NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 11/7/20 - 11/8/20

New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

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

Saturday, November 7 - Tewksbury, Hunterdon County

Tewksbury Historical Society to Hold a Tag Sale

The Tewksbury Historical Society will hold a Tag Sale on Saturday from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, at the Oldwick Carriage House, 5 James Street, Oldwick, NJ. The sale will be held rain or shine. The society will be selling quality items, which are very clean and in working operation. Antiques, furniture, china, dishes, housewares, garden items, costume jewelry and linens will be among the available merchandise. In compliance with COVID-19 restrictions, social distancing will be observed and patrons and staff must wear face coverings.

The Tewksbury Historical Society is a New Jersey not-for-profit corporation and was organized for the purpose of furthering research into and the preservation and dissemination of the history of the Township of Tewksbury. The Society requests donations of documents, records and small artifacts related to Tewksbury’s History for its archives. 

Society membership is open to anyone interested in the history of Tewksbury Township. Members receive a quarterly newsletter and advance notice of all programs and events the Society holds throughout the year. The Society holds three regular meetings per year on the third Sunday in January, March, and May with a fourth being the Covered Dish Supper with program in November, each with an outstanding historical speaker. 

Anyone interested in volunteering for any of the cited events for 2021 may call THS Headquarters at 908-832-6734 or email tewksburyhistory@earthlink.net. Society information and membership details can be found at www.tewksburyhistory.net.

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Saturday, November 7 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County

Cider Making

Children Friendly Event

Fresh apple cider awaits those who help make it! To earn a taste, all you have to do is turn the crank of the cider press...and then help re-fill the hopper with the Macs, Cortlands, and Red Delicious apples that make for a perfect blend. In the farmhouse kitchen, apple pie is in the oven and applesauce is on the stove. This event runs from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.

**Please note that fall 2020 Saturday programs will be modified to encourage social distancing and reflect current State guidelines for public events. Visitors are required to carry masks at all times, and wear them when social distancing isn't possible.

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, November 7

Sojourner Truth: Ain’t I A Woman, Portrayed by Dr. Daisy Century

Virtual Program

On Saturday from 10:30 to 11:30 am via Zoom, the Plainfield Public Library and the Historical Society of Plainfield / Drake House Museum Present "Sojourner Truth: Ain’t I A Woman." Sojourner Truth will be portrayed by Dr. Daisy Century of the American Historical Theater Company. Dr. Daisy Century gives a commanding performance of Ms. Truth, bringing to life a woman undeterred by incredible obstacles, a woman who mixed with the leading figures of her day, including Susan B. Anthony, Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant. Audience members are urged to consider the twin goals of racial and gender parity of equal importance.

This is a FREE VIRTUAL program. Email sarah.hull@plfdpl.info or drakehouseplainfieldnj@gmail.com for details. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_hAsnmp6OQs-_BBEt9pWWQw.

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Saturday, November 7 - Farmingdale, Monmouth County
Christmas and Holiday Craft Show

Come to Allaire Village on Saturday between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm for a Christmas and Holiday Craft Show.

ADMISSION TICKETS MUST BE PRE-PURCHASED PRIOR TO THE EVENT! NO EXCEPTIONS. A limited quantity of tickets will be available.

Over 80 crafters, Allaire artisans, floral exhibits, historic demonstrations, and more to kick off the holiday season in style!

Join us for our Christmas and Holiday Craft Show and Historic Demonstrations throughout the village. Local artists will be demonstrating their work. Paintings, pottery, textiles and more! We will have craft demonstrations at the Carpenter, Blacksmith, and Tinsmith shops! General Store, Bakery, Food Truck - Pilsen Gourmet will be open throughout the day!

Admission is $5 per person, 6 years old and up. All proceeds of the day to benefit the educational programming at the Historic Village at Allaire!

RULES FOR THE EVENT IN LIGHT OF COVID-19:

* Patrons and Vendors MUST wear a mask inside our historic buildings and outside throughout the village.

• Please use hand sanitizer after every transaction or handling of items.

• Please practice social distancing and maintain 6’ from you and other individuals at all times.

• NO SELF SERVICE! Please allow Vendors to assist you with your purchase.

• Please be efficient with your shopping and "Greet & Go." We are not encouraging gathering.

• Please keep your shopping party small.

• AVI and it’s staff CANNOT facilitate the transport of people or customer's purchases. Vendors and patrons to coordinate pick up of items purchased.

• There will be a “ONE-WAY” ONLY patron traffic flow at the CRAFT MARKET.

All event pricing, dates, times and events are subject to change. No refunds or exchanges. All events are rain or shine unless otherwise noted. The rain date is Sunday, November 8.

Tickets are required. There will be NO Refunds. Reserve tickets here. The Historic Village at Allaire is located in Allaire State Park, 4265 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, November 7 - Holmdel, Monmouth County
Yarn Bee
Ages 10+

Whether starting a new hobby or working on an old project, all are welcome to this gathering on Saturday at Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel! The relaxed atmosphere means no pressure - you can knit or crochet at your own pace, and farm staff will be on hand to assist those wanting to learn a new skill. Bring your own supplies or borrow ours for the session. Open to ages 10 and up; under 18 with adult. The cost is $5 per person; cash or check only. This event run from 12:00 noon - 2:30 pm.

Historic Longstreet Farm is located at 44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel, NJ. For more information, call 732-946-3758 or visit www.monmouthcountyparks.com.

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Saturday, November 7 - Cape May, Cape May County
Welcome to Cape May Trolley Tour

This 45 minute tour is designed for the first-time visitor to Cape May who wants a quick introduction to the many cultural, historical, and natural attractions on the island. From Cape May Harbor to Sunset Beach, tourgoers will learn all they need to know to make the most of their Cape May visit. Tours begin and end at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth.

Adults $15 and children (ages 3-12) $8. Tour on Saturday at 12:30 pm. Cape May MAC is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. Cape May MAC membership is open to all. 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, November 7 - Cape May, Cape May County
Scarecrow Alley at the Physick Estate
Family Friendly

Once again, the grounds of the Physick Estate will be transformed for a spooky Halloween, and Scarecrow Alley showcases homemade scarecrows -- from the ghoulishly gruesome to the foolishly funny! VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE! Visit the Carriage House Gallery at the Physick Estate during hours of operation and cast your vote for your favorite scarecrow.

The Emlem Physick Estate is located at 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Sponsored by Cape May 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 - Sunday, November 7 - 8 - Camden, Camden County

Battleship New Jersey Fire Power Tour
Family Friendly

This self guided tour of the overall view of the Battleship New Jersey takes guests five levels up and two decks below. The Main Deck features an Exhibit Museum that encompasses the 48 years in and out of service. Guides are available for questions in the Captain's Quarters and CEC.

Active Military, World War II Veterans and former Crew Members of BB-62 are asked to stop at the Box Office in the Battleship NJ Visitor's Center. Proudly inform our Ticketing Staff of your service to our Great Nation and receive a complimentary ticket to board the "Big J".

* All guests will be screened in the Visitors Center before entering the Battleship’s Pier, must wear a face covering and practice social distancing.
* Please check your email after purchase for your ticket to either print or save to your mobile device and take with you for check-in in the Visitors Center.

Firepower tour tickets are available to use at any date and time we are open for tours. Admission: Adult are $24.95 and children ages 5-11, veterans, and seniors (62+) are $19.95. Tickets can be purchased online. Battleship New Jersey is located at 62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ. For more information, call 856-966-1652 or visit www.battleshipnewjersey.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, November 7 - 8 - Atlantic City, Atlantic County
Absecon Lighthouse Open
Family Friendly

Absecon Lighthouse will be open Thursdays through Mondays, from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, with the last climb 1/2 hour before closing. 

Parking, exhibits, and Keeper’s Cottage museum are free. Admission to climb the 228 steps to the top is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $6 for children 4-12, and $5 for Atlantic City residents; active military are free. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the two-acre lawn and in the museum space. Masks and social distancing are required, plexi-glass shields are installed in the gift shop and Watch Room at the top for your safety, and plastic gloves will be issued to climbers. 

First lit in 1857, Absecon Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third tallest in the country. It is the oldest man-made structure in Atlantic City, boasts a first-order Fresnel lens still in place at the top, and offers fabulous views of Atlantic City and Brigantine.

The Absecon Lighthouse is located at 31 South Rhode Island Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ. For more information, call 609-449-1360 or visit www.abseconlighthouse.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, November 7 - 8 - Lower Township, Cape May County

Fall Walking Tours at Historic Cold Spring Village

Enjoy beautiful autumn weather as you take a guided walk through a portion of Historic Cold Spring Village and experience the mystique of days gone by. Learn the history of several of the museum buildings and the lifestyles of those who worked and lived in the village. Visit the Country Store where you may purchase a unique souvenir of the Village.

Tour ends at Cold Spring Brewery (beer, sarsaparilla, or water) and a delightful box lunch from

Cold Spring Grange Restaurant. Tours are offered Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00 am. Tours are $20 per person and include box lunch. $18.00 for children ages 3-12. Members receive a $2 discount. Tours begin at the Seashore Road/Rt.626 Gate House. MASKS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES WHILE ON VILLAGE GROUNDS.

The village is located, three miles north of Victorian Cape May and a mile and a half west of the southern terminus of the Garden State Parkway. For more information on events, membership, volunteering, call 609-898-2300, ext. 10, or visit www.hcsv.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, November 7 - 8 - Lower Township, Cape May County
Climb the Cape May Lighthouse
Family Friendly Site

The Cape May Lighthouse is an 1859 structure with 199 steps to the watch gallery for a panoramic view of the Jersey Cape and Atlantic Ocean. For those who choose not to climb, the Oil House contains a fully-accessible Visitors' Orientation Center and a Museum Shop stocked with maritime accessories and lighthouse memorabilia. Open 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Cape May Point State Park is located in Lower Township, NJ. Admission to the Visitors' Orientation Center and the ground floor of the lighthouse is free. Tower admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12). Children under 3 and active military are FREE. Sponsored by Cape May MAC. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

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Saturday - Sunday, November 7 - 8 - Cape May, Cape May County
Physick Estate Scavenger Hunt
Family Friendly

Have an adventure the whole family will enjoy at the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate! Use our map to explore the grounds and find the answers to questions about the Physick family and life in Victorian times on this educational scavenger hunt. Turn in your answer sheet at the Carriage House Museum Shop and receive a prize! Participate anytime between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm.

Price is $5 for adults and $5 for children (ages 3-12). Purchase tickets online or at the Carriage House Museum Shop. The Emlem Physick Estate is located at 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. 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 - Sunday, November 7 - 8 - Cape May, Cape May County
Cape May Historic District Trolley Tour

Enjoy a 45 minute guided tour with entertaining and enlightening stories about the nation's oldest seaside resort and how it survived. Accessible trolley available with advance notification. Tours begin and end at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth.

Adults $15 and children (ages 3-12) $8. Tours on Saturday at 11:45 am, 1:00 pm, and 2:15 pm and Sunday at 11:45 am and 1:00 pm. Sponsored by the Cape May 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 - Sunday, November 7 - 8 - Cape May, Cape May County
Emlen Physick Estate Tour
Family Friendly Tour

Take a guided tour of Cape May's Emlen Physick Estate, the magnificent Stick Style mansion attributed to renowned Victorian architect Frank Furness. A tour of the 15 beautifully restored rooms gives you a glimpse into the lifestyle of this Victorian-era Cape May family. Physick Estate Tours take approximately 45 minutes and end with a visit to the 1876 Carriage House where you can see the current exhibit in the Carroll Gallery. Tours will be on Saturday at 12:30, 1:45, and 3:00 pm and Sunday at 12:30 and 1:45 pm. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for children (ages 3-12). Tickets can be purchased online or at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ. Sponsored by Cape May 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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Sunday, November 8
“Being a Census Taker Was Not Easy”
Virtual Program

Beverly Yackel will explain how “Being a Census Taker Was Not Easy,” at the Monmouth County Genealogy Society meeting on Sunday. The virtual meeting will start at 2:00 p.m. The public is welcome. Information about signing in to the event on GoToMeeting will be available on the MCGS website. As chair of the MCGS Speaker’s Bureau, Beverly has been much in demand at genealogy meetings throughout New Jersey and nearby New York. This, her most recently developed presentation, aims to help researchers understand the census process. Genealogists rely on the work done by Census Takers for their most basic research, frequently blaming them for errors and ”brick walls.” Beverly says to blame the Indexer, not the census taker for age and name variations or for those persons who appear on the census twice.

The role of the Census Taker is not an easy one. As Beverly explains, they “have had to invade people’s privacy by asking questions about their ages, color, health issues, country where they were born. In 1880 they asked how members of the household were related. The 1910 and 1930 rules on how to indicate the “country” of birth were extremely complicated.”

Beverly is a past president of MCGS and has led the Speaker’s Bureau for several years, developing timely talks and mentoring new speakers. When she is not researching, organizing, or speaking, she finds time to run the Middletown Rambler’s Square Dance Club, which presents dances weekly and offers a busy schedule of classes. When no longer restricted by the pandemic she will be back assisting researchers at the Family History Center in Eatontown.

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Sunday, November 8 - Sparta, Sussex County
“Thomas Edison: The Person, The Vision, His Genius"

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Through Sunday, November 8 - Lambertville, Hunterdon County

Lambertville Then and Now

The Lambertville Historical Society, in conjunction with the Delaware River Towns Chamber of Commerce and the City of Lambertville, presents an all-outdoor, self-guided walking tour and exhibit called “Lambertville Then and Now.”

Lambertville, NJ was incorporated as a town in 1849 and as a city in 1872. From the mid-1800s to the early 1900s the ferry, the canal, the railroad and the Old York Road stagecoach route all contributed to the development and industrialization of Lambertville.

Visit Lambertville and walk through the city to view 20 poster-sized historic images in windows and in front of buildings, located at the sites where the historic images were taken. Become immersed in what it was like to be in Lambertville during its industrial heyday. The exhibit runs through Sunday, November 8, 2020.

These historic exterior images dating from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s include factory buildings, mansions, a theatre, stores, halls, and more.

If you have a QR-Code reader app on your mobile device, you will be able to use it to read more about the history of each site. Or, you can type the web page address shown on the poster into your mobile web browser to do the same.

Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year to visit this lovely river town, one of New Jersey’s smallest cities. Visit shops, restaurants, antique stores and more, all following New Jersey’s guidelines for safe distancing. For more information, visit www.lambertvillehistoricalsociety.org/thenandnow where you will also be able to download a printable map.

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