Weekend Historical Happenings: 4/12/14 - 4/13/14

WEEKEND HISTORICAL HAPPENINGS

Know about a historical event happening in your area? 

Send me an e-mail to let us know!

Be the first to find out about these events on Facebook!

Saturday, April 12 - Maywood, Bergen County

Visit with the Easter Bunny

The Easter Bunny will make a visit to the Maywood Station Museum, 269 Maywood Avenue, Maywood, NJ on Saturday from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon during a special Museum Open House. Parents are invited to bring their cameras for a unique opportunity to photograph their children with the Easter Bunny at the historic station museum. The museum features a wide assortment of displays, artifacts and photographs on exhibit and visitors are invited to climb aboard restored Caboose 24542 and view its operating model train layout and additional photographs and displays. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.maywoodstation.com.

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Lebanon Township, Hunterdon County

Cemetery Cleanup

Family Friendly

On Saturday beginning at 9:00 am, The Friends of Old Swack Church and cemetery grounds in Lebanon Township are sponsoring a cleanup of the grounds. Originally built in 1844, the church closed in 1894 and the grounds have been neglected, abandoned, and overgrown for years. Beginning in early 2013, the Friends of Old Swackhammer Church have been cleaning the grounds. This end-of-summer cleanup will involve weed whacking, raking, cutting down the tree saplings, and putting down weed killer. The Old Swackhammer Church and Cemetery is located at 108 Anthony Road, Lebanon, NJ. Please bring weed whackers, rakes, shovels, gloves, clippers, and any other tools that you think may be helpful in clearing the grounds. Tell your friends and family about this opportunity to preserve a New Jersey historic site!

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Ocean Grove, Monmouth County

Postcard, Book, and Paper Show

The Historical Society of Ocean Grove, NJ proudly presents its 12th Anniversary edition of the newly renamed, James Lindemuth, Sr. Postcard, Book, and Paper Show on Saturday at the Young Peoples (Youth) Temple, Pilgrim Pathway and McClintock Street, across from the Great Auditorium in Ocean Grove, NJ. Show hours will be 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. Admission: $3 donation. Food service available.

This popular show, the region's premier Spring Postcard and Paper Show, serves as an annual fund-raising event to benefit the numerous public programs and ongoing research projects of the Historical Society of Ocean Grove, a non-profit organization, in this Victorian town known throughout the country for its historical appeal and great assemblage of Victorian   architecture. 

If you have a passion for picture postcards you will definitely want to attend this show featuring distinguished dealers from the tri-state area (New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania) offering superb selections of postcards and everything ephemera. Here you will find lots of good buying opportunities for the beginner as well as the advanced collector. This is the place to connect with the past and recapture fond memories through picture postcards, one of America's fastest growing and most affordable hobbies.

In addition to hundreds of thousands of collectible picture postcards and real-photo postcards covering every imaginable subject and topic, there will be a wide variety of antiquarian books and exceptional ephemera including vintage advertising and paper collectibles, maps, sailing charts, prints, autographs, sports memorabilia, comics, children's books, religious and 19th century poetry and literature, photography, snap shots, old photos, tintypes and daguerreotypes, stereo views, local ephemera, local 20th century souvenir china and souvenir spoons, broadsides, trade cards, cigarette cards, stamps, postal covers, paper Americana, travel paper and guides, manuscripts, deeds, magazines and newspapers, sheet music, matchbook covers, signs, posters, paper dolls, poster stamps, beach badges, tickets, playbills, cookbooks, arcade cards, foreign currency, toys military and political items, theatre and movie memorabilia, games, puzzles, viewbooks, roadside America, Civil War, historical New Jersey, art, music, records, Victorian items, bottles, stoneware, baseball cards and lots of local collectible memorabilia.

For more information, contact the Historical Society of Ocean Grove Museum by calling 732-774-1869 or visiting www.oceangrovehistory.org.

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Bridgewater, Somerset County

Breakfast with Phillip Van Horne

In the predawn darkness of April 13th, 1777, British General Cornwallis led a four-pronged attack on the American garrison at Bound Brook and the Van Horne House. General Benjamin Lincoln, whose headquarters was at the Van Horne house, barely escaped capture by fleeing into the hills. After the battle, General Cornwallis was served breakfast at the Van Horne House by Philip Van Horne who was known far and wide as a gracious host. After the battle, the British retreated to New Brunswick and Generals Lincoln and Greene returned to Bound Brook - where they enjoyed a nice supper with Philip at Van Horne House.

Start your commemoration of the Battle of Bound Brook at the Van Horne House and learn more about the historic event. Breakfast will be served starting at 8:00 am. From 9:00 - 10:00 am, there will be a presentation describing General Cornwallis' plans for the battle, as presented in Hessian Col. Ewald's diary, and the reasons behind the British attack. Hear details about the "Murderous" fighting and plunder of Bound Brook. Copies of Captain Ewald's original map and pages from his diary will be available for inspection.

A commemoration ceremony of the battle will take place at the Old Presbyterian Graveyard in Bound Brook at 10:30 am, followed by a reenactment of the battle through the streets of Bound Brook.

The cost of the breakfast is $5.00 per person with advanced payment and $10.00 at the door. Reservations are required. Advanced payment can be made online by credit card. The Van Horne House, is located at 941 East Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ (across from Patriots Ballpark). Free parking is available behind Target (southeast corner) and across the street at the ballpark. Call 732-356-8856 for reservations, or sign up online at www.heritagetrail.org.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 12 - West Orange, Essex County

Build A Better House

Children Friendly

Thomas Edison said, "Cement and steel are to be the building materials of the future." Learn how Edison was building poured cement houses and some of his other ideas for using cement. Can you build a better structure than Edison? Join rangers and put your engineering skills to work.

The program runs from 10:00 - 11:00 am and is included with regular admission. Reservations are required as space is limited. Please call 973-736-0550 x89. Tickets must be purchased at the Thomas Edison National Historical Park Laboratory Complex Visitor Center at 211 Main Street, West Orange, NJ. Admission is $7.00 and includes the Glenmont Estate and the Laboratory Complex. Children under age 16 are free. For more information, call 973-736-0550 x11 or visit www.nps.gov/edis.

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Mount Laurel, Burlington County

Tour Paulsdale

Paulsdale is open to the public for Second Saturday Tours at 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm. Paulsdale is the birthplace of Quaker suffragist Alice Paul. Tours include a 15-minute presentation about Alice Paul's life and work and a guided tour of the first floor of the property where visitors learn about the Paul family's daily life in the house and its present day use as a girl's leadership center. Tours are $5.00

Paulsdale is located at 128 Hooton Rd., 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. 

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Princeton, Mercer County

The British at Princeton
Children Friendly

The British at Princeton! Come see the British in training - Military Demonstrations of the American Revolution on Saturday from 10:30 am - 4:00 pm at Princeton Battlefield, 500 Mercer Street, Princeton, NJ. There will be demonstrations with muskets, cannon, tactical formations and drills, marching, and loading and firing volleys. Muster of the Troops at 10:30 am. See a typical American Revolution military camp with campfires and the cooking and other domestic activities of camp followers. Retirement of the colors at 4:00 pm. Learn about the Battle of Princeton and Washington's strategy. Also featured will be a duel with pistols between two officers. There will be presentations explaining the uniforms, weapons, and tactics. Training also for Young Patriots in formation. While at the Battlefield, visit the Thomas Clarke House, which witnessed the battle on that crucial day, January 3, 1777, when the Battle of Princeton saved the American Revolution. Presented by the Princeton Battlefield Society and the 43rd Regiment of Foot. For more information, visit www.theprincetonbattlefieldsociety.com or contact Kip: at princetonbattlefieldsocinfo@gmail.com.

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Madison, Morris County

Family Fun Day

Children Friendly

Join the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts for a day of family fun and a craft activity on Saturday from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Family Fun Day is held every second Saturday of the month. Advance registration recommended, call 973-377-2982 x12. Regular admission applies: museum admission is $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for seniors, students & children (ages 6 and up) and FREE for Members & children (ages 5 and under). Family maximum admission $13.00. The museum is open Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm. The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts is located at 9 Main Street, Madison, NJ. For information, please call 973-377-2982 x10 or visit www.metc.org.

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Ringwood, Passaic County

Grand Reopening of Ringwood Manor
Children Friendly

It's been a long time, but we're proud to announce that Ringwood Manor will once again be opening our doors to you. To celebrate our grand reopening, they are hosting an open house on Saturday and Sunday between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm. There will be no guided tours on this weekend. In addition to the open house on Saturday, we have planned a day full of 19th century festivities to help us celebrate our reopening. Activities include: a 19th century baseball game, 19th century "ordinary" bicycles, 19th century fly fishing demonstrations, 19th century wet plate photography, 19th century side saddle riders, Garden State Carriage Association, blacksmith demonstration in our blacksmith shop, "plein air" painting, and a Ringwood Manor Association of the Arts Exhibit. Admission to view the house is as follows: $3.00 per adult, $1.00 per child (ages 6 - 12), children 5 and under are free. All events on the grounds and parking are free all weekend. Ringwood Manor is located at 1304 Sloatsburg Road, Ringwood, NJ. For more information, call 973-962-2240 or visit www.ringwoodmanor.org.

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County

Spring Tillage Wagon Tours

Children Friendly

Free wagon tours of Howell Living History Farm's spring plowing operations will leave from the farmyard, taking visitors to fields where farmers will be plowing with horses and circa 1900 equipment. Rides last approximately 20 minutes and are given on a first come, first serve basis between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. Tours will be narrated.

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. call 609-737-3299 or visit www.howellfarm.org.

-----------------------------------

Saturday, April 12 - Ringwood, Passaic County

Pinelands Speaker Series: Beyond the Barrens

Beyond the Barrens: A Pinelands Speaker Series will take place on the Second Saturday of each month and will focus on natural, cultural, and historical aspects in and around Historic Batsto Village in Wharton State Forest. On Saturday, Janet Giardina will present The Life and Times of Dr. Still. The program begins at 1:00 pm in the Batsto Visitor Center Auditorium. Admission is $2.00 per person.

Batsto Village is located in Wharton State Forest in Burlington County, South Jersey 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.

-----------------------------------

Saturday - Sunday, April 12 - 13 - Flemington, Hunterdon County
Common Threads: Quilting Traditions in Hunterdon County

In the continuing celebration of Hunterdon County NJ's 300th Anniversary, a major exhibition of quilts will be shown in the Assembly Room of County Building One, Route 12 in Flemington, NJ for nine days from Saturday, April 5 to Sunday, April 13. Hours are from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm each day, with extended hours to 6:30 pm on Tuesday, April 8 and Saturday, April 12. There is adequate parking and admission is free.

The exhibition, Common Threads: Quilting Traditions in Hunterdon County, NJ,  is made possible in large part by a grant from the Quilter's Guild of Dallas, Texas. Judy Grow, Curator of Textiles at the Hunterdon County Historic Society and Flemington resident, is curator of the exhibition. Experienced quilters will serve as docents for the exhibition.

Forty quilts will be exhibited, all with a Hunterdon County connection. Most will be historic quilts; many are signature quilts associated with churches and families of note, and many date from the 1840s. The earliest quilt in the exhibition is signed and dated 1832. Three historic societies, two museums, a foundation, and private collectors are lending quilts. Two Hunterdon quilts are coming home from Utah and Indiana.

The art and craft of quilting has probably never had as many active participants as it has today when it is a multi-billion-dollar industry. Hunterdon County is home to two major quilt guilds and four contemporary quilts will be included in the exhibition to show the continuity of endeavor and design.

A 60-page four-color catalog of the exhibition will be for sale for $12.00. The photographic image of a number of quilts in the exhibition will be available to special order as a 68" x 72" printed shower curtain.  A sample of one of these will be on view. All profits from the shower curtain purchases will go to the lending institutions. For more information, visit www.hunterdonhistory.org.

-----------------------------------

Saturday - Sunday, April 12 - 13 - Whippany, Morris County

Easter Bunny Express

Children Friendly

New Jersey's Original Easter Bunny Express celebrates its 22nd continuous year of operation in 2014. Celebrate the return of spring and the Easter holidays with a ride on the Whippany Railway Museum's Easter Bunny Express. Our Special Easter Train Ride ensures a fun outing for the kids...and the entire family.

During each excursion, the Easter Bunny makes his way through the train and visits with the children onboard. The  Bunny's helpers follow along, giving the kids a special Easter gift. Be sure to bring your camera and take pictures of the kids with the Easter Bunny, so they can always remember their day onboard the train! Our kid-friendly hobos and clowns will also be on each train to entertain the children with tricks and jokes.

The 10-mile, 45-minute round trip excursion from Whippany to Roseland and return is a thrill for the children as they enjoy what for many will be their very first train ride...and they can also learn about and experience the history of New Jersey's rich railroad and transportation heritage. Riders will have time onboard the train to enjoy the spring weather and the excitement during the ride.

The Whippany Railway Museum's Easter train is the original excursion of its type in the North Jersey area - since 1992 our Easter Trains have been complete sell-outs, and seeing the excited faces of the children as they climb aboard the train ensures an afternoon of family fun. Passengers can combine the thrill of riding our Springtime Streamliner along with touring the museum site, with its outstanding collection of historic railroad locomotives, rolling stock, operating model train layouts and vintage farm tractors.

In addition to the regular coaches that make up the train, make your day Extra Special by purchasing limited tickets for a nostalgic Easter ride aboard the museum's elegant 1927-era Central Railroad of New Jersey (CNJ) 'Club Car' Jersey Coast. The car has the 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 Easter 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, snow, 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.

-----------------------------------

Saturday - Sunday, April 12 - 13 - South Bound Brook, Somerset County

Battle of Bound Brook

Children Friendly

Visit South Bound Brook for an exciting and historic weekend on Saturday and Sunday! The two-day program explores the American Revolutionary War during the timeframe of the Battle of Bound Brook and the American army's use of Middlebrook in the years 1777 - 1779. Learn about and experience this important period in New Jersey's and America's history. Weekend activities include:

*Marching, drilling and street battle reenactments in Bound Brook and South Bound Brook, featuring American and British units portraying the soldiers of the American Revolution.   
*Eighteenth-century soldiers' encampment on the grounds of the Abraham Staats House, 17 von Steuben Lane, South Bound Brook, NJ. Come walk through camp and see what life was like for American and British troops during the time of the American Revolution.
*Historic House Tours:  The Abraham Staats House, with the original structure c. 1740, was home to the Staats family for nearly 200 years and served as the headquarters for George Washington's "Drillmaster" Baron von Steuben.

*Eminent historian H. Kels Swan will present "Happy 350th Birthday, New Jersey" on Sunday at 1:30 pm.
*Presentations, exhibits, period music, special activities focused on the Colonial Era. 

Visit  www.staatshouse.org for more information and updates.

-----------------------------------

Saturday - Sunday, April 12 - 13 - Towaco, Morris County

Revolutionary Weekend

Children Friendly

Visit the Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House for Revolutionary Weekend. The Stone house was built circa 1760 and hosted General George Washington and Alexander Hamilton from June 25 - 27, 1780.

The weekend will feature:

* Spinning, lace making and weaving demonstrations

* Live period music with fiddler and accompanist

* Continuous tours of site and Dutch architecture

* 18th century antiques on display

* A document display of George Washington letters and expense account

Hours will be Saturday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm. The Henry Doremus Dutch Stone House is located at 490 Main Road (US 202), Towaco, NJ. Parking will be available in the Sea Breeze parking lot across the street from the house. 

-----------------------------------

Saturday - Sunday, April 12 - 13 - River Edge, Bergen County

The War of Outposts

Children Friendly

"The War of Outposts," hosted by the Bergen County Historical Society, Outwater's Militia, and the IV NJ Volunteers will take place on Saturday and Sunday. This event will feature re-enactors from both sides of the conflict and will bring to life the running battles that criss-crossed Bergen County during March and April of 1780, saw the burning down of the County Court House, and saw two important conflicts at New Bridge, due to its strategic location. 

Battle reenactments will occur both days. An eighteenth century medical display and sutlers will be located in the Steuben House. Children will get the chance to experience what it was like to be a Continental or British Soldier, with special drills at 2:00 pm on Saturday and 11:30 am on Sunday. Children can also participate in a Historical Scavenger Hunt. Hours are 11:00 am - 4:00 pm on Saturday and 11:00 am - 3:30 pm on Sunday.

Selections from BCHS collections will be on exhibit. All three Jersey-Dutch Houses will be open, connected by a gravel walking path. The path recreates the relationship - chatting distance - between the road and the early houses of Bergen County. Wear walking shoes/boots. Free parking is available or take the train via the Pascack Valley Line from Secaucus via NJ Transit to the New Bridge Landing Train stop. Help support local history and learn about the important battles that took place in Bergen County during the American Revolution. Admission: $7 adults, $5 children, BCHS members free (join today!). One price covers both days. Historic New Bridge Landing is located at 1209 Main Street, River Edge, NJ. For more information, call 201-343-9492 or visit www.bergencountyhistory.org.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 13 - Madison, Morris County

Wealth & Poverty in Revolutionary Monmouth County, New Jersey

At 2:00 pm on Sunday, Michael Adelberg will present " With No Means of Support to Subsist On: Wealth & Poverty in Revolutionary Monmouth County, New Jersey." This program will explore the degree to which the economic landscape changed in New Jersey after the Revolutionary War. Advance registration recommended - Call 973-377-2982 x13. Admission $7 for Non-Members, $5 for seniors and students, and $3 for members. The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts is located at 9 Main Street, Madison, NJ. For more information, please call 973-377-2982 x10 or visit www.metc.org.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 13 - Holmdel, Monmouth County
Blacksmithing Demonstration and Music
Children Friendly

On Sunday, visit Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel to take a step back in time to watch blacksmiths perform their craft. They will be shaping iron into everyday products. Blacksmiths were as common as an auto mechanic in towns and on farms of the 1890s. Also, join music man Rich Marzec as he performs songs from the turn of the century on the farm. This free event runs from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Historic Longstreet Farm is located at 44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel, NJ. For more information, call 732-946-3758 or visit  www.monmouthcountyparks.com.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 13 - Morristown, Morris County
Wick House Guest
Children Friendly

Did you know a friend of George Washington spent the winter at the Wick House? Meet a Park Ranger to discover who it was, as well as the impacts he made during the revolution and beyond as you tour the Wick House. Program at 2:00, 3:00, and 4:00 pm at the Wick House in Jockey Hollow, within Morristown National Historical Park. Cost: Free. For more information, call 973-543-4030 or visit www.nps.gov/morr.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 13 - Ledgewood, Morris County

Museums at Drakesville Open House

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.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 13 - Morristown, Morris County
A History of Inventing in New Jersey

On Sunday, Macculloch Hall Historical Museum welcomes Linda J. Barth to present  a program in relation to her book A History of Inventing in New Jersey: From Thomas Edison to the Ice Cream Cone. Many people are familiar with Edison's "invention factory" in Menlo Park, where he patented the phonograph, the light bulb, and many more innovations. Yet many other ideas have grown in the Garden State, too - New Jerseyans brought sound and music to movies and built the very first drive-in theater. In addition to the first cultivated blueberry, tasty treats like ice cream cones and M&M's® are also Jersey natives. Iconic aspects of American life, like Bubble Wrap®, the boardwalk, the Band-Aid®, and even professional baseball itself started in New Jersey. Life would be a lot harder without the vacuum cleaner, plastic, and air-conditioning, and many important advances in medicine and surgery were also developed here.

Join author Linda Barth as she explores groundbreaking, useful, fun, and even silly inventions and their New Jersey roots. She will have copies of her book available to sign after the program. The program will be presented in the main gallery at 4:30 pm. Prior to the program, visitors may also visit the second floor gallery exhibit "Made in New Jersey: A Celebration of Decorative and Fine Arts," which stars the museum's collection of New Jersey stoneware, silver, and artists such as Thomas Nast, A.B. Frost, and Edward Kranich.

Tickets for Sunday programs go on sale beginning at 1:00 pm on the day of the program (no advance sales) and remain on sale until the presentation begins at 4:30 pm. The upstairs gallery exhibits "Thomas Nast Brings Down Boss Tweed," and "Made in New Jersey: A Celebration of Decorative and Fine Arts" will remain open until 4:30 pm, with the "Controversies" exhibit closing at 3:30 pm in preparation for the program. Tickets to hear speakers are Adults $8; Seniors & Students $6; Children 6 - 12 $4. Members and children under 5 admitted free. Speaker tickets include admission to a docent-led period room tour for visitors who sign up during the afternoon. The last tour ticket is sold at 3:00 pm. Macculloch Hall Historical Museum is located at 45 Macculloch Avenue, Morristown, NJ. For more information, call 973-538-2404 ext. 10 or visit www.maccullochhall.org.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 13 - Bedminster, Somerset County
Vanderveer House Open House

Visitors to Bedminster's historic Jacobus Vanderveer House can get a firsthand look at life during the American Revolution during a free open house on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.

The circa 1772 Dutch Colonial home was once the headquarters of General Henry Knox while he presided over the nearby Pluckemin Artillery Cantonment established by the Continental Army during 1778-1779.

Visitors to the house will have an opportunity to view a new 3D visualization of the Pluckemin Artillery Cantonment recently commissioned by the Friends of the Jacobus Vanderveer House, as well as authentic artifacts from the Vanderveer House, period rooms, the Prich Matthews History Center, paintings by John Phillip Osborne and John Ward Dunsmore, maps and other objects representative of Colonial life.

The Jacobus Vanderveer House is located at 3055 River Road (in Bedminster's River Road Park), Bedminster, NJ. For more information, call 908-396-6053 or visit www.jvanderveerhouse.org.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 13 - Tewksbury, Hunterdon County

Tewksbury Historical Society 25th Anniversary & Open House

Come celebrate the  Tewksbury Historical Society's 25th anniversary on Sunday from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. Go back in time and view many historical documents from the archives - such as what were your taxes in 1920, your property assessment? View oral history videos from residents of the past. View vintage wines from the 1980s (still sealed) from the Tewksbury Winery. See a baseball uniform from the Oldwick Athletics ball team from 1953. Search your ancestors and genealogy. Refreshments will be served. Best of all - it's free! This program is part of the Hunterdon County 300th anniversary series and will be held at 60 Water Street, Mountainville, Lebanon, NJ. For more information call 908-832-6734 or visit www.tewksburyhistory.net.

-----------------------------------

Sunday, April 13 - Farmingdale, Monmouth County

Baking Bread, the 1830s Way!

Children Friendly

On Sunday between 1:00 and 4:00 pm, the Historic Village at Allaire will hold a demonstration of the Bee Hive Oven and techniques used for baking in our 19th century village. Explore the bakery of the 1830s Howell Works and the role it played in sustaining an entire community. Come join the workers as they prepare the dough, slide it into the oven, and smell the aroma of freshly baked bread.

In the 1830s, the communal bakery was essential to the village's workers and their families. Since the majority of homes did not have their own bake ovens, it was necessary to have the means of purchasing fresh bread. James P. Allaire, owner and founder of the Howell Works, now known as the Historic Village at Allaire, foresaw the need for a bakery able to produce enough bread for a community of, at times, four hundred people. He had the bakery constructed near the site of the Grist Mill and saw to it that all necessary ingredients were readily available at the General Store. This was an essential part of his plan for a self-contained community.

Visit this bustling village as they ready for the upcoming Grand Opening in May! The village children will play 19th-century games and visitors are welcome to join! The historic buildings will be open for tours from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm.

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

-----------------------------------

Through Sunday, April 13, 2014 - Cape May, Cape May County

African American Heritage Exhibit - LAST WEEKEND!

This 15th annual Center for Community Arts (CCA) exhibit - "The Way We Were...Cape May County's Once Thriving Black Business Communities" will highlight African Americans' contributions to the local community. The exhibit will be on display at the Carriage House Gallery on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Admission is free. Exhibit will be on display through Sunday, April 13. Open Saturdays in January, 11:30 am - 2:00 pm. Sponsored by the Center for Community Arts (CCA) in association with the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For information, call 609-884-7525 or visit www.centerforcommunityarts.org. For gallery hours call 609-884-5404 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

-----------------------------------

Saturdays and Sundays through May 18 - Harrison Township, Gloucester County

Originals: 50 Years of Artistic Expressions

Creativity is the theme of the Harrison Township Historical Society’s newest exhibition at the Old Town Hall Museum entitled "Originals: 150 Years of Artistic Expression." The first floor gallery is filled with paintings, drawings, and folk art from the 19th and 20th centuries, all drawn from the Society’s rich holdings. The exhibition celebrates New Jersey’s 350th anniversary by focusing on the theme of innovation. Many of these works will be on view for the first time.

Folk art dominates the work from the 19th century. An album quilt from Richwood and a remarkable portfolio of sketches by Josiah B. Chester of Ewan, on exhibit for the first time, are highlights.

Twentieth century work includes paintings by Mullica Hill’s Paul Avis Colson, including a tri-partite screen that was recently restored and on exhibit for the first time. Also premiering is a landscape painted by Otto Rick, a German prisoner of war who worked on a farm in Richwood during World War II.

The exhibition is open Saturdays and Sundays, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm, March 8 - May 18, 2014 (closed Easter Sunday and Mother's Day). Admission is free. Old Town Hall is located at the intersection of South Main Street and Woodstown Road in the heart of Mullica Hill’s Historic District. For more information, call 856-478-4949; or visit www.harrisonhistorical.com.

-----------------------------------

Through June 30, 2014 - Piscataway, Middlesex County

Got Work? Exhibit

View the exhibit "Got Work? New Deal/WPA in New Jersey" at the 1741 Cornelius Low House Museum in Piscataway. The museum is open Tuesday - Friday, 8:30 - 4:00 pm and Sunday afternoons from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. The exhibit will run through June 30, 2014.

The Cornelius Low House, built in 1741, was the home to its namesake and is only one of two remaining buildings from historic Raritan Landing. This high-style Georgian mansion is listed on the National Register and operated by the Middlesex County Cultural and Heritage Commission. Admission to the museum is FREE. The museum is located at 1225 River Road, Piscataway, NJ. For more information, call 732-745-4177 or visit http://www.co.middlesex.nj.us/culturalheritage.

-----------------------------------

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.

-----------------------------------

Saturdays and Sundays through July 27, 2014 - Ridgewood, Bergen County

A Community's Journey: Our Place in New Jersey History

The Schoolhouse Museum's new exhibit, on display now through July 27, 2014 celebrates New Jersey's 350th anniversary. "A Community's Journey: Our Place in New Jersey's History" showcases the area's evolution over the last three centuries using the themes of liberty, innovation, and diversity.

The Liberty collection highlights uniforms and other war-time memorabilia while the Innovation collection chronicles the history of performing arts in the village including items from the Ridgewood Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Company, such as a silk wedding kimono worn by Yum Yum in the "Mikado." Also on display are items owned by Ridgewood magician Harry Rouclere. Especially noteworthy is the Diversity collection which tells the story of the African American, Jewish, Irish, and  Korean communities through personal artifacts.

The museum is open Thursdays and Saturdays from 1:00 - 3:00 and Sundays 2:00 - 4:00. The Schoolhouse Museum is located at 650 East Glen  Avenue in Ridgewood, NJ. For more information, call  201-447-3242  or visit www.ridgewoodhistoricalsociety.org.

-----------------------------------

Through August, 2014 - Lyndhurst, Bergen County

Let's Play! An Exhibit of Beloved Toys

Children Friendly

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 Sunday, September 14, 2014 - Princeton, Mercer County

Micah Williams: Portrait Artist Exhibition

Traveling portrait artist and New Jersey resident Micah Williams (1782 - 1837) was a prolific artist who has 272 known existing works. His works are represented in many major museums and are highly sought after by folk art collectors. Yet, there has never been an exhibition dedicated solely to the work of Micah Williams. "Micah Williams: Portrait Artist," on loan to Morven from the Monmouth County Historical Association, tells a story about the new America of the 19th century. With over 40 portraits on view, visitors can come face-to-face with the state's nineteenth century farmers, orchard growers, militia officers, politicians, silversmiths, potters, carpenters, and their families.

The exhibition will also debut Morven's newest acquisition: a pastel portrait of Commodore Robert Field Stockton (1795-1866) completed by Micah Williams around 1821. Stockton was a third-generation resident of Morven, head the Pacific Fleet and a U.S. Senator. With this exhibition, the portrait makes its return to the walls at Morven. "Micah Williams: Portrait Artist" exhibition will be on display at Morven through September 14, 2014.

Morven Museum & Garden is a museum and public garden located at 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ. A National Historic Landmark, Morven was the home to Richard Stockton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, as well as the former Governor's mansion of New Jersey. Public Hours: Wednesday - Friday 11:00 am - 3:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm. For more information, call 609-924-8144 or visit www.morven.org.

-----------------------------------

March 30, 2014 through October 26, 2014 - Woodbury, Gloucester County

Be Prepared:  Scouts of Yesteryear

Children Friendly

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts have been a tradition in America for over a century. The Gloucester County Historical Society Museum is presenting a remarkable exhibit with scouting artifacts from over the decades. Numerous uniforms, merit badges, equipment, manuals, and accessories from the 1930’s on are on display.  

The Gloucester County Historical Society Museum hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays 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 Gloucester County Historical Society Museum is located at 58 North Broad Street, Woodbury, NJ. For more information, call 856-848-8531 or visit www.rootsweb.com/~njgchs.

-----------------------------------

Through February 13, 2015 - Madison, Morris County

The American Revolution in New Jersey

Children Friendly

New Jersey spent much of the American Revolution as a theater of war. A new exhibit at the Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, "The American Revolution in New Jersey: Where the Battlefront Meets the Homefront," explores the rarely told story of New Jersey's farmers, women, and tradesmen and their actions during the war. Topics discussed include the local civil wars that erupted between revolutionaries and loyalists, the multiple roles that women took on as their men went off to war, and how civilian life was affected by the regular presence of troops. The exhibit will be open until February 13, 2015. 

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 from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday from 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 more information, please call 973-377-2982 x10 or visit www.metc.org.

-----------------------------------

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