Weekend Historical Happenings: 5/2/15 - 5/3/15
NJ WEEKEND HISTORICAL HAPPENINGS
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Friday - Sunday, May 1 - 3 - Princeton, Mercer County
Morven in May
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Exhibiting in Princeton for the first time is the renowned basket maker and 2008 MacArthur Genius Fellow Mary Jackson of Charleston, South Carolina. Ms. Jackson is the nation's most celebrated maker of sweetgrass baskets. Her work is shown in major art museums and prized by collectors around the world including Prince Charles and Empress Michiko of Japan.
Also new this year are the glass artist Martin Kremer of Pound Ridge, New York; and decorative porcelain sculptor Katherine Houston of Boston, Massachusetts. A full list of the 2015 Morven in May exhibitors is available online.
This year the fine craft exhibition has grown from twenty-five to thirty-five professional artisans from around the U.S. Art mediums include glass, ceramics, decorative and wearable fiber, furniture, jewelry, wood, and mixed media. Among the thirty-five exhibitors, there are a number of returning artisans including furniture designer Barry Newstat of Chicago, IL and textile artist Erin Wilson of Brooklyn, NY.
This year's Morven in May jurors included James Steward, Director, Princeton University Art Museum; David Rago, Founding Partner, Rago Arts; and Veronica Roberts, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, Blanton Art Museum (U. of Texas).
The weekend-long event kicks-off on Friday with a Preview Garden Party on Morven's Great Lawn from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. The show then opens to the public for two days of art and garden treasure hunting. All proceeds from Morven in May help fund the museum's collections and exhibitions, historic gardens, and educational programs.
Tickets for Friday night's Preview Garden Party are available to purchase on Morven's website or by calling 609-924-8144 ext. 113. Tickets for the Saturday and Sunday are available at the door and are $10 per person, $8 for Friends of Morven. Morven is located at 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ. For more information, call 609-924-8144 or visit www.morven.org.
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Saturday, May 2 - Cape May County Court House, Cape May County
Blue and Gray: A Day in the Life of the Civil War
Children Friendly
Atten-shun! For-ward! March! Join us at the Museum of Cape May County for a day of Civil War living history on Saturday from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. An encampment of Civil War living historians, both Union and Confederate, will give visitors a chance to see the war up close and personal as they set up on the grounds of the museum on Friday evening. After a night of camping, reenactment activities will take place on the open lawn throughout Saturday.
Scheduled events include demonstrations and firings of Civil War-era weaponry and small artillery, a Civil War book sale, miniature battlefield displays, company drills, a lecture by noted author Paul Leider, and displays of Union and Confederate daily camp life.
The day will also be chock full of events for the youngest history buffs. Enlist your children in the day's fun and in the army of their choice. Throughout the day living historians will call enlisted children to muster and teach them to march and drill, much like the young soldiers during the war. Children wishing to have a taste of the Civil War will be given bags of rations, including hard tack and coffee beans.
Each of the museum's buildings will be open to the public, including our newly-renovated Military Room where you can see memorabilia from wars ranging from the American Revolution to modern day conflicts in the Middle East. Civil War buffs can see a flag given by the ladies of Cape May to members of the Seventh Regiment when they were called to muster in Trenton. The flag was a banner to these brave men as they, and it, saw multiple battles throughout the war including Yorktown, Bull Run, Gettysburg, Spottsylvania, and Spottsylvania Court House. The flag was present at the capture of Petersburg and General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox 150 years ago.
Food will be available for purchase. Admission to this delightful day of history is free and the event is rain or shine. The Museum of Cape May County is located at 504 Route 9 North, Cape May Court House, NJ. For more information, call 609-465-3535 or visit www.cmcmuseum.org.
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Children Friendly
Atten-shun! For-ward! March! Join us at the Museum of Cape May County for a day of Civil War living history on Saturday from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. An encampment of Civil War living historians, both Union and Confederate, will give visitors a chance to see the war up close and personal as they set up on the grounds of the museum on Friday evening. After a night of camping, reenactment activities will take place on the open lawn throughout Saturday.
Scheduled events include demonstrations and firings of Civil War-era weaponry and small artillery, a Civil War book sale, miniature battlefield displays, company drills, a lecture by noted author Paul Leider, and displays of Union and Confederate daily camp life.
The day will also be chock full of events for the youngest history buffs. Enlist your children in the day's fun and in the army of their choice. Throughout the day living historians will call enlisted children to muster and teach them to march and drill, much like the young soldiers during the war. Children wishing to have a taste of the Civil War will be given bags of rations, including hard tack and coffee beans.
Each of the museum's buildings will be open to the public, including our newly-renovated Military Room where you can see memorabilia from wars ranging from the American Revolution to modern day conflicts in the Middle East. Civil War buffs can see a flag given by the ladies of Cape May to members of the Seventh Regiment when they were called to muster in Trenton. The flag was a banner to these brave men as they, and it, saw multiple battles throughout the war including Yorktown, Bull Run, Gettysburg, Spottsylvania, and Spottsylvania Court House. The flag was present at the capture of Petersburg and General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox 150 years ago.
Food will be available for purchase. Admission to this delightful day of history is free and the event is rain or shine. The Museum of Cape May County is located at 504 Route 9 North, Cape May Court House, NJ. For more information, call 609-465-3535 or visit www.cmcmuseum.org.
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Saturday, May 2 - Morris Township, Morris County
Explore the Farm: Horse-Drawn Wagon Ride
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
On Saturday at Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, take a horse-drawn wagon ride! With an emphasis on sustainability, this narrated wagon ride explores the methods, equipment, crops, and enterprises of Fosterfields in the early 1900s. Tour runs from 10:15 am - 12:00 noon. Preregistration is required. Please call 973-326-7645 to register.
Admission: $6 for adults; $5 for seniors (65+); $4 for children ages 4 – 16; and $2for children ages 2 and 3. FREE for children under age 2 and Friends members with a current membership card. Fosterfields Living Historical Farm is located at 73 Kahdena Road, Morristown, NJ. For more information, visit www.morrisparks.net.
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Saturday, May 2 - Morristown, Morris County
“Extra Baggage”: The Women and Children of the Continental ArmyChildren Friendly
Washington lamented that the women and children of the Continental Army - the families of the soldiers - slowed down the army on the march but he knew that many had nowhere else to go. They often got jobs with the military performing essential tasks needed to keep the army going. Learn about the surprising roles that women and children played in the life of the Continental Army. Program runs continuously from 1:30 - 4:00 pm at the Soldier Huts in Jockey Hollow, within Morristown National Historical Park, Morristown, NJ. Cost: Free. For more information, call 973-543-4030 or visit www.nps.gov/morr.
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Saturday, May 2 - Montclair, Essex County
Historic Walking Tour of Upper Montclair Business District
This walk was developed and co-led by the Friends of Anderson Park and the Montclair Historical Society, and co-sponsored by Bike&Walk Montclair. Reservations required. For reservations and starting location, e-mail mail@montclairhistorical.org or call 973-744-1796. $5 suggested donation. For day-of-event inquiries, call 973-495-9589. For more information, visit www.montclairhistorical.org or e-mail info@friendsofandersonpark.com.
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Saturday, May 2 - Princeton, Mercer County
Princeton University Architecture Tour
The Historical Society's newest walking tour explores the phenomenal architecture on the Princeton University campus, dating from 1756 to the present. Buildings on this two mile walk include the Georgian style of Nassau Hall, collegiate gothic marvels, and extraordinary contemporary designs, including the Frank Gehry-designed Lewis Library, the Stadium, the Icahn Laboratory, and the brand-new Princeton Neuroscience Institute/Psychology facility.
Admission: $10 per person and can be reserved online. Tour begins at 10:00 am at the Bainbridge House, 158 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ and ends at 12:30 pm. Space is limited. For more information, call 609-921-6748 or visit www.princetonhistory.org.
Admission: $10 per person and can be reserved online. Tour begins at 10:00 am at the Bainbridge House, 158 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ and ends at 12:30 pm. Space is limited. For more information, call 609-921-6748 or visit www.princetonhistory.org.
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Saturday, May 2 - Princeton, Mercer County
Community Day at Updike Farmstead
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
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Updike Farmstead is open to the public on Saturday! Visitors can explore the grounds and browse the farmhouse galleries; exhibitions offer a glimpse into the area’s farming history, a way of life that is largely gone. The day's special programs are presented by SAVE, A Friend to Homeless Animals. In addition to showcasing adoptable pets, a variety of family friendly activities will be ongoing, including a scavenger hunt and crafts for kids. Girl Scouts will demonstrate how to make their “pet” project, knot blankets for SAVE’s cats.
All programs are included with $4 museum admission. Updike Farmstead is located at 354 Quaker Road, Princeton, NJ. For more information, call 609-921-6748 x102, e-mail eve@princetonhistory.org, or visit www.princetonhistory.org.
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Saturday, May 2 - Montclair, Essex County
Restoration Fair
Family Friendly
Meet craftsmen who can make your restoration project come to life! Fair includes free workshops and activities for kids. The restoration fair is part of our annual herb sale fundraising event. Admission is free, no registration required. The event will be held from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm at 108 Orange Road, Montclair, NJ. In the event of rain the fair will resume inside the lower program level of the Crane House and Historic YWCA.
Free workshops include: 1) Options for Roof Restoration and Repair at 10:00 am with Roof 4 Roof of Montclair, NJ. 2) Researching Your House’s History at 12:00 noon with Barton Ross, Preservation Architect and Planner.
For more information, call 973-744-1796, e-mail mail@montclairhistorical.org, or visit www.montclairhistorical.org.
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Free workshops include: 1) Options for Roof Restoration and Repair at 10:00 am with Roof 4 Roof of Montclair, NJ. 2) Researching Your House’s History at 12:00 noon with Barton Ross, Preservation Architect and Planner.
For more information, call 973-744-1796, e-mail mail@montclairhistorical.org, or visit www.montclairhistorical.org.
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Saturday, May 2 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County
Sheep Herding and Shearing
Children Friendly
On Saturday, Eugene Sheninger of Rockaway Township will present a program with sheep herding demonstrations. Sheninger will use Border Collies to work the flock and to introduce visitors to herding techniques.
Keeping with the farm's time period, shearers will use hand shears during the sheep shearing demonstrations.
Throughout the day, visitors can meet twin lambs and try their hand at spinning wool. Wool products and natural fleeces will be on display and for sale. Baked goods and lunch fare will be available in the visitor center throughout the day.
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.com.
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Keeping with the farm's time period, shearers will use hand shears during the sheep shearing demonstrations.
Throughout the day, visitors can meet twin lambs and try their hand at spinning wool. Wool products and natural fleeces will be on display and for sale. Baked goods and lunch fare will be available in the visitor center throughout the day.
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.com.
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Saturday - Sunday, May 2 - 3 - Monmouth County
Weekend in Old Monmouth
Children Friendly Sites
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The Monmouth County Historical Commission's annual self-guided tour of historic sites and museums will be held on its usual first weekend in May, this year Saturday, May 2 from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and Sunday, May 3 from 12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m. The tour includes 45 sites and each illustrates a piece of local history. Historic sites and museums of every description are featured on the tour.
The tours also represent several historic themes:
- Shore: While the tour includes sites on the north, (Sandy Hook), central (Ocean Grove) and southern shores, (National Guard Militia Museum) the drive along the shore is one of the best ways to feel and appreciate Monmouth County's relationship to the Ocean.
- Faith: Architectural gems of each of the last three centuries, 18th century Christ Church in Shrewsbury, 19th century All Saints Memorial in Middletown and 20th century St. Catharine's in Spring Lake. In addition, Old Tennent Church in Manalapan is closely tied to the Battle of Monmouth and the Friends Meeting House in Shrewsbury represents one of the oldest worship traditions in Monmouth County.
- The Revolutionary War: The Revolution is visited here, not only the major sites in the Monmouth Battlefield area, but in lesser known places such as the Burrowes Mansion in Matawan, Marlpit Hall and the Murray Farm, both in Middletown.
- Military: There is Fort Hancock at Sandy Hook, the most heavily fortified installation on the East Coast for much of the 20th century, the National Historic Landmark Monmouth Battlefield in Manalapan and one of the more fascinating, but lesser known museums, the New Jersey National Guard Militia Museum in Sea Girt with museum exhibits and fighter aircraft and tanks.
- Preservation: Marlpit Hall in Middletown was the first restored house museum in the region, dating from its 1930s opening.
Other elements on the tour also include lighthouses, Victorian homes, agriculture, industry, education, and science. All of the sites contributed to the importance of preservation and history throughout Monmouth County.
All admission fees are waived for the weekend. The free tour book and map may be picked-up at the participating sites or previewed at http://co.monmouth.nj.us/page.aspx?id=3464.
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Saturday - Sunday, May 2 - 3 - Matawan, Monmouth County
Burrowes Mansion Tours and Plant Sale
The Matawan Historical Society will be participating in the countywide historical tour weekend sponsored by the Monmouth County Historical Commission on Saturday from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm. Free guided tours of the Burrowes Mansion, located at 94 Main Street, Matawan, NJ will be conducted on both days and light refreshments will be served. In addition, the Society will be hosting a "Plant Sale" with all proceeds going toward the restoration of the exterior of the Burrowes Mansion. The Georgian-style mansion, built in 1723, was prominently featured in a skirmish during the Revolutionary War when a company of New Jersey Royal Volunteers attempted to capture Major John Burrowes Jr., who was able to escape through a back window. To learn more about this event or to lend your support, e-mail matawanhistoricalsociety@yahoo.com or visit www.burrowesmansion.org.
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Over and under, under and over - stop in this weekend and inspired by the baskets on exhibit at Walnford. We’ll show you how to make a small basket using paper strips and natural materials. Program runs from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.
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Saturday - Sunday, May 2 - 3 - Upper Freehold, Monmouth County
You Can Make a Basket
Children Friendly
Children Friendly
While there, tour 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. For more information, visit www.monmouthcountyparks.com.
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Sunday, May 3 - Burlington, Burlington County
"Owning New Jersey" Lecture
On Sunday, the Burlington County Historical Society presents "Owning New Jersey: Historic Tales of War, Property Disputes and the Pursuit of Happiness" with Joe Grabas. The program begins at 2:00 pm and includes a Q&A and light refreshments. $5 per person. Programs takes place at the Corson Poly Center, with entrances at 457 High Street and 454 Lawrence Street, Burlington, NJ. For more information, call 609-386-4773, ext. 1, e-mail burlcohistsocprograms@verizon.net, or visit www.burlingtoncountyhistoricalsociety.org.
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On Sunday, the Burlington County Historical Society presents "Owning New Jersey: Historic Tales of War, Property Disputes and the Pursuit of Happiness" with Joe Grabas. The program begins at 2:00 pm and includes a Q&A and light refreshments. $5 per person. Programs takes place at the Corson Poly Center, with entrances at 457 High Street and 454 Lawrence Street, Burlington, NJ. For more information, call 609-386-4773, ext. 1, e-mail burlcohistsocprograms@verizon.net, or visit www.burlingtoncountyhistoricalsociety.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - Holmdel, Monmouth County
Music of the 1890s
Music of the 1890s
Children Friendly
On Sunday, visit Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel to join music man Rich Marzec as he performs songs from the turn of the century on the farm. This free event runs from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Historic Longstreet Farm is located at 44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel, NJ. For more information, call 732-946-3758 or visit www.monmouthcountyparks.com.
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Sunday, May 3 - Lambertville, Hunterdon County
Open House at the Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum
Children Friendly
Stop at the Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum on Sunday for an open house from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Come and see what has been accomplished at the Farmstead. They have several new items on display; an 1824 hand press printer plus a "Turtle" donated by the Thomas Family of the Hunterdon County Democrat. John Thomas will be demonstrating how these objects were used at the Democrat. They are bringing their tractors out of their barns and driving them around for all to see. They invite anyone with an antique tractor or car to bring it for everyone’s enjoyment.
There will be a Good Old Fashioned Social Time at about 3 o’clock. The Farmstead will supply beverages and hand cranked ice cream. Children can use old fashioned toys and make bracelets on a rope machine. There will be candle making for all to try. All the buildings will be open for touring. Free admission. The Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum is located at 1605 Daniel Bray Highway (Rte. 29), just north of Lamberville, NJ. For more information, call 609-397-2752 or visit www.holcombe-jimison.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - Jefferson Township, Morris County
Open House
The Jefferson Township Museum, also known as the George Chamberlin House, will have an open house on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Learn about the Jefferson Township Historical Society. Costumed docents will be available to talk about this Victorian home. The Museum Curator has decorated the museum with charming vintage spring items. Admission is free.
The Jefferson Township Museum is located at 315 Dover-Milton Road, Jefferson Township, NJ. Visit Miss Elizabeth's Shoppe located in the original kitchen of the museum, where small antiques, collectibles, handmade, handcrafted and seasonal items will be offered for sale. For further information, call 973-208-8601 or visit www.jthistoricalsociety.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - Bridgewater, Somerset County
Lovers and Murders Bus Tour
On this tour, you'll hear about the woman who charmed General Washington, homicidal slaves, spies, and thwarted love. You'll see reenactments of three of the most shocking tales: a woman gone insane upon the sight of her dead lover; a jealous husband and father who kills the guilty lover, and the most famous trial of early 20th century Somerset County, the love affair and gruesome double murder of a minister and choir singer.
The tours will leave from the Van Horne House. The cost is $10 per person in advance and $15 at the door and reservations are required. Please indicate your choice of tours: 10:00 am or 2:00 pm. Please Note that as of 4/30/2015, the 2:00 pm tour is full - space is still available on the 10:00 am bus.
The Van Horne House is located at 941 East Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ. Free parking is available behind Target or at the Patriots Ballpark across the street. For more information and to register, visit www.heritagetrail.org.
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Back by popular demand, this bus tour delves into the romance, scandal, and nefariousness that has always been part of Somerset County’s history. Learn about and meet some of the characters from the past as they enact parts of their thrilling stories. Fateful romance, scandal, evil-doing, and cold-blooded killings mark the county's history.
On this tour, you'll hear about the woman who charmed General Washington, homicidal slaves, spies, and thwarted love. You'll see reenactments of three of the most shocking tales: a woman gone insane upon the sight of her dead lover; a jealous husband and father who kills the guilty lover, and the most famous trial of early 20th century Somerset County, the love affair and gruesome double murder of a minister and choir singer.
The tours will leave from the Van Horne House. The cost is $10 per person in advance and $15 at the door and reservations are required. Please indicate your choice of tours: 10:00 am or 2:00 pm. Please Note that as of 4/30/2015, the 2:00 pm tour is full - space is still available on the 10:00 am bus.
The Van Horne House is located at 941 East Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ. Free parking is available behind Target or at the Patriots Ballpark across the street. For more information and to register, visit www.heritagetrail.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - Ringwood, Passaic County
19th Century Baseball Game
Children Friendly
Batter up! On Sunday, 19th century baseball returns to Ringwood Manor, and this year, it’s a triple header! A fan favorite, baseball fans young and old alike are encouraged to come see America’s favorite pastime played according to 1873 rules and regulations. The Brooklyn Atlantics, Elizabeth Resolutes, and the Flemington Neshanocks will be facing off with one another, with the first pitch being tossed out for games beginning at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:00 pm. The teams play following the rules and customs of the time, use period baseball equipment, wear typical 19th century baseball uniforms, and even use language and phrases of the era! During the 7th inning stretch, hear a retelling of the classic baseball poem, Casey at the Bat. Bring your chair, a blanket, your picnic lunch, and cheer on your favorite team. We invite the public to come see how the game of baseball has evolved over 125 years!
In addition to the outstanding athleticism and sportsmanship on the field, the teams and their personnel will show how the rules of the sport evolved and how they differ from today. You will see that all fielders do not use gloves. Instead, they play barehanded just players did in 1873! Did you know that originally fielders were allowed to “soak” or throw the ball at a base runner in hopes of scoring an out? The teams are always looking for new ballists, muffins, Grant Men, Greeley Men, and bugs to enjoy the game “the way it was meant to be played.” Never heard of those terms? Do you have questions about the history of the game? Want to try the equipment yourself? Come to the game and find out what all these historic nicknames mean and speak to the players! The teams welcome questions from the public and enjoy engaging with fans all ages and knowledge levels.
The Brooklyn Atlantics, Elizabeth Resolutes, and Flemington Neshanocks are all non-profit organizations whose missions are to preserve, perpetuate, and promote the game of baseball as it was played during its formative years in the nineteenth century. They demonstrate the historic origins of our national pastime all over the tri-state area using high standards of historical accuracy and authenticity based on lengthy research. But most of all, they want people to enjoy the origins of the sport as much as they do!
The games will be played in the open field located next to parking lot B at Ringwood Manor. There is no fee to enter the park or for the event. Please be aware that the field has no bleachers for the public. Those coming to visit are advised to bring their own chairs or a blanket to sit on. Picnic tables in the area are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Light refreshments and hot dogs will be available to purchase at the field starting at noon. Heavy rain will cancel the event.
Want to take a time out from the games? Historic Ringwood Manor will be open for guided, timed tours between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. Tours are approximately an hour and 15 minutes long and take visitors through 30 of the 51 rooms in the manor. Tickets can be purchased at the park office and are $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, and free for children 5 and under.
This event is sponsored by Ringwood State Park staff and the North Jersey Highlands Historical Society. Ringwood Manor is located at 1304 Sloatsburg Road, Ringwood, NJ. For more information, visit www.ringwoodmanor.org.
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Children Friendly
Batter up! On Sunday, 19th century baseball returns to Ringwood Manor, and this year, it’s a triple header! A fan favorite, baseball fans young and old alike are encouraged to come see America’s favorite pastime played according to 1873 rules and regulations. The Brooklyn Atlantics, Elizabeth Resolutes, and the Flemington Neshanocks will be facing off with one another, with the first pitch being tossed out for games beginning at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:00 pm. The teams play following the rules and customs of the time, use period baseball equipment, wear typical 19th century baseball uniforms, and even use language and phrases of the era! During the 7th inning stretch, hear a retelling of the classic baseball poem, Casey at the Bat. Bring your chair, a blanket, your picnic lunch, and cheer on your favorite team. We invite the public to come see how the game of baseball has evolved over 125 years!
In addition to the outstanding athleticism and sportsmanship on the field, the teams and their personnel will show how the rules of the sport evolved and how they differ from today. You will see that all fielders do not use gloves. Instead, they play barehanded just players did in 1873! Did you know that originally fielders were allowed to “soak” or throw the ball at a base runner in hopes of scoring an out? The teams are always looking for new ballists, muffins, Grant Men, Greeley Men, and bugs to enjoy the game “the way it was meant to be played.” Never heard of those terms? Do you have questions about the history of the game? Want to try the equipment yourself? Come to the game and find out what all these historic nicknames mean and speak to the players! The teams welcome questions from the public and enjoy engaging with fans all ages and knowledge levels.
The Brooklyn Atlantics, Elizabeth Resolutes, and Flemington Neshanocks are all non-profit organizations whose missions are to preserve, perpetuate, and promote the game of baseball as it was played during its formative years in the nineteenth century. They demonstrate the historic origins of our national pastime all over the tri-state area using high standards of historical accuracy and authenticity based on lengthy research. But most of all, they want people to enjoy the origins of the sport as much as they do!
The games will be played in the open field located next to parking lot B at Ringwood Manor. There is no fee to enter the park or for the event. Please be aware that the field has no bleachers for the public. Those coming to visit are advised to bring their own chairs or a blanket to sit on. Picnic tables in the area are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Light refreshments and hot dogs will be available to purchase at the field starting at noon. Heavy rain will cancel the event.
Want to take a time out from the games? Historic Ringwood Manor will be open for guided, timed tours between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. Tours are approximately an hour and 15 minutes long and take visitors through 30 of the 51 rooms in the manor. Tickets can be purchased at the park office and are $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, and free for children 5 and under.
This event is sponsored by Ringwood State Park staff and the North Jersey Highlands Historical Society. Ringwood Manor is located at 1304 Sloatsburg Road, Ringwood, NJ. For more information, visit www.ringwoodmanor.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - Cranford, Union County
Flower Press Craft: A Mother's Day Gift
Children Friendly
This craft is appropriate for children 6 years of age or older. Admission is free but donations are greatly appreciated. Space is limited, so reservations are required. To reserve your seat, please call 908-276-0082 or e-mail cranfordhistoricalsociety@verizon.net.
The Crane-Phillips House Museum is located at 124 North Union Avenue, Cranford, NJ. The Cranford Historical Society was founded in 1927 with a mission to preserve the unique history of Cranford, New Jersey. For more information, call 908-376-0082 or visit www.cranfordhistoricalsociety.com.
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Sunday, May 3 - Westampton, Burlington County
Weaving and Flax Preparation
Barb Johns, Museum and Library Assistant at the Mt. Holly Lyceum and expert spinner, will be on hand to demonstrate the use of Colonial flax breakers and spinning wheels on Sunday at Peachfield. Barb, a member of the South Jersey Guild of Spinners and Hand Weavers, will demonstrate how yarn was produced in days of old. Young and old will be completely enthralled and perplexed by the workings of the spinning wheel, flax breaker and other antique weaving tools.
Admission is $5 per person; Friends of Peachfield admitted free of charge. Reservations are recommended as seating is limited. Peachfield is located at 180 Burrs Road, Westampton, NJ. For more information and to register, call 609-267-6996, or e-mail colonialdamesnj@comcast.net.
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Sunday, May 3 - Maplewood, Essex County
Battle of Springfield History HikeChildren Friendly
On June 23, 1780, British and Hessian soldiers based in Staten Island invaded Essex County (which then included Springfield) with the aim of attacking the core of General Washington’s troops in the northern colonies, then headquartered in Morristown. Their ability to pass through the Hobart Gap of the Watchung Mountains was critical. This action was thwarted by the courageous fighting of the militia from much of northern New Jersey, joined by many of our local citizens, and by Continental soldiers under the leadership of the fabled Light-Horse Harry Lee and Nathaniel Greene. The British retreated back to Staten Island, never to set foot again in New Jersey. Their defeat at Yorktown, Virginia, was little more than a year away.
To see some of the nearby battle-related sites yourself, put on your walking shoes and join Durand-Hedden on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm for a moderately paced 1-mile “history hike” (plus return). The hike will begin at the Millburn Mall on Vauxhall Road and end at Millburn Town Hall. Our knowledgeable guide, local history lover Lynn Gale, will point out natural and built landmarks along Millburn Avenue. At the start, Brigade of the Revolution reenactor Mark Hurwitz, wearing an authentic reproduction of the uniform of Col. Elias Dayton of the 3rd NJ Regt., will present an overview of the Battle.
Meeting Location: The bridge over the East Branch of the Rahway River next to the Millburn Mall at the intersection of Vauxhall Road and Millburn Avenue.
On Sunday, the Durand-Hedden House will be closed. However, The Country Store will open its doors to shoppers from 12:00 – 5:00 pm offering historic-themed treasures: early American children’s games, books and toys, facsimile documents, quill pens and ink, historic cook books, cookie molds, tin lanterns, reproduction ceramics, hiking sticks, local honey, and more. The hard-to-find original Doors of Maplewood poster and Smile, The History of Olympic Park, will also be available.
The event is free. Donations are appreciated. The Durrand-Hedden House is located in Grasmere Park at 523 Ridgewood Road, Maplewood, NJ. To arrange group tours call 973-763-7712. For more information, visit www.durandhedden.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - Paterson, Passaic County
Central Jersey Symphony Orchestra Concert at Lambert Castle
On Sunday at 5:00 pm in Lambert Castle, the Passaic County Historical Society will host the Central Jersey Symphony Orchestra, CJSO on the Go, returning to perform as a part of the Lambert Castle Concert Series. Founded in 1970 as the Somerset County College Orchestra, in 2002 the CJSO re-organized as an independent nonprofit organization. CJSO on the Go is a Chamber music outreach program featuring members and friends of the Central Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Admission to the concert is $15. Seating is limited and no reservations will be taken.
Lambert Castle is located at 3 Valley Road, Paterson, NJ. For more information, call 973-247-0085 or visit www.lambertcastle.org.
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Join us for Authors' Day at Historic New Bridge Landing from 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm. Nineteen authors will have books available for purchase and signing in the Steuben House. Titles cover Native Americans and early explorers, the Revolutionary War, town histories, biographies, cemetery ghosts, and more, including several authors of children's books. Rich Troncone, book restorer, will be demonstrating and talking about his art.
Three 18th-century Jersey Dutch sandstone houses on the Revolutionary War battleground will be open for tours. Refreshments will be served in the restored eighteenth-century tavern in the Campbell-Christie House (1774), where there is also a gift shop. Open-hearth cooking demonstrated in Out Kitchen. Stand on the oldest highway swing bridge in NJ, dating to 1889, and contemplate Washington's retreat across the Bridge That Saved Nation in November 1776.
Experience history in one of the most storied places where it was made! $7 for adults, all students and BCHS members free! Historic New Bridge Landing is located at 1201-1209 Main Street, River Edge, NJ. For more information, visit www.bergencountyhistory.org.
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On Sunday at 5:00 pm in Lambert Castle, the Passaic County Historical Society will host the Central Jersey Symphony Orchestra, CJSO on the Go, returning to perform as a part of the Lambert Castle Concert Series. Founded in 1970 as the Somerset County College Orchestra, in 2002 the CJSO re-organized as an independent nonprofit organization. CJSO on the Go is a Chamber music outreach program featuring members and friends of the Central Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Admission to the concert is $15. Seating is limited and no reservations will be taken.
Lambert Castle is located at 3 Valley Road, Paterson, NJ. For more information, call 973-247-0085 or visit www.lambertcastle.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - River Edge, Bergen County
Authors' Day at Historic New Bridge LandingThree 18th-century Jersey Dutch sandstone houses on the Revolutionary War battleground will be open for tours. Refreshments will be served in the restored eighteenth-century tavern in the Campbell-Christie House (1774), where there is also a gift shop. Open-hearth cooking demonstrated in Out Kitchen. Stand on the oldest highway swing bridge in NJ, dating to 1889, and contemplate Washington's retreat across the Bridge That Saved Nation in November 1776.
Experience history in one of the most storied places where it was made! $7 for adults, all students and BCHS members free! Historic New Bridge Landing is located at 1201-1209 Main Street, River Edge, NJ. For more information, visit www.bergencountyhistory.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - Princeton, Mercer County
Historic Princeton Walking Tour
Children Friendly
Enjoy a 1.9 mile, two-hour walk around downtown Princeton and the University campus as you learn about historic sites in the area, including Bainbridge House, Nassau Hall, the University Chapel, and Palmer Square. The early history of Princeton, the founding of the University, and the American Revolution are just some of the stories from Princeton’s history that you will learn on your tour.
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Sunday, May 3 - Westfield, Union County
Basket Weaving Demonstration
The weaving of baskets is thought to be as old as the history of humankind, with the earliest known fragments dating back to ancient Egypt. Both functional and beautiful, baskets are part of the heritage of almost every civilization on earth. The museum will highlight this ancient craft on Sunday from 2:00 - 4:00 pm.
The program will include a history of basket weaving and an overview of the different types of baskets and weaving techniques. Samples of various kinds of baskets will be on display. The presenter will also demonstrate how a colonial era market basket is made.
The program will include a history of basket weaving and an overview of the different types of baskets and weaving techniques. Samples of various kinds of baskets will be on display. The presenter will also demonstrate how a colonial era market basket is made.
Tours and 18th century open hearth cooking demonstrations are included. The museum’s gift shop will be open, offering a variety of colonial toys, crafts, books and educational materials. Admission: Adults/Children age 13 and older: $3.00; Children age 3 to 12: $2.00; Under age 3: free. The Miller-Cory House Museum is located at 614 Mountain Avenue in Westfield. For more information, call 908-232-1776 or visit www.millercoryhouse.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - Westfield, Union County
The Hat Matters - From Function to Frivolity!
The Westfield Historical Society presents a special exhibit at the Reeve History and Cultural Resource Center, 314 Mountain Avenue, Westfield, NJ - "The Hat Matters - From Function to Frivolity" on Sunday from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Please attend this event to experience how the fashionable hats of today were the necessary and functioning definition of individuals throughout history.
The object on the head defines the person who wore it. For example, the Egyptian Pharaohs wore the hats of Lower and Upper Egypt, the Greeks donned the headband, the turban defined Hinduism in India and the fez in Turkey. In Colonial times, the three pointed (tri-fold) hat was worn by the Colonials in America. During the Edwardian period, known for the reign of Edward VII in Great Britain, ladies' hats were embellished with feathers, fur, flowers, and tulle. Today we see FTD trucks delivering flowers with the symbol of the Greek god Hermes wearing the Petasos hat on his head for swift message delivery.
This exhibit will focus mainly on the early 20th-century hats of both men and women. For instance, a top hat and the bowler hat that were most prevalent in the TV series "Downton Abbey" will be on view as examples while similar ladies' hats depict the Crawley family's everyday activities. A favorite Halloween 'witch' hat or a celebratory New Year's Eve hat will be part of the "fun" exhibit. Hats for special occasions such as tiaras for a crown worn by brides at weddings, sports figure baseball hats worn by Westfield's own Jeff Torborg, and Olympic games hats with a collection of pins will be included. The WHS collection of historic hats worn by police, firemen and Mr. Edgar Reeves' World War II air raid helmets will also be on display. In addition, Marion Schwartz, the Westfield milliner of Joy Design, will display and sell her beautiful hats.
A suggested $5 per person goodwill donation is suggested to help support the ongoing work of the Westfield Historical Society. For more information, call 908-654-1794 or visit www.westfieldhistoricalsociety.org.
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The Westfield Historical Society presents a special exhibit at the Reeve History and Cultural Resource Center, 314 Mountain Avenue, Westfield, NJ - "The Hat Matters - From Function to Frivolity" on Sunday from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Please attend this event to experience how the fashionable hats of today were the necessary and functioning definition of individuals throughout history.
The object on the head defines the person who wore it. For example, the Egyptian Pharaohs wore the hats of Lower and Upper Egypt, the Greeks donned the headband, the turban defined Hinduism in India and the fez in Turkey. In Colonial times, the three pointed (tri-fold) hat was worn by the Colonials in America. During the Edwardian period, known for the reign of Edward VII in Great Britain, ladies' hats were embellished with feathers, fur, flowers, and tulle. Today we see FTD trucks delivering flowers with the symbol of the Greek god Hermes wearing the Petasos hat on his head for swift message delivery.
This exhibit will focus mainly on the early 20th-century hats of both men and women. For instance, a top hat and the bowler hat that were most prevalent in the TV series "Downton Abbey" will be on view as examples while similar ladies' hats depict the Crawley family's everyday activities. A favorite Halloween 'witch' hat or a celebratory New Year's Eve hat will be part of the "fun" exhibit. Hats for special occasions such as tiaras for a crown worn by brides at weddings, sports figure baseball hats worn by Westfield's own Jeff Torborg, and Olympic games hats with a collection of pins will be included. The WHS collection of historic hats worn by police, firemen and Mr. Edgar Reeves' World War II air raid helmets will also be on display. In addition, Marion Schwartz, the Westfield milliner of Joy Design, will display and sell her beautiful hats.
A suggested $5 per person goodwill donation is suggested to help support the ongoing work of the Westfield Historical Society. For more information, call 908-654-1794 or visit www.westfieldhistoricalsociety.org.
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Sunday, May 3 - 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.