NJ Weekend Historical Happenings: 2/26/22 - 2/27/22

New Jersey Weekend Historical Happenings

A Weekly Feature on www.thehistorygirl.com

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

Saturday, February 26 - Holmdel, Monmouth County

Cutting, Splitting, and Hewing

Wood heated the farmer three times: once when they gathered the wood, once when the split the wood, and a final time when they burned the wood. On Saturday, visit Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel and get warmed up using a two-man saw and splitting wedge and learn how farmers used a froe to rive shingles or a broad ax to hew beams. This free events 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, February 26 - Hopewell Township, Mercer County

Maple Sugaring

Children Friendly

The time of freezing nights and thawing days has come...and the smell of maple syrup is in the air! Help farmers collect sap in the woods, make syrup in the sap house, and taste whole wheat pancakes after a quick visit to the farmhouse kitchen. Lunch will also be available for purchase.

Visitors can also learn how to bring the operation into their own backyards, with tree tapping demonstrations at 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 1:00, 1:30, 2:00, 2:30, and 3:00. Dress for the job: the work has sweet rewards, but it can be muddy, icy, and windy in the sugar bush. Tree Tapping demonstrations are limited to 25 participants, so register early to reserve your space! The site is open from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Please note that all 2022 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, February 26

Musick of the Two George's
Virtual Program

Two Georges on opposite sides of the Atlantic led America and Great Britain through the era of the America Revolution. Join master musicians John Burkhalter and Donovan Klotzbeacher of the Practitioners of Musick virtually as they perform some of the President George Washington and King George the III favorites. Questions will be taken at the end of the performance. The program will be held from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Suggested Donation $5.00. Sponsored by the Friends of the Indian King Tavern Museum and Wallace House and Dutch Parsonage Association. Register here. For more information, call 908-725-1015.

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Sunday, February 26

Plainfield's Black History

Virtual Program

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Saturday - Sunday, February 26 - 27 - 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 4:00 pm.

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, February 26 - 27 - 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 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, February 26 - 27 - 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 and Sunday at 1:45 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, February 26 - 27 - 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 - 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 $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, February 26 - 27 - 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, February 26 - 27 - 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: Adults are $25.00 and children ages 5-11, veterans, and seniors (62+) are $20.00. 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 - Monday, February 26 - 28 - Tuckerton, Ocean County

Outdoor Strolling Admission: Tuckerton Seaport

Family Friendly

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. Guests are asked to arrive before 4pm. Check in at the Lighthouse upon arrival for info on exhibits open for touring both indoors and outdoors. The Gift Shop is now located inside the Lighthouse. Masks will be required at all times. 

Tickets are $5/person. 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. Everyone needs a ticket for entry with the exception of children under age 5 who are complimentary.

The Tuckerton 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, February 27 - Westfield, Union County

The Wonderful World of Snow Globes with Story Time and a Craft

Children Friendly

Snow globes have delighted people since the 1800s. Enjoy a display of globes as well as a short presentation on their history, then snuggle in for a snow-themed story time and craft. The grounds will be open for viewing and docents will be offering “quick look” tours of the fully furnished c1740 farmhouse. Our charming museum shop will also be open. Program from 2:00 - 4:00 pm.

Admission is $5 ages 13 and older; $3 ages 3-12 and free age 2 and younger. No reservations are necessary. 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.com.

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Sunday, February 27 - River Edge, Bergen County

Washington’s Birthday

Family Friendly

Come celebrate Washington’s Birthday with the Bergen County Historical Society on Sunday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at Historic New Bridge Landing. 1201 Main Street, River Edge, NJ.

The Tricorne Dance Ensemble which is under the direction of dance mistress Denise Piccino will be performing a 30-minute program in the state historic 1752 Steuben House at 1:15 pm, 2:15 pm, and 3:15 pm. The program will celebrate General Washington through song and dance. Musical accompaniment will be provided by Ridley and Anne Enslow on the fiddle and hammered dulcimer. Space is limited for each performance.

Also, on display in the Steuben House will be the society’s “New Bridge in the American Revolution: Artifacts and Maps” exhibit which includes enlargements on nine period maps and Revolutionary War artifacts from their extensive collection.

Take a peek at the treasures in the gift shop while you enjoy seasonal refreshments which will be available for purchase inside the tavern.

Don’t forget to visit the society’s authentic Jersey Dutch out-kitchen where interpreters will be preparing stuffed pot roast, mint glazed carrots, and a pear tart on the open-hearth using 18th century recipes. These items are based on a letter that discussed a meal that was eaten with Washington.

Re-enactors from the 3rd New Jersey Regiment will be on site demonstrating military life.

Activities for families include a Washington themed scavenger hunt with a prize and the society’s newest activity the QR Code History Challenge a cell phone based scavenger hunt where visitors can use their phones to scan QR codes throughout the site to watch videos and answer questions.

Per the state parks’ guidelines, face masks are required inside all historical buildings. Ticket reservations are required: $12 adults, $7 students, BCHS members free. Free parking available on site or take the train to the “New Bridge Landing” station on the Pascack Valley Line. Dogs are permitted on site on a leash but not in the houses.

For ticket reservations additional information visit the society’s website www.bergencountyhistory.org, email info@bergencountyhistory.org, or call 201-343-9492 and leave a message. The event is subject to change.

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Through February 2022 - Hampton Township, Hunterdon County

Musconetcong Watercolor Group’s Anniversary Exhibit

The Musconetcong Watercolor Group will celebrate its thirteenth anniversary with a display of recent works at the Lebanon Township Museum. They are a watercolor and drawing instruction group that meet in 19th century stone gristmill, which is the home studio of artist and group leader Doris Ettlinger and her artist husband Michael McFadden.

The mill is located in Imlaydale, which is a small unincorporated community just across the Musconetcong River from New Hampton. Imlaydale has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1990. The original gristmill was built in 1792 by wealthy landowners Samuel Bowlby and Major Henry Dusenberry.

As the winter winds blow in and the ground becomes covered with snow, we invite you in to share the warmth and beauty provided by the Musconetcong Watercolor Group’s Anniversary Exhibit, Hyggelig.

The artwork will be on display through the end of February 2022. The Lebanon Township Museum is located at 57 Musconetcong River Road, Hampton Township, NJ.

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Through Saturday, March 26, 2022 - Paterson, Passaic County

Paterson Great Falls: From Power to Park

Museum is Temporarily CLOSED

The Paterson Museum is excited to announce the opening of its newest changing exhibit, Paterson Great Falls: From Power to Park. The Paterson Great Falls has dual, sometimes conflicting, identities. The first, as a natural wonder, a scenic beauty, and a tourist attraction. The second, as a source of power, providing the energy needed by the industries that developed into the City of Paterson. This exhibit explores the waterfall’s long journey from a natural resource and industrial tool to becoming a protected park.

Paterson Great Falls: From Power to Park features historical and modern photographs, original artwork inspired by the Falls, scale models of park and much more. The exhibit will be on display through Saturday March 26, 2022 in the Hannah Memorial Gallery, at The Paterson Museum.

The Paterson Museum is located at 2 Market Street (on the corner of Market and Spruce Streets) in the heart of the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. To learn more about the Paterson Museum, visit https://patersonmuseum.com.

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Through Spring 2022 - Freehold, Monmouth County

Let Us Play

In celebration of the holiday season, Monmouth County Historical Association debuted Let Us Play on November 27, the newest exhibition at the Association’s Museum and Library & Archives in Freehold, NJ. Drawing on MCHA’s extensive collection, Let Us Play traces several centuries of children’s joyful pastimes and their evolving playthings.

Let Us Play features every child related article in the Association’s collection, many on display for the very first time. From the colonial era through the 20th century, the exhibit traces the evolution of play and the effect the industrial revolution, consumerism, and the burgeoning influence of advertising had on children’s ideas of fun and their beloved toys. Childhood treasures displayed  range from dolls and dollhouses, games and cast iron banks to books, carriages and historic photos.

Let Us Play will generally be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays each week from 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm at the MCHA Museum, Library and Archives, 70 Court Street, Freehold, NJ but please check for current hours before visiting. For more information, visit www.monmouthhistory.org.

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Through April 23, 2022 - Haledon, Passaic County

The 1913 Paterson Silk Strike: Paintings for the Children’s Story

The American Labor Museum/Botto House National Landmark proudly opened The 1913 Paterson Silk Strike: Paintings for the Children’s Story by Thomas Germano on January 5th, 2022.

The 1913 Paterson Silk Strike: Paintings for the Children’s Story features contemporary artworks, including nine watercolors and one oil painting, which Mr. Germano created as illustrations for a new children’s book about this historic strike.

Thomas Germano studied painting at the Yale School of Art, where he earned an MFA. He has exhibited his art throughout the US and abroad. His artwork is in the collection of the American Postal Workers Union in Washington D.C. He teaches painting, drawing and art history at the State University of New York at Farmingdale.

The 1913 Paterson Silk Strike: Paintings for the Children’s Story Original Paintings by Thomas Germano exhibit closes on Saturday, April 23, 2022.

The Botto House National Landmark, headquarters of the American Labor Museum, is located at 83 Norwood Street in Haledon, NJ. It was the meeting place for over 20,000 silk mill workers during the 1913 Paterson Silk Strike.  Visitors are welcome Wednesday through Saturday from 1PM-4PM and at other times by appointment. For more information, visit www.labormuseum.net.

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Through May 1, 2022 - Piscataway, Middlesex County

Discover Greatness: An Illustrated History of Negro Leagues Baseball

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Through June 2022 - Asbury Park, Monmouth County

“One Voice Is Not Enough: Asbury Park’s Musical Diversity Since 1871”

The Asbury Park Museum’s new pop-up exhibit, “One Voice Is Not Enough: Asbury Park’s Musical Diversity Since 1871” explores the many styles of early Asbury Park music. The exhibit is on display in the east lobby of the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, 1401 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ. It is free to visit at any time between now and June 2022.

Music historians Pamela and Charlie Horner have curated the exhibit. It covers the first 100 years of Asbury Park music – a story told through stand-up banners, wall-mounted posters, a music soundtrack with 4 hours’ worth of selected recordings, two continuously running 35-minute informative slide shows (175 slides total), and two display cases full of Asbury Park music artifacts. The exhibit covers spirituals, gospel, brass bands, marching bands, concert bands, ragtime, stride piano, jazz, blues, pop, rhythm & blues, rock & roll, doo wop, soul, and rock music from the early 1870s to the early 1970s. On display are items like Bobby Thomas’ personal 78 RPM copy of “Doll Face,” the first Rhythm & Blues by an Asbury Park group plus Bobby’s handwritten lyrics from the flip side; Stormin’ Norman Seldin’s classic cowboy hat; an 1898 wax cylinder by baritone J. W. Myers; an Arthur Pryor 78 RPM record; sheet music by Billy Terrell & Ray Dahrouge and Lenny Welch; a red vinyl 45 RPM record by Nicky Addeo & the Darchaes; an album and program from the Missionary Jubilaires; a Southside Johnny autographed harmonica; a framed autograph and print of Fats Waller; and much more. 

Funded in part by a Diversity Innovation grant from Monmouth University, the exhibit design is by Stan Cain Designs, and the exhibit is hosted by the historic Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel. For more information, visit www.AP-Museum.org.

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Through 2022 - Middletown, Monmouth County

Beneath the Floorboards: Whispers of the Enslaved at Marlpit Hall

Beneath the Floorboards: Whispers of the Enslaved at Marlpit Hall is the first exhibit to come out of the Monmouth County Historical Association's Living and Breathing initiative, which will reinterpret our Colonial-era historic houses to include the stories of the enslaved African Americans who once resided within them. The exhibition will offer a better understanding of how slavery took root in early Monmouth County, as well as the complex dynamics of daily life and relationships among the enslaved.

The telling of New Jersey’s history is often fragmented, with little remembrance of the thousands of men, women, and children living under forced servitude for more than two centuries. The curators, Bernadette Rogoff and Joe Zemla, have framed the exhibit upon the lives of seven of these individuals: Ephraim, William, Elizabeth, Clarisse, Hannah, Tom, and York, all of whom once lived at Marlpit Hall. Extensive archival documentation, archaeological evidence, and objects from MCHA’s museum collection - some on view to the public for the first time - help tell the larger story of slavery in Monmouth County and New Jersey.

Marlpit Hall is located at 137 Kings Highway, Middletown, NJ. For more information, visit www.monmouthhistory.org.

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