NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 5/15/21-5/16/21

New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

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

Saturday, May 15 - Union Township, Union County

Family Fun Day: May Flowers

Our property is beautiful in the springtime, and this Family Fun Day is all about spending time enjoying our gardens! As you wander and explore, you will come upon some of our past residents who will tell you all about the uses and enjoyment of flowers through the centuries. From fabric patterns to Victorian floriography, there’s a lot to learn from these historic women as you take time to smell the flowers at Liberty Hall.

Program Time: 11:30 am or 2:00 pm.

Program fee: $10 for 1 child/1 adult, $8 for museum members, and $4 for additional children. Reservations required; to purchase tickets visit https://libertyhall.kean.edu or call 908-527-0400.

Liberty Hall Museum is located at 1003 Morris Ave, Union, NJ. For more information, call 908-527-0400 or visit https://libertyhall.kean.edu.

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Saturday, May 15 - Holmdel, Monmouth County

Accordion Melodies of the 1890s
Children Friendly Site & Event

On Saturday, visit Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel and stop in the farmhouse to hear melodies from the 1890s played on the accordion. This free events run from 1:00 - 3:00 pm.

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

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Saturday, May 15 - Piscataway, Middlesex County

Metlar-Bodine Open House

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Saturday, June 15 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County

Sheep Shearing

Children Friendly Event

"Shear Fun" is in store, with sheep shearing and herding, wool spinning, and weaving demonstrations throughout the day. Visitors can learn about sheep care, fleece cleaning, and wool use - with shearing demonstrations at 11:00, 12:00, 2:00, and 3:00 - then watch award-winning border collies herd sheep in the round pasture, and learn about whistle commands, puppy training, and more. Herding demonstrations are at 11:30, 1:30, and 2:30. This program runs from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.

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, May 15 - Somers Point, Atlantic County

Somers Point Historical Society Flea Market

The Somers Point Historical Society is sponsoring a Flea Market on Saturday from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm on the parking lot of Gregory’s Restaurant, 900 Shore Road, Somers Point, NJ. No vendors will be taken the day of the event. There is a rain date of Saturday, May 22. For questions or additional information, call 609-927-2900. All CDC rules as of the date will be observed.

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Saturday, May 15 - Bridgewater, Somerset County

The Music of the American Colonies

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Saturday - Sunday, May 15 - 16 - 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 15 - 16 - 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 15 - 16 - 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 15 - 16 - 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 15 - 16 - 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 - 4:00 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 15 - 16 - 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 15 - 16 - 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 15 - 16 - Toms River, Ocean County

34th Annual Ocean County Historical Society Antiques, Crafts and Collectibles Faire

 

The Antiques, Crafts and Collectibles Faire will be held in the Toms River High School South Cafetorium, located off Hooper Avenue in Toms River on Saturday from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm and on Sunday from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm.

There will be over 50 tables of antiques, crafts and collectibles, plus local history books, local historical societies' exhibits, local artist exhibits, children's entertainment, music, baked goods, and a snack bar with hotdogs, pretzels, popcorn, bagels, soft drinks, etc. A classic car display will be presented by N.J. Shore Regional National Chrysler Products Club and a model railroad display by the Ocean County Model Railroad Club. Also, we will have the kickoff of our large annual “50-50 raffle” and free tours of the Ocean County Historical Society's Elizabeth Sculthorp Force House.

New additions include Allaire Village costumed tradesman display, 1880’s baseball costumed exhibit, World War I re-enactors, Civil War re-enactors including musket firing, suffragist exhibit with free commemorative giveaways, and renown Jersey Shore artist Cathleen Engelsen.

Free balloon animals from Freckles the clown on Saturday from 9:00 am - 12:00 noon and Sunday from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm.

Admission is $2.00 each day for people 18 and over. Masks will be required. For general public or vendor information, call Jeff at 609-339-9134.

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Saturday - Sunday, May 15 - 16 - 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 15 - 17 - 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 16

A Taste of History with Chef Walter Staib

Virtual Program

The Trent House Association presents a virtual presentation by Chef Walter Staib, host of the PBS series “A Taste of History.” The program will begin at 2:00 pm on Sunday, via Zoom. Registration for Trent House Association members is $10 and $15 for non-members at https://bit.ly/3mCAOzL. Registrants will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the event.

Chef Staib will bring history to life in his presentation on America’s culinary beginnings. A master in the preparation of sophisticated 18th century cuisine, Chef Staib will describe the foods colonists in North America and founders of the United States ate and the recipes they prepared.

A third-generation restaurateur with over five decades of culinary experience, Chef Walter Staib is an author, Emmy Award winning TV host, James Beard-nominated chef, and culinary historian. His career began in Europe, receiving formal training in many of Europe’s finest hotels and restaurants. As founder of Concepts By Staib, Ltd., a global restaurant management and hospitality consulting firm, Walter Staib has opened more than 650 restaurants worldwide and was the driving force behind Philadelphia’s City Tavern for 26 years.

Chef Staib is best known as host of A Taste of History, which has received Fifteen Emmy awards. Staib has also made appearances on national cooking shows, such as 60 Minutes, the Today show and the Food Network’s “Best Thing I Ever Ate” and “Iron Chef.” Chef Staib’s culinary excellence has earned him numerous other awards, including induction into the American Academy of Chef’s Culinary Hall of Fame by the American Culinary Federation.

The 1719 William Trent House Museum is dedicated to sharing the authentic history of the house, property, and people with our communities, connecting the past with today and tomorrow. For more information, visit https://williamtrenthouse.org.

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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