NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 5/6/17 - 5/7/17

 New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

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Saturday, May 6 - Princeton, Mercer County

Princeton University Walking Tour

This popular 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 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. Tour begins at Palmer Square's Tiger Park, Princeton, NJ at 10:00 am and ends at 12:30 pm. Space is limited. For more information and to reserve tickets, call 609-921-6748 or visit www.princetonhistory.org.

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Saturday, May 6 - Upper Freehold, Monmouth County
A Quilting Bee
Children Friendly Site

Stitch yourself in to history at our quilting bee. Novices as well as those comfortable working with needle and thread are welcome to participate. Working together sharing stories and needlework tips, a quilting bee creates a sense of community as warm and lovely as the quilt. Stop by during this free program from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.

While there, visit the 19th century gristmill and the farm buildings set in a beautiful landscape. Walnford is located at 62 Walnford Road, 08501. For more information, call 609-259-6275 or visit www.monmouthcountyparks.com.

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Saturday, May 6 -  Morristown, Morris County
Preservation Month Kick-off
Children Friendly Site

Experience new activities designed especially for families and tours that highlight some preservation projects completed at Historic Speedwell from 10:00 am - 6:00 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. For more information, call 973-285-6550 or visit www.morrisparks.net.

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Saturday, May 6 -  Morris Township, Morris County
Explore the Farm Wagon Ride and Yarn Dolls
Children Friendly Event and Site

On Saturday at Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, Board the open-air wagon for a leisurely ride around the historic farm from 10:15 am - 12:00 noon.

From 1:00 - 3:30 pm, kids can get excited to go back in time and make their own yarn dolls, and play family-friendly games that were popular long ago. Parental supervision required.

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 6 - Sandy Hook, Monmouth County
Battery Gunnison/New Peck Restoration
Children Friendly Event

The Army Ground Forces Association volunteer group will be dressed in WWII era uniform performing restorations projects and interpreting Battery Gunnison/New Peck at Sandy Hook, a unit of Gateway National Recreation Area. Learn more about the restoration and the historic time of January 1943 at Fort Hancock. This free event will be held from 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm at Battery Gunnison. For more information, call 718-354-4606 or visit www.nps.gov/gate.

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Saturday, May 6 - Montclair, Essex County
Historic Walking Tour of Essex County Anderson Park

Before Anderson Park existed, three houses and a fire station sat on the Montclair property. Find out where they went and other surprising stories about how this Olmsted-designed Essex County park came to be created over a century ago, how it shaped Upper Montclair, and how it led to the formation of other Montclair parks. Also hear about efforts to rejuvenate the landscape of this park, on the National Register of Historic Places. This tour is free. Meet at the boulder at the park's northeast entrance, 274 Bellevue Avenue, east of North Mountain Avenue, Upper Montclair, NJ at 10:00 am. Raindate: May 7, same time. Sponsored by Friends of Anderson Park. For more information, call 973-477-7207, e-mail lisanne@friendsofandersonpark.com, or visit www.FriendsOfAndersonPark.com.

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Saturday, May 6 - Morris Township, Morris County
Caroline's Special Place: Cottage & Garden Craft
Children Friendly Site

On Saturday from 1:45 - 2:30 pm at Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, get to know Caroline Foster and her ‘Temple of Abiding Peace’ cottage. Caroline Foster was a woman ahead of her time. She built her own Cape Cod-style cottage almost entirely by herself. Learn how she did it, and why historic structures are worth saving.

Admission: $6/adult, $5/senior (65+), $4/child (ages 4 -16), $2/child (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 6 - Montclair, Essex County
Walking Tour of Mount Hebron Cemetery

Founded in 1863, the Mt. Hebron Cemetery was established on farmland donated by the area's earliest Dutch settlers. Plots include some of the oldest family names in Speertown (Upper Montclair) and Cranetown (Montclair). The 30-acre cemetery is the smallest in Montclair, and perhaps one of the most beautiful, with stunning views from its location on the eastern slope of First Mountain. The tour will highlight interesting grave imagery and notable people interred. Tour led by Lisanne Renner/Historian, Friends of Anderson Park and Helen Fallon/Trustee, Montclair History Center. This will be an all-walking tour. Admission: $10/person.

To register, e-mail mail@montclairhistorical.org or call 973-744-1796. Rain date Sunday, May 7. Please be prepared to park on Valley Road near the cemetery entrance at 851 Valley Road, Montclair, NJ as parking within the cemetery may be limited, and meet near cemetery office at 1:00 pm. For more information, call 973-744-1796 or visit www.montclairhistory.org.

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Saturday, May 6 - Cape May, Cape May County
Dr. Physick's Neighborhood Walking Tour

Stroll around Dr. Physick's neighborhood on tree-lined Washington Street and hear about the families who lived there and the architecture of the homes. Explore one of Cape May's great mysteries - why the Doctor chose to live in this area of Cape May. Tour takes place Saturday at 11:15 am. Admission is for $10 adults and $7 for children (ages 3-12). Combine the walking tour with lunch at the Carriage House Café & Tearoom for $20; lunch voucher good from 12:00 - 4:00 pm. The Physick Estate is located at 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. 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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Saturday, May 6 - Cape May, Cape May County
The Dr. Is In

Meet "Dr. Emlen Physick" on his Estate's grounds from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm on Saturday. Opt for a guided tour of his house with its new theme in 2017: "Let's Go Shopping! Victorian Consumer Culture." Admission: $12 for adults and $8 for children (ages 3-12). The Physick Estate is located at 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. 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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Saturday, May 6 - Cape May, Cape May County
Cape May Time Capsule Trolley Tour

Experience Cape May’s history up close, through the eyes of those who lived it. Meet characters from the past who visited, lived and worked in Cape May, as Cape May history. Tour begins Saturday at 11:15 am. Admission is $35 and includes a boxed lunch of tea sandwiches. Tickets can be purchased at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ or at the Washington Street Mall Info Booth. Tour leaves from the Washington Street Mall. 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, May 6 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County
Sheep Shearing
Children Friendly Event

On Saturday at Howell Living Farm, Eugene Sheninger of Rockaway Twp. will highlight the 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.org.

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Saturday, May 6 - Lambertville, Hunterdon County
Opening Day Celebration at the Holcombe Jimison Farmstead
Children Friendly Site & Event

On Saturday from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, visit the Holcombe Jimison Farmstead for their opening day celebration. There will be craft/farm demonstrations of everyday existence skills in 1700 - 1800s. Examples of blacksmithing, letterpress printing, belt driven machine, shop rope twisting, and an international herb garden display. Tractors, cars, and engines will be running from the farmstead collection and some from the Delaware Valley Old Time Power Equipment group and the Central Jersey Antique Truck Club. For kids there will be hoops, quill pen writing, ice cream making, corn shelling, scale weighing, and more. Come see our 8 Foot Chicken -"Mr. Famous." There will also be a silent auction of some antique equipment. Hamburgers, frankfurters and refreshments will be for sale. Free admission for all - donations appreciated. The Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum is located at 1605 Daniel Bray Highway, Lambertville, NJ. For more information, call 609-397-2752.

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Saturday, May 6 - Farmingdale, Monmouth County
Late Spring Flea Market

Join us for our first flea market of the season! Hunt for treasures among knick-knacks, upcycled furniture, collectibles, signs, art, bottles, and much more! Rain date is Sunday, May 7. Gates open for shoppers at 8:00 am and close at 3:00 pm. Admission is $1 adults, children under 12 years old are free.

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 - Sunday,  May 6 - 7 - Princeton, Mercer County
Morven in May

One of New Jersey's most anticipated spring rituals, Morven in May, will take place Saturday and Sunday at Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton. Morven in May is a juried exhibition and sale of contemporary, American-made fine craft and welcomes a select group of thirty-six professional fine craft artisans from around the country. Art mediums include glass, ceramics, decorative and wearable fiber, mixed media, jewelry, furniture and basketry, and all are displayed in gallery-style booths in a grand tent on the museum’s Great Lawn. All proceeds from Morven in May help fund the museum's exhibitions, historic gardens, and educational programs.

Along with the beautifully crafted art objects, Morven offers for sale a distinct collection of plants for your garden. These include fragrant heirloom flowers, unique new varieties of annuals and perennials, carefully chosen flowering shrubs, and select plants propagated from Morven’s own garden.

A full list of the Morven in May exhibitors and images of their work is available on Morven's website, www.morven.org.

Morven in May opens to the public on Saturday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and Sunday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. Tickets for the Saturday and Sunday admission are available at the tent entrance and are $10, $8 for Friends of Morven. There is no charge for Plant Sale, only. For more information visit www.morven.org/events/event/morven-in-may.

A National Historic Landmark, Morven Museum & Garden is situated on five pristine acres in the heart of Princeton, New Jersey. This former New Jersey Governor's Mansion showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Garden State through regular exhibitions, educational programs and special events. Morven Museum & Garden is located at 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ . For more information, call 609-924-8144 or visit www.morven.org.

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Saturday - Sunday,  May 6 - 7 - Monmouth County
Weekend in Old Monmouth
Children Friendly Sites

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 6 from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and Sunday, May 7 from 12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m. The tour includes 48 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.

Three tour sites are new: the Crawford House (circa early 1800s) in Tinton Falls, the Spring Lake Historical Society Museum in Spring Lake and the Stephen Crane House (circa 1878) in Asbury Park.

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 https://co.monmouth.nj.us/PressDetail.aspx?ID=2474.

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Sunday, May 7 - Pennsauken, Camden County

Colonial Earth Day

On Sunday, come spend the day along the Pennsauken Creek at the 306 year old Burrough-Dover House as the Pennsauken Historical Society holds a “Colonial Earth Day” from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. The historic Burrough-Dover House, and attached Nostalgia Museum, will be open for tours and special presenters will discuss our ancestors’ relationship with their environment. There will be education animals on-site as well as demonstrations of Native American games in which visitors may participate. This is a free event. The Burrough-Dover House is located at 9201 Burrough Dover Lane, Pennsauken, NJ. For more information, or call 856-662-3002, visit www.facebook.com/PennsaukenHistoricalSociety, or e-mail pennsaukenhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

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Sunday, May 7 - Basking Ridge, Somerset County
Art Imitates Life - The Great Oak Tree Art Exhibit

"Gone but not forgotten" will ring true as visitors to the Brick Academy in Basking Ridge, experience a special art exhibit that celebrates the historic oak tree that once stood proud in the center of Basking Ridge at the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church on Finley Avenue.

The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills (THSSH) has invited artists who reside in Somerset Hills to create a work of art that expresses how this mighty oak has touched them. More than 20 artists responded with works that range from poetry and song to paintings and photographic images.

Executive Director of The Center for Contemporary Art, Elie Porter Trubert, has kindly volunteered to act as curator of this exhibit. On display at the Brick Academy are works from Eileen Barna, Alex Bugatti, Suzanne Cline, Tammy DeVoe, Jack Donohue, Meeta Garg, Anne Lindabury Lanphear, Allan Luisi, Kathi Paton, Stella Perna, Madeline Polidor-LeBoeuf, Nancy Robinson, Jonathan Torgrimsen, David Van DeBrake, and Martine White, of Basking Ridge; Linda Arnold of Liberty Corner; Martha Kelshaw and Tom Schneider of Bernardsville; and David Clark, Mary Gunning and Edward Riedinger of Bedminster.

The full exhibit will be shown at the Brick Academy for one day only - Sunday, May 7th from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. Afterwards, selected pieces will travel to Bernards Township, Bernardsville, and Bedminster's Clarence Dillon Public Libraries, as well as to the USGA Golf Museum in Far Hills, where they will remain on display for an indefinite period of time.

The Brick Academy is located at 15 W. Oak Street, Basking Ridge, NJ. For more information, call 908-221-1770 or e-mail info@THSSH.org.

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Sunday, May 7 - Ringwood, Passaic County
Double Header 19th Century Baseball Game
Children Friendly Event

Batter up! On Sunday, 19th century baseball returns to Ringwood Manor, and this year, it's a double header between the Flemington Neshanocks and the Brandywine Base Ball Club! The teams will be facing off with one another, with the first pitch being tossed out for games beginning at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. A local fan favorite event, baseball enthusiasts both young and old are encouraged to come see America's favorite pastime played according to 1873 rules and regulations. 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. The public is invited to come see how the game of baseball has evolved and changed over 125 years!

Both the Flemington Neshanocks and the Brandywine Base Ball Club are modern recreations of historic teams. The original Neshanocks club was established in 1866 in Flemington, NJ and consisted of many of the towns prominent residents. While these players may have been prominent businessmen in town, their skill did not translate well on the baseball diamond, losing to rivals in games with scores of 77 to 25! The Brandywine club was originally founded in 1865 in West Chester, Pennsylvania. It survived for more than 50 years as an amateur and semi-pro team, producing a number of major-league professionals.

Today, the Flemington Neshanocks and the Brandywine Base Ball Club are both 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 origins of our national pastime all over the tri-state area using high standards of accuracy and authenticity based on lengthy research. But most of all, they want people to enjoy the historic sport as much as they do!

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. Never heard of those terms? Do you have questions about the history of the game? Want to try the equipment yourself? Come 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 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 1 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, within Ringwood State Park. For more information, call 973-962-2240 or visit www.ringwoodmanor.org.

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Sunday, May 7 - Maplewood, Essex County
From Parlor to Attic – an informal afternoon dedicated to the history Durand-Hedden

Have you ever wondered how Durand-Hedden House became Maplewood’s historic house museum? When it was built? Who lived there?

Join us on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm for an informal afternoon of exploring Durand-Hedden’s nooks, crannies, and collections. Find answers to these questions and others such as:

• Did famous artist Asher B. Durand have anything to do with the house?
• What were the rooms used for? 
• How did that implement work?  
• Was the house restored and, if so, how did it look before?  
• Who runs Durand-Hedden and can I be a part of it?

The event is free. Donations are appreciated. After the program, at 4:15pm, there will be a brief Annual Meeting for members.

Be sure to also see the fascinating exhibit on the history of the College Hill neighborhood From Farm to Suburb: The Birth of College Hill. which explores the evolution of a section of Maplewood from a dairy farm to a popular neighborhood of 300 houses.

Out in the carriage house, the Country Store will be selling 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 decorative ceramics, vintage photos, hiking sticks and more. You’ll also discover the hard-to-find original Doors of Maplewood poster, Smile, the history of Olympic Park, and the new acid-free reproduction of the charming 1931 map of Maplewood.

Durand-Hedden House is dedicated to telling the history of the development of Maplewood, New Jersey and the surrounding area in new and engaging ways. It is located in Grasmere Park at 523 Ridgewood Road in Maplewood, New Jersey. For more information, call 973-763-7712 or visit www.durandhedden.org.

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Sunday, May 7 - Eatontown, Monmouth County
The Monmouth County Genealogy Society Topic: "Get More Organized"

"Get More Organized" will be the theme of the Sunday, May 7, 2017 meeting of the Monmouth County Genealogy Society at the Community Center,72 Broad Street, Eatontown. Beverly Yackel, lecturer, researcher, and super-organizer will explain her techniques for organizing genealogy research at 1:30 pm. The program is free and the public is welcome.

"Keeping track of links between people is at the heart of genealogy research" Ms. Yackel says. "Keeping track of all the documents, notes, website information, photographs, and correspondence about our ancestors can be daunting. We remember that we did find a really great piece of information on our third great-grandfather . . but . . where is it? We can't find it. In which stack of paper waiting to be filed away is that item hiding?"

Bev's presentation is in two parts - "Ways to Get More Organized" and "Re-Organizing Your Research Files." The first part includes such topics as "Basic Steps of Getting Started", "Your Office Space: Keeping Track of Correspondence", "Helpful Forms", "Creating Timelines" and the biggie - "PROCRASTINATION."

The second part of her talk is helpful to the experienced genealogist who should know better but just hasn't mastered organization. This is where Bev will recount her own efforts to re-organize and how she fought her procrastination nemesis.

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Sunday, May 7 - Westfield, Union County
Welcome Spring with Flower Power
Children Friendly Event

Birds singing, flowers blooming - is spring here at last? Visit the Miller-Cory House Museum on Sunday from 2:00 - 4:00 pm to "Welcome Spring with Flower Power." Children may decorate a flower pot and then choose a flower or other plant to put inside, and also may make festive paper flowers.

The program includes tours of the fully restored circa 1740 farmhouse museum, as well as open-hearth cooking demonstrations featuring using period techniques and recipes. Admission is $4 for ages 13 and older, $3 for ages 3-12, and free age 2 and younger. The Miller-Cory House Museum is located at 614 Mountain Avenue, Westfield, NJ. For more information, call 908-232-1776, e-mail millercorymuseum@gmail.com, or visit www.millercoryhouse.org.

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Sunday, May 7 - Morristown, Morris County
Alexander Hamilton All Day at the Ford Mansion

10:00 and 11:00 am Tours:
Come take a tour of the Ford Mansion which will focus on Alexander Hamilton's role in the War for Independence at Morristown and beyond. Hear about his assignments during the Morristown Encampment and his whirlwind courtship with Elizabeth Schuyler.

1:00, 2:00 and 3:00 pm Tours:

Meet Elizabeth Schuyler-Hamilton to listen as she tells how much Alexander Hamilton impacted the war and foundation of our government during a tour of the Ford Mansion, General Washington's Headquarters 1779-1780.

The Ford Mansion at Morristown National Historical Park is located at 30 Washington Place, Morristown, NJ. Admission is $7 per adult. Children 15 and under free. No reservations necessary. For more information, call 973-539-2016 x 204 or visit www.nps.gov/morr.

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Sunday, May 7 - 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, NJ. For more information, visit http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~njsrhps/museum.html.

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Sunday, May 7 - Hoboken, Hudson County

Hoboken WWI Lecture Series - Heaven, Hell, or Hoboken
Heaven, Hell, or Hoboken: The U.S. Army Port of Embarkation in Hoboken During World War I

In the summer of 1914, nationalist fervor drove European nations into war. Although the United States did not engage until the spring of 1917, the conflict later known as World War I had an enormous impact on Hoboken, NJ, a small city with large immigrant communities and a busy port.

As early as July 1916, the war intruded on Hudson County with the explosion of a munitions depot on Black Tom Island, just off the coast of Jersey City. The explosion obliterated the island, shattering glass for miles around, yet the incident was initially downplayed, to avoid ramping up public support for America's entry into World War I.

When America formally entered the war on April 6, 1917, Hoboken's waterfront became central to the war effort as the government seized the German ships docked there and commandeered the piers, which became the Army's port of embarkation for American troops. Some 2 million soldiers passed through Hoboken on their way to or from Europe. Near the end of the war, General John Pershing rallied the troops for a swift conclusion to the war with the rallying cry, "Heaven, Hell, or Hoboken."

The public is invited to learn more about the "war to end all wars" and its legacy a hundred years later through a series of 10 lectures by visiting authors, scholars and professors, mostly on Sundays at 4 pm, through May 7, 2017. Admission is free.

On Sunday at 4:00 pm attend the lecture entitled, "Heaven, Hell, or Hoboken: The U.S. Army Port of Embarkation in Hoboken During World War I," by Mark Van Ellis, PhD, Professor of History, Queensborough Community College, and author of America and World War I: A Traveler's Guide (Interlink Books, 2014). The lecture is held at the Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson Street, Hoboken, NJ. For more information, call 201-656-2240 or visit www.hobokenmuseum.org.

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Sunday, May 7 - 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. Admission is free.

The theme of this month's exhibit is "Pteridomania:  The Victorian Fern Craze." The Victorian fern craze led to adventure, romance, and crime. There will also be some examples of "Scherenschnitte" on display - The Victorian art of papercutting.

Be sure to visit Miss Elizabeth's Shoppe located in the original kitchen of the Museum.  The Shoppe is packed with new and vintage items for sale, perfect for spring or anytime.

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 973-697-0258 or visit www.jthistoricalsociety.org.

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Sunday, May 7 - Paterson, Passaic County
Pianist Sophia Agranovich at Lambert Castle

On Sunday at 5:00 pm in Lambert Castle, the Passaic County Historical Society will welcome back Pianist Sophia Agranovich, an award-winning virtuoso pianist, recording artist, educator, and program director. A Steinway Artist and a Juilliard graduate, she is "a bold, daring pianist in the tradition of the Golden Age Romantics...A tigress of the piano" - Fanfare. The program will feature works by Beethoven, Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and Liszt.Admission to the concert is $15. Seating is limited, 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 7 - Haddonfield, Camden County
Revolutionary Tea with Stacy Roth

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Sunday, May 7 - 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, May 7 - Westampton, Burlington County

Amelia Mott Gummere & Colonial Church Silver

Once again in celebration of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in The State of New Jersey's 125th anniversary, we are commemorating the achievements of Amelia Mott Gummere. Born in New Jersey to a prominent family Amelia became a Pennsylvania Dame in 1897.

Quaker Historian and Dame Amelia Mott Gummere researched, presented, and co-authored a book on Colonial Church Silver. Historical researcher Sue Huesken will share how she accomplished this challenge without the aid of the internet. Mott Gummere hosted several unique exhibits featuring this silver. Join us as we celebrate her life and accomplishments.

Admission is $10 per person. Seating is limited; prepaid reservations are required to guarantee seating. Peachfield is located at 180 Burrs Road Westampton, NJ. For more information and to reserve a seat, call 609-267-6996 or e-mail colonialdamesnj@comcast.net.

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Sunday, May 7 - Greenwich, Cumberland County

Seasonal Reopening of the 1730 Gibbon House and Speaker Series

The Cumberland County Historical Society invites you to attend the seasonal reopening of the 1730 Gibbon House on Sunday from 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm. Visit the Gibbon House where you will see the formal dining room, the kitchen with its huge walk-in fireplace, the exhibits of locally-made rush-seated "Ware" chairs, beautiful samplers, quilts, and many children's toys. The c. 1730 Gibbon House is located at 960 Ye Greate Street, Greenwich, NJ. Light refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to the public.

Also on Sunday, at 2:00 pm in the Warren and Reba Lummis Genealogical and Historical Library, Mr. Bill Callahan will discuss the Final Report for the Swedish Granary Tree Ring Project of 2016.  This event is free and open to the public. The 981 Ye Greate Street, Greenwich NJ.

For more information about either program, call 856-455-8580.

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Through Sunday, May 21, 2017 - Princeton, Mercer County
Bruce Springsteen: A Photographic Journey

Like Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, and Bob Dylan before him, Bruce Springsteen is a pillar of American music. Springsteen has turned his guitar into an instrument of change, using it to tap into the American psyche and connect with the blue-collar man and woman through his melodies and lyrics. From his humble beginnings of rehearsing in New Jersey garages to selling out arenas around the world, Springsteen's career has spanned decades and crossed genres-and has never wavered from its upward trajectory.

This fall, Morven Museum & Garden presents Bruce Springsteen: A Photographic Journey. Traveling from the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles, this exhibition features forty photographs of the rock legend and video interviews with five of the six noted photographers: Danny Clinch, Ed Gallucci, Eric Meola, Barry Schneier, Pamela Springsteen, and Frank Stefanko. Together they revisit Springsteen's career as a frontman and songwriter, capturing his charisma and off-stage vulnerability.

The exhibition is on view from November 18, 2016 through May 21, 2017 at Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ. Hours: Wednesday - Sunday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. For more information, call 609-924-8144 or visit www.morven.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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Sunday, February 19 through Sunday, June 25, 2017 - Morristown, Morris County
1917: World War, Women’s Rights, and Weaponry Sciences Exhibit Opening

In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the United States’ entry into World War I, Morris County Historical Society offers a provocative exhibit highlighting The Great War’s impact on Morris County. The new exhibit 1917: World War, Women’s Rights, and Weaponry Sciences, displayed throughout Acorn Hall, will be available from Sunday, February 19 through Sunday, June 25, 2017. Stories of Morris County’s brave men and women during the WWI era will be complimented by authentic WWI uniforms, weaponry and militaria, period clothing, and ephemera.

Focusing on sacrifices of Morris County residents, the exhibit honors the men and women who gave their lives during the war, highlights the culture clash of women seeking recognition as equals and the right to vote, and features the tremendous advances in weaponry science credited to the work of men and women at Picatinny Arsenal and throughout Morris County.

The Morris County Historical Society at Acorn Hall is open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, and on Sundays from 1:00- 4:00 pm. For a tour of Acorn Hall and to see the exhibit is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for students, and Free for children under age 12 and MCHS members. To see the exhibit, only, is one half of the price of admission.

The Morris County Historical Society, founded in 1946, is a member-supported, 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Acorn Hall, an Italianate Villa, is located at 68 Morris Avenue, Morristown, NJ. For more information, call 973-267-3465 or visit www.acornhall.org.

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Sundays through June 30, 2017 - Piscataway, Middlesex County
A Revolutionary Legacy: the Cornelius Low House 275 Exhibit

The newest exhibit to open at the Middlesex County Museum exhibit delves into the history of the Low family and the role they played in the shaping of the United States. A Revolutionary Legacy: the Cornelius Low House 275 exhibit is housed inside the County’s Historic Cornelius Low House/Middlesex County Museum. 

This seven-room exhibit contains artifacts that date to the 1700s and includes handcrafted furniture from New Brunswick, paintings by artist Micah Williams, a document signed by Cornelius Low and his wife Johanna, portrait miniatures of several Low family members, and a chair that George Washington used on a visit to the New Brunswick area. These items are on loan from the DAR Jersey Blue Chapter Buccleuch Mansion, the Suffolk County Historical Society and private collections.

The Cornelius Low House/Middlesex County Museum is open on Sundays from 1:00 - 4:00 pm and is located at 1225 River Road, Piscataway, NJ. For more information, call 732-745-4177 or visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov.

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Through September 3, 2017 - Madison, Morris County
Garden State: Living Off the Land in Early New Jersey Exhibit
Family Friendly

How far is the distance from farm to table? For families in early New Jersey it was measured in inches. These families did not make their living “by bread alone.” They relied not only on wheat and corn, but also on bees, cows, apples, and vegetables to support themselves and their communities. The Garden State: Living off the Land in Early New Jersey explores the technology and tools, from bee smokers to cradle scythes, that farmers in 18th and 19th century New Jersey utilized in order to survive. The exhibit also features a new generation of Garden State farmers who are working to make the distance from farm to table a little bit shorter for today’s families.

This exhibit is on display through September 3, 20017 at the Museum of Early Trades and Crafts located at 9 Main Street, Madison, NJ. Admission: Adults – $5; Students, children and adults 65+ – $3; METC members and children under 6 – FREE; Family maximum rate – $15.00. For more information, call 973-377-2982 or visit www.metc.org.

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Last Sunday of the month through Fall 2017 - Woodbury, Gloucester County
White Lace and Promises: Two Centuries of Weddings Exhibit

White Lace and Promises: Two Centuries of Weddings, is the Gloucester County Historical Society Museum's most comprehensive wedding exhibit to date! This gorgeous exhibit features over 50 wedding gowns from the museum’s collection, representing the time period from the 1810’s through most of the 20th century. From the hooped dresses and bustles of the 19th century, to the many variations of gowns during the 20th century, nearly every popular wedding gown style is represented. Also showcased are bridal accessories including headpieces, veils, shoes, fans, lingerie, and jewelry. Documentation such as invitations and wedding certificates, along with beautiful photographs from many of these weddings, are also on display. This extensive exhibit will be up until fall of 2017 – do not miss it!

The Gloucester County Historical Society Museum hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm, and the last Sunday of the month from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. If interested in scheduling a private tour during non-public hours to see this exhibit, this may be organized for you and/or your group with advance. Adult admission $5; children 6-18 years $1; children under 6 free. The Gloucester County Historical Society Museum is located at 58 N. Broad Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096. For more information, call 856-848-8531 or visit www.rootsweb.com/~njgchs.

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