Friday, October 16, 2026

300TH NEWS: LIVING HISTORY AND HUNTERDON HISTORY OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER 2026

LARGEST LIVING HISTORY DAY IN HUNTERDON HISTORY! FREE!
2 MILITIA ENCAMPMENTS
REENACTMENT OF SKIRMISH AGAINST BRITISH FORCES
DOZENS OF ARTISANS, MUSEUMS, HISTORICAL ORGANIZATIONS
DEMONSTRATIONS, ACTIVITIES, GAMES
MUSKET DRILLINGS AND FIRINGS 
REVOLUTIONARY WAR CANNONS
HUNDREDS OF RARE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS
A DJ, A LECTURE & FOOD TRUCKS 

 

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10TH:  HUNTERDON COUNTY LIVING HISTORY DAY:  MILITIAS, RED COATS, CANNONS, ENCAMPMENTS, COLONIAL ARTISANS, CHILDREN AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES, AND a re-enactment of the Skirmish at Geary’s Ridge. See how Hunterdon County patriots prevailed over the British!

  • ·HEARDS BRIGADE; 
  •  2ND NJ MILITIA; 
  •  THE 43RD REGIMENT OF FOOT/2ND PENNSYLVANIA (REPRESENTNG THE "OTHER SIDE" OF THE   FIGHT FOR INDEPENDENCE);
  •  REVOLUTIONARY WAR ENCAMPMENT AND RE-ENACTMENT; 
  •  SUTTLERS; 
  •  REVOLUTIONARY WAR CANNONS WITH FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS; 
  •  MUSKET DRILLS AND MUSKET FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS;
  •  ARTISANS INCLUDING CANDLE-DIPPING, TIN-MAKING, 18TH CENTURY TOOLS;   BLACK SMITH; WOOL CARDING;
  •  HUGE DISPLAY OF AMERICAN 17TH, 18TH, AND 19TH CENTURY   ARTIFACTS AND   DOCUMENTS INCLUDING AN ORIGIANL COPY OF GEORGE WASHIGTON'S WILL!; 
  •  ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN FAMILIES, AND ADULTS; 
  •  AFTERNOON TALK ON THE SKIRMISH OF GEARY’S RIDGE;
  • FOOD TRUCKS; 
  • DJ;
  • GAMES 

Presented by the Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners, Shop Rite of Hunterdon, Doctor D Entertainment, Sweet Valley Farm, The Hunterdon 300th, and the 250th Partners from our great Hunterdon County.

THIS EVENT IS FREE WITH FREE PARKING!        

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. South County Park Fairgrounds, Ringoes

Bring a chair and enjoy the festivities!

       

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10TH:  "GEARY'S RIDGE:  THE HUNTERDON UPRISING AND AMBUSH OF BRITISH DRAGOONS":  Slideshow and talk by Don Sherblom in the Flemington Grange Building followed by a re-enactment of the Skirmish at Geary's Ridge.  On December 14, 1776, five days after Washington escaped across the Delaware in boats collected by Thomas Jones etc. (after defeats around NYC and retreat across NJ) the New Jersey militia finally became active in repulsing the British and Hessians. The Flemington Raid and Ambush at Geary's Ridge  was one of the first examples of what David Hackett Fisher calls the Hunterdon Uprising that facilitated Washington's surprise attack at Trenton the day after Christmas, 1776 which resulted in the capture of 900 Hessians, the start of the Ten Crucial Days that, by early 1777, had reversed the course of the rebellion.

Please bring your own chair for this 45 minute talk if you want to sit.


Free but tickets are required.  1 pm.  South County Park Fairgrounds, Flemington Grange Building.


https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-flemington-raid-hunterdon-uprising-and-ambush-of-british-dragoons-tickets-2000056006355?aff=oddtdtcreator


THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15TH:  "REVOLUTIONARY TURNCOATS: TREASON AND TRAITORS IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION":   Few traitors were charged and tried for Treason during the Revolutionary War but the stories of the most notorious – starting with Benedict Arnold – are chilling and intriguing.  Benedict Arnold may be the epitome of a traitor, but others proved less than loyal to the Cause as well.  For some, the full stories were not known for decades or mre.  Dr. Benjamin Church betrayed his friends and colleagues; Thomas Hickey, one of the men closest to George Washington, paid the ultimate price for his treachery; and Charles Lee escaped the wrath of his fellow officers by a betrayal which did not become known for more than 75 years.  Did a New Jersey signer of the Declaration of Independence also renounce the Cause?

Our speaker, Dominick Mazzagetti is a graduate of Rutgers University (NCAS ‘69) and Cornell Law School (1972) and practiced law in Newark and Princeton.  He served as Deputy & Acting Commissioner of Banking in the administration of Governor Tom Kean and as Executive VP and President of three New Jersey banks.   He is the author of four books – Structuring Mortgage Banking Transactions; ‘True Jersey Blues’: The Civil War Correspondence of Lucien Voorhees and William Mackenzie Thompson; Charles Lee: Self Before Country; and, The New Jersey Shore: The Past, Present and Future of a National Treasure – the last two published by Rutgers University Press.  He is retired and living in Hunterdon County.

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 7 PM. 

Free. Reservations required. Refreshments follow.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/traitors-and-treason-of-the-american-revolution-tickets-2000075439480?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH:  "WALKING TOUR OF POTTERSVILLE":  Join Tewksbury Historical Society's Shaun Van Doren as he takes us on a walk to learn about how the town that sits in 3 counties and 4 municipalities got its name.  Pottersville was listed on the National & State Registers of Historic Places in 1990.  It contains 44 major buildings that contribute to its historic character and embody its architectural significance.  They range from the mid-1800s through the early 1900s.  We’ll see key buildings that were vital to the village, including the upper mill, Church, school, stores and hotel, and we’ll see that a great majority of the houses still retain their historic character.

10 am.  Tour length:  90 minutes

Walk limited to 30 people. Meet/Park at Pottersville Fire House,  8 Hacklebarney Road, Pottersville, NJ 07979.

Free but are Reservations Required.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walking-tour-of-pottersville-tickets-2000076597945?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH: HEADQUARTERS FARM TOUR & COLONIAL NIBBLES:  A rare opportunity to see a 1735 estate with the original mill established by John Opdycke. The stone farmhouse dates back to 1758. The mill hasn’t worked for a long time, but the machinery is largely intact.  Following a personal tour by owner Roger Byrom, you will be escorted to the Winter Kitchen for a fabulous snack of colonial nibbles cooking on an open hearth. Margaret, our hearth chef, will give a brief talk and answer questions about authentic hearth cooking.  

Limited to 25 guests, $10 per person. Reservations and payment in advance via Eventbrite or by emailing 300info@co.hunterdon.nj.us to make a reservation and then send a personal check payable to the Hunterdon 300th, 3 Chorister Place, Flemington, NJ  08822.

6 Zentek Road, Stockton.  3 to 5 pm. 

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/headquarters-farm-tour-colonial-nibbles-tickets-1808413195549?aff=oddtdtcreator

This event will be re-offered on December 13, 2026.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18TH: "REVOLUTIONARY WAR MEDICINE AND SURGERY"   At the time of the revolutionary war, little was known about pathological basis of disease. Military medicine was based on treatment of an imbalance of 4 humors with therapy of bleeding, purging and irritants. Disease was by far more deadly than combat injuries. Hospitals were primitive and antisepsis was not known. Combat wounds were treated by amputations, stanching of hemorrhage, and removal of projectiles, all without anesthesia. We will review these treatments and how they were related to what was known about medicine at the time.  Dr. Gary Grover returns to the Hunterdon 300th with new research on this timely and compelling topic.

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12.  2 PM. 

Free. Reservations required. Refreshments follow.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/revolutionary-war-medicine-and-surgery-tickets-2000229381926?aff=oddtdtcreator

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22ND: "THE UNION FORGE:  MAKING GEORGE WASHINGTON'S CANNON BALLS":  Wars are not just won on battlefields, and the American Revolutionary War was no exception.  Hunterdon County supplied the patriot cause with manpower, flour, food, and arms.  Join historian Bill Honachefsky with a discussion on Washington's ammunitions and firepower during the American Revolution and their local ties to Hunterdon County.  Bill is Chair of the Clinton Township Historical Commission, a published author and host of award-winning "What About NJ History".

North Branch of the County Library. 7pm.

Free.  Reservations required. Refreshments follow.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-union-forge-making-george-washingtons-cannon-balls-tickets-2000232053918?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24TH:  RAISING OF THE LIBERTY POLE IN READINGTON TOWNSHIP:  In 1776, Readington Township was a singular municipality, one of only 7 townships where we now have 26.  Only Readington has stayed basically intact for 250 years.  In 2026, we will be raising a Liberty Pole -- a secret marker known to Patriots as a safe place to talk about the Revolution -- at the Readington Township Municipal Building where we will be joined by the elected officials (invited) of the municipality and the County. Join us and some of our Colonial re-enactors for an event full of patriotism, merriment, music, and cake for this family friendly, fun and educational outdoor celebration of America's 250th. HUZZAH!

Rain or shine.  11 am. Free.  No reservations required.   Readington Township Municipal Building 509 Route 523 Whitehouse Station.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25TH:  "THE LOYALISTS' PERSPECTIVE": In 1776, not everyone were patriots.  In fact, it is estimated that there were as many colonists loyal to British King George the Third as those who wanted independence.  This difference of opinion led to America's first civil war, pitting neighbor against neighbor, friend against friend, and even family members against each other (think Benjamin Franklin and his son William).  Who were these Loyalists and what was so compelling to these individuals to stay loyal to the King? Why were they willing to pay higher taxes and not have a voice across "the pond"?.  Join Roger Byrom, President of the Delaware Township Historical Society and owner of the historic Headquarters Farm, as he holds an interactive conversation on this subject over some tea and nibbles, with our audience.

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM. 

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-loyalists-perspective-tickets-2000232266554?aff=oddtdtcreator

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5TH:  "REVOLUTIONARY WAR CURRENCY IN A TIME OF UNCERTAINTY":  “Not worth a continental” was a common phrase during the American Revolution. Imagine being paid in Continental currency that was based on a country that might not exist in a year. Imagine if you crossed over to Pennsylvania and there was a different currency!  

Even the term “legal tender,” which is on our money today, was a dirty term because that meant someone HAD TO accept the currency, even if they didn’t want to.

Betty DeSapio, the Kingwood Township Historian, will explore the totally crazy world of currency our early American ancestors faced at the time of the American Revolution, when no one could rely on a currency’s value from day to day.

Main Branch of the County Library, Route 12, Flemington. 7pm.  Free.  Reservations required. Refreshments follow.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/revolutionary-war-currency-in-a-time-of-uncertainty-tickets-2003112546549?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH:  LECTURE AND HOLIDAY SALE:  "METHEGLIN, MEAD & MERRIMENT":   The popular drink of the colonies was wine made from honey, probably the most ancient of all liquors in the world dating back thousands of years.  Explore the history and differences between mead and metheglin, learn about its colonial history in Hunterdon County.  Our speaker, Hunterdon 300th Chair Marcia Karrow, will discuss how it was made in Colonial America vs. modern times.  She will be bringing metheglin made from Hunterdon County honey.  There may be even a sip or two to sample the differences between the two drinks.  Of course, you must be over 21 to sip!  Savory refreshments will accompany the tastings. 

And f that isn't enough fun, we've opened up the storage closet for our annual Holiday Sale and found a limited number of treasures including our sunflower bowl, wine glasses, Hunterdon County desk flags and more cool stuff offered back in 2014.  Come early to get the best selection.  

Main Branch of the County Library, Route 12, Flemington. Lecture at 2 pm.  Sales table opens by 1:45 pm. Free.  Reservations required. Refreshments.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lecture-and-holiday-sale-metheglin-mead-merriment-tickets-2003113603711?aff=oddtdtcreator

POSTPONED UNTIL DECEMBER: (WAS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH: HEADQUARTERS FARM TOUR & COLONIAL NIBBLES:  A rare opportunity to see a 1735 estate with the original mill established by John Opdycke. The stone farmhouse dates back to 1758. The mill hasn’t worked for a long time, but the machinery is largely intact.  Following a personal tour by owner Roger Byrom, you will be escorted to the Winter Kitchen for a fabulous snack of colonial nibbles cooking on an open hearth. Margaret, our hearth chef, will give a brief talk and answer questions about authentic hearth cooking.  

Limited to 25 guests, $10 per person. Reservations and payent in advance via Eventbrite or by emaiing 300info@co.hunterdon.nj.us to make a reservation and then send a personal check payable to the Hunterdon 300th, 3 Chorister Place, Flemington, NJ  08822.

6 Zentek Road, Stockton.  3 to 5 pm. 

This event will be re-offered on December 13, 2026.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12TH: "HILLS ON FIRE -- SIGNAL BEACONS OF THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR":  How did George Washington prosecute a war and command troops without modern day communications like cellphones or radio? By lighting Signal Beacons on New Jersey mountaintops, of course. "Hills on Fire -- Signal Beacons of the Revolutionary War" will highlight NJ's network of bonfires and signal guns that spanned the state and how their blazes helped Patriots defeat the British. Washington's brilliantly devised fiery network is yet another overlooked aspect of New Jersey's overall Revolutionary War story.  Former NJ weekly newspaper editor Yvonne Stecher will outline their history, implementation, and impact on key events as well as provide details about some of Hunterdon County's own beacon sites and connections. 

North Branch of the County Library, Clinton. 7 pm. Reservations required. Refreshments.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hills-on-fire-signal-beacons-of-the-revolutionary-war-tickets-2003117051022?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH: "WALKING TOUR OF OLDWICK":  Oldwick is on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places, and on this tour with Tewksbury Historian Shaun Van Doren, we will see over a dozen different types of architecture employed on Oldwick’s historic business and residential buildings. What we know today as Oldwick used to be called New Germantown until 1918, when anti-German sentiment caused the name to be changed to Oldwick. The reason behind the name Oldwick is that wick means village and since at the time of the change the village was old, it was named Oldwick, meaning old village. Prior to New Germantown, the village was named Smithfield, after its principal resident Ralph Smith. This is a wonderful tour of one of Hunterdon's very special hamlets that you won't want to miss!

Reservations are required. Approximately 2 hours.

Meet/Park at Cold Brook Preserve.

Walk limited to 20 people.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walking-tour-of-oldwick-tickets-2003116950722?aff=oddtdtcreator

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19TH:  "HISTORICAL ARTIFACTS SHOW AND TELL PART 4": Historian and collector Ron Warner will recap American's  rich history with rare documents including written accounts of the Continental Congress, and America's birth.  His talks will feature interaction with the public with questions answered at the end of the presentation and a very rare opportunity to personally hold Rare Artifacts.   Very Rare Items will be on display.

Main Branch of the County Library, Route 12, Flemington. Lecture at 7 pm.  Free.  Reservations required. Refreshments.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/historical-artifacts-show-and-tell-part-4-tickets-2003117812299?aff=oddtdtcreator

FROM OUR PARTNERS

THE HUNTERDON COUNTY CULTURE & HERITAGE COMMISSION:  HUNTERDON 250TH BUILDING BLOCKS WORKSHOP:  FREE FAMILY FUN!! To celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States, the county's Culture & Heritage Commission will be hosting a special HUNTERDON CELEBRATES AMERICA'S 250TH BUILDING BLOCKS WORKSHOP!  Registration now open.  Join us for a 2-hour, fast paced, hands-on, model building experience using over 100,000 Lego® building blocks to recreate history! Teams will use Legos to construct detailed models of historic and cultural landmarks in Hunterdon County, which will then be placed on a 16 x 20 foot map of the county. Participants will work in teams of 4 to create their models. A great event for families and people of all ages! This program is in partnership with Building Blocks Workshops, which conducts programs using Lego® building blocks as a fun event for residents to learn about the architectural heritage of their community. This program is FREE and open to all Hunterdon County residents!  OCTOBER 24, 2026, 2 PM - 4 PM.  DOORS OPEN AT 1:30 PM.  314 NJ-12, Flemington, NJ 08822.  SPACE IS LIMITED! There is a maximum of 50 teams.   For information and to register visit  https://www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/2938/Hunterdon-250th-Building-Blocks-Workshop

THE EAST AMWELL HISTORICAL SOCIETY PRESENTS: RINGOES: CROSSROAD OF THE REVOLUTION":  Learn about the hidden history of Old Amwell — a township that once stretched nearly 200 square miles, covering today’s East Amwell, West Amwell, Delaware Township, Flemington, Mt. Airy, parts of Kingwood and Hopewell, Lambertville, Ringoes, and more. In the 1700s, all of this was simply Amwell, with Ringoes at its center, where Old York Road carried riders, soldiers, couriers, and intelligence through one of the busiest Revolutionary crossroads in New Jersey.

This exhibit uncovers stories almost lost through time:
• Washington’s rides through Amwell and his stops to rest and meet local patriots
• Lafayette’s recovery in our region
• Espionage networks and quiet intelligence work along Old York Road
• Taverns and mills where news, strategy, and resistance took shape
• Local patriots, women, and Black residents whose contributions deserve recognition
• The Sons of Liberty and early sparks of rebellion
• The Amwell Skirmish and the everyday courage of families living on a warfront.

The museum is open the 2nd and 4th weekends of each month (except holiday weekends), and will also be open on July 4 with a renewed, enlightening look at the hidden history of the Revolution. Bring a friend, bring family, and come rediscover the Revolutionary world that once unfolded right here in the Revolutionary crossroad we call home.  For more information contact Eastamwellhistoricalsociety1@gmail.com or Text: 609-591-4661

POSTPONED UNTIL NOVEMBER 1ST: (WAS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11TH:) JOSEPH TURNER HOUSE PRESENTS: SENIOR ART SHOW AND JUDGING OF ART OF PROPERTIES OF THE UNION IRONWORKS: Showcasing the talents of our assisted living residence of Hunterdon County and displaying varying works of art focused on the historic sites and properties of the Union Iron Works. Varying mediums. Award categories. Suggested Donation. No reservations.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 26TH: "GHOST STORIES OF KINGWOOD TOWNSHIP AND HUNTERDON COUNTY": The Kingwood Township Historical Society is pleased to present local historian Jim Davidson as he shares ghost stories of Kingwood and Hunterdon County. Mr. Davidson has been collecting ghost stories for thirty years and has a few of his own from the two haunted houses he lived in. This is an audience participation event so please bring your own stories to share! Kingwood Township Municipal Building. 599 Oak Grove Rd, Frenchtown, NJ 08825. 730pm. Free.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH: SAMUEL FLEMING HOUSE PRESENTS:  EDNA'S BROWN BAG APPLE AND PUMPKIN PIE TASTING AND HOUSE TOURS: 1 to 3 pm.  Free. No reservations required.  Samuel Fleming House Museum & Gardens, 5 Bonnell Street, Flemington, NJ 08822

https://www.samuelfleminghouse.org

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH:  JOSEPH TURNER HOUSE PRESENTS: "A COLONIAL COOKING DEMONSTRATION:  FEEDING THE TROOPS" Noon to 4 pm.  117 Van Syckels Rd, Hampton, NJ 08827










300TH NEWS: CORNET GEARY'S BUTTONS AT LIVING HISTORY DAY!

YES, IT'S TRUE!  Buttons from Cornet Francis Geary,'s uniform in which he was killed in the Amwell Skirmish in December, 1776, will be on display at the Hunterdon Historical Society's table at the County Living History Day.  The buttons are part of the Society's collection.

We hope to see you on Saturday, October 10th from 11 am to 4 pm at the Fairgrounds in Ringoes!  Bring a chair and enjoy the day with us!  The Schedule of Events is below.  Enjoy all of the crafts, demonstrations, encampments, bantering with British Forces, special collection of American artifacts and documents, activities, talk on the Skirmish before a live re-enactment, and so much more! 


LIVING HISTORY DAY SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

11:00 AM: Cannon firing demonstration

11:30 AM: Heard’s Brigade musket drill and firing

11:45 AM: Wooden musket drilling for kids and

Continental Army loyalty oath signing

12:00 PM: British forces musket drilling and firing

12:30 PM: Cannon firing

12:45 PM: Heard’s brigade musket drill and firing

1:00 PM: Lecture about the Skirmish at Geary’s Ridge

1:30 PM: Wooden musket drilling for kids

2:00 PM: Cannon firing

2:30 PM: Re-enactment of the

Skirmish at Geary’s Ridge

2:45 PM: British forces musket drilling and firing

3:30 PM: Cannon firing

4:00 PM: Event concludes. HUZZAH!


SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10TH:  "GEARY'S RIDGE:  THE HUNTERDON UPRISING AND AMBUSH OF BRITISH DRAGOONS":  Slideshow and talk by Don Sherblom in the Flemington Grange Building followed by a re-enactment of the Skirmish at Geary's Ridge.  On December 14, 1776, five days after Washington escaped across the Delaware in boats collected by Thomas Jones etc. (after defeats around NYC and retreat across NJ) the New Jersey militia finally became active in repulsing the British and Hessians. The Flemington Raid and Ambush at Geary's Ridge  was one of the first examples of what David Hackett Fisher calls the Hunterdon Uprising that facilitated Washington's surprise attack at Trenton the day after Christmas, 1776 which resulted in the capture of 900 Hessians, the start of the Ten Crucial Days that, by early 1777, had reversed the course of the rebellion.

Please bring your own chair for this 45 minute talk if you want to sit.


Free but tickets are required.  1 pm.  South County Park Fairgrounds, Flemington Grange Building.


https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-flemington-raid-hunterdon-uprising-and-ambush-of-british-dragoons-tickets-2000056006355?aff=oddtdtcreator


Wednesday, October 7, 2026

HUNTERDON COUNTY AMERICA 250TH EVENTS SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER 2026







SAVE THE DATE FOR

HUNTERDON COUNTY'S

LARGEST LIVING HISTORY DAY EVER!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2026



AMERICAN REVOLUTIONARY WAR EVENTS

FROM THE HUNTERDON 300TH


NEW!! TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 29TH:  PRIVATE TOUR OF "FIVE INDEPENDENT SOULS: THE  SIGNERS FROM NEW JERSEY" AT MORVEN MUSEUM:  

In June 1776, the provincial congress of New Jersey sent five new delegates to Philadelphia with instructions to vote for independence from Great Britain. These five men were all landowners of varying backgrounds, and included farmers, lawyers, a surveyor, and a Presbyterian minister. Each was married with a large family -- among them, they fathered fifty children! They would have understood that their vote amounted to treason against the King. Five Independent Souls explores the lives of these lesser known founding fathers, examining who they were before, during, and after the signing.

This exhibit also confronts one of the most confounding actualities around the signers of the Declaration of Independence: these five men, who put their lives on the line for liberty, freedom, and equality, simultaneously denied these very same rights to the people they enslaved. Visitors can learn about the lives of these subjugated men, women, and children who would have witnessed conversations on freedom and equality while being held in bondage in the homes of these patriots.

Morven exhibit experts will personally guide us through the five rooms of over 100 artifacts from the NJ five signers of the Declaration of Independence including Hunterdon County's John Hart.

Meet us at the Museum before or after lunch.  Two tours available, both free through the Hunterdon 300th, but reservations are required.  Tours are limited to 20 people each.

10:30 am:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/private-tour-of-five-independent-souls-the-signers-from-nj-at-morven-tickets-1999220374959?aff=oddtdtcreator

1:30 pm:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/private-tour-of-five-independent-souls-the-signers-from-nj-at-morven-tickets-1999221274650?aff=oddtdtcreator

Learn more about the exhibit here:  https://www.morven.org/exhibitions/five-independent-souls

Morven Museum and Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ 08540.  Parking available from the Stockton Street entrance.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1ST:  "THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE CONTINENTAL SOLDIER":  Military collector and historian John Dwyer will share is own personal "kit" -- military uniform and accessories as he details life for a soldier during the American Revolution.  

This program features the uniform, weapons, tools, and gear used and carried by the soldiers of the American Army in the Revolutionary War. John Dwyer will talk about the life and experiences of a soldier in NJ in 1780.

John is a retired United States Army Colonel with more than 37 years of service. He is a military historian with extensive collections of soldier gear and equipment from both the Revolutionary War period as well as World War Two. He also collects and displays WW2 Army Jeeps. 

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 7 PM. 

Free. Reservations required. Refreshments follow.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-life-and-times-of-the-continental-soldier-tickets-1999237049834?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3RD:  RAISING OF THE LIBERTY POLE IN BETHLEHEM TOWNSHIP:  In 1776, Bethlehem Township was comprised of a territory that included our modern Bethlehem Township, Union Township, Clinton Township, Borough of Bloomsbury, Borough of Hampton, and Borough of Glen Gardner.  In 2026, we will be raising a Liberty Pole -- a secret marker known to Patriots as a safe place to talk about the Revolution -- at Heritage Park in Bethlehem Township, where we will be joined by the elected officials (invited) of those municipalities. Join us and some of our Colonial re-enactors for an event full of patriotism, merriment, music, and cake for this family friendly, fun and educational outdoor celebration of America's 250th. HUZZAH!

Rain or shine.  11 am. Free.  No reservations required.  Heritage Park, 17 Vliet Farm Road, Asbury, NJ 08802.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10TH:  HUNTERDON COUNTY LIVING HISTORY DAY:  MILITIAS, RED COATS, CANONS, ENCAMPMENT, COLONIAL ARTISANS, CHILDREN AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES, AND a re-enactment of the Skirmish at Geary’s Ridge. See how Hunterdon County patriots prevailed over the British!

  • ·HEARDS BRIGADE; 
  •  2ND NJ MILITIA; 
  •  THE 43RD REGIMENT OF FOOT/2ND PENNSYLVANIA (REPRESENTNG THE "OTHER SIDE" OF THE   FIGHT FOR INDEPENDENCE);
  •  REVOLUTIONARY WAR ENCAMPMENT AND RE-ENACTMENT; 
  •  SUTTLERS; 
  •  REVOLUTIONARY WAR CANNONS WITH FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS; 
  •  MUSKET DRILLS AND MUSKET FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS;
  •  ARTISANS INCLUDING CANDLE-DIPPING, TIN-MAKING, 18TH CENTURY TOOLS;   BLACK SMITH; WOOL CARDING;
  •  HUGE DISPLAY OF AMERICAN 17TH, 18TH, AND 19TH CENTURY   ARTIFACTS AND   DOCUMENTS INCLUDING AN ORIGIANL COPY OF GEORGE WASHIGTON'S WILL!; 
  •  ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN FAMILIES, AND ADULTS; 
  •  AFTERNOON TALK ON THE SKIRMISH OF GEARY’S RIDGE;
  • FOOD TRUCKS; 
  • DJ;
  • GAMES 
Presented by the Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners, Shop Rite of Hunterdon, Doctor D Entertainment, Sweet Valley Farm, The Hunterdon 300th, and the 250th Partners from our great Hunterdon County.

THIS EVENT IS FREE WITH FREE PARKING!        

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. South County Park Fairgrounds

Bring a chair and enjoy the festivities!

       

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10TH:  "GEARY'S RIDGE:  THE HUNTERDON UPRISING AND AMBUSH OF BRITISH DRAGOONS":  Slideshow and talk by Don Sherblom in the Flemington Grange Building followed by a re-enactment of the Skirmish at Geary's Ridge.  On December 14, 1776, five days after Washington escaped across the Delaware in boats collected by Thomas Jones etc. (after defeats around NYC and retreat across NJ) the New Jersey militia finally became active in repulsing the British and Hessians. The Flemington Raid and Ambush at Geary's Ridge  was one of the first examples of what David Hackett Fisher calls the Hunterdon Uprising that facilitated Washington's surprise attack at Trenton the day after Christmas, 1776 which resulted in the capture of 900 Hessians, the start of the Ten Crucial Days that, by early 1777, had reversed the course of the rebellion.

Please bring your own chair for this 45 minute talk if you want to sit.


Free but tickets are required.  1 pm.  South County Park Fairgrounds, Flemington Grange Building.


https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-flemington-raid-hunterdon-uprising-and-ambush-of-british-dragoons-tickets-2000056006355?aff=oddtdtcreator


THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15TH:  "REVOLUTIONARY TURNCOATS: TREASON AND TRAITORS IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION":   Few traitors were charged and tried for Treason during the Revolutionary War but the stories of the most notorious – starting with Benedict Arnold – are chilling and intriguing.  Benedict Arnold may be the epitome of a traitor, but others proved less than loyal to the Cause as well.  For some, the full stories were not known for decades or mre.  Dr. Benjamin Church betrayed his friends and colleagues; Thomas Hickey, one of the men closest to George Washington, paid the ultimate price for his treachery; and Charles Lee escaped the wrath of his fellow officers by a betrayal which did not become known for more than 75 years.  Did a New Jersey signer of the Declaration of Independence also renounce the Cause?

Our speaker, Dominick Mazzagetti is a graduate of Rutgers University (NCAS ‘69) and Cornell Law School (1972) and practiced law in Newark and Princeton.  He served as Deputy & Acting Commissioner of Banking in the administration of Governor Tom Kean and as Executive VP and President of three New Jersey banks.   He is the author of four books – Structuring Mortgage Banking Transactions; ‘True Jersey Blues’: The Civil War Correspondence of Lucien Voorhees and William Mackenzie Thompson; Charles Lee: Self Before Country; and, The New Jersey Shore: The Past, Present and Future of a National Treasure – the last two published by Rutgers University Press.  He is retired and living in Hunterdon County.

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 7 PM. 

Free. Reservations required. Refreshments follow.


https://www.eventbrite.com/e/traitors-and-treason-of-the-american-revolution-tickets-2000075439480?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH:  "WALKING TOUR OF POTTERSVILLE":  Join Tewksbury Historical Society's Shaun Van Doren as he takes us on a walk to learn about how the town that sits in 3 counties and 4 municipalities got its name.  Pottersville was listed on the National & State Registers of Historic Places in 1990.  It contains 44 major buildings that contribute to its historic character and embody its architectural significance.  They range from the mid-1800s through the early 1900s.  We’ll see key buildings that were vital to the village, including the upper mill, Church, school, stores and hotel, and we’ll see that a great majority of the houses still retain their historic character.

10 am.  Tour length:  90 minutes

Walk limited to 30 people. Meet/Park at Pottersville Fire House,  8 Hacklebarney Road, Pottersville, NJ 07979.

Free but are Reservations Required.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walking-tour-of-pottersville-tickets-2000076597945?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH: HEADQUARTERS FARM TOUR & COLONIAL NIBBLES:  A rare opportunity to see a 1735 estate with the original mill established by John Opdycke. The stone farmhouse dates back to 1758. The mill hasn’t worked for a long time, but the machinery is largely intact.  Following a personal tour by owner Roger Byrom, you will be escorted to the Winter Kitchen for a fabulous snack of colonial nibbles cooking on an open hearth. Margaret, our hearth chef, will give a brief talk and answer questions about authentic hearth cooking.  

Limited to 25 guests, $10 per person. Reservations and payment in advance via Eventbrite or by emailing 300info@co.hunterdon.nj.us to make a reservation and then send a personal check payable to the Hunterdon 300th, 3 Chorister Place, Flemington, NJ  08822.

6 Zentek Road, Stockton.  3 to 5 pm. 

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/headquarters-farm-tour-colonial-nibbles-tickets-1808413195549?aff=oddtdtcreator

This event will be re-offered on a date to be named in November and December 13, 2026.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18TH: "REVOLUTIONARY WAR MEDICINE AND SURGERY"   At the time of the revolutionary war, little was known about pathological basis of disease. Military medicine was based on treatment of an imbalance of 4 humors with therapy of bleeding, purging and irritants. Disease was by far more deadly than combat injuries. Hospitals were primitive and antisepsis was not known. Combat wounds were treated by amputations, stanching of hemorrhage, and removal of projectiles, all without anesthesia. We will review these treatments and how they were related to what was known about medicine at the time.  Dr. Gary Grover returns to the Hunterdon 300th with new research on this timely and compelling topic.

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12.  2 PM. 

Free. Reservations required. Refreshments follow.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/revolutionary-war-medicine-and-surgery-tickets-2000229381926?aff=oddtdtcreator

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22ND: "THE UNION FORGE:  MAKING GEORGE WASHINGTON'S CANNON BALLS":  Wars are not just won on battlefields, and the American Revolutionary War was no exception.  Hunterdon County supplied the patriot cause with manpower, flour, food, and arms.  Join historian Bill Honachefsky with a discussion on Washington's ammunitions and firepower during the American Revolution and their local ties to Hunterdon County.  Bill is Chair of the Clinton Township Historical Commission, a published author and host of award-winning "What About NJ History".

North Branch of the County Library. 7pm.

Free.  Reservations required. Refreshments follow.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-union-forge-making-george-washingtons-cannon-balls-tickets-2000232053918?aff=oddtdtcreator

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24TH:  RAISING OF THE LIBERTY POLE IN READINGTON TOWNSHIP:  In 1776, Readington Township was a singular municipality, one of only 7 townships where we now have 26.  Only Readington has stayed basically intact for 250 years.  In 2026, we will be raising a Liberty Pole -- a secret marker known to Patriots as a safe place to talk about the Revolution -- at the Readington Township Municipal Building where we will be joined by the elected officials (invited) of the municipality and the County. Join us and some of our Colonial re-enactors for an event full of patriotism, merriment, music, and cake for this family friendly, fun and educational outdoor celebration of America's 250th. HUZZAH!

Rain or shine.  11 am. Free.  No reservations required.   Readington Township Municipal Building 509 Route 523 Whitehouse Station.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25TH:  "THE LOYALISTS' PERSPECTIVE": In 1776, not everyone were patriots.  In fact, it is estimated that there were as many colonists loyal to British King George the Third as those who wanted independence.  This difference of opinion led to America's first civil war, pitting neighbor against neighbor, friend against friend, and even family members against each other (think Benjamin Franklin and his son William).  Who were these Loyalists and what was so compelling to these individuals to stay loyal to the King? Why were they willing to pay higher taxes and not have a voice across "the pond"?.  Join Roger Byrom, President of the Delaware Township Historical Society and owner of the historic Headquarters Farm, as he holds an interactive conversation on this subject over some tea and nibbles, with our audience.

Main Branch, County Library, Route 12. 2 PM. 

Free. Reservations required. Refreshments follow.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-loyalists-perspective-tickets-2000232266554?aff=oddtdtcreator

FROM OUR PARTNERS

THE HUNTERDON COUNTY CULTURE & HERITAGE COMMISSION:  HUNTERDON 250TH BUILDING BLOCKS WORKSHOP:  FREE FAMILY FUN!! To celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States, the county's Culture & Heritage Commission will be hosting a special HUNTERDON CELEBRATES AMERICA'S 250TH BUILDING BLOCKS WORKSHOP!  Registration now open.  Join us for a 2-hour, fast paced, hands-on, model building experience using over 100,000 Lego® building blocks to recreate history! Teams will use Legos to construct detailed models of historic and cultural landmarks in Hunterdon County, which will then be placed on a 16 x 20 foot map of the county. Participants will work in teams of 4 to create their models. A great event for families and people of all ages! This program is in partnership with Building Blocks Workshops, which conducts programs using Lego® building blocks as a fun event for residents to learn about the architectural heritage of their community. This program is FREE and open to all Hunterdon County residents!  OCTOBER 24, 2026, 2 PM - 4 PM.  DOORS OPEN AT 1:30 PM.  314 NJ-12, Flemington, NJ 08822.  SPACE IS LIMITED! There is a maximum of 50 teams.   For information and to register visit  https://www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/2938/Hunterdon-250th-Building-Blocks-Workshop

THE EAST AMWELL HISTORICAL SOCIETY PRESENTS: RINGOES: CROSSROAD OF THE REVOLUTION":  Learn about the hidden history of Old Amwell — a township that once stretched nearly 200 square miles, covering today’s East Amwell, West Amwell, Delaware Township, Flemington, Mt. Airy, parts of Kingwood and Hopewell, Lambertville, Ringoes, and more. In the 1700s, all of this was simply Amwell, with Ringoes at its center, where Old York Road carried riders, soldiers, couriers, and intelligence through one of the busiest Revolutionary crossroads in New Jersey.

This exhibit uncovers stories almost lost through time:
• Washington’s rides through Amwell and his stops to rest and meet local patriots
• Lafayette’s recovery in our region
• Espionage networks and quiet intelligence work along Old York Road
• Taverns and mills where news, strategy, and resistance took shape
• Local patriots, women, and Black residents whose contributions deserve recognition
• The Sons of Liberty and early sparks of rebellion
• The Amwell Skirmish and the everyday courage of families living on a warfront.

The museum is open the 2nd and 4th weekends of each month (except holiday weekends), and will also be open on July 4 with a renewed, enlightening look at the hidden history of the Revolution. Bring a friend, bring family, and come rediscover the Revolutionary world that once unfolded right here in the Revolutionary crossroad we call home.  For more information contact Eastamwellhistoricalsociety1@gmail.com or Text: 609-591-4661

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4TH:  READINGTON MUSEUMS PRESENTS "CELEBRATE 250:  MUSIC OF THE AMERICAN REVOLTION with the Enslows https://www.readingtontwpnj.gov/community/readington-museum

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7TH THRU NOVEMBER 25TH:  Heritage and Cultural Center, Historic Courthouse, Flemington: American Revolution Themed Hooked Rugs Exhibit.


SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11TH:  JOSEPH TURNER HOUSE PRESENTS:  SENIOR ART SHOW AND JUDGING OF ART OF PROPERTIES OF THE UNION IRONWORKS:  Showcasing the talents of our assisted living residence of Hunterdon County and displaying varying works of art focused on the historic sites and properties of the Union Iron Works. Varying mediums. Award categories. Suggested Donation. No reservations.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 26TH:  The Kingwood Township Historical Society is pleased to present local historian Jim Davidson as he shares ghost stories of Kingwood and Hunterdon County. Mr. Davidson has been collecting ghost stories for thirty years and has a few of his own from the two haunted houses he lived in. 

This is an audience participation event so please bring your own stories to share!

Monday October 26th - Kingwood Township Municipal Building.730pm

Monday, September 7, 2026

AMERICA 250TH HISTORICAL SEPTEMBER EVENTS IN HUNTERDON COUNTY

SAVE THE DATE:  

        Skirmish at Geary’s Ridge

        Hunterdon County Living History Day

         Saturday, Oct. 10th, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. South County Park Fairgrounds

        See how Hunterdon County patriots prevailed over the British!

  • ·HEARDS BRIGADE;· 
  •  2ND NJ MILITIA;· 
  •  REVOLUTIONARY WAR ENCAMPMENT AND RE-ENACTMENT;· 
  •  SUTTLERS;· 
  •  REVOLUTIONARY WAR CANNONS WITH FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS;· 
  •  MUSKET DRILLS AND MUSKET FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS;· 
  •  ARTISANS INCLUDING CANDLE-DIPPING, TIN-MAKING, 18TH CENTURY TOOLS;   BLACK SMITH; WOOL CARDING;
  •  FALCONRY;· 
  •  HUGE DISPLAY OF AMERICAN 17TH, 18TH, AND 19TH CENTURY ARTIFACTS AND   DOCUMENTS;· 
  •  ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN FAMILIES, AND ADULTS;· 
  •  AFTERNOON TALK ON THE SKIRMISH OF GEARY’S RIDGE;
  • FOOD TRUCKS;· 
  • DJ;
  • GAMES 
Presented by the Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners, Shop Rite of Hunterdon,
The Hunterdon 300th, and the 250th Partners from our great Hunterdon County 
historical community of museums, societies, and committees.

AMERICAN REVOLUTIONARY WAR EVENTS 

FROM THE HUNTERDON 300TH

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD: “ROBERT ERSKINE, WASHINGTON'S MAPMAKER":  An expatriate Scot who emigrated to Ringwood in 1771 to serve as ironmaster at the ironworks there, Robert Erskine came to George Washington’s attention in 1777 through Erskine’s work on Hudson River defenses protecting West Point. Ultimately appointed as the Surveyor General to the Continental Army, Erskine surveyed many of the significant routes used by the Army. His maps match many of the today’s roads and help us envision the county in which we reside.  Join historian and map enthusiast John Allen as he explores this fascinating subject.

7pm. Hunterdon County Library Main Branch, Route 12, Flemington.  Free.  Reservations required.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/robert-erskine-washingtons-mapmaker-tickets-1997392359315?aff=oddtdtcreator


THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH:  “THE POTTERSTOWN SKIRMSH”:  Join Bethlehem Township Historian and retired history teacher Charles Riddle as he tells the story of loyalists vs patriots, neighbors vs neighbors, friends turned enemies, during the American Revolution.  During the first civil war in our country, the American Revolution, raids, skirmishes, and ambushes took place all over the colonies and Hunterdon was not immune.  In the busy hamlet of Potterstown in 1777, such an event unfolded right leaving a community shaken. The  skirmish that started in Potterstown would end in Piscataway with 75 Loyalists captured and eventually put on trial for treason. The  struggle between loyalists and patriots became the War With No Mercy.

North Branch of the County Library. 7pm. Free. Free refreshments follow. Reservations required.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-potterstown-skirmish-tickets-1997415368135?aff=oddtdtcreator

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH:  “COLONIAL HERALDRY”:  
In this informative presentation, Hunterdon 300th’s own David Smisek guides audiences through the fascinating world of heraldry, the historic discipline concerned with the design, display, interpretation, and inheritance of armorial bearings. The talk opens with a clear introduction to the essential elements of heraldic practice, giving attendees the tools to understand how coats of arms function as both art and identity. 
From there, the lecture turns to English heraldry and the influential role of the College of Arms, the body responsible for granting and regulating coats of arms throughout the British realms. Special attention is given to how heraldic authority extended into the American colonies, shaping the armorial traditions adopted by prominent families. 

The heart of the program highlights the heraldry of notable colonial New Jersey figures with ties to Hunterdon County including the Morris, Livingston, Hunter, and Reading families, examining how their coats of arms reflected lineage, status, and political identity in the eighteenth century. 
The talk concludes with an exploration of early American heraldry after independence and a look at the current state of heraldic practice in the United States, where personal and institutional arms continue to evolve despite the absence of a formal granting authority. 

7pm. Main Branch of the County Library, Route 12, Flemington. Free. Free refreshments follow. reservations required. 


SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH:  RAISING OF THE LIBERTY POLE IN AMWELL TOWNSHIP:  
In 1776, Amwell Township was comprised of a territory that included our modern East Amwell Township, West Amwell Township, Delaware Township, Raritan Township, City of Lambertville, Stockton Borough, and Flemington Borough. In 2026, we will be raising a Liberty Pole -- a secret marker known to Patriots as a safe place to talk about the Revolution -- at the Marion F. Clawson Memorial Park in East Amwell, where we will be joined by the elected officials (invited) of those municipalities. Join us and some of our Colonial re-enactors for an event full of patriotism, merriment, music, and cake for this family friendly, fun and educational outdoor celebration of America's 250th. HUZZAH!

Rain or shine.  11 am. Free.  No reservations required.  Marion F. Clawson Memorial Park, 1055 Old York Road, Ringoes, NJ 08551.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH:  "BONNELL'S TAVERN":  An important historic gathering place for patriots seeking liberty and religious freedom, Bonnell's Tavern has stood at the crossroads of three municipalities for over two and a half centuries. Now vacant after the State of New Jersey acquired its land to construct Interstate 78, the tavern's legacy endures. For those intrigued by its history, Hank Bonnell, an eighth-generation direct descendant of the tavern's original innkeeper, will share the vibrant story of the tavern and the patriots who frequented it. In 2026, Hank will return to discuss his personal efforts to preserve and restore the tavern, along with his vision for its future.

7 pm.  North Branch of the County Library, 65 Halstead Street, Clinton.

Free.  Reservations are required.  Free refreshments follow.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26TH, 10AM:  ENCORE BY POPULAR DEMAND: CEMETERY TOUR OF AMERICAN REVOLUTIONARY WAR GRAVES, GRANDIN CEMETERY (Rain Date Sunday, September 27th at 2pm):  Join the Hunterdon 300th's own, David Smisek, for a fascinating tour of one of Hunterdon's iconic cemeteries best known for a large number of Revolutionary War heroes' graves.  Grandin Bethlehem Presbyterian Church is the oldest Presbyterian Church in Hunterdon County, established in 1730.  Three members of the church were sent to attend a meeting of the Sons of Liberty in 1766 and the church publicly supported the Continental Congress in 1774.  Church members were leaders in organizing and leading the Second Regiment of the Hunterdon County Militia.  Twenty-two members fought in the Revolutionary War.  Within this cemetery are the remains of 21 men who fought in the Continental Army, John Hackett, for whom Hackettstown is named, and John Grandin's family, including Elizabeth Grandin.  Bonnells, Bellises, Wyckoffs, Yards, Osmuns, Stewarts and many other of Hunterdon's oldest families are buried there as well.  For a link to the church's website to an index of the graves and reference map, go to 

List:   https://bethlehempc.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/EagleProject-Graves-List-DanWeiss.pdf

Map:  https://bethlehempc.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Cemetery-Map-By-Dan-Weiss.pdf

Walk limited to 20 guests.

The walk is free but reservations are required.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/encore-tour-of-american-revolutionary-war-graves-grandin-cemetery-tickets-1999213927675?aff=oddtdtcreator

Meeting location is the Church's parking lot on Race Street, Union Township.  The 300th will escort you across the street for safety purposes.

NEW!! TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 29TH:  PRIVATE TOUR OF "FIVE INDEPENDENT SOULS: THE  SIGNERS FROM NEW JERSEY" AT MORVEN MUSEUM:  
In June 1776, the provincial congress of New Jersey sent five new delegates to Philadelphia with instructions to vote for independence from Great Britain. These five men were all landowners of varying backgrounds, and included farmers, lawyers, a surveyor, and a Presbyterian minister. Each was married with a large family -- among them, they fathered fifty children! They would have understood that their vote amounted to treason against the King. Five Independent Souls explores the lives of these lesser known founding fathers, examining who they were before, during, and after the signing.

This exhibit also confronts one of the most confounding actualities around the signers of the Declaration of Independence: these five men, who put their lives on the line for liberty, freedom, and equality, simultaneously denied these very same rights to the people they enslaved. Visitors can learn about the lives of these subjugated men, women, and children who would have witnessed conversations on freedom and equality while being held in bondage in the homes of these patriots.

Morven exhibit experts will personally guide us through the five rooms of over 100 artifacts from the NJ five signers of the Declaration of Independence including Hunterdon County's John Hart.

Meet us at the Museum before or after lunch.  Two tours available, both free through the Hunterdon 300th, but reservations are required.  Tours are limited to 20 people each.

10:30 am:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/private-tour-of-five-independent-souls-the-signers-from-nj-at-morven-tickets-1999220374959?aff=oddtdtcreator

1:30 pm:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/private-tour-of-five-independent-souls-the-signers-from-nj-at-morven-tickets-1999221274650?aff=oddtdtcreator

Learn more about the exhibit here:  https://www.morven.org/exhibitions/five-independent-souls

Morven Museum and Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ 08540.  Parking available from the Stockton Street entrance.

FROM OUR PARTNERS

THE HUNTERDON COUNTY CULTURE & HERITAGE COMMISSION:  HUNTERDON 250TH BUILDING BLOCKS WORKSHOP:  FREE FAMILY FUN!! To celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States, the county's Culture & Heritage Commission will be hosting a special HUNTERDON CELEBRATES AMERICA'S 250TH BUILDING BLOCKS WORKSHOP!  Registration now open.  Join us for a 2-hour, fast paced, hands-on, model building experience using over 100,000 Lego® building blocks to recreate history! Teams will use Legos to construct detailed models of historic and cultural landmarks in Hunterdon County, which will then be placed on a 16 x 20 foot map of the county. Participants will work in teams of 4 to create their models. A great event for families and people of all ages! This program is in partnership with Building Blocks Workshops, which conducts programs using Lego® building blocks as a fun event for residents to learn about the architectural heritage of their community. This program is FREE and open to all Hunterdon County residents!  OCTOBER 24, 2026, 2 PM - 4 PM.  DOORS OPEN AT 1:30 PM.  314 NJ-12, Flemington, NJ 08822.  SPACE IS LIMITED! There is a maximum of 50 teams.   For information and to register visit  https://www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/2938/Hunterdon-250th-Building-Blocks-Workshop

THE EAST AMWELL HISTORICAL SOCIETY PRESENTS: RINGOES: CROSSROAD OF THE REVOLUTION":  Learn about the hidden history of Old Amwell — a township that once stretched nearly 200 square miles, covering today’s East Amwell, West Amwell, Delaware Township, Flemington, Mt. Airy, parts of Kingwood and Hopewell, Lambertville, Ringoes, and more. In the 1700s, all of this was simply Amwell, with Ringoes at its center, where Old York Road carried riders, soldiers, couriers, and intelligence through one of the busiest Revolutionary crossroads in New Jersey.

This exhibit uncovers stories almost lost through time:
• Washington’s rides through Amwell and his stops to rest and meet local patriots
• Lafayette’s recovery in our region
• Espionage networks and quiet intelligence work along Old York Road
• Taverns and mills where news, strategy, and resistance took shape
• Local patriots, women, and Black residents whose contributions deserve recognition
• The Sons of Liberty and early sparks of rebellion
• The Amwell Skirmish and the everyday courage of families living on a warfront.

The museum is open the 2nd and 4th weekends of each month (except holiday weekends), and will also be open on July 4 with a renewed, enlightening look at the hidden history of the Revolution. Bring a friend, bring family, and come rediscover the Revolutionary world that once unfolded right here in the Revolutionary crossroad we call home.  For more information contact Eastamwellhistoricalsociety1@gmail.com or Text: 609-591-4661

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2ND:  AMERICAN REVOLUTION THEMED HOOKED RUGS DISPLAY thru September 29th/  Hunterdon County North Branch, Clinton, NJ. https://www.hclibrary.us/home


SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH:  JOSEPH TURNER HOUSE AND HGH BRIDGE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE JOINT EVENT:  "THE UNION IRONWORKS HISTORIC PROPERTIES TOUR:

Starts 10AM at Turner House
10:00AM - 12:00PM Joseph Turner House/grounds
12:15PM - 1:15PM Van Syckel's Tavern
1:30PM - 2:15PM The TISCO Complex
2:15PM - 2:45PM TSGH walk over bridge, by Forge, to Solitude
2:45PM - 5:00PM Solitude/Annex

Note: tour times may include Union Furnace pending visibility


SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12TH:  SAMUEL FLEMING HOUSE:  House Museum Tours 1-3pm. 5 Bonnell Street, Flemington, NJ.  Free.  No reservations required.

https://www.samuelfleminghouse.org/


SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH:  READINGTON MUSEUMS PRESENTS:  AN OPEN HOUSE TO ELEBATE AMERICA'S 250TH WITH ART AND LIVING HOSTORY:   This special America 250 Open House offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary while exploring the Revolutionary era through the artistry of hooked rugs and the firsthand perspective of a woman who defied convention to serve her country. 

At 1:00 p.m., Sharon Goodman will give a short talk while portraying Deborah Sampson, a Revolutionary War soldier who disguised herself as a man to serve in the Continental Army.

At 2:00 p.m., fiber artist Lucy Walsh will speak about the rugs on display, the historic images that inspired them, and the stories behind their designs.

Following the presentations, Goodman will remain in character as Sampson and circulate among visitors, allowing guests to ask questions and hear more about her remarkable experiences. Walsh will also be on hand to demonstrate the hooking process and provide a practice frame for guests to try their hand at hooking.

The afternoon will feature a special exhibit by the Hunterdon County Rug Artisans Guild, showcasing hooked rugs inspired by the people, places, events, and slogans of 1776. Created in anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary, the project brings history and art together through dozens of handcrafted rugs and scaled models of Revolutionary-era regimental flags. Each rug tells a story in wool and offers a unique artistic perspective on American history.

The guild’s members completed 70 rugs as part of a yearlong project that began in January 2026. The exhibit has been displayed at 18 venues throughout Hunterdon, Somerset, and Bucks counties, including historic homes, community events, reenactments, encampments, fairs, and a winery. The project has also been featured in two rug-crafting magazines and will be presented virtually at Sauder Village in Ohio.

Bouman-Stickney Farmstead,1:00 to 4:00 p.m.  The Bouman-Stickney Farmstead is located in the Stanton section of Readington. For GPS purposes, use 114 Dreahook Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833. Although there is no fee, donations are gladly accepted. In the event of inclement weather, please call Readington Museums for the latest program updates.


For more information, visit www.readington.gov/community/museum, email Museums@readington.gov, or call 908-236-2327.

Made possible with funds from the Hunterdon County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey Historical Commission.


SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH: THE FRIENDS OF HUNTERDON COUNTY LIBRARY PRESENTS:  "BETSY ROSS AND BENJAMIN FRANKLIN COME TO HUNTERDON” as portrayed by Alissa Dupuy.  2 pm.  Free.  https://www.hclibrary.us/home


SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26TH:  THE 1759 VOUGHT HOUSE PRESENTS:  "WAR ON OUR DOORSTEP: THE LOYALIST VOUGHT FAMILY HARDSHIPS DURING THE WAR":  Informal talk on the Loyalist story of Christopher and John Vought and the hardships endured by wives Cornelia and Mary during the War for Independence. Meet the reenactors of the New Jersey Volunteers who fought alongside British regulars against independence. See colonial craft demonstrations. A sneak peak of the restored serpent ceiling will also be available.  1 pm - 4 pm. 1759 Vought House, 30 Gray Rock road, Clinton, NJ.  http://voughthouse.org/