NJ Memorial Day Weekend Historical Happenings: 5/29/21-5/31/21

New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

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

Saturday, May 29 - Oldwick, Hunterdon County

Tweksbury Tag Sale

The Tewksbury Historical Society will hold a Tag Sale on Saturday from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm at the Oldwick Carriage House, 5 James St., Oldwick, NJ.

The society will be selling quality items, which have been cleaned, polished and are operable. Garden items, antiques, artworks, crystal, a large set of champagne glasses, a set of "union sponsored" 24 carat gold edged dish service from the '30's, a Bavarian, German dish service for 12, silver-plated serveware, housewares, costume jewelry, linens, lamps and lamp shades will be among the available merchandise. The furniture selection includes a large art-deco wall mirror, a Victorian fire screen, an ornate, oak headboard, an antique carriage blanket, braided rugs, a folding, mahogany coffee table, mahogany end tables and a large oak rocking chair. Of special interest are a glass-topped garden/bistro table with four matching chairs and a Victorian style double-light lamp. 

COVID-19 restrictions applicable at that time will be observed. Attendance will be limited and patrons and staff must wear face coverings. For information visit www.tewkburyhistory.net.

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Saturday, May 29 - Trenton, Mercer County

Artists Reception and Outdoor Concert in Cadwalader Park

On Saturday, the Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie Mansion, located in the heart of Trenton’s Cadwalader Park, will hold an Artists Reception to celebrate its highly regarded Women Artists, Trenton Style, featuring works of 11 contemporary artists of the greater Trenton area and curated by noted Trenton artist Mel Leipzig. Visitors to the reception, which will run from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, will have the opportunity to meet with the show’s artists and talk with them about their works. The museum’s doors will be open to facilitate air circulation, temperatures will be taken, and masks and distancing will be required. Timed entry to the museum may be reserved in advance at www.ellarslie.org or by calling 609-989-1191. Admission is free, with donations appreciated.

Beginning at 4:00 pm, the Capital Philharmonic of New Jersey will perform at the Pavilion just down the hill from Ellarslie in honor of Memorial Day. This performance—a result of a partnership between the orchestra and the City’s Department of Recreation, Natural Resources and Culture, is the second outdoor performance held at the Pavilion. It will feature works by Aaron Copland, John Philip Sousa, John Williams, and local “bad-boy” composer George Antheil. In addition, CPNJ Music Director Daniel Spalding, linking with the Women Artists exhibition at Ellarslie, will conduct Dances in the Canebreaks, a work by Florence Price, the first African American woman recognized as a composer of classical music in the United States. The CPNJ performance will begin at 4:00 pm. The concert is expected to last about one hour. CPNJ will also offer of preview announcement of its 8th Season that is planned to begin at the War Memorial in October.

Admission to the CPNJ concert is free but donations are gratefully accepted. Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating and appropriate pandemic safety guidelines will be enforced. To expand the experience, concertgoers might consider bringing a picnic early dinner. CPNJ has paired up with Taste Trenton to develop a list of area restaurants that will prepare a picnic repast for the concert. A list of restaurants and contact information can be found at www.tastetrenton.com.

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Saturday, May 29 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County

Haying

Children Friendly Event

Learn how to make hay the old-fashioned way...head up to the fields where farmers are cutting, tedding, and raking loose hay to store in the barn for the horses! This program runs from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.

A children’s craft program will be available from 11:00 to 3:00 for a small materials fee. 

Please note that all 2021 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 - Sunday, May 29 - 30 - 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 $20 and children (ages 3-12) $15. Tour on Saturday at 12:30 and 3:00 pm and Sunday at 12:15 pm. 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 - Sunday, May 29 - 30 - Cape May, Cape May County

Emlen Physick House 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 and Sunday at 12:30, 1:45, and 3:00 pm. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 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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Saturday - Sunday, May 29 - 30 - 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 5:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Price is $5. 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, May 29 - 30 - Lower Township, Cape May County
World War II Tower Lookout Museum and Memorial Open
Family Friendly Site

Fire Control Tower No. 23 on Sunset Boulevard is New Jersey's last freestanding World War II tower, part of the immense Harbor Defense of the Delaware system known as Fort Miles. After an award-winning restoration in 2009, visitors can climb to the 6th floor spotting gallery while learning about the homeland defense efforts during World War II. The ground floor of the tower, the All Veterans Memorial, and boardwalk interpretive panels are fully accessible. Open Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12) (one child free with paying adult). The World War II Lookout Tower is located on Sunset Boulevard in Lower Township, near Cape May Point. 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, May 29 - 30 - 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 10:00 am - 5:00 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 $12 for adults, $8 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, May 29 - 30 - 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 and college students, $6 for children 4-12, and $5 for Atlantic City residents; active military and children under 4 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, May 29 - 30 - 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, May 29 - 30 - 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 $20 and children (ages 3-12) $15. Tours on Saturday and Sunday at 11:45 am, 1:00 pm, and 2:15 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 - Monday, May 29 - 31 - Tuckerton, Ocean County

Outdoor Strolling Admission: Tuckerton Seaport

Family Friendly Event

After much careful consideration and implementing enhanced safety measures, Tuckerton Seaport is open for strolling for long weekends. The Tuckerton Seaport will be open on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Reserved timed tickets will be required for everyone. This helps us limit capacity and maintain social distancing. Masks will be required at all times. Tuckerton Seaport reserves the right to make changes to the schedule or cancel at any time due to circumstances beyond our control at the discretion of the museum. Safety always comes first around here. In the event that we need to cancel any dates, guests who have pre-purchased tickets will receive a full refund.

How do you make reservations? Reservations can be made in two ways: Online or at the Welcome Booth!

Online:  Visit https://ci.ovationtix.com/35325/production/1041698

Tickets are just $5/person. Seaport Members can use the discount code Member20 for their complimentary tickets. Members will be required to bring their Membership Card with them when visiting or the discount will not be valid. Membership benefits for Seaport Family Members include two adults as well as any accompanying children under 18. Additional guests should reserve their tickets at the regular price online. Everyone needs a ticket for entry with the exception of children under age 5 who are complimentary.

The Tukerton Seaport is located at 120 W. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ. For more information, call 609-296-8868 or visit https://tuckertonseaport.org.

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Sunday, May 30 - Princeton, Mercer County

Memorial Day Program at Princeton Battlefield

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Sunday, May 31

The History of the White House

Virtual Program

On Sunday, join the Chatham Township Historical Society and the Library of the Chathams for a virtual presentation entitiled, "The History of the White House" at 4:00 pm. Speaker: Pat Wells, VP of Chatham Township Historical Society. It took 8 years to build, was burned down, nearly fell down, was almost painted black, and has grown in every direction. Enjoy a tour through time in America's First Mansion.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87852193393

If joining by phone:  646-876-9923, Meeting ID: 878 5219 3393  

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Monday, May 31 - Holmdel, Monmouth County

Decoration Day Celebration

Children Friendly Site & Event

Before it was Memorial Day, Americans celebrated Decoration Day. This family holiday originated soon after the Civil War when women decided to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. It was a day for family reunions and remembrance. Enjoy the good company of family and friends at Longstreet Farm as we honor this early American holiday. This free events run from 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm.

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

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Until June 15, 2021

Historical Society of Princeton's Virtual House Tour
Virtual Program

The first ever Virtual House Tour is an immersive, digital reimagining of the Historical Society of Princeton’s beloved annual House Tour event. With a new house released each week, you will get to view four spectacular Princeton homes, plus special bonuses, on-demand for one month. Houses will remain available through June 15 once they are released.

Every house will offer an in-depth portal where you can dive into videos and descriptive details room-by-room, including spotlights on the house’s history, distinctive furnishings and artwork, impressive remodels and restorations, and extraordinary architectural features. Fascinating interviews with designers, architects, and artisans will illuminate the decision-making and painstaking work involved in preserving and updating a historic home.

To register and learn more about this year's featured houses, click here.

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