
Holiday Open House
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The imaginative holiday décor created by the Community Garden Club of Hunterdon based in Whitehouse and the Hunterdon Hills Garden Club of High Bridge adds much to the tour both inside and outside the house. Decorating committee Co-Chairs Debi DeLorenzo and Barbara Stawicki for the Whitehouse club and Chair Chris Endris of the High Bridge club, report they are working in tandem this year. Evergreens, gold bows, white paper angels, three-dimensional gold paper stars, hydrangeas, amaryllis and apple roses will wreath the elliptical staircase, adorn the tree and beautifully decorate the formal parlor and dining room. The table will be set for Christmas dinner. Visitors will find many clever ideas to copy for their homes. Docents in every room will tell the stories of the antique furnishings and what mid-1800s life in Flemington was like.
As an added treat, the newly renovated research library adjoining the museum will feature a tree and a display of holiday greeting cards from the Society’s Lorena Cole Vincent Collection, and other late 19th and early 20th century greeting cards from several Hunterdon County families.
Besides the holiday decorations, guests will see new appointments in the parlor, including an 1845 Argand-style whale oil chandelier created by Charles Tiffany of New Hope, an 1830 portrait of Anna Hope Foster of Clinton (hanging over a Chippendale-style desk made by her father in 1790), and new 19th-century-style lace panels at the windows. In the foyer, the Society has added a collection of nine walking sticks dating from 1722 to 1917.
The Doric House was built by Mahlon Fisher, a country carpenter of ability and taste, for his private residence. He also erected several other Flemington residences in the same style that are considered some of the best of their type in the U.S. but the Doric House is the only one remaining in non-commercial use. For more information, call 908-782-1091 or visit www.hunterdonhistory.org.
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Saturday - Sunday, December 7 - 8 - Morris Township, Morris County
1920s Farmhouse Christmas
Children Friendly
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Sunday, December 8 - Haddonfield, Camden County
Book Launch and Reception
The definitive biography of Elizabeth Haddon Estaugh has arrived! For nearly 300 years, scores of writers, and poets have told the tale of the courageous, romantic, unmarried Quaker woman who almost single-handedly founded the town of Haddonfield. With each account and with each retelling, her personality and accomplishments grew more exaggerated, leading some to question the true history of our beloved founder. Such was the curiosity of Haddonfield's own Elizabeth "Betty" Lyons. In the late 1960s, as a volunteer with the historical society and with the help of her brother, she began to research the historical rather than legendary figure. Over the next 40 years what began as a curiosity developed into a passion. She traveled to England and the West Indies, visiting libraries and historic sites, and unearthed much previously undiscovered information about Elizabeth Haddon Estaugh. Her goal was to publish a biography in 2013 for the 300th anniversary celebration, but with her untimely death in 2008 the project remained unfinished. With the intent of completing Betty's goal, the society contacted Jeffery Dorwart, Professor Emeritus of History at Rutgers Camden and accomplished author of many works of local history, and attained his interest in the project. Though based in part on Betty's unfinished manuscript, his rewriting and extensive new research have resulted in an original biographic work, and with the editing help of Kathy Tassini and Doug Rauschenberger, has produced Elizabeth Haddon Estaugh, 1680-1762, Building the Quaker Community of Haddonfield, New Jersey, 1701-1762. The book takes a step back from the Elizabeth legend and examines her world, a complex milieu of Quaker family, religious, social, business and economic factors in colonial West Jersey and Philadelphia regions.
To commemorate its release, the Historical Society of Haddonfield will host a Book Launch Reception at Greenfield Hall (343 Kings Highway East, Haddonfield, NJ) on Sunday from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Author Jeffery Dorwart will be present to inscribe each copy and answer questions. Admission is free and the beautifully bound hardcover books are only $25 - a perfect gift for the holidays and a wonderful addition to every library collection. Refreshments will be available, so please help us celebrate this proud achievement and mark this moment in Haddonfield history.
For more information, call 856-429-7375 or visit www.haddonfieldhistory.org.
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To commemorate its release, the Historical Society of Haddonfield will host a Book Launch Reception at Greenfield Hall (343 Kings Highway East, Haddonfield, NJ) on Sunday from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Author Jeffery Dorwart will be present to inscribe each copy and answer questions. Admission is free and the beautifully bound hardcover books are only $25 - a perfect gift for the holidays and a wonderful addition to every library collection. Refreshments will be available, so please help us celebrate this proud achievement and mark this moment in Haddonfield history.
For more information, call 856-429-7375 or visit www.haddonfieldhistory.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - Washington's Crossing, Pennsylvania
Washington's Crossing Reenactment Rehearsal
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You are invited to the 61st annual reenactment dress rehearsal of Washington's Crossing on Sunday from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. The crossing to New Jersey will occur at 1:00 pm! The Christmas Crossing, which General Washington and his brave troops performed, will occur on Christmas Day at 1:00 pm. Cost to attend the dress rehearsal is $8 for adults, $4 for children age 5 – 11, and free for children under age 5. Proceeds support future crossings.During the dress rehearsal, the troops cross the river in uniform just as they do on Christmas Day, plus additional activities and demonstrations take place throughout the historic village. Washington Crossing Historic Park commemorates the site of General George Washington’s famous Delaware River crossing on Christmas Day 1776. The 500 acre park also includes the Thompson-Neely House, an 18th century farmhouse used as a hospital to care for sick and wounded Continental soldiers, and Bowman’s Hill Tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Recreational areas of the Park are available for picnicking, hiking and wildlife-watching.
Washington Crossing Historic Park is located at the intersection of Routes 32 and 532 over the bridge in Pennsylvania. This program is sponsored by the non-profit Friends of Washington Crossing Park in partnership with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. For more information, call 215-493-4076 or visit www.washingtoncrossingpark.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - Franklin Township, Somerset County
Sinterklaas and Open House
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
On Sunday, the Meadows Foundation will hold its annual Sinterklaas event at the Hageman House and Barn, 209 South Middlebush Road, Franklin Township, NJ. There will be Dutch cookies and candy for sale, as well as demonstrations of Dutch dancing and an appearance of St. Nick himself!
From 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. the fully restored Wyckoff-Garretson House, located at 215 South Middlebush Road, will also be open. There will be demonstrations of hearthside cooking, as well as performances by harpist Richard Spendio throughout the afternoon. The Franklin High School Madrigal Singers will perform at 4:00 pm. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 732-748-7657.
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This re-created 19th century village comes to life during the holidays. "Christmas at Allaire," depicts old-world holiday traditions and customs in the historic buildings. Carolers will wander the streets, period vocal and instrumental music will be performed at historic Christ Episcopal Church, and there will be mummer plays, hearth cooking, and apple drying and stringing. Admission: $7 for adults, $4.00 for children. The Historic Village at Allaire is located in Allaire State Park at 4263 Atlantic Ave, Farmingdale, NJ. Tickets are available at the gate or can be purchased through their web site. For more information, call 732-919-3500 or visit www.allairevillage.org.
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From 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. the fully restored Wyckoff-Garretson House, located at 215 South Middlebush Road, will also be open. There will be demonstrations of hearthside cooking, as well as performances by harpist Richard Spendio throughout the afternoon. The Franklin High School Madrigal Singers will perform at 4:00 pm. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 732-748-7657.
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Sunday, December 8 - Ledgewood, Morris County
Museums at Drakesville Open House
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On Sunday between 1:00 and 4:00 pm, the Roxbury Historical Trust will host an open house at the eighteenth century Silas Riggs Saltbox House, the historic King House and the King Store Museums. 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, December 8 - Hamilton, Mercer County
Civil War Winter Encampment & Wassail Party
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
The Civil War & Native American Museum, home of the Camp Olden Civil War Round Table, is sponsoring a Civil War Winter Encampment on Sunday from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm. Their neighboring historic site, the John Abbott II House of Hamilton will be having a Wassail Party from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Wassail is a traditional drink that was served at Christmas holiday gatherings. The Abbot House is decorated for the holidays with period-appropriate decorations. Both events are free and open to the public. They are located at 2202 Kuser Road, Hamilton, NJ. For more information, visit www.campolden.org or www.hamiltontownshiphistory.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - Matawan, Monmouth County
Christmas Musicale
The Matawan Historical Society will hold its annual Christmas Musicale on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at the Burrowes Mansion located at 94 Main Street in Matawan. This year, the Merry Sisters of Fate group will present “Celtic Christmas Music.” The band is comprised of well-known Jersey musicians, including Marian Lawlor, Lenore Savino, Diane Doolittle, Mary McCrink, and Robin Gunn. Merry Sisters of Fate perform traditional Irish, Scottish, and Celtic influenced music. Refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon. For more information, call 732-492-6069 or visit www.burrowesmansion.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - Upper Freehold, Monmouth County
"Fill the Stockings with Care"
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
Many of our Christmas traditions go back to the early 1800s. Drop in at Historic Walnford on Sunday afternoon to learn a bit of holiday history and enjoy a simple family friendly activity decorating and stitching a paper stocking to hold a few historical sweets. Appropriate for children ages three and up. All children under eighteen must be accompanied by an adult. This program will run between 1:00 and 4:00 pm; this is a wonderful family activity!
While there, visit the large, elegant Walnford home built in 1774, the 19th century gristmill and the farm buildings set in a beautiful landscape. Walnford is located at 62 Walnford Road, 08501. www.monmouthcountyparks.com
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Sunday, December 8 - Farmingdale, Monmouth County
Christmas at Allaire
Children Friendly
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Sunday, December 8 - Cranbury, Middlesex County
Victorian Christmas Tea and Open House
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
Stop by the Cranbury Museum on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm for their Victorian Christmas Tea and Open House. This event is an annual tradition of the museum and wonderful start to the holiday season.
Come and enjoy the society's secret blend of spiced tea, served in vintage tea cups, along with an array of home baked cookies. For our younger visitors, a charming children's table of punch and cookies will be set. Carols performed on the museum's pump organ are among the highlights of the day. Tours of the museum's holiday-inspired rooms will also be available. The Cranbury Museum is located at 4 Park Place East, Cranbury, NJ. For more information, visit www.cranburyhistory.org.
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Enjoy Jersey Dutch holiday treats, refreshments, and a visit with Sinter Klaas in the restored tavern in Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main Street, River Edge, NJ, on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. See open-hearth cooking in authentic Jersey Dutch Out Kitchen and tour historic homes. For that special holiday gift, browse their unique historical gift shop. At 1:30 pm, historian, author, and BCHS Past President Kevin Wright will give an illustrated talk "A Light in Winter; Holiday Traditions" in the Steuben House. Refreshments available for purchase including warm cider and our tavern patrons' favorite donuts. Live Christmas trees are available for purchase by Northern Border Christmas Trees and Wreaths. Event parking in parking lot across street. For more information, call 201-343-9492 or visit www.bergencountyhistory.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - Oakland, Bergen County
Annual Dutch Christmas Celebration
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Visit Batsto Village on Sunday for music, art, tours, and more! From 1:00 - 1:45 pm, stop in the Batsto Visitor Center Auditorium to enjoy holiday sounds from enjoy the Hammonton High School Choir, directed by Marissa Carrafiello. Admission: $5 per person.
From 1:45 - 3:30 pm, tour the Victorian style Batsto Mansion, dressed in the splendor of the Winter season. Tours available for $3.00. Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center.
Visitors can also bring their holiday cards, stamped and addressed, and have them hand cancelled by a volunteer postmaster at the Batsto Post Office. Due to the age and historical significance of the Batsto Post Office (1852), a zip code is not required to be part of the hand postmark cancellation. While at the Post Office, tour the Batsto Post Office Exhibit Room and enjoy some tasty refreshments! At the Batsto Blacksmith Shop, Toby Kroll, owner of Three Cedars Forge Blacksmithing, will demonstrate some of the techniques and tools of his trade.
Sunday is the last day of the Plein Air Art Exhibit - enjoy the artists’ paintings of Batsto Village!
Batsto Village is located in Wharton State Forest in Burlington County, approximately seven miles east of Hammonton on Route 542 and 15 miles west of Exit 50 of the Garden State Parkway. For more information, call 609-561-0024 or visit www.batstovillage.org.
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Come and enjoy the society's secret blend of spiced tea, served in vintage tea cups, along with an array of home baked cookies. For our younger visitors, a charming children's table of punch and cookies will be set. Carols performed on the museum's pump organ are among the highlights of the day. Tours of the museum's holiday-inspired rooms will also be available. The Cranbury Museum is located at 4 Park Place East, Cranbury, NJ. For more information, visit www.cranburyhistory.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - River Edge, Bergen County
Sinter Klaas Day
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
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Annual Dutch Christmas Celebration
Join the Oakland Historical Society for the annual Dutch Christmas Celebration at the Van Allen House in Oakland! A visit from Sinter Klaas and other surprises await those who visit between 1:00 and 4:00 pm Sunday. Help trim the Christmas Tree, sing holiday songs and bake holiday cookies. Please consider bringing a non-perishable food item to donate to the Oakland Woman's Club Christmas baskets for families in need. The Van Allen House is located at 3 Franklin Avenue, Oakland, NJ. For more information, visit www.oaklandhistoricalsociety.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - Springfield, Union County
Holiday Open House
The Springfield Historical Society will host a Holiday Open House on Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the historic Cannon Ball House, located at 126 Morris Avenue, Springfield. In celebration of the holiday season, the house will be decorated for the occasion, circa 1840, and the origins of some Christmas traditions will be discussed. Light refreshments will be served. Admission: $2 for adults, free for children 12 and under. For more information, call 973-376 4784.
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Sunday, December 8 - Washington Township, Burlington County
“Winter at Batsto Village”
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
From 1:45 - 3:30 pm, tour the Victorian style Batsto Mansion, dressed in the splendor of the Winter season. Tours available for $3.00. Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center.
Visitors can also bring their holiday cards, stamped and addressed, and have them hand cancelled by a volunteer postmaster at the Batsto Post Office. Due to the age and historical significance of the Batsto Post Office (1852), a zip code is not required to be part of the hand postmark cancellation. While at the Post Office, tour the Batsto Post Office Exhibit Room and enjoy some tasty refreshments! At the Batsto Blacksmith Shop, Toby Kroll, owner of Three Cedars Forge Blacksmithing, will demonstrate some of the techniques and tools of his trade.
Sunday is the last day of the Plein Air Art Exhibit - enjoy the artists’ paintings of Batsto Village!
Batsto Village is located in Wharton State Forest in Burlington County, approximately seven miles east of Hammonton on Route 542 and 15 miles west of Exit 50 of the Garden State Parkway. For more information, call 609-561-0024 or visit www.batstovillage.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - Westampton, Burlington County
Holiday Tea at Peachfield
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
Peachfield will again be decorated for the holidays and the New Jersey Colonial Dames will serve their tea specialties of the season at our annual holiday tea. Come and join us as we gather around the hearth with a warming fire and sample our favorite repasts.
Advance admission: $18 per adult, $9 per child under 15 years, $20 at the door. Reservations paid in advance are strongly recommended. Peachfield is located at 180 Burrs Road, Westampton, NJ. For more information, call 609-267-6996 or visit www.colonialdamesnj.org.
Advance admission: $18 per adult, $9 per child under 15 years, $20 at the door. Reservations paid in advance are strongly recommended. Peachfield is located at 180 Burrs Road, Westampton, NJ. For more information, call 609-267-6996 or visit www.colonialdamesnj.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - South River, Middlesex County
Sunday, December 8 - South River, Middlesex County
Open House
Stop by the South River Historical & Preservation Society on Sunday from 1:30 - 3:30 pm and view exhibits on all aspects of Borough history including: schools; churches and houses of worship; local businesses and organizations; daily life; events and celebrations; and more. While you are there, see the cemetery located behind the building, ask questions, drop off donations, or exchange hometown stories with the docents. The museum is located at 64-66 Main Street, South River. http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~njsrhps/museum.html
Sunday, December 8 - Park Ridge, Bergen County
Holiday Jewelry and Curio Sale
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
The Pascack Historical Society's (PHS) annual Holiday Jewelry and Curio Sale will be held on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at their barrier-free museum, 19 Ridge Avenue Park Ridge, NJ. Admission is free.
The society's sale has become known for its unusual and one-of-a-kind items. Shoppers will find vintage and new costume jewelry, all donated to the Society by its members and friends. There will also be some evening bags, watches, historical map reproductions, small antique items and furniture, china and glassware, Christmas decorations, rare and collectible books and publications and many other things.
PHS Trustee Marlene Rafner, event chair, advises that this year's sale will feature, on jewelry items only, a buy one and get the second item (lesser or equal value) at 50% price reduction.
The society's award winning 176-page book, Pascack Valley Tales II, edited by Katharine P. Randall of Hillsdale, will be available for $20 a copy. This book highlights interesting and humorous stories of all eight towns in the Pascack Valley. The society will gift-wrap and mail for you (U.S. only) for an additional $5.00.
Bring your "little shoppers" and an adult museum volunteer with take them on an independent shopping adventure. Children get a kick out of "shopping alone" for their holiday gifts. Meanwhile, you may sit, relax, and have some complimentary coffee and cake while watching your youngsters shop.
For more information, call 201-573-0307 or visit www.pascackhistoricalsociety.org.
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The society's sale has become known for its unusual and one-of-a-kind items. Shoppers will find vintage and new costume jewelry, all donated to the Society by its members and friends. There will also be some evening bags, watches, historical map reproductions, small antique items and furniture, china and glassware, Christmas decorations, rare and collectible books and publications and many other things.
PHS Trustee Marlene Rafner, event chair, advises that this year's sale will feature, on jewelry items only, a buy one and get the second item (lesser or equal value) at 50% price reduction.
The society's award winning 176-page book, Pascack Valley Tales II, edited by Katharine P. Randall of Hillsdale, will be available for $20 a copy. This book highlights interesting and humorous stories of all eight towns in the Pascack Valley. The society will gift-wrap and mail for you (U.S. only) for an additional $5.00.
Bring your "little shoppers" and an adult museum volunteer with take them on an independent shopping adventure. Children get a kick out of "shopping alone" for their holiday gifts. Meanwhile, you may sit, relax, and have some complimentary coffee and cake while watching your youngsters shop.
For more information, call 201-573-0307 or visit www.pascackhistoricalsociety.org.
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Sunday, December 8 - Westfield, Union County
Who or What is the Belsnickel?
Children Friendly.JPG)
Who, or what, is the Belsnickel?? Find out on Sunday as the mysterious creature from German folklore makes an appearance at the museum. It is said that the Belsnickel can tell whether children who are visiting the museum have been naughty or nice. Those who have been good, will receive a piece of candy, while those who have not...
The program includes a presentation on German Christmas customs and the preparation of traditional holiday foods over the open hearth.
Admission is $3.00 for adults and children 13 and older, $2.00 for children ages 3 to 12 and free under age 3. The program is from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. For more information, call 908-232-1776, e-mail millercorymuseum@gmail.com, or visit www.millercoryhouse.org.
The program includes a presentation on German Christmas customs and the preparation of traditional holiday foods over the open hearth.
Admission is $3.00 for adults and children 13 and older, $2.00 for children ages 3 to 12 and free under age 3. The program is from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. For more information, call 908-232-1776, e-mail millercorymuseum@gmail.com, or visit www.millercoryhouse.org.
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Morven Museum and Garden's annual Festival of Trees has become a must-see Princeton holiday tradition. Enjoy the museum’s elegant galleries decorated for the holidays and adorned with trees artfully decorated by local businesses, garden clubs, and non-profit organizations.
This year’s Festival of Trees exhibitors include: Arts Council of Princeton, Stony Brook Garden Club of Princeton, Dogwood Garden Club, Princeton University Art Museum, Princeton Doll & Toy Museum, Vicki Trainer, Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County, McCarter Theatre, Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop, Barbara L. Mulea, Landau of Princeton, Hulit’s Shoes, One Simple Wish, D & R Greenway Land Trust, Garden Club of Princeton, and West Elm by Gordon Goode.
No reservations necessary. Morven is open to the public on Wednesdays through Fridays from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm and Saturdays through Sundays from 12:00 noon – 4:00 pm.
Admission $6, $5 for Seniors, and special pricing for families during Festival of Trees, $15 per group. Friends of Morven, free. Please note that during the Festival of Trees in December and early January, no formal tours are given, but docents are available to answer any questions. No reservations necessary. Morven Museum and Garden is located at 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ. For more information, call 609-924-8144 or visit www.morven.org.
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Roll out the holly and sharing in some holiday cheer at Tuckerton Seaport's Festival of Trees. The Festival of Trees will feature dozens of trees, each one decorated for a local nonprofit organization with a unique theme. Open 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. General admission: adults $8, seniors $6, ages 5-12 $5, under five free and Seaport members free. The Tuckerton Seaport and Baymen's Museum is located at 120 West Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ. For more information, call 609-296-8868 or visit www.tuckertonseaport.org.
Through Tuesday, January 5, 2014 - Princeton, Mercer County
Festival of Trees
This year’s Festival of Trees exhibitors include: Arts Council of Princeton, Stony Brook Garden Club of Princeton, Dogwood Garden Club, Princeton University Art Museum, Princeton Doll & Toy Museum, Vicki Trainer, Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County, McCarter Theatre, Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop, Barbara L. Mulea, Landau of Princeton, Hulit’s Shoes, One Simple Wish, D & R Greenway Land Trust, Garden Club of Princeton, and West Elm by Gordon Goode.
No reservations necessary. Morven is open to the public on Wednesdays through Fridays from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm and Saturdays through Sundays from 12:00 noon – 4:00 pm.
Admission $6, $5 for Seniors, and special pricing for families during Festival of Trees, $15 per group. Friends of Morven, free. Please note that during the Festival of Trees in December and early January, no formal tours are given, but docents are available to answer any questions. No reservations necessary. Morven Museum and Garden is located at 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ. For more information, call 609-924-8144 or visit www.morven.org.
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Through Tuesday, January 7, 2014 - Tuckerton, Ocean County
Festival of Trees
Children Friendly Site
Children Friendly Site
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Through January 1, 2014 - Cape May, Cape May County
Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit
Children Friendly
Through January 1, 2014, the Emlen Physick Estate will have an exhibit of holiday traditions through the years complete with a Dickens Village, a giant Christmas tree, model trains, toys, and much more! The exhibit is located in the Carriage House Gallery at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. The Gallery is open daily (except Christmas); hours vary. Free admission. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information or gallery hours, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
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Through June 30, 2014 - Piscataway, Middlesex County
Got Work? Exhibit
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 http://www.co.middlesex.nj.us/culturalheritage.
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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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As the 150th anniversary of the Civil War is being observed across America, the Gloucester County Historical Society Museum is featuring an exhibit of artifacts that tell unique stories about local soldiers during this traumatic time in our nation’s history. Along with military equipment, there are also photographs, Civil War letters, the first Congressional Medal of Honor awarded to a NJ soldier, a thirty-three foot long flag that flew over Fort McHenry during the Civil War, personal items that belonged to local union soldiers, and much more.
Gloucester County Historical Society Museum is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm and the last Sunday of the month from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. Adult admission $5; children 6-18 years $1; children under 6 free. The museum is located at 58 North Broad Street, Woodbury, NJ. For more information, call 856-848-8531 or visit www.rootsweb.com/~njgchs.
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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.
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From a china-head doll to a Lionel train, several toys are on display at the Little Red Schoolhouse Museum as the Lyndhurst Historical Society recalls fun times with favorite toys. The new exhibit, "Let's Play! An Exhibit of Beloved Toys," is open now through August 2014.
The exhibit is free and open to the public, though a small donation to the Society would be appreciated. The Little Red Schoolhouse Museum is open on the second and fourth Sundays of every month from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. The Lyndhurst Historical Society was established in 1984 in an effort to preserve the 1893 schoolhouse, located at 400 Riverside Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ. For more information, call 201-804-2513 (leave a message) or visit www.lyndhursthistoricalsociety.org.
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 February 14, 2014 - Woodbury, Gloucester County
The Civil War: Echoes of New Jersey’s Finest
Gloucester County Historical Society Museum is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm and the last Sunday of the month from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. Adult admission $5; children 6-18 years $1; children under 6 free. The museum is located at 58 North Broad Street, Woodbury, NJ. For more information, call 856-848-8531 or visit www.rootsweb.com/~njgchs.
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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Through June 2014 - Morristown, Morris County
"Controversies: The More Things Change..." Exhibit
Currently on display at Macculloch Hall Historical Museum is an 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..." 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 older.
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.
"Controversies: The More Things Change..." Exhibit
"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..." 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 older.
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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Through August, 2014 - Lyndhurst, Bergen County
Let's Play! An Exhibit of Beloved Toys
Children Friendly
The exhibit is free and open to the public, though a small donation to the Society would be appreciated. The Little Red Schoolhouse Museum is open on the second and fourth Sundays of every month from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. The Lyndhurst Historical Society was established in 1984 in an effort to preserve the 1893 schoolhouse, located at 400 Riverside Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ. For more information, call 201-804-2513 (leave a message) or visit www.lyndhursthistoricalsociety.org.
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Some event listings courtesy of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey
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