HAPPY BIRTHDAY HUNTERDON COUNTY! OUR MINI SERIES SCHEDULE IS HERE!

ON MARCH 22, 1714, HUNTERDON COUNTY WAS INCORPORATED, SO HAPPY 310 YEARS TO US ALL!

IN CELEBRATION OF 310 YEARS AND COUNTING OF RICH HISTORY, THE HUNTERDON 300TH IS PROUD TO PRESENT A YEAR OF "MINI SERIES", MOST OF WHICH YOU WILL SEE BELOW.  WE ARE STILL WORKING ON A SMALL SERIES OF CHURCH TOURS AND TAVERN TOURS WHICH WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN AN UPCOMING BLOG.

ALL OF THE EVENTS, MEET UPS, WALKS AND TALKS BELOW ARE FREE AND NO RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED.  HOWEVER, RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE TWO MEET UPS (SO WE CAN INFORM OUR HOSTS) AND THE TWO WALKING TOURS (AS THEY HAVE LIMITED CAPACITY).    

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE MINI SERIES:

THURSDAY, APRIL 18TH:  THE INTERNATIONAL GEOPHYSIAL YEAR; PICTURES FROM ANTARTICA: The International Geophysical Year lasted from July 1, 1957 to December 31, 1958 and marked the end of a long period during the Cold War when scientific exchange between the East and the West had ceased.  Hunterdon County author and historian, John Kuhl, was in the Navy during this period and was aboard a ship in Antarctica -- talk about a Cold War!  A historian even then, John recorded his voyages via both camera stills and movie reels.  John shared this with the public in 2016 for the Hunterdon 300th for the first time.  This is only the second time these pictures and reels will be seen and this talk is very special!  John will be playing these incredible films and pictures via a powerpoint presentation while describing his adventures in one of the most hostile and wild places on the planet!  Lower Level Meeting Room, Main Branch Hunterdon County Library, 7 pm.  Free, no reservations required.  Free refreshments follow.

THURSDAY, MAY 2ND:  THE HISTORY OF THE D&R CANAL:  Canal Historian and Author Linda Barth weaves the story of how the Delaware & Raritan Canal  meandered across New Jersey, becoming one of America’s most successful towpath canals, carrying more tonnage in 1866 than even the Erie Canal.  Johnson & Johnson, Roebling, and Fleischmann’s Distillery all had their start along the D&R which now provides people of central New Jersey with both a water supply and an amazing recreational facility. This companion talk is beneficial for all those wishing to join us for our D&R Canal Mini Walking Tour on Saturday, June 1st.  Lower Level Meeting Room, Hunterdon County Library Main Branch. This talk is free. 7 pm.  Free refreshments follow. No reservations required.

THURSDAY, MAY 16TH:  THE BEST FRENCHTOWN WATER STORIES AS ONLY RICK EPSTEIN CAN TELL THEM:  Frenchtown historian Rick Epstein will talk about the floods of 1903 and 1955 and explain the difference between river floods and creek floods. He will tell about Durham boats and timber rafts; Frenchtown’s dozen drownings; its water power and the mill race; and the advent of “city water” for fighting fires, drinking, and washing. He also might try to sell you his book, "Frenchtown; Fires, Floods, Fads, and Felonies."  Lower Level Meeting Room, Hunterdon County Library Main Branch. 7 pm.  Free refreshments follow. No reservations required.

JUNE 1ST, 10 AM:  MINI WALKING TOUR OF THE D&R CANAL:  Join D&R Canal historians Bob and Linda Barth on this morning walk of a section of the canal.  The walk starts at the area of the canal behind historic Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead (the oldest farm in Hunterdon County) to see the canal aqueduct.  From there we will walk approximately three quarters of a mile to Lambertville to see the lift lock and the outlet.  About 1.5 miles round trip taking approximately 2 hours, which includes stops and interpretation. Reservations thru Humantix is required for the walk to Lambertville only and limited to 25 people. If you are only planning on seeing the aqueduct at the Farmstead, you do not require a reservation.  Free.

We are trying a new reservation system.  Please cut and paste the following URL or try clicking on the link below.    https://events.humanitix.com/mini-walking-tour-of-the-d-and-r-canal?_gl=1*he1qsp*_ga*MTkxNjQxMTgxMi4xNzExMTM0NzMw*_ga_LHKW5FR9N6*MTcxMTE1NzUxMS4yLjEuMTcxMTE1NzgyMi42MC4wLjA.

https://events.humanitix.com/mini-walking-tour-of-the-d-and-r-canal

HUNTERDON AND THE CIVIL WAR MINI SERIES:

THURSDAY, JUNE 6TH:  A FIELD OF BLUE AND GRAY?  That would be the History of the Civil War in Hunterdon lecture given by County Historian and Author of the book by the same title, John Kuhl on June 3rd. John's stories are haunting, like the faces of those battle weary or battle lost.  Lower Level Meeting Room, Hunterdon County Library Main Branch. 7 pm.  Free refreshments follow. No reservations required.

THURSDAY, JUNE 13TH:  ABRAHAM LINCONLN AND THE AMERICAN FLAG:  Perhaps no one in our nation's history has been associated more with the American flag than Abraham Lincoln. From his election to the presidency in 1860 until his death by an assassin's bullet five years later, this newly researched PowerPoint presentation examines the role the flag played in Lincoln's political life. Several flags used in his two presidential campaigns as well as those draped on the theater box at Ford's Theatre and on the front of the funeral train that carried his body from Washington D.C. back to Springfield, Illinois, are among the historic examples being highlighted. Also rare paper mourning flags waved by onlookers during Lincoln's funeral procession through major U.S. cities will be on display. Our speaker, Hunterdon's own Richard Pierce, is a nationally recognized expert on the American Flag.  Lower Level Meeting Room, Hunterdon County Library Main Branch. 7 pm.  Free refreshments follow. No reservations required.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20TH: MUSIC OF THE CIVIL WAR: In period dress, Ridley and Anne Enslow will perform historic Civil War songs played on instruments found during the 19th century.  The Enslow's played this concert for us last in March of 2014.  It was a very emotional and moving evening of music that evoked the pain, the boredom and the patriotism of the American Civil War.  A night not to be missed!  7 pm; Lower Level Meeting Room, Main Branch of the Library.  Free.  No reservations required.  Refreshments Follow.

SATURDAY, JULY 6TH:  MEET UP!  CIVIL WAR FLAG UNVEILING AT THE STATE MUSEUM, TRENTON:  In the American Civil War, flags guided troops into battle and served as patriotic emblems of honor and pride. Join flag historian Dr. David Martin and Curator of Cultural History Nicholas Ciotola for a gallery walk about the history of five new flags to be unveiled in the State Museum’s exhibition, The Civil War Flag Collection of New Jersey. One-hour tour followed by a reception hosted by Hunterdon 300th in the museum’s Riverview Court. Attendees can also visit Discovering Grant Castner, a new exhibit consisting of more than 200 historical images taken by a long-forgotten, turn-of-the-20^th-century photographer from Belvidere, NJ, who later lived and worked in Trenton.  10 a.m, New Jersey State Museum, 205 West State Street (FREE weekend parking behind the museum), Trenton, NJ.  Reservations requested but not required.  

We are trying a new reservation system.  Please cut and paste the following URL or try clicking on the link below even though it says it is for the D&R.  

https://events.humanitix.com/copy-of-mini-walking-tour-of-the-d-and-r-canal?_gl=1*1xsgi1u*_ga*MTkxNjQxMTgxMi4xNzExMTM0NzMw*_ga_LHKW5FR9N6*MTcxMTU4NjEzNy4zLjEuMTcxMTU4NjQ3MS4xNS4wLjA.

https://events.humanitix.com/copy-of-mini-walking-tour-of-the-d-and-r-canal

LINDBERGH MINI SERIES:

A SPECIAL LINDBERGH LECTURE SERIES:  In 2014, the Hunterdon Tricentennial Committee, now the Hunterdon 300th, produced a series of 8 lectures by Jim Davidson on Lindbergh at the Historic Courthouse over 8 weeks.  We are proud to bring a new series of 6 lectures to the Historic Courthouse over 2 weekends!

James Davidson has lived the Lindbergh Kidnapping for over 30 years. A former history teacher and a popular speaker on the Lindbergh case, this is the third book he had written on the Lindbergh Kidnapping. Along with co-author Mark Falzini his first book was “New Jersey's Lindbergh Kidnapping and Trial”. This was followed up in 2022 with “When the Circus Came to Town – Flemington New Jersey and the Lindbergh Kidnapping Trial”.James Davidson grew up in Flemington, New Jersey where from an early age he heard stories of the Lindbergh Kidnapping and Hauptmann Trial. His parents had lived in Trenton, NJ and attended a Hauptmann Execution Party at a local hotel, where they listen to Gabriel Heater broadcast the execution live from outside the State Prison. His father said all the lights in the hotel dimmed when they electrocuted Hauptmann! As a young boy Davidson met William Allen, who worked for his grandfather and who was one of the people who found the Lindbergh baby. In Flemington he knew Lloyd Fisher, who was his father’s attorney and who was also Bruno Hauptmann’s attorney, while Davidson’s neighbor was one of the jurors at the trial. A local historian and former history teacher, Davidson, over a 30 year period, has amassed one of the largest collections of Lindbergh Flight and Trial memorabilia. With Mark Falzini, archivist of the New State Police Museum, he co-authored “New Jersey’s Lindbergh Kidnapping and Trial.” Davidson is an avid and much sought after speaker on the Lindbergh’s, the Kidnapping and the Trial.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5TH:  ANNE AND CHARLES LINDBERGH, PART ONE:  A two-part biography of the couple, including Lindbergh in Nazi Germany and the families Lindbergh fathered in Germany.  Historic Courthouse, Main Street, Flemington, 7 pm.  Free. No reservations are required.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH:  ANNE AND CHARLES LINDBERGH, PART TWO:  Historic Courthouse, Main Street, Flemington, 7 pm.  Free. No reservations are required.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH:  SEARCHING THE SOURLANDS:  Early stages of finding the Lindbergh baby, including all the chaos in Hopewell.  Historic Courthouse, Main Street, Flemington, 2 pm.  Free. No reservations are required.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH: MEET UP! VISIT TO THE STATE POLICE MUSEUM WITH A SPECIAL MEET UP AT THE LINDBERGH KIDNAPPING EXHIBIT:  We've arranged a very special visit to the State Police Museum to tour the State Police Museum and meet up at the Lindbergh Exhibit where there will be a special talk.  Come on your own as early as 9 am when the Museum opens.  Spend time before or after our Meet Up at 11 am at the Lindbergh Exhibit.  The Museum closes at 3 pm so you can tour at your leisure no matter what time you arrive.  Please have photo identification for every member of your party.  The State Police are graciously allowing us to provide some refreshments as well.  This tour is free but we will be requiring reservations as we get closer to the event to provide a head count to the State Police.  

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (RAIN DATE SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 22):  LINDBERGH'S FLEMINGTON WALKING TOUR:  Join historical architect and Flemington architecture expert Chris Pickell for a new walking tour on and around Main Street to explore Main Street as Lindbergh saw it.  Chris will also outline and show some of the special places in town including where Defense Attorney Lloyd Fisher's office was, where Anna Hauptmann and her son stayed, and where the reporters ate.   Reservations will be required as we get closer to the event. Limited to 20 guests.  10 am.

A SPECIAL LINDBERGH LECTURE SERIES CONTINUES:

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH:  DEBUT: THE OTHER LINDBERGH TRIAL IN FLEMINGTON:   In 1932, Charles Lindbergh sat in the Flemington New Jersey courtroom in the First Lindbergh Kidnapping trial. Most people are familiar with Charles Lindbergh vs. Bruno Richard Hauptmann in the famous 1935 “Trial of the Century.” But very few people know that there was another trial that preceded the Hauptmann trial. In the summer of 1932, John Hughes Curtis, a well-known pillar of society in Norfolk, Virginia was approached and asked to serve as an intermediary between the gang who said they kidnapped the Lindbergh baby and Charles Lindbergh. Thus began an adventure with Curtis and Lindbergh out to sea for three weeks, Curtis being held captive in the basement of Lindbergh's house, culminating in a wild trial in the hot summer of 1932 in the Flemington courthouse. Many of he same people who show up in the Hauptmann trial are there: Lloyd Fisher, Anthony Hauck, Col. Lindbergh, Col. Schwarzkopf, Betty Gow, Ollie Whately, etc.  Historic Courthouse, Main Street, Flemington, 7 pm.  Free. No reservations are required.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH:  When the Circus Came to Town Much has been written of the Lindbergh-Hauptmann Kidnapping Trial of 1934. This book examines what actually happened in the town of Flemington, New Jersey, a sleepy farm town that became, for a few months, the center of the universe. The first weekend of “The Trial of the Century,” the town saw 50,000 people arrive. Over 700 reporters were on hand as well as 150 photographers and countless sketch artists. Nellie’s Bar in the Union Hotel became a landmark for those who got to drink there while prostitutes roamed the streets, paying newsboys tips for “Johns.” Every famous news writer and commentator of the day was there – Adela Rogers St. Johns, Damon Runyon, Dorothy Kilgallen, Walter Winchell, Gabriel Heater, etc. This book examines what they wrote and what they said in their own words as well as colorful stories about each of them. Some of the most famous sketch artists and cartoonists of the times were also there and this book examines what they produced on a daily basis. Flemington, the trial and the times are shown in a light heretofore not described in other books. Historic Courthouse, Main Street, Flemington, 2 pm.  Free. No reservations are required.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH:  12 THEORIES OF WHO KIDNAPPED THE LINDBERGH BABY:  This dynamic lecture goes through not only the most popular and well-known theories of the Lindbergh Kidnapping, but also some of the less well known that will make you rethink everything you ever knew about the kidnapping.  This talk is a stunner as Jim Davidson summarizes various theories, spinning them into the facts of the case and how each theory could possibly identify other guilty parties including a famous mafia don and Colonel Lindbergh himself.  You will leave this talk questioning whether or not Hauptmann acted alone or with others, what he really knew, who else was involved and whether or not he was simply framed.  Sunday afternoon Sept. 29 at 2 pm: 12 Theories of Who Kidnapped Jr.  Historic Courthouse, Main Street, Flemington, 2 pm.  Free. No reservations are required.

EVENTS FROM OUR PARTNERS AROUND THE COUNTY

JUNE 1ST:  FLEMINGTON HISTORIC HOUSE TOURS:  11 am to 5 pm.  More information forthcoming.  Sponsored by the Flemington Historic Preservation Commission.

300th News: Events This Weekend!

AS WE CONTINUE TO PLAN OUR 300TH LECTURE AND EVENT SEASON "MINI-SERIES", WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US THIS WEEKEND:

SATURDAY, MARCH 2ND:  CLOTHING OF THE COLONIAL PERIOD:  JOIN REVOLUTION NJ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CARRIE FELLOWES as we start to get ready for the 250th anniversary of our country's birth.  In anticipation of exciting events in which many of you will want to participate or attend, or those of you who simply have a fashion fascination, Carrie will present a "how-to" program on creating accurate 1770s clothing for living history interpretation and programs.  When should you begin assembling our kit?  Where might you fid patterns and fabric that will provide the best look for your time and money? Is there anything you can purchase ready-made?   The 300th will also do a brief presentation about some of the events that our county's historical partners have already started planning.  Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  Free refreshments follow.  No reservations required.

FROM OUR HISTORICAL PARTNER, READINGTON MUSEUMS:  

SUNDAY. MARCH 3RD, 1 PM TO 4 PM:  BOUMAN STICKNEY OPEN HOUSE:  Come visit the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead this Sunday! Learn about its many histories,  step inside the 18th c. Wade-Wyckoff, New World Dutch Barn, and complete your afternoon by hiking the Bouman-Stickney Trail with the family. Come tour the 1741 home , step inside the pre-revolutionary Wade-Wyckoff barn, or hike the scenic trail that winds throughout the entire the farmstead, 114 Dreahook Road, Lebanon (for GPS).  Free; donations appreciated. No reservations required.

WINTER EVENTS, ANNOUNCING OUR 2024 THEME, AND GETTING READY FOR 2026!

WE ARE STILL IN THE PLANNING STAGES OF OUR 2024 THEME "MINI SERIES" WHICH WILL INCLUDE A MINI SERIES ON LINDBERGH, ON THE CIVIL WAR, AND ON WATER.  WE ARE ALSO PLANNING ON SPRINKLING SOME HISTORIC TAVERN AND CHURCH TOURS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.  STAY TUNED FOR OUR FULL CALENDAR OF EVENTS TO COME OUT IN MARCH!

AS WE PLAN OUR 2024 THEME, WE WANT TO ANNOUNCE TWO SCHEDULED PROGRAMS:

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28TH:  "EARLY MEDICINE AND MEDICAL EQUIPMENT":  SNOW DATE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 11TH: Join Dr. Gary Grover as he explores the interesting and often disturbing medical practices of the 19th and early 20th centuries thru the collection of medical artifacts in the Historic Society's archives.  Do you know what a scarificator is?  Find out in this fascinating talk! Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  This event is in partnership with the Hunterdon County Historical Society and we are requesting a $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/early-medicine-and-medical-equipment-tickets-684291082047?aff=oddtdtcreator  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

SATURDAY, MARCH 2ND:  CLOTHING OF THE COLONIAL PERIOD:  JOIN REVOLUTION NJ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CARRIE FELLOWES as we start to get ready for the 250th anniversary of our country's birth.  In anticipation of exciting events in which many of you will want to participate or attend, or those of you who simply have a fashion fascination, Carrie will demonstrate, display and discuss Colonial attire for both women and men, how you can make or buy your own in time for the American Revolution festivities, and much more. The 300th will also do a brief presentation about some of the events that our county's historical partners have already started planning.  Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/clothing-of-the-colonial-period-tickets-808049897997

If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

HUNTERDON COUNTY IS AMERICAN 

REVOLUTIONARY WAR PROUD!:

DID YOU KNOW THAT WHEN GEORGE WASHINGTON CROSSED THE DELAWARE ON CHRISTMAS DAY, 1776, HE CROSSED FROM BUCKS COUNTY INTO HUNTERDON COUNTY?

THAT THE 1776 BATTLE OF TRENTON WAS FOUGHT IN HUNTERDON COUNTY?

THAT THE FIRST PUBLIC READING OF THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE WAS AT THE HUNTERDON COUNTY COURTHOUSE ON JULY 8, 1776?

We are recruiting new volunteers for our 2025-2026 theme: "ON THE THRESHHOLD OF INDEPENDENCE".  Along with almost 5 dozen historical partners from around Hunterdon, the Hunterdon 300th is planning a robust 18 month (or possibly longer) anniversary celebration of the lead up to the American Revolutionary War.  We are seeking new volunteers to help plan, produce, and staff a HUNDRED LECTURES, EVENTS AND TOURS.  If you are interested, please join us at one of our next planning meetings.  We meet the first Saturday of every month at the Main Branch of the Hunterdon County Library on Route 12 at 2 pm.  February, March and April have a snow date of the following Sunday, same place, same time.  WE HOPE YOU WILL CONSIDER JOINING US as we need a Hunterdon Militia of volunteers to create this stunning celebration!

AS WE ENTER INTO HUNTERDON'S 310TH ANNIVERSARY, HERE'S ANOTHER LITTLE HUNTERDON FUN FACT:

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS BEFORE?

DOES THIS HELP?

THIS ORNAMENT HUNG ON THE WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS TREE AND HERE'S THE STORY AS INVESTIGATED BY 300TH VOLUNTEER, MJ THOMAS:

"UNRAVELING THE MYSTERY OF THE WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT"

Little Ornament, Big Story

My name is Mary Jane Thomas, and I am a member of the Hunterdon Tricentennial Committee, chaired by Marcia Karrow. At a recent 300th meeting, Marcia shared with the committee members a photo of a 2020 Christmas tree ornament painted by a young artist in Hunterdon County. The ornament depicted the historic Union Hotel, located on Main Street in Flemington. What made this ornament so special was that it was chosen to represent New Jersey on the official White House Christmas tree located in the Blue Room. Every year, students from across the country are tasked with creating ornaments depicting what makes their state so special. We were elated to discover an iconic symbol of Flemington was displayed on a national stage. The young artist of the ornament was unknown. Marica was interested in finding its creator so she may be recognized for her achievement. However, the only morsel of information we could gather was that the artist was named “Amy,” who resided somewhere in Hunterdon County.

           The trail went cold until I was invited to a tea party at a local Flemington residence. The hostess is a lifelong Flemington resident and is very active in the community. While there, I was shocked to discover a couch pillow with a print of the Union Hotel ornament sewn on it. With a new lead on the alluring ornament and its creator, I quickly asked the hostess where she acquired the pillow. She revealed that she read Amy’s story about the ornament in the newspaper at the time it was selected for the White House tree in December 2020. The article mentioned Amy’s artwork was available for print on a website called “Artsonia”, a worldwide online gallery that promotes the talent of student art projects. She bought a copy of the ornament design from the website and sewed it on the pillow. From what she remembered reading in the article, the hostess mentioned Amy was a student at Delaware Township school in Sergeantsville. With this unexpected bit of serendipity, the trail became warm again. I contacted the art teacher at the school, Ms. Mikula,  and discovered her 7th grade student Amy was in fact the creator of the ornament. She set up an interview for me to meet with them and discuss her inspiration in choosing the Union Hotel. The following questions were posed to Amy and Ms. Mikula.

Mary Jane:  What sparked your interest in painting the Union Hotel?

Amy;  Ever since I was five years old, I would walk by it every day, as I lived in downtown        Flemington. I noticed how it changed over the years.

Mary Jane;  Did you return to Flemington after you moved to sketch the building in person?

Amy;  No, I mostly drew it from my memory, but used photos as needed to fill in any gaps.

Mary Jane;  How was the ornament submitted to the White House? What was the selection process like?

Ms. Mikula;  The New Jersey Department of Education chose Delaware Township School to decorate Christmas trees at the White House. All of our students designed an ornament that would represent New Jersey. I chose twelve designs to be printed onto the final submissions. The National Parks Commission, which organizes the tree lighting, chose three of our twelve ornaments to be included for the official indoor White House Christmas tree. Amy, as well as two of her classmates, were chosen for this honor. They were recognized by a formal letter of congratulations from the First Lady. The remaining ornaments submitted by my students were used to decorate the outdoor state Christmas tree. We were the only school chosen to decorate the New Jersey tree due to my recognition as County Teacher of the Year and being the only educator who taught art.

Mary Jane:  Did you and your family get invited to see the ornament on the White House tree?

Amy:  Yes, I was invited. However, since it was a busy time of the year, I was unable to attend.

Mary Jane:  Where is the ornament now? Is it hanging on your family Christmas tree or is it stored in the White House.

Ms. Mikula:  The original print is stored in the White House. However, a copy of the ornament design is depicted on magnets, mugs, tee-shirts, keychains, etc. is sold on Artsonia with a portion of the profits going to the school.

Mary Jane:  Not only is Amy very talented, but she is also lucky to have a teacher who is so supportive.

Ms. Mikula:  I love the opportunity to showcase all of my students’ artwork. Amy is on track to be in the honors art program in high school where her skills will blossom.

A journey that began with just a picture of an ornament unraveled into a search to discover how a historic landmark of Flemington made its way into the White House. It was fulfilling to discover the full story of a talented young girl with the help of many coincidences. As I walked out of Delaware Township School, I noticed the ceiling tiles in the hallways were individually painted by every departing 8th grade student. This school tradition will carry on when Amy finishes 8th grade. I would like to return next school year to enjoy Amy’s creativity memorialized on the ceiling tile.

I would like to give a special thank you to everyone who made this story possible. Especially Ms. Mikula for arranging the interview and Amy for proudly representing Flemington on the national stage.

NOW THAT'S A FUN FACT!  

See you soon!  

FALL PROGRAMING OF HISTORIC EVENTS AROUND HUNTERDON

OUR SERIES OF TALKS ABOUT THE COUNTY HISTORIC SOCIETY'S TREASURES, SHOWCASING ITEMS RARELY SEEN FROM THE SOCIETY'S COLLECTION, CONTINUES WITH 3 NEW TALKS ADDED!:

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8TH: STORIES OF THE MILFORD HOTEL THRU ITS REGISTRY":  with Milford Historian Rob Castagna.  A fascinating look at who visited Milford and their stories including First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.  

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stories-of-the-milford-hotel-thru-its-registry-tickets-621840570887 If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser 

POSTPONED:   "FUN FACT ITEMS FROM THE COLLECTION" DATE HAS BEEN MOVED FROM OCTOBER 15TH TO SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2ND AT 1 PM!  

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22ND: "THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE CONTINENTAL SOLDIER": With military collector and historian John Dwyer.  Description forthcoming.  

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-life-and-times-of-the-continental-soldier-tickets-621829728457  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27TH: 7 PM: THE CRIME AND EXECUTION OF THE MURDERER JAMES "LITTLE JIM" GOULD:  Join County Historian Emerita Stephanie Stevens as she details a grisly murder and subsequent trial, hanging and rumors of haunting in 19th Century Hunterdon County.  James "Little Jim" Gould was the last person executed by hanging in 19th Century Hunterdon. The Historic Society owns the actual murder weapon which will be on display that evening.  This talk will be held in the parlor of the Doric House on Main Street, Flemington.  Attendance is limited and reservations will be required.  Time to be announced.  $10 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Refreshments follow.

This event is limited to 20 people.  Reservations are required.  Ticketing opens up no October 1st.  Go to or cut and paste into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-in-time-for-halloween-the-tale-of-the-murderer-little-jim-tickets-621834542857  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser 

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19TH:  "FACES OF HUNTERDON: OUR HISTORY THRU PORTRAITURE":  Historians from the Society will bring along their favorite portraits of some of Hunterdon's most interesting Who's Who.  Description forthcoming.  Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/faces-of-hunterdon-our-history-thru-portraiture-tickets-621844974057  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2ND: "FUN FACT ITEMS FROM THE COLLECTION":  Historian and Trustee of the Hunterdon County Historical Society explores the curious bits, bobs, plaques, and more that fill the collection of the Society but don't fill any of our talks neatly.  John is a favorite as he brings his humor and wit to all Fun Fact talks!  

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE START TIME IS 1 PM!  Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 1 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fun-fact-items-from-the-collection-tickets-621826278137  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

POSTPONED: DATE HAS BEEN MOVED FROM  TO SUNDAY, JANUARY 28TH  WITH A SNOW DATE OF SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11TH -- SAME ORIGINAL TIME AND LOCATION!  SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10TH:  "EARLY MEDICINE AND MEDICAL EQUIPMENT":  Join Dr. Gary Grover as he explores the interesting and often disturbing medical practices of the 19th and early 20th centuries thru the collection of medical artifacts in the Historic Society's archives.  Do you know what a scarificator is?  Find out in this fascinating talk! Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/early-medicine-and-medical-equipment-tickets-684291082047?aff=oddtdtcreator  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

EVENTS FROM OUR HISTORICAL PARTNERS AROUND THE COUNTY

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP IS FEATURED IN A NEW HISTORY BOOK WITH BOOKSIGNING SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1ST FROM 2:30 TO 4:30 PM:  Hunterdon’s Franklin Township has a new history book: Franklin As We Were. A 235-page anthology, the book offers both fact-based and anecdotal history of the rural township through 42 articles by 24 authors.  An index of names includes 661 people who helped make Franklin’s history.

Lora W. Jones, Franklin’s historian since 2001, edited the work and also contributed some articles. “This is more of a reference book than one to read straight through,” she says and adds, “There is something of interest for everyone.”

A signing party with four of the book’s authors will feature the new historical resource on Sunday, October 1 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Friends Meetinghouse at the intersection of Rt. 579 and Whitebridge Road, Quakertown, NJ.  The price of the book is $30 cash or check (made out to Franklin Twp., Hunterdon Co.), $35 if ordering by mail.  The event is hosted by Rural Awareness, a non-profit civic group in Franklin. Light refreshments will be served.

This book provides, for the first time since Franklin Township was established in 1845, an inventory of its 10 early taverns, 21 mills of 5 various types, and 26 one-room schoolhouses used for a differing number of years from 1730 to 1936. Three of the mills, all stone, still stand; two are residences and one houses commercial ventures.

One attention-grabbing article describes the horror and confusion that resulted from a bolt of lightning that struck the United Methodist Episcopal Church in Quakertown in 1895. Members of the congregation were knocked senseless for some 20 minutes, and many were burned. One died four days later. Amazingly, a photograph taken by Quakertown resident Willis Vail of the burned clothes of church sexton Asa Bowman accompanies the account.

Other articles record the 1952 fire that destroyed the Cherryville Inn, which at its start was the 1737 Dogtown Tavern; the establishment of the Franklin Telephone Company and its many growing pains over the years; tales of ghosts in eighteenth-century houses; a young boy’s secret to catching skunks; and a wild turkey who commanded, and stopped, traffic for weeks on Sidney Road in 2020. The book also details the historic loss in 1978 of the Fink Through-Truss bridge at Hamden, the oldest metal truss bridge in the U.S. and the oldest span in Hunterdon County, in place since 1857.

Franklin As We Were will be available for purchase at the Franklin Municipal Building, 202 Sidney Road. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday with extended hours from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday. 

MONDAY, OCTOBER 2ND, 7 PM:  RINGOES GRANGE will host a wonderful program By Edward Fimbel.  Ed is a collector of native American artifacts and one of the of the people who helped the Hunterdon County Historical Society with the new exhibit at the Hiram Deats Room in the Flemington Public Library where some of Mr. Deats' Native American artifacts are on display.  Ed will share some of his own collection with us and he asks that participants bring in Native American artifacts & arrowheads so he can examine them and tell you more about them,  The program is free and there will be refreshments after the program.  Ringoes Grange turns 150 years old this year! No reservations are necessary.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8TH, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM:  METAL DETECTING DEMO AT THE READINGTON MUSEUMS: The Deep Search Metal Detecting Club (DSMDC) will be giving a public demonstration on responsible metal detecting, along with a special event for children to try their hand at detecting at the Readington Museums’ Bouman-Stickney Farmstead. Displays of local artifacts will highlight many of the previous finds from the Farmstead. Last year the Club (DSMDC) offered to help Readington Museums locate the original barn at the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead and has made two small explorations so far. Based in Edison NJ, DSMDC is a volunteer group of metal detectorists interested in preserving history by locating relics. They have used their skills in places such as the Monmouth and Princeton Battlefields, Valley Forge and West Point, the Schuyler-Hamilton House in Morristown, and James Madison’s Montpelier. On their first visit to the farmstead, they found a 1726 King George II farthing along with a large strap hinge. They have also located many square nails which could be from pre-1800s buildings. The locations of all findings are being recorded by professional survey equipment so that a map can be produced for future reference. The club returned to the farmstead this July to resume the search. The members found pieces of a horse's bridle, long interconnected metal rods, a tiny white fragment of white pottery, and a larger glazed and painted terra cotta piece. The DSMDC is cleaning and preserving all the relics and will be displayed at the metal detecting program. The program is free, but donations are appreciated. Reservations are strongly recommended.

http://www.ReadingtonMuseums.org, contact the Readington Museums at 908-236-2327, or readingtonmuseums@gmail.com. 

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14TH, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: READINGTON MUSEUMS HOSTS AN OLD FASHIONED BARN DANCE:  Put on your dancing shoes for a night of family fun as the Readington Museums hosts its bi-annual Barn Dance. The dance will be held inside the eighteenth-century Wade-Wyckoff Barn at the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead. This family-friendly event is a wonderful way to have fun with the entire family. Caller, Betsy Gotta, will give easy to follow instructions before each dance so even a beginner will be able to dance the night away. There is a suggested donation of $5.00 per adult and $2.00 per child. For groups of six or more, please call for a reservation.  

http://www.ReadingtonMuseums.org, contact the Readington Museums at 908-236-2327, or readingtonmuseums@gmail.com. 

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22ND: 11 AM TO 5 PM:  LAMBERTVILLE HOUSE TOUR HOSTED BY THE LAMBERTVILLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY:  You can begin the self-guided tour at any House Tour site you choose. Maps and information about the homes will be available there.
All information about the HT sites and a map of the sites will be available online - once you purchase your ticket.  There will be no ticket tables, paper tickets or booklets this year. Everything you need for the tour will be digital.

You will receive a reminder email from EVENTBRITE with instructions on where to start the House Tour a few days before the HT - after you have purchased your online tickets.

Parking is available throughout Lambertville.  All ticket sales are online. ONLY.  $25 in advance and for Lambertville Historic Society Members.  $30 the day of the tour.

Visit Lambertville Historical Society at www.lambertvillehistoricalsociety.org

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12TH:  HISTORIC SOCIETY'S FALL MEETING AND FREE TALK: CEMETERY JOURNEYS: UNDERSTANDING LOCAL CEMETERIES AND GRAVESTONES WITH CHERYL JACKSON:  Flemington Presbyterian Church, Main Street, Flemington.  No reservation required.  Free and open to the public.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3RD, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: DUTCH SINT NICOLAAS DAY AT READINGTON MUSEUMS: As a way to honor the Dutch heritage of the 1741 Bouman-Stickney Farmstead, the Readington Museums will be hosting Dutch Sint-Nicolaas Day. Sinterklaas will be available for pictures and Colonial musicians, Anne and Ridley Enslow, will perform historic holiday pieces that showcase a hammered dulcimer and a historic violin. Visitors may also make an ornament to take home, as well as enjoy cider and cookies. The program is free, but donations are gladly accepted.

http://www.ReadingtonMuseums.org, contact the Readington Museums at 908-236-2327, or readingtonmuseums@gmail.com. 

 

SPECIAL ARCHIVE EVENT, FALL PROGRAMMING AND WE'LL SEE YOU AT THE FAIR!

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12TH:  SPECIAL EVENT ADDED!  RARE DOCUMENTS FROM TWO HUNTERDON COUNTY ARCHIVES:  JOIN US FOR A RARE VISIT TO THE HUNTERDON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S ARCHIVES TO VIEW RARE DOCUMENTS FROM BOTH THE SOCIETY AND HUNTERDON COUNTY'S ARCHIVES!  Please join us  as the Hunterdon County Historical Society partner with the Hunterdon County Archives as we hold an event featuring a display of important treasures from their collections.  Donald Cornelius, the Manuscript Curator of the Hunterdon County Historical Society, will host the event at the Hunterdon County Historical Society's Archives Building on River Road in Raritan Township.  

Mr. Cornelius will display and discuss the history and significance of several manuscripts from the collections of the Hunterdon County Archives.  These materials are on loan to the Society especially for this event, and they include Civil War Enlistments, American Revolutionary War pension papers, 18th Century Minutes from the Board of Chosen Freeholders, and Indictments and the Criminal Docket Book of notorious individuals.    

Mr. Cornelius will display and discuss items from the collections of the Historical Society, including the County Oaths of Loyalty and Abjuration, a priceless document signed by the Pre-American Revolution Who's Who of Hunterdon County, swearing allegiance to the King, the Hunterdon County Manumission Collection, and Early Church Records of Hunterdon County, among others.

Don't miss this event; it is a rare occasion to see inside the Historical Society's Archives Building and an even more rare opportunity to view original documents from from the collections of the County and the Historical Society.

Two sessions are being offered: a morning session from 10:30 am until noon and an afternoon session from 1 pm to 2:30 pm.  Please reserve your preferred time slot via Eventbrite.

$20 per person payable by August 5 of which 100% will go to the preservation of historic items held by the Historic Society.  

Please mail checks payable to the Hunterdon County Historical Society, 114 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822.  If you prefer to pay with cash, you can drop it off in an envelope in the Hunterdon 300th's mail slot located at 3 Chorister Place, Flemington, NJ.  Please make sure you mark in the subject line or leave a note as to which time you signed up for.  As soon as we receive your payment you will receive a confirming email.  

Both sessions are limited to only 20 guests!

If you experience trouble using the below reservation links, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser:

MORNING SESSION (10:30 AM TO NOON):  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rare-documents-from-two-hunterdon-county-archives-morning-session-tickets-684285886507?aff=oddtdtcreator

AFTERNOON SESSION (1 PM TO 2:30 PM): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rare-documents-from-two-hunterdon-county-archives-afternoon-session-tickets-684288253587?aff=oddtdtcreator

THE HISTORIC HUNTERDON COUNTY 4-H FAIR STARTS ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23RD AND WE'LL BE THERE IN THE COMMUNITY TENT RIGHT NEXT TO OUR 2023 THEME PARTNER THE HUNTERDON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY. AS ALWAYS, WE'LL BE RUNNING A "FAIR SPECIAL" ON SOME OF OUR MERCHANDISE SO STOP BY AND BROWSE OUR TABLE AND SAY HI!

OUR SERIES OF TALKS ABOUT THE COUNTY HISTORIC SOCIETY'S TREASURES, SHOWCASING ITEMS RARELY SEEN FROM THE SOCIETY'S COLLECTION, CONTINUES AFTER LABOR DAY - 3 NEW TALKS ADDED!:

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH:  "LOST PARKS OF HUNTERDON COUNTY":  Join Historian John Kuhl as he describes parks that were here and now gone, or planned and never built including Bellewood Park, Packers Island and the Aerodrome.  

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lost-parks-of-hunterdon-county-tickets-621822456707 If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH: FLEMINGTON IN THE 20TH  CENTURY AND 100 YEARS OF KARROW HISTORY:  Join Mayor Marcia Karrow as she takes a mental stroll down Main Street in the historic County Street of Flemington, remembering businesses, growing up, and three generations of her family's involvement in both government and volunteerism as seen thru business memorabilia from downtown Flemington.

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/flemington-in-the-20th-century-and-100-years-of-karrow-history-tickets-686635714907?aff=oddtdtcreator  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser 

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8TH: PREVIOUSLY SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 12TH:   STORIES OF THE MILFORD HOTEL THRU ITS REGISTRY":  with Milford Historian Rob Castagna.  A fascinating look at who visited Milford and their stories including First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.  

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stories-of-the-milford-hotel-thru-its-registry-tickets-621840570887 If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser 

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15TH: "FUN FACT ITEMS FROM THE COLLECTION":  Historian and Trustee of the Hunterdon County Historical Society explores the curious bits, bobs, plaques, and more that fill the collection of the Society but don't fill any of our talks neatly.  John is a favorite as he brings his humor and wit to all Fun Fact talks!  

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fun-fact-items-from-the-collection-tickets-621826278137  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22ND: "THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE CONTINENTAL SOLDIER": With military collector and historian John Dwyer.  Description forthcoming.  

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-life-and-times-of-the-continental-soldier-tickets-621829728457  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27TH: 7 PM: THE CRIME AND EXECUTION OF THE MURDERER JAMES "LITTLE JIM" GOULD:  Join County Historian Emerita Stephanie Stevens as she details a grisly murder and subsequent trial, hanging and rumors of haunting in 19th Century Hunterdon County.  James "Little Jim" Gould was the last person executed by hanging in 19th Century Hunterdon. The Historic Society owns the actual murder weapon which will be on display that evening.  This talk will be held in the parlor of the Doric House on Main Street, Flemington.  Attendance is limited and reservations will be required.  Time to be announced.  $10 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Refreshments follow.

This event is limited to 20 people.  Reservations are required.  Ticketing opens up no October 1st.  Go to or cut and paste into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-in-time-for-halloween-the-tale-of-the-murderer-little-jim-tickets-621834542857  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser 

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12TH:  HISTORIC SOCIETY'S FALL MEETING AND FREE TALK: CEMETERY JOURNEYS: UNDERSTANDING LOCAL CEMETERIES AND GRAVESTONES WITH CHERYL JACKSON:  Flemington Presbyterian Church, Main Street, Flemington.  No reservation required.  Free and open to the public.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19TH:  "FACES OF HUNTERDON: OUR HISTORY THRU PORTRAITURE":  Historians from the Society will bring along their favorite portraits of some of Hunterdon's most interesting Who's Who.  Description forthcoming.  Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/faces-of-hunterdon-our-history-thru-portraiture-tickets-621844974057  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10TH:  "EARLY MEDICINE AND MEDICAL EQUIPMENT":  Join Dr. Gary Grover as he explores the interesting and often disturbing medical practices of the 19th and early 20th centuries thru the collection of medical artifacts in the Historic Society's archives.  Do you know what a scarificator is?  Find out in this fascinating talk! Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM.  $5 dollar suggested donation to go to the Hunterdon County Historical Society for the preservation of our county's historical treasures.  Free refreshments follow.  Reservations recommended by going to or cutting and pasting into a new url: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/early-medicine-and-medical-equipment-tickets-684291082047?aff=oddtdtcreator  If you experience trouble using the reservation link, we recommend cutting and pasting the url (address) into a new browser

EVENTS FROM OUR HISTORICAL PARTNERS AROUND THE COUNTY

NOW THROUGH SEPTEMBER 7TH: LEBANON TOWNSHIP MUSEUM PLEIN AIR REGISTRATION: Registration is now open for the 2nd Annual Paint the Town Plein Air Event as well as the Student Art Competition! 

The Paint the Town plein air event celebrates Lebanon Township's charm by inviting artists to capture the beauty of local historic sites from Saturday, September 9th through Saturday, September 23rd.

Artists will exhibit their best work at the Art Show & Silent Auction to be held on Sunday, September 24th at the Inn at Glen Gardner, 161 Main Street, Glen Gardner, NJ.

1st Prize $500, 2nd Prize $250, 3rd Prize $150 & Student Prize $100.

Registration is open now through September 7th. Register online museum@lebtwp.net

STARTING FRIDAY AUGUST 4: READINGTON MUSEUM PRESENTS: FRIDAY MORNINGS AT THE MUSUEM: The Readington Museum is pleased to announce Friday Mornings at the Museum, a hands-on summer program for children ages 8 to 12, on the following consecutive Fridays: August 4, 11,18, and 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead. During each session, the children will make history-inspired crafts, learn a historic trade, play historic games, or learn an English country dance.

The cost of each program is $10.00 per child, for each session registered. Preregistration and payment before each session are required.

Please register online Here or through the link on our homepage:

http://www.ReadingtonMuseums.org, contact the Readington Museums at 908-236-2327, or readingtonmuseums@gmail.com. Checks made payable to Readington Township can be mailed to Readington Museums, PO Box, 216, Stanton, NJ 08885.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4TH, 7 PM, READINGTON MUSEUM PRESENTS:  THE EVOLUTION OF THE AMERICAN FLAG: J. Richard Pierce will speak on the topic, The Evolution of the American Flag. He traces the history of the Stars and Stripes, from its beginning in 1777 to the present day, bringing to light historical accounts that speak of the timeless appeal that the flag holds for many generations of Americans. Pierce is the author of the book, The Stars and Stripes: Fabric of the American Spirit, which brings together and recounts many stories that characterize the spirit of America and honor the flag that represents the principles on which our nation was founded. It is this sense of history, this reverence for the Stars and Stripes that embodies the feeling of Americans toward their national symbol of freedom and their hopes and dreams for the future. Pierce is a retired senior banking executive whose lifelong love of the stars and stripes parallels his strong interest in politics and U.S. history. J. Richard Pierce has been collecting historic American parade flags since 1991. $5 suggested donation per person. In the Barn at Bouman-Stickney Farmstead, 114 Dreahook Road, Stanton, NJ 08885. Register by contacting the museum by email Readingtonmuseums@gmail.com, phone (908) 236-2327, or website https://www.readingtontwpnj.gov/museum-home. Reservations are highly recommended. SUNDAY, AUGUST 6TH: TEWKSBURY HISTORICAL SOCIETY SELF-GUIDED TEWKSBURY AUTO TOUR, 11 AM TO 3 PM, RAIN OR SHINE:  Tour Booklets, at $10 each lead the way on Tewksbury's country roads, through its historic villages and hamlets, along rolling hills and farmlands and past unique sites.  Antique car enthusiasts can step back in time by driving their cars and let Tewksbury's special attributes come to life!  Note: some of the tour includes dirt/stone roads to travel on. Tour Booklets can be reserved in advance, or purchased the day of the Tour.  No refunds.  All Booklets must be picked up at Society Headquarters on the day of the Tour beginning at 10:30 AM, 60 Water Street, Lebanon (Mountainville), 08833.  The Tour starts at Society Headquarters and lasts about two hours, depending on stops taken along the way.  Those wishing to spend the day in Tewksbury may consider lunch at the Oldwick General Store or the Tewksbury Inn.  Advance booklets can be reserved on-line thru PayPal at www.tewksburyhistory.net. SUNDAY, AUGUST 6TH: BLACK RIVER & WESTERN RAILROAD TOUR OF HISTORIC FLEMINGTON RAIL HISTORY:   Departing Ringoes Station at 10:45 am.  Take the train to the historic County Seat, Flemington Borough, where, upon disembarking the train, you'll walk Flemington's historic rail sites.  Go to https://www.blackriverrailroad.com/ for tickets and further information.   FRIDAY AUGUST 25TH, 7 PM, READINGTON MUSEUM PRESENTS:  WITCHES: Witches in New Jersey? Oh my! Come hear Janine Quimby speak about early modern witches! Learn about the difference between “white” and “black” witches, the connections between witches and midwives (including information about the woman who inspired Hester Prynne from The Scarlet Letter), and the evolution of witches in our modern society. Janine Quimby is an English Language Arts teacher at Ridge High School in Basking Ridge, NJ. She received her BA in English and Secondary Education and her MA in English from The College of New Jersey, matriculated in Drew University's Doctor of Arts and Letters Program, and has earned 30 post-master credits in Education. Much of her graduate work focused on the role of midwives and witches in literature. $5 suggested donation per person. In the Barn at Bouman-Stickney Farmstead, 114 Dreahook Road, Stanton, NJ 08885. Register by contacting the museum by email Readingtonmuseums@gmail.com, phone (908) 236-2327, or website https://www.readingtontwpnj.gov/museum-home. Reservations are highly recommended. SEPTEMBER 16TH: LEBANON TOWNSHIP MUSEUM: Celebrate the 25th anniversary of New Hampton being included on the National Register of Historic Places with a walking tour of the village sponsored by the Lebanon Township Historian Committee on Saturday September 16th.  More information forthcoming.

Lebanon Township Museum 57 Musconetcong River Road Hampton NJ 08827 museum@lebtwp.net (908) 638-8523 extension 405 Museum hours: Tuesdays 9-3:30 * Thursdays 1-8 * Saturdays 10-3:30 *Admission is always free*