NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 9/24/16 - 9/25/16

 New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

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

Saturday, September 24 - Trenton, Mercer County
"19th Century NJ-Based Photographers" Lecture

Of the approximately 3,000 different photographers who were active in New Jersey before 1900, more than 250 lived or worked in Mercer County, most of them in Trenton. In a slide lecture, Gary D. Saretzky will profile these pioneers, including Edward H. Stokes who lived in what is now the William Trent House, and discuss them within the larger context of New Jersey photography in the nineteenth century. As you will see in the slides, these photographers documented the people and places of their times but, in addition, their individual histories provide insight into social conditions of their era.

Gary D. Saretzky, archivist and photographer, has worked as an archivist for more than forty-five years at the State Historical Society of Wisconsin, Educational Testing Service, and the Monmouth County Archives, where he has been County Archivist since 1994. Saretzky taught the history of photography at Mercer County Community College, 1977-2012, and coordinated the Public History Internship Program for the Rutgers University History Department,1994-2016. He has published more than 100 articles and reviews on the history of photography, photographic conservation, and other topics, including “Nineteenth-Century New Jersey Photographers,” in the journal, New Jersey History, Fall/Winter 2004. In 2012, he received the Maureen Ogden Award for Lifetime Achievement in New Jersey History at the New Jersey History Issues Conference.

Admission: $8 members/$10 non-members. Includes refreshments and tours of the museum. Lecture begins at 1:00 pm.

Owned, maintained and operated by the City of Trenton with assistance from The Trent House Association, the historic house museum is regularly open to the public for tours Wednesdays through Sundays, 12:30 - 4:00 pm and by appointment for school and group tours. Located at 15 Market Street in Trenton, NJ adjacent to the Hughes Justice Complex. Ample free parking. For more information, call 609-989-3027 or visit www.williamtrenthouse.org.

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Saturday, September 24 - Freehold, Monmouth County
Monmouth County Historical Association Offers Free Admission

Each of Monmouth County Historical Association’s five historic house museums, together with the museum at 70 Court Street, will be open free of charge in celebration of Smithsonian Magazine’s 12th annual Museum Day Live! on Saturday. This is the last weekend to visit our historic house museums before they close for the season.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for a family to spend the day touring the museum and each of our historic house museums,” said Dr. Evelyn C. Murphy, Director. “The five houses are all located within 10 to 15 miles of the museum and docents in each of the facilities can tell the important role each played in Monmouth County history.” The Museum recently opened an exhibition on the Battle of Monmouth, That Memorable Sabbath-day: The Battle of Monmouth in Drawings, Paintings, and Prints, and the Taylor-Butler House in Middletown has a special exhibition, Faces From Our Past: Portraits From the Permanent Collection.

A Museum Day Live! ticket can be downloaded at www.smithsonian.com/museumday. Visitors who present the Museum Day Live! ticket will gain free admission at each of the museums for September 24.

Monmouth County Historical Association is a private non-profit organization that has been working to preserve history and provide educational opportunities since its founding in 1898. The Historical Association’s Museum and Library is located at 70 Court Street in Freehold, NJ. Museum hours are: Tuesdays - Saturdays 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The Library is open Wednesdays through Saturdays. The Historic House museums are open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, from May 1 through September 30, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For further information about the Association, call 732-462-1466 or visit www.monmouthhistory.org.

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Saturday, September 24 - West Orange, Essex County
Fall Family Fun Day - Fee Free Day
Children Friendly Event

On Saturday, special family activities will take place at Glenmont, the home and estate of Thomas and Mina Edison in Llewellyn Park between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm. Visitors wanting to visit Glenmont, should pick up a car pass from the Laboratory Visitor Center. Activities include tours of the 29-room Victorian Mansion and tours of the poured concrete garage which houses a circa 1900 Locomobile, 1922 Model T and the 1936 Brewster belonging to Charles Edison. Enjoy water color painting and obstacle course races on the lawn, Victorian board games, Junior Ranger activities, tree and leaf identification, and birding activities. Explore the 15 acre estate, garage, greenhouse, and the gravesite of Thomas and Mina Edison.

Saturday is a fee free day. Passes for the Glenmont Estate must be picked up at the Thomas Edison National Historical Park Laboratory Complex Visitor Center at 211 Main Street, West Orange, NJ. For more information, call 973-736-0550 x33 or visit www.nps.gov/edis.

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Saturday, September 24 -  Morris Township, Morris County
Speedwell Games Day
Children Friendly Event and Site

Join us for an exciting day of tournaments and triumphs at the first ever Speedwell Games Day from 10:00 am - 8:00 pm. During the day, families and children of all ages are invited to participate in games and play with toys that were used in the bygone era of the Vail Family. At 5:00 pm, the adult card tournaments begin. Admission: $7 per adult, $6 per senior, $5 per child age 4 - 16, FREE per child under age 4. Historic Speedwell is located at 333 Speedwell Avenue, Morristown, NJ. For more information, call 973-285-6550 or visit www.morrisparks.net.

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Saturday, September 24 - Byram Township, Sussex County
Waterloo Canal Heritage Day
Children Friendly Event

Come visit Waterloo Village between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm for a day in this historic Morris Canal town. Enjoy boat rides on the Morris Canal, Smith's Store - a furnished canal-era store with hands-on activities, blacksmithing, see the operating gristmill, seamstress shop, carpenter's shop, take guided tours of 1859 Methodist Church, the Canal Museum - with exhibits and videos, and guided walking tours of the village. Admission is free but there is a $5 per car parking fee. Waterloo Village is located at 525 Waterloo Road, Byram, NJ. For more information, call 973-292-2755 or visit www.canalsocietynj.org.

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Saturday, September 24 - Cape May, Cape May County
Cape May Designer House Tour

Visitors can step across the threshold of six unique Cape May private homes in a variety of styles, from Victorian cottages to coastal mansions, open to the public for one day only. Relish the beautiful interiors created by local and regional designers on Saturday from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. Admission is $30 per person. Visitors receive a book with descriptions of the houses and a map. Tickets can be purchased at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ or at the Washington Street Mall Info Booth. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information and to reserve tickets, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Saturday, September 24 -  Morris Township, Morris County
Meet the Irish Servant and the Cook at the Willows
Children Friendly Event and Site

On Saturday at Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, discover the life of domestic help at the Foster home on a guided tour. Assist the maid with household chores and see what the cook has prepared using the wood-burning stove. Two tours times available: 1:00 - 2:00 pm and 2:00 - 3:00 pm.

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, September 24 - Farmingdale, Monmouth County
1830s Fall Harvest Festival
Children Friendly Event and Site

Allaire Village Incorporated is hosting its annual 1830s Fall Harvest Festival on Saturday from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. The Harvest has been gathered and now it is time for the families of the Howell Iron Works to relax.  Harvest festivals take place the world over.  They usually fall near the Harvest Moon, the closest full moon to the autumnal equinox.  It is a time of merriment, eating, music, contests of strength, games, and romance.  Please join us in celebrating the harvest, bring your sweetheart and try your hand at cider pressing, games, dancing, and much more!

Admission: $5 adults, $3 children 5-12 years. Horse and wagon rides additional $7.00 per adult, $5.00 for children 12 and under. This year the wagon rides are going to be on a timed ticket, so seats will be first come first serve.

Activities for the day include, but are not limited to:
Blacksmith demonstrations: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Militia Demonstrations: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Hearth Cooking Demonstrations: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
House tours: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Storytelling in the Enameling Building: noon, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm
Music demonstrations at Mr. Allaire’s Home: 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm
Mr. Allaire’s house is open for tours: 11:00 am - 3:30 pm
Apple cider pressing and apple snap: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Town ball and children’s games: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Horse and Wagon Rides: 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm

Ticket sales are non-refundable. Tickets are not mailed or emailed. They are held under your name for a reservation. Go to the pre-paid line at admissions to pick up your ticket.

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

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Saturday, September 24 - Belmar, Monmouth County
Belmar Historical Society: Preserve Your Memories

An opportunity to preserve your personal collections of photos, film, and other form of outdated media material. Digital Memory Media (DMM), a division of Innovative Document Imaging, LLP, will have advisers on hand to counsel you on the best way to digitally preserve your collections. Materials can be brought on the day of session. Once scanned and digitized, you will be notified of a date and time to retrieve your material. And best of all, DMM will donate 20% of all proceeds from the program to the Belmar Historical Society (BHS)! The event will be held from 12:00 - 2:00 pm at the Community Room at Boro Hall, Sixth Avenue entrance, Belmar, NJ.

How about putting together a digital video for a special birthday, anniversary or family event? With the holidays not too far off, it would make a memorable gift for someone as well. For more information, call 908-309-3380. You may also visit www.idiimage.com for more information about the company and this program.

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Saturday, September 24 - Fieldsboro, Burlington County
Paranormal Journeys/History Fun Fair
Children Friendly Event

Join New Jersey historical organizations and explore the rich history New Jersey has to offer with ghost hunters from around the Delaware Valley and see how they do it on Saturday from 11:00 am - 6:00 pm at White Hill Mansion. Admission is free. Join us for games, colonial activities, Paranormal lectures (for a small additional fee) and a real ghost hunt beginning at 7:00 pm. Also Amazing Mutts Puppy Rescue will have puppies available for your enjoyment and adoption. Come and enjoy the History, Ghosts, and Puppies.

The cost of the Ghost Hunt is $60.00. For more information, visit www.flirtingwithtime.com/schedule. The White Hill Mansion is located at 217 4th Street, Fieldsboro, NJ. For more information, call 856-630-9421 or visit www.whitehillmansion.com.

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Saturday, September 24 - Roebling, Burlington County
Roebling Museum 3rd Annual Oktoberfest
Children Friendly Activities

The Roebling Museum's 3rd Annual Oktoberfest celebration will be held on the grounds of the museum on Saturday from 2:00 - 7:00 pm. The event will feature music by the South Jersey Pops' Oktoberfest Band and accordionist Dave Burr. Food vendors will offer a variety of treats including German food and two Roebling favorites: bacon bread and Boost! drinks. And, of course, there will be a beer garden, to enjoy a cold draft beverage with your food and music.

The family-friendly event will also include a free kids' craft workshop sponsored by Home Depot.

Admission on the day of the event is $10 and includes entertainment and admission to the Roebling Museum. Children ages 6-12 are $5 at the gate. Children under six are admitted free. Bring your friends to this fun event that is also a fundraiser to help support the educational programs provided by the Roebling Museum.

The Roebling Museum is located on 100 Second Avenue, Roebling, NJ. Parking is available at the back of the museum just off Hornberger Avenue and at the New Jersey Transit River Line Station. Visitors can also take the River Line; the museum is only a short walk from the Roebling stop. For more information, call 609-499-7200 or visit www.roeblingmuseum.org.

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Saturday, September 24 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County
Plowing and Manure Spreading 
Children Friendly Event and Site

Really? A program where you load and spread manure? Absolutely! Once you've helped us get the manure on the field where we will soon plant winter wheat, you can help us 'turn it in' with a moldboard plow pulled by workhorses Jack & Chester. We will be there to drive the horses and teach you how to turn a perfect furrow.

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.

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Saturday, September 24 - Princeton, Mercer County
The Revolution at Princeton
Children Friendly Event

Come out to Princeton Battlefield on Saturday for a day full of events from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, including artillery demonstrations, Burr-Hamilton duel reenactment, military and Colonial life demonstrations, and activities for kids throughout the day. All events will occur at Princeton Battlefield State Park, 500 Mercer Street, Princeton, NJ.

Come out to the Battlefield to find out why in 1777 the Battle of Princeton was such a crucial turning point in the American Revolution. A town crier will be alerting visitors of different events; the 43rd's Royal Artillery will be giving demonstrations; learn why artillery was so important in this battle; along with military encampment demonstrations-cooking, laundry, spinning, herbal medicine and others; musket drilling for kids; ice cream making and tasting for kids; meet General Washington; an exhibit from the National Marine Corps Museum; display of American Revolution swords and a special musket; interactive map presentation on Battle of Princeton; a book signing and sales by best-selling author Patrick O'Donnell - author of Washington's Immortals; take a tour of the Battlefield and the 1772 Thomas Clarke House - witness to the Battle; learn how the Clarke House is being restored; listen to lots of music; food vendor, and more.

Plenty of free parking on-site. Admission is free. For more information, including an events schedule for the day, visit www.theprincetonbattlefieldsociety.com.

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Saturday, September 24 - Mount Tabor, Morris County
23rd Annual Historic House Tour

Travel back in time when you visit Mount Tabor, New Jersey. During the Mount Tabor Historical Society's 23rd annual historic House Tour on Saturday, visitors will be able to experience the unique charms of this historic community, founded as a post-Civil War permanent Methodist Camp Meeting ground. This event provides the best opportunity to get an  inside look at more than fifteen Victorian cottages, community buildings, and sites that will be open to the public that day.Box lunches and beverages will be available for sale. The self-guided tour will be held rain or shine 11 :00 am - 4:00 pm.

The Richardson History House, a small-scale Second Empire Victorian Camp Meeting cottage will be featured on the tour. The History House invites visitors to encounter another era and see what it was like to spend a summer "camp meeting style" in the cottage of J. Smith and Lydia Richardson, a family prominent in the early community. From the original, decorative trompe l'oeil painted wood panel walls to the expansive glass doors we truly believe "these walls can talk!"

Step inside a replica Camp Meeting Tent and sample traditional tent life for yourself. Original camp meetings were considered pilgrimages, and the devout endured the hardships of primitive tents rather than lush accommodations. The interiors of the tents were divided into a front portion used as a parlor, and a back portion used for sleeping quarters. Due to space limitations, furnishings were multi-functional. Camp chairs and rockers also adorned the tents.

Tickets are $25.00 per person in advance, purchased online via PayPal and $30.00 on the day of the tour at the Old Firehouse on Simpson Avenue. Parking will be provided at the Mount Tabor School, located on Park Road, Morris Plains, off Route 53 (GPS: use 864 Park Road, Morris Plains, NJ) where a shuttle bus will be available. Mount Tabor is located in Morris County along Route 53 between Denville and Morris Plains. For more information and advance tickets, visit www.mounttabornj.org or call 973-975-0001.

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Saturday, September 24 - Morristown, Morris County
National Public Lands Day Hike
Children Friendly Event

In honor of National Public Lands Day, a national day of recognition of the efforts to preserve and protect America's natural heritage, join a park ranger for a guided hike through Jockey Hollow. Think of Jockey Hollow as a neighborhood with its residents having different roles in the community. This tour will look at those different roles and how the "neighborhood" within Jockey Hollow works together to survive.

The hike will be 2.25 miles along the park's Yellow Trail. Helpful items include hiking boots or other appropriate footwear, water, bug spray, and sunscreen. Program is rain or shine, so plan for the day's projected weather. Hike begins at 1:00 pm at the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center, within Morristown National Historical Park, 580 Jockey Hollow Road (approximate), Morristown, NJ. Cost: Free. For more information, call 973-543-4030 or visit www.nps.gov/morr.

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Saturday, September 24 - Lacey, Ocean County
Lacey Historical Society's Annual Apple Festival
Children Friendly Event

The Lacey Historical Society is having its Annual Apple Festival on Saturday from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, rain or shine. This family fun day includes lots of activities for children of all ages and plenty of Apple Eats. The Schoolhouse Museum is open to the public for the day and the Forked River Fire Department has free rides in the fire trucks for guests starting at 12:00 noon.

Apple treats include home baked apple pies and apple crisps, either whole to take home with you or by the plateful, candy apples, sliced apples with caramel, apple cider and apples picked by volunteers at a local orchard. The "Any-Which-Way" Apple Pie Contests is open to anyone who has a great tasting pie; registration is required for either the adult contest or for Junior bakers under 18 years of age. There are cash prizes for each contest. Guests can watch the pie contest judging in the morning starting at 10:00 am, purchase pumpkins and paint them, play games - some the Old Fashioned kind, have their faces painted, speak to re-enactors about history, listen to a storyteller, do some crafts with a member of the local Lenni Lenape Indian tribe, meet Sparks, the Ocean County Library dragon mascot, and try on old-fashion clothes made by a local seamstress. 

The day starts at 9:00 am with opening remarks by the Lacey School Superintendent, followed by the Lacey High School Band. There is entertainment of various kinds during the day and the Girl Scouts will share with you the fun of making butter the old-fashion way; you can crank if you want (and you get to taste the butter yourself), once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Lunch and snacks will be available, so come and stay for all the activities.

The Schoolhouse Museum is just South of Lacey Road, between Route 9 and Parker Avenue, Forked River, NJ. Nearest cross street is Oak Street. Parking is free and available on local streets. Admission: There is no entrance fee; some activities are free; some require tickets which you purchase on the grounds.  For more information, call 609-971-0467 and leave a message (it will be returned).

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Saturday - Sunday, September 24 - 25 - Tuckerton, Ocean County
34th Annual Ocean County Decoy and Gunning Show
Children Friendly Site

Join the Tuckerton Seaport as they celebrate the 34th anniversary of the show during this exciting two day event highlighting the culture of the area! Demonstrations, contests, seminars, crafters, carvers, over 300 waterfowling exhibitors and vendors, food, refreshments, a decoy auction, music, entertainment, and lots of fun. Dock Dog Competition as featured on ESPN! Two great locations: Tip Seaman County Park and Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen’s Museum. This event is free to the public! The show is open Saturday from 7:00 am - 5:00 pm and Sunday from 7:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Admission to the show is free. Free off-site parking and a free shuttle bus will be available to take visitors between Tip Seaman County Park and the Seaport. Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen's Museum, 120 West Main Street, Tuckerton. For more information call 609-296-8868 or visit www.tuckertonseaport.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, September 24 - 25 - Greenwich, Cumberland County
45th Annual Greenwich Artisans' Faire & Marketplace
Children Friendly Activities

Presented by the Cumberland County Historical Society on the grounds of the c. 1730 Gibbon House, 960 Ye Greate Street, Greenwich, NJ 08323. This year is bigger and better, as we are featuring over 85 vendors, artisans, craftspeople and historic displays. On both days, former National Park Service Ranger Anthony Melita and his Revolutionary War militia reenactors will set up camp on the grounds of the 1730 Gibbon House. Hours are Saturday from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and Sunday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Take a step back in time when you walk on the grounds of the Gibbon House at this year's Artisans' Faire and Marketplace. Stroll around and meet the many artisans and visit the demonstrators that help bring yesteryear alive. From blacksmithing to chair caning, you are sure to find something to pique your interest.

Admission: $5 (Children 12 and under FREE). Tickets may be purchased at the Doctor's Office located at the entrance of the Faire grounds. Rain or shine. Ample free parking along Ye Greate Street. For information, call 856-455-8580 or visit www.cchistsoc.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, September 24 - 25 - Cape May, Cape May County
Village Sampler Weekend at Historic Cold Spring Village
Children Friendly Event & Site

Step back in time as Historic Cold Spring Village closes its 35th season with a Free Village Sampler Weekend on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am - 4:30 pm. Guests are invited to tour a selection of the Village’s 27 restored, historic buildings where historical interpreters demonstrate the trades, crafts, and lifestyles of the “homespun era.” Enjoy games, crafts, historic dress-up and a special sale at the Country Store. Antique dealers, folk artists, and crafters will display and sell their wares along the Village’s shaded lanes throughout the weekend.

Visitors to the Cold Spring Country Fair can also take guided walking tours of the Village from Jim Stephens, HCSV Deputy Director for Education and Interpretation. Stephens will lead the lively tours throughout the 30-acre site, providing details and insight into the Village buildings and Cape May County history. Tours will be offered at 1:00 and 3:00 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, and will begin near the Route 9 gatehouse.

Historic Cold Spring Village is a nonprofit, open-air living history museum that portrays the daily life of a rural South Jersey community of the Early American period. It features 26 restored historic structures on a 30-acre site. From late June to early September, interpreters and artisans in period clothing preserve the trades, crafts and heritage of "the age of homespun." Fun and educational activities for children are featured Tuesday through Sunday, with special events every weekend through mid-September.

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 terminus of the Garden State Parkway. Admission during the season is $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 are admitted free. Unlimited free admission is available with Village membership. The Village Nature Trail at Bradner's Run is open to the public for free self-guided tours. For more information, call 609-898-2300, ext. 10, or visit www.hcsv.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, September 24 - 25 - Pennsville, Salem County
12th Annual Historic Soldiers Weekend
Children Friendly Event

Historic Soldiers Weekend is a historical encampment, featuring reenactors, and their equipment, from every American conflict, spanning from the French and Indian War to the Vietnam War. In some instances, both sides of the conflicts will be present, such as the Revolutionary War loyalists and "redcoats", Civil War confederate units, and WWII German infantry units. Hours for Saturday are 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. Admission is free.

Re-enactment units will be camping out for the weekend at Historic Fort Mott, living as their ancestors did. Journey back in time to give yourself and your children, students and guests a chance to see, hear and touch real history through the life of a typical soldier during the French & Indian War, Civil, World Wars and beyond. This event is free to the public. Fort Mott is located at 454 Fort Mott Road, Pennsville, NJ. For more information, visit www.historicsoldiersweekend.com.

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Sunday, September 25 - Princeton, Mercer County

Historic Princeton Walking Tour
Children Friendly Tour

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.

Admission: $7 per adult; $4 children ages 6 to 12; free for children age 5 and under. Tours begin in front of the Bainbridge House, 158 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ. Tour begins at 2:00 pm and ends at 4:00 pm. Walk up ticket sales are cash only; guides cannot provide change. Space is limited. For more information and to reserve tickets, call 609-921-6748 or visit www.princetonhistory.org.

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Sunday, September 25 - Cranford, Union County

Open House at Crane-Phillips House

The Cranford Historical Society will be hosting tours of the Crane-Phillips House Museum, located at 124 North Union Avenue, Cranford, NJ on Sunday from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Admission is free.

The Cranford Historical Society was founded in 1927 with a mission to preserve the unique history of Cranford, New Jersey. The Society maintains the Crane-Phillips House Living Museum, an important costume collection, and archives. For more information, call 908-376-0082 or visit www.cranfordhistoricalsociety.com.

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Sunday, September 25 - Morristown, Morris County
Peter Toth: Centennial Series Piano Recital

Please join Morristown National Historical Park for a series of special piano recitals to celebrate the NPS Centennial. Playing on the park's 1873 Steinway grand piano, celebrated pianist Peter Toth will perform solo piano works from a variety of beloved composers.

Hungarian pianist Peter Toth is one of the most recognized artists of his generation. He has concertized in most countries in Europe, South America, and Asia. His first released CD recording won the Grand Prize of the Hungarian Liszt Society (2006). Mr. Toth is a regular guest artist at various piano festivals and has been member of the American Liszt Society since 2011.

The recital will be held at the Museum Building, 30 Washington Place, Morristown, NJ. It begins at 1:00 pm and will be held FREE of charge. No reservations necessary. For more information, call 973-539-2016 x 204 or visit www.nps.gov/morr.

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Sunday, September 25 - Holmdel, Monmouth County
1890s Harvest Home Festival
Children Friendly Event and Site

An old-fashioned country fair reminiscent of the 1890s will be held at Historic Longstreet Farm on Sunday from 11:00 am - 5:00 pm. It takes visitors back in time when neighbors gathered to accomplish work, harvest, and spend time socializing and enjoying each others company. It calls not only for the exhibition of the best products that have been grown and the best needlework that has been done in the community, but also for games, athletic contests and similar features of recreational or educational value. Experience old-fashioned fun as it was a century ago with wagon rides, games and live entertainment. See craft demonstrations that will inspire you to start a new hobby or career. Enter one of many competitions ranging from needlework to baked goods to homegrown vegetables. Each person entering in a competition will have a chance to win a prize ribbon.

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, September 25 -  Morris Township, Morris County
Carriage House Craft Series: Make a Victorian Toy
Children Friendly Event and Site

Use optics to make some deceptively simple toys that were enjoyed by adults and children alike over 100 years ago at Historic Speedwell from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Admission: $7 per adult, $6 per senior, $5 per child age 4 - 16, FREE per child under age 4. Historic Speedwell is located at 333 Speedwell Avenue, Morristown, NJ. For more information, call 973-285-6550 or visit www.morrisparks.net.

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Sunday, September 25 - Bridgewater, Somerset County
The Hall-Mills Murders, Revisited
Ages 13+ 

On September 16th, 1922 two bodies were found, violently murdered, yet they appeared to be sleeping peacefully. Who they were and why they were at that location was to propel Somerset County into national and international news.  These murders are still unsolved.

Join Heritage Trail for a bus tour that begins at the Historic Van Horne House where registered guests will become detectives on this Cold Case. After receiving a packet of vital information and a briefing at the Van Horne, we will board buses for the Historic Somerset Courthouse in the heart of Somerville, which was the scene of this infamous trial in 1926. Hundreds of newsmen, gawkers, witnesses, and the accused crowded this sleepy town.

Judge Thomas C. Miller will address the crowd and we will see the actual evidence. Returning to the Van Horne House, the debriefing will allow our 'detectives' to offer up their thought of 'who done it'.  A book on the subject, Cold Case: The Hall Mills Murders Revisited, with many photos and added information, will be for sale.  Refreshments will be served.

This event will sell out quickly.  get your tickets today.  Access to the courtroom and evidence is rare - don't wait! The first 20 registrants receive a shoulder strap book bag. A book drawing will be held at the end of this event for those in attendance.

Due to the subject matter, only children over 13 will be admitted. Admission is $25.00 per person. Click here to reserve your ticket today. The day begins at 12:30 pm and ends at 4:30 pm. The Historic Van Horne House is located at 941 E. Main Street. Bridgewater, NJ. Park behind the Target store at 200 Promenade Blvd., Bridgewater, NJ. Handiap parking is available at the house for those requiring it. For more information, visit www.heritagetrail.org.

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Sunday, September 25 - Sandy Hook, Monmouth County
Seining on Sandy Hook Bay
Children Friendly Event

Many saltwater creatures migrate to warmer waters to mate, reproduce and find food. It is the perfect time of year to observe these animals before they head south for the season. This free program begins at 10:00 - 11:30 am at Sandy Hook, part of Gateway National Recreation Area. Meet at Lot C for Bayside Beach. For more information, call 718-354-4606 or visit www.nps.gov/gate.

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Sunday, September 25 - Boonton, Morris County
Railroad Museum [For A Day]
Children Friendly Event

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Sunday, September 25 - Montclair, Essex County
A Day in the Life in 1916
Children Friendly Event

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Van Vleck House and Gardens, the Montclair Historical Society will be co-sponsoring a family day event. Activities will include themed craft stations around life in 1916 Montclair from transportation, to science and technology, communication, to food and leisure. Outdoor activities include guided walks, scavenger hunts, and a seed planting station throughout the day, weather permitting. Families will also be able to visit the 100th anniversary exhibit inside the Van Vleck House. The event runs from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at 21 Van Vleck Street, Montclair, NJ. $10 per family for non-members; $5 per family for members of either organization. Registration is suggested. For more information and to register, visit www.vanvleck.org.

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Sunday, September 25 - River Edge, Bergen County
Baronfest at Historic New Bridge Landing
Children Activities

Come and enjoy a picket fence beer garden, delicious food from a variety of vendors including food trucks, relax to music by the Teutonic Knights, pony rides in the meadow for children, tour three 18th century sandstone houses, and stroll the grounds of Historic New Bridge Landing in River Edge, Washington's headquarters in 1780, later home of Major General Baron von Steuben.

Picket-fence Beer Garden, music by the Long Hill String Band with Clog Dancer, illustrated talk on Steuben at 2:30 pm by historian Kevin Wright. Mott's Artillery will be in the field with cannon. Reenactors from the 3rd NJ will be at New Bridge to answer questions about military life in the 18th century. Free pumpkin per child (first 75 kids) courtesy of Home Depot.

Help raise funds for a Hall of History Museum celebrating Bergen County's storied past. Baronfest will be held from 1:00 - 5:00 pm at Historic New Bridge Landing, 1201 Main Street, River Edge, NJ. Admission: $15 per adult and $10 for students (12 - 20 years old). BCHS members $10. Credit cards accepted and exact cash line will move faster. Have photo ID out for review. Beer and food are an additional cost.

NJ Transit is making additional free parking available at the train stop parking lot. Train service is available on the Pascack Valley Line to the "New Bridge Landing" stop. Historic New Bridge Landing is only one block north-east of the train stop. For more information, call 201-343-9492 or visit www.bergencountyhistory.org.

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Sunday, September 25 -  Titusville, Mercer County
Digging New Jersey: Colonial and Revolutionary War Archaeology

The Washington Crossing Park Association announces its third historic educational program, "Digging New Jersey: Colonial and Revolutionary War Archaeology," on Sunday at the Union Fire Company Hall, River Road in Titusville from 2:00 - 5:30 pm.

Featured speakers will be Dr. Richard Veit, Chair of the History & Anthropology Department at Monmouth University, who will discuss his archaeological explorations at Sandy Hook this summer. His talk, titled "Searching for the 'Lighthouse Fort and the Refugee Town' on Sandy Hook: A Story of Archaeological Research," will provide background on his findings. Richard Hunter, President of Hunter Research, a Trenton-based historic preservation consulting firm, will follow up with a presentation on "30 Years of Archaeology at Revolutionary War Period Sites in Mercer County." Moderating the program will be Larry Kidder, a noted local historian, who will also coordinate a question and answer session.

In addition to the presentation, an exhibit area highlighting historic books and displays will be open throughout the program. Refreshments will also be available. At the end of the program the Association will draw the winners of its first Revolutionary War Artwork Raffle to benefit the Johnson Ferry House. All attendees must pre-register online at www.wcpa-NJ.org or by emailing Bill Marsch at wrmarsch@optimum.net. If you have questions, please address them to Bill Marsch. A $10 donation will be requested, but members of the Association will be invited as a benefit of membership.

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Sunday, September 25 - Washington Township, Burlington County
Antique Glass and Bottle Show

The popular antiques, glass, and bottle show will be held at historic Batsto Village on Sunday. Beginning at 9:00 am, dealers from throughout the tri-state region will display their treasures and products at Batsto, home to a thriving glass business in the mid 19th century. The event will end at 3:00 pm.

In addition to the many dealers on hand, the “Sea Dogs” musical group will keep the area filled with music from the pirate / privateer era. The Sea Dogs performances consist of traditional sea chanties, which are work-songs used on boats and ships, foc’sle songs, sung for entertainment by sailors, and instrumental pieces, played for dancing. in the age of sail.

There is no admission or parking fee for this event and food and drink from a variety of local organizations will be available.  Parking close to vendors will be plentiful. 

Mansion tours are conducted beginning at 10:00 am and conclude at 3:00 pm. The Nature Center will be open with science and nature exhibits and special activities for children.

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.

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Sunday, September 25 - Raritan, Ocean County
The Nazi Spy Pastor in New Jersey

Ocean County Historical Society invites you to learn the story of Carl Krepper, born and educated in Germany and a naturalized citizen of the United States, who served as a Lutheran pastor in four parishes in northern New Jersey while simultaneously working as a Nazi spy in the 1930s and 1940s.

Hear Reverend Frank Watson, Christ Lutheran Church of Whiting, NJ, tell of his discovery in 2002 of papers that detailed the arrest of this Lutheran pastor for espionage. The program will be held on Sunday at 2:00 pm in the Birdsall Room of the OCHS Museum, 26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River, NJ. Refreshments will be served. There is no admittance fee. For more information and to make your reservation, call 732-341-1880.

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Through Monday, October 10 (Columbus Day), 2016 - Bay Head, Ocean County
Tommy's Folly: The 200th Anniversary of Congress Hall

See the current exhibit at the Carroll Gallery, "Tommy's Folly: The 200th Anniversary of Congress Hall." Guest curated by Congress Hall owner Curtis Bashaw and Exit Zero publisher Jack Wright, this exhibit features the history of Congress Hall, one of America's most illustrious hotels. The exhibit is in the Carriage House of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Admission is free. Exhibit is open from Friday, April 29 through Monday, October 10. Open daily; times vary. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Through Monday, October 10 (Columbus Day), 2016 - Bay Head, Ocean County
All Aboard!

All Aboard! is an insightful look at how the railroad impacted on the development of the northern Barnegat Bay barrier island. A model railroad diorama of the Bay Head Railroad Loop, photographs, maps, videos, and railroad memorabilia will be on display. The museum is open to the public and a small donation is suggested for non-members. The Bay Head Historical Society and the Loveland Homestead Museum is located at the corner of Bridge and Bay Avenues at the Bay Head/Point Pleasant border. Summer hours: Friday through Monday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. For more information, visit www.BayHeadHistoricalSociety.com.

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Through October 23, 2016 - Morristown, Morris County
"Fine, Fancy, and Fashionable: 125 Years Dressing the Bride"

"Fine, Fancy, and Fashionable: 125 Years Dressing the Bride" offers an opportunity to experience the joy, magic, and elegance of 30 different wedding days and a visual timeline of bridal dresses from Mary Johnson Condit's 1840 silk gauze A-line gown to Alice Woodridge's 1954 lace tea-length dress. Join a bride and groom as they arrive at their reception in the dining room, a bride and her mother on the special day, and a busy bride creating her gown on an 1852 Florence sewing machine. Bridal accessories including shoes, gloves, veils, headpieces, photos, invitations, newspaper clippings, diary entries, and even a cake-topper, complete the display. The exhibit is on view through October 23, 2016. Acorn Hall is located at 68 Morris Avenue, Morristown, NJ. For more information, call 973-267-3465 or visit www.acornhall.org.

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1st and 3rd Saturdays through November 2016 - Atlantic Highlands, Monmouth County
Atlantic Highlands Architectural Walking Tours

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Through December 31, 2016 - Morristown, Morris County

History of NJ Diners
Children Friendly

When was the last time you ate at a diner? If you are like millions in New Jersey, the answer is not too long ago. Dubbed “the land of diners,” New Jersey’s highways and main streets are dotted with silver airstreams and neon signs of the classic American diner. Moreover, New Jersey was and still is the diner manufacturing industry’s hub. This exhibition at the Morris Museum explores the rich history of the Garden State’s favorite casual eatery through classic photographs and historical artifacts, as well as original oil paintings by Wyckoff, NJ based artist Mark Oberndorf. Admission: adults, $10; seniors and children ages 3-18 $7; children under 3, free. The Morris Museum is located at 6 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown, NJ. For more information, call 973-971-3706 or visit www.morrismuseum.org.

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Through December 31, 2016 - Far Hills, Somerset County
More Than a Game Exhibit at the USGA Museum
Children Friendly

Visitors to the USGA Museum in Far Hills will be surprised to learn that there is much to discover about the game of golf. Originally installed in February of 2014, the exhibit "More Than a Game" focuses on how the creation of African-American golf clubs positively impacted the community, despite the pervasive prejudice and racism of the Jim Crow era. They founded institutions that celebrated the game, and their culture, setting a new standard for what a free and open society could be.

Local schools and youth groups are invited to arrange a field trip to the museum to learn about diversity in golf through the exhibit's centerpiece which is the story of William "Bill" Powell and the Clearview Golf Club. Founded in 1946 in East Canton, Ohio, Clearview is the only public golf course in the United States designed, built, owned, and operated by an African American. Celebrating their 70th anniversary this year, its existence is a testimonial to the vision, determination and integrity of Powell, who overcame numerous obstacles in the pursuit of his dream. Lesson plans are available upon request for teachers and group leaders prior to or following their onsite experience.

Powell's Clearview Golf Club was not the only African-American golf institution founded in this era. The exhibit also honors other clubs that made significant contributions to minority golf including Shady Rest Country Club in Scotch Plains, NJ, home course of John Shippen, the first American and the first African American to play in a U.S. Open Championship in 1896. Also featured are significant trophies from the United Golfers Association and many other various artifacts that celebrate the men and women who made sacrifices in an effort to realize their dream of equality on the greens.

The USGA is one of the world's foremost authorities on research, development and support of sustainable golf course management practices. It serves as a primary steward for the game's history and invests in the development of the game through the delivery of its services and its ongoing "For the Good of the Game" grants program. Additionally, the USGA's Course Rating and Handicap systems are used on six continents in more than 50 countries.

For more information about the museum, this exhibit and field trip opportunities, please contact Kim Gianetti at 908-326-1948 or by email at kgianetti@usga.org. For more information about the USGA, visit www.usga.org.

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Through June 2017 - Ocean Township, Monmouth County
Presidents at the Monmouth County Shore Exhibit

One hundred years ago this September, 25,000 people gathered on the grounds of what is today Monmouth University—then a private estate called Shadow Lawn—to see Woodrow Wilson officially accept the nomination of the Democratic Party for a second Presidential run. Wilson was following a popular tradition among American Presidents to retreat to our slice of the Jersey Shore to escape the heat and hubbub of Washington. At the Eden Woolley House, this major exhibit tells the wide-ranging stories of eleven Presidents who spent time here, at the Monmouth County shore.

Mrs. Lincoln got the ball rolling
There’s a case to be made that it all started with Mary Todd Lincoln. Mrs. Lincoln travelled to Long Branch in the summer of 1861, probably at the invitation of William Newell, family friend and then supervisor of the life-saving services in New Jersey. Long Branch was already a popular resort, and national coverage of the First Lady’s visit added immeasurably to its fame and appeal.

That fame and appeal continued to draw the wealthy and influential—including the seven presidents who vacationed in resort city, starting with Ulysses Grant.

Seven Presidents in Long Branch
In 1870, a group of wealthy businessmen who summered in the Elberon section of Long Branch presented President Grant with an oceanfront cottage where he vacationed for the next 15 years. When Grant died in 1885, city officials feared the resort might lose its cachet. They needn’t have worried. Six of the next ten Presidents--Hayes, Garfield, Arthur, Harrison, McKinley, and Wilson--chose to spend time in Long Branch.

The most tragic of these Presidential visits was James Garfield’s last. Mrs. Garfield was in Long Branch recuperating from illness, when, on July 2, 1881, Garfield was shot by an assassin in the Washington train station. He was taken to the White House, where his condition worsened. In hope the sea air might help, Garfield was taken to Elberon. Famously, locals worked through the night to build the spur to carry the President’s railroad car from Elberon Station to the ocean side cottage. He died there 12 days later, September 19.

Beyond Long Branch
Long Branch was not the only Monmouth County destination of Presidents. Teddy Roosevelt, FDR, and Richard Nixon visited our area, if only, in some cases, for a political rally. And then, of course, there’s Warren Harding, whose local connection was a bit less public and a good deal more scandalous. Join us June 26 to learn the full story. The new exhibit is on view through June 2017.

The Township of Ocean Historical Museum offers exhibits on the history of coastal Monmouth County and a full calendar of events. The Museum also houses a library and archive of local history. It is open, free of charge, 1:00 - 4:00 pm, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday, 7:00 - 9:00 pm Thursday evenings, and 1:00 - 4:00 pm the first and second Sundays of each month. The Township of Ocean Historical Museum is located at 703 Deal Road, Ocean, NJ. For more information, visit www.oceanmuseum.org.

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