300th FEBRUARY AND MARCH EVENTS: REVOLUTIONARY TALKS AND CHILDREN'S CRAFT ALL FREE!

The winter of 1776 was supposed to far worse than the snow fall we had two weekends ago.... Hard to imagine trudging through snow and ice from the Delaware River to Trenton in clothing and shoes that didn't include micro fibers and space aged fabrics.  How hungry the soldiers must have been for freedom from the Crown to do what they did.  Would we have the intestinal fortitude to do that today?   

The 300th is now ticketing events in February and March which are all free!  Head over to our website at www.hunterdon300th.org for reservations or call 908 788 2030.

THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 
IN HUNTERDON COUNTY

RESERVATIONS NOW BEING TAKEN:

IN CELEBRATION OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH!  
February 16:  "Black Slaves and Soldiers in the American Revolution" with Fred Minus, Main Branch of the County Library, 314 Route 12, Flemington, 7 pm.  Did you know that 22 slaves and 12 free men of color aided General George Washington as he crossed the Delaware from Pennsylvania into Hunterdon County, New Jersey that fateful Christmas of 1776?  How did General Washington, a Virginia plantation owner, feel about having black soldiers in his army?  An important topic during Black History Month, join Fred Minus, a volunteer and re-enactor at the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton for a provocative, informative and generally unknown side of the history of the American Revolution.  Refreshments.  Free.  Reservations Required.  (Snow Date, 2/23)

March 8:  "History Mapping the American Revolution in New Jersey" with John Allen, Main Branch of the County Library, 314 Route 12, Flemington, 7 pm .  David Munn’s bicentennial publication “Battles and Skirmishes of The American Revolution in New Jersey” was “history mapped” using Google Earth, a free geographic software. Each entry has been located (to the extent possible), and links provided to external websites so the user can access additional content explaining key events, locating monumented and marked sites, and understanding troop movement. John Allen's presentation provides an historical perspective on the ebb and flow of military events in the 1774 - 1783 time frame in both Hunterdon County and Statewide, demonstrating how to download and use the software, and how to “get the most” from the files that have been created. Refreshments.  Free.  Reservations Required.  (Snow Date 3/15)

March 12:  Children's Historical Craft Project: Corn Husk Toys, Lenape Medicine Pouch, and More! with Janice Armstrong and Friends, Main Branch of the County Library, 10:30 am to noon (will be rescheduled if the Library is closed due to snow).  Join historian and retired educator, Janice Armstrong and friends for this wonderful hands on morning of making 18th century toys.  These craft projects replicate how toys were made for children during the Revolutionary War and will go home with your child.  Create a toy out of corn husks just like children would have more than 200 years ago!  Make your own Lenape Medicine Pouch to fill with tiny treasures!  All supplies are included.  Children should bring their sense of wonder and creative spirit!  

This event is limited to 20 children ages 6 to 12 years old.  Free. Kid-friendly, healthy snacks will be available.

Reservations are required for children only; parents are welcomed to stay and do not need a reservation.  (IN CASE LIBRARY IS CLOSED DUE TO SNOW, THIS EVENT WILL BE RESCHEDULED).

March 19:  "Searching the Search Room" at the Hunterdon County Hall of Records, 71 Main Street, Flemington, 9 am to 1 pm.  Does your Hunterdon Family or House History have roots to the Revolutionary War?  This Saturday workshop will satisfy the curiosity of any individual who has an interest in tracing their property ownership or has an interest in Common Pleas and old marriage records to help with their genealogy.  Under the direction of County Clerk Mary H. Melfi, her talented and knowledgeable staff will offer an in-depth tour of the Search Room and personalized instruction and guidance on what resources are available and how YOU can find them.   There is no fee but registration is required.

Limited to 40 participants.

March 29:  "Military Uniforms and Armaments of the Revolutionary War in Hunterdon" with Sal DeSapio, Main Branch of the County Library, 413 Route 12, Flemington, 7 pm.  Kingwood Township Historian and member of the Daniel Morgan and Hunterdon Militias, Sal DeSapio brings his expertise to a fun "show and tell" of weapons and uniforms that our brave soldiers from Hunterdon County wore.  Historically accurate details and interesting fun facts about the clothing, Sal will model his personal collection of uniforms as well as the muskets he personally uses.  Refreshements follow.  Free. Reservations required.  (SNOW DATE, MAY 10TH)

UPCOMING EVENTS:

April 9:  Hearth Cooking Demonstration, Luncheon and live Colonial music with Chef Margaret Quinn, Host Roger Byrom, and the Enslows, Headquarters Farm, Delaware Township, 1:30 am, fee to be determined (Snow Date, April 16).

April 19:  "Daily Life in 1776: What was 18^th Century’s Charmin? and More Answers to Questions You Never Asked!"  with Lady Ellen, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

April 26:  "History Thru Art: 1700s Mural Panel Revolutionary War Icons in Detail­" with Stephanie Stevens, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

April 30:  Children’s Chat and Play:  A Child's Life in the Days of George Washington and Games of the 18^th Century, with Karen Larsen, Main Branch of the County Library, 10 am.

May 17:  "Pittstown During the American Revolution" with Stephanie Stevens, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

May 21:  Tour and Luncheon at Washington Crossing State Parks, with Peter Osborne; details forthcoming.

June 7:  "Washington’s Crossings and Battles in Hunterdon" with Richard Patterson, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

June 11:  "Hunterdon Takes Back Trenton" Bus Tour with Stephanie Stevens and Richard Patterson, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, fee and details to be announced.

June 14:  "Flags of the American Revolution" with Richard Pierce, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

July 23:  Children’s Colonial Activity Day at the Red Mill for Children Ages 6 to 12, noon to 4 pm, $5 per child.

September 6:  History Mapping:  “Washington Slept Here” with Marilyn Cummings, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

September 10:  Cemetery Ceminar: "Preserving and Protecting Revolutionary War Graves thru Legislation", Main Branch of the County Library, 10 am to 4 pm.

September 13:  "The Potterstown Skirmish" with Chip Riddle, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm. 

September 17:  "The Fate of Hunterdon Loyalists" with Todd Braisted, Clinton Township Middle School, 10 am; a tour of the 1759 Vought House follows (donation requested).

October 8:  "The Lowery's Town & Country:  A Talk and Graveyard Tour in the Country" with Sal DeSapio, Details to be announced.

October 16:  "The Lowery’s Town & Country:  A British High Tea in Town" with Susan Peterson and the Enslows, Teaberry's Tea Room, 6 pm, details and fee to be announced.

October 18:  “Layers of History”:  An 18^th Century Women’s Fashion Show with Lady Ellen, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

October 23:  "Love, Death and Desertion:  Hunterdon’s Revolutionary War Soldiers’ Pension Records Revealed” with Marfy Goodspeed, Main Branch of the County Library, 2 pm.

November 1:  “Signs of the Times:  Hunterdon Taverns & the Placards that Attracted Patrons" with Dan and Marty Campanelli, Main Branch of the County Library, 2 pm.

November 5:  Revolutionary War Cemetery Tour South with Dave Harding, details forthcoming.

November 12:  Revolutionary War Cemetery Tour North with John Allen, details forthcoming.

November 29:  "The Architectural and Industrial History of 18th Century 'Clinton Township'" with Michael Margulies and Paul Muir, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm (tentative).

December 3:  "The Skirmish of Geary’s Ridge" with Chip Riddle, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

December 4 (tentative):  Re-Enactment of the Skirmish of Geary's Ridge at Geary's Ridge, Raritan Township.

302nd FUN FACT AND OUR BIG 2016 CALENDAR REVEAL: A REVOLUTIONARY YEAR IN HUNTERDON!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!  As Hunterdon County celebrates our 302nd year, here is our 302nd FUN FACT!:

The very first litter of the dog breed "Swedish Vallhund" (Vastagotaspets) born in the United States occurred in Delaware Township in 1989; it was shown in rare dog breed shows under the "Spitz-like" category.  The breed was accepted into the American Kennel Club in 2007 and is shown in the Herding Breed Class.  The winner of last year's Westminister Best of Breed lives in West Milford, NJ.  The breed is still not widely known and only one, to the knowledge of your blogger, resides in Hunterdon County (in Flemington Borough); if you know of any others in Hunterdon, please share!

Fyi, last year's 301st Fun Fact which revealed that Julia and Paul Child were married in Hunterdon County, was further researched by Delaware Township Historian Emerita, Marfy Goodspeed, who confirmed that they were married in Stockon at what was then a private home and is now the Woolverton Inn.

THE 300TH IS PROUD TO PRESENT AN EXCITING CALENDAR OF EVENTS, TOURS AND LECTURES AROUND OUR 2016 THEME "THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION IN HUNTERDON COUNTY" AS OUR COUNTRY CELEBRATES OUR 240TH ANNIVERSARY!  

For further details on any event, please check our website.  Also, please note that there are still a few additional events in the works that will be added throughout the year.  As a receiver of our blog, you'll be the first to know!  All events, lectures and tours require reservations to be made via our website www.hunterdon300th.org or by calling us at (908) 788-2030.

 THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION IN HUNTERDON COUNTY

February 16:  "Black Slaves and Soldiers in the American Revolution" with Fred Minus, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm (Snow Date, 2/23).

March 8:  "History Mapping the American Revolution in New Jersey" with John Allen, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm (Snow Date 3/15).

March 12:  Children's Historical Craft Project: Corn Husk Toys, Lenape Medicine Pouch, and More! with Janice Armstrong and Friends, Main Branch of the County Library, 10 am (will be rescheduled if the Library is closed due to snow).

March 29:  "Military Uniforms and Armaments of the Revolutionary War in Hunterdon" with Sal DeSapio, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm (Snow Date 5/10) .

April 9:  Hearth Cooking Demonstration, Luncheon and live Colonial music with Chef Margaret Quinn, Host Roger Byrom, and the Enslows, Headquarters Farm, Delaware Township, 1:30 am, fee to be determined (Snow Date, April 16).

April 19:  "Daily Life in 1776: What was 18^th Century’s Charmin? and More Answers to Questions You Never Asked!"  with Lady Ellen, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

April 26:  "History Thru Art: 1700s Mural Panel Revolutionary War Icons in Detail­" with Stephanie Stevens, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

April 30:  Children’s Chat and Play:  A Child's Life in the Days of George Washington and Games of the 18^th Century, with Karen Larsen, Main Branch of the County Library, 10 am.

May 17:  "Pittstown During the American Revolution" with Stephanie Stevens, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

May 21:  Tour and Luncheon at Washington Crossing State Parks, with Peter Osborne; details forthcoming.

June 7:  "Washington’s Crossings and Battles in Hunterdon" with Richard Patterson, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

June 11:  "Hunterdon Takes Back Trenton" Bus Tour with Stephanie Stevens and Richard Patterson, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, fee and details to be announced.

June 14:  "Flags of the American Revolution" with Richard Pierce, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

July 23:  Children’s Colonial Activity Day at the Red Mill for Children Ages 6 to 12, noon to 4 pm, $5 per child.

September 6:  History Mapping:  “Washington Slept Here” with Marilyn Cummings, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

September 13:  "The Potterstown Skirmish" with Chip Riddle, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm. 

September 17:  "The Fate of Hunterdon Loyalists" with Todd Braisted, Clinton Township Middle School, 10 am; a tour of the 1759 Vought House follows (donation requested).

October 8:  "The Lowery's Town & Country:  A Talk and Graveyard Tour in the Country" with Sal DeSapio, Details to be announced.

October 16:  "The Lowery’s Town & Country:  A British High Tea in Town" with Susan Peterson and the Enslows, Teaberry's Tea Room, 6 pm, details and fee to be announced.

October 18:  “Layers of History”:  An 18^th Century Women’s Fashion Show with Lady Ellen, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

October 23:  "Love, Death and Desertion:  Hunterdon’s Revolutionary War Soldiers’ Pension Records Revealed” with Marfy Goodspeed, Main Branch of the County Library, 2 pm.

November 1:  “Signs of the Times:  Hunterdon Taverns & the Placards that Attracted Patrons" with Dan and Marty Campanelli, Main Branch of the County Library, 2 pm.

November 5:  Revolutionary War Cemetery Tour South with Dave Harding, details forthcoming.

November 12:  Revolutionary War Cemetery Tour North with John Allen, details forthcoming.

November 29:  "The Architectural and Industrial History of 18th Century 'Clinton Township'" with Michael Margulies and Paul Muir, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm (tentative).

December 3:  "The Skirmish of Geary’s Ridge" with Chip Riddle, Main Branch of the County Library, 7 pm.

December Date and Details TBA:  Re-Enactment of the Skirmish of Geary's Ridge at Geary's Ridge, Raritan Township.

THE 300TH CORPORATE BOARD AND VOLUNTEERS WISH YOU AND YOURS A HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2016 AND A REVOLUTIONARY YEAR!  

OUR BIG HOLIDAY SALE IS HERE + DECEMBER HUNTERDON HERITAGE EVENTS AND OUR UPDATED 2016 CALENDAR IN THE WORKS!

FIRST:  OUR BIG SALE JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

The Hunterdon 300^th is opening the Flemington Choir School on both Saturday, December 12^th and 19^th from 10 am to 3 pm for holiday shoppers looking for that special something with a historical touch of Hunterdon for people on their gift list. 

Due to repeated requests, the popular woven throw, produced for Hunterdon County’s 300^th anniversary in 2014, is available once again, but in a limited quantity.  The Hunterdon Tricentennial Committee, now known as the Hunterdon 300^th, sold more than 500 throws in 2014; they have not been available since.  The throws depict nine Hunterdon icons from all over the county, including the Historic Courthouse, the Zion Lutheran Church, the Reading House, the Sergeantsville Covered Bridge, and more.  A brochure is included with each purchase that provides the address and gps coordinates of each icon.  The Hunterdon 300^th is keeping the price at the 2014’s $35.00.  The woven throw comes in navy blue, the most popular color sold in 2014.

If you are looking for a real gift bargain, the Hunterdon 300^th is placing the beautiful coffee table book by Walter Chorowszeski “Hunterdon in My Heart” on very special sale.  The book of gorgeous photographs that cover every municipality in Hunterdon, a retail cover price of $50, will be on sale for $35, a 30% discount and the lowest price made available to the public.  This sale ends on December 31^st.

The sale items will be available for purchase and pick up at the Flemington Choir School, 3 Chorister Place in Flemington Borough, while supplies last.  Other items will also be available -- most on sale -- sale including glass beer steins, 300^th commemorative books and beautiful blank note cards with photographs of Hunterdon’s historic barns by photographer Anne Freeman. 

For information to reserve a woven throw in advance of the sale, please call and leave a message for the Hunterdon 300^th at (908) 788-2030. 

SECOND, DECEMBER'S HUNTERDON HERITAGE EVENTS:  

DECEMBER 18, 19, 20:  TEWKSBURY TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY HEADQUARTERS OPEN FOR HOLIDAYS:  The Tewksbury Historical Society Headquarters located at 60 Water Street in the Mountainville section of Tewksbury Township will be open on Friday, December 18 from 6 pm to 9 pm, Saturday December 19 from 9 am to 12 pm, and Sunday, December 20 from 10 am to 12 pm.
The Society has numerous gift items for sale including a new shipment of Tewksbury afghans in Williamsburg Blue and Cranberry, and now a new Hunter Green color, Tewksbury Art Show notecards depicting winning works from previous shows, Tewksbury Churches notecards and post cards replicated from original historic scenes and buildings in the Township.  There are books for sale including hardcover and paperback editions of Historic Notes onFairmount, NJ by Freeman Leigh as well as prints on Tewksbury, Oldwick, Califon, Mountainville and Pottersville.  In addition, there are signed copies of the Mountainville prints by longtime resident Charles Burrell.  And the latest item is the Tewksbury Auto Tour booklet – the self-guided tour by auto of Tewksbury.
The Tewksbury Historical Society is a NJ not-for-profit corporation organized exclusively for the purpose of furthering research into and the preservation and dissemination of the history of the Township of Tewksbury.    For more info. on the Society please call (908) 832-6734 and leave your name and phone number.

FINALLY, OUR UPDATED 2016 CALENDAR IN THE WORKS "THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR IN HUNTERDON COUNTY":

February 16:  Black Slaves and Soldiers in the American Revolution (Snow Date, 2/23)

March 8:  History Mapping the American Revolution in New Jersey (Snow Date 3/15)

March 12:  Children's Historical Craft Project: Corn Husk Toys, Lenape Medicine    Pouch, and More!

April 9:  Hearth Cooking Demonstration & Luncheon (Snow Date, April 16)

April 19:  Daily Life in 1776: What was 18^th Century’s Charmin? and More Answers to Questions You Never Asked!

April 26:  History Thru Art: 1700s Mural Panel in Detail­

April 30:  Children’s Chat and Play:  A Child's Life in the Days of George Washington and Games of the 18^th Century

May 17:  Pittstown During the American Revolution

June 7:  Washington’s Crossings and Battles in Hunterdon

June 11:  Hunterdon Takes Back Trenton: Bus Tour of 1776 Trenton, Hunterdon County
June 14:    Flags of the American Revolution
July 23:  Colonial Camp for Kids at the Red Mill
September 6:  History Mapping:  “Washington Slept Here”

September 13:  The Potterstown Skirmish

September 17:  The Fate of Hunterdon Loyalists

October 16:  The Lowery’s Town & Country:  A British High Tea in Town

October 18:  “Layers of History”:  An 18^th Century Women’s Fashion Show

October 23:  Love, Death and Desertion:  Hunterdon’s Revolutionary War Soldiers’ Pension Records Revealed”

November 5:  Revolutionary War Cemetery Tour South

November 12:  Revolutionary War Cemetery Tour North

December 3:  The Skirmish of Geary’s Ridge

  

Other events planned include: A Tour of Washington Crossing State Park (PA and NJ); Hunterdon Returns to Trenton Bus Tour; The Lowerys: Town and Country:  Country; Military Fashions and Arms; more Children’s Historical events, and much more!

For further information, please check our website www.hunterdon300th.org, or call (908) 788-2030.

OUR PRE BLACK FRIDAY SALE! PLUS HERITAGE EVENTS AROUND HUNTERDON

READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS?  WE ARE!!

Just in time to do some pre-Black Friday holiday shopping, the Hunterdon 300^th is offering some special gift ideas. 

Due to repeated requests, the popular woven throw, produced for Hunterdon County’s 300^th anniversary in 2014, will be available once again, but in a limited quantity.  The Hunterdon Tricentennial Committee, now known as the Hunterdon 300^th, sold more than 500 throws in 2014; they have not been available since.  The throws depict nine Hunterdon icons from all over the county, including the Historic Courthouse, the Zion Lutheran Church, the Reading House, the Sergeantsville Covered Bridge, and more.  A brochure is included with each purchase that provides the address and gps coordinates of each icon.  The Hunterdon 300^th is keeping the price at the 2014’s $35.00.  The woven throw is only being offered in navy blue, the most popular color sold in 2014.

If you are looking for a real gift bargain, the Hunterdon 300^th is placing the beautiful coffee table book by Walter Chorowszeski “Hunterdon in My Heart” on very special sale.  The book of gorgeous photographs that cover every municipality in Hunterdon, a retail cover price of $50, will be on sale for $35, a 30% discount -- the lowest price at which this has ever been offered.    

The sale items will be available on Sunday, November 15th for purchase and pick up at the Hunterdon County Public Library’s Main Branch on Route 12, Flemington, from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm while supplies last.  Other items will also be available for sale including glass beer steins, 300^th commemorative books and beautiful blank note cards with photographs of Hunterdon’s historic barns by photographer Anne Freeman. 

For information to reserve a woven throw in advance of the sale, please call and leave a message for the Hunterdon 300^th at (908) 788-2030. 


NEWS FROM OUR FRIENDS AND PARTNERS:

DO THEY KNOW WHERE THE BODIES ARE BURIED? A FREE PROGRAM FROM THE HUNTERDON HISTORIC SOCIETY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE HUNTERDON 300TH
ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH, Michelle Kuhn & Mike Gagliano from the New Jersey Geological and Water Survey will review the findings of their recent Ground Penetrating Radar scans at the Flemington Presbyterian Church Cemetery. They say "We know where the bodies are buried."  But do they? Did they find a mass grave location, used for poor people, within the cemetery?  Did they find the foundation of the original church?  Did they locate the three Revolutionary War soldiers mentioned in Dr. Mott's 1894 book, "History of the Flemington Presbyterian Church"?  Are there many graves without headstones?  They will also discuss how the Ground Penetrating Radar process works and software programs they use to interpret the data.  A Q&A period will follow their brief presentation.
This program may be of interest to church members, scientists, historians, cemetery enthusiasts/caretakers & archaeologists.

7PM at the Flemington Presbyterian Church

The program is free and open to the public.

HUNTERDON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY 

INVITES YOU TO THEIR

 HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Museum Tours:

December 3, 6, 10 &13th

1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

PLUS: November 28, 1-6 p.m.:

Live entertainment and carriage rides 3-6:30 for downtown Flemington’s shop-local event, fiddler at Doric House!

Doric House Museum Decorated by Community Garden Club of Hunterdon County and the Garden Club of Hunterdon Hills
www.hunterdonhistory.org
114 Main Street
Flemington, NJ

 (908) 782-1091

TWIN LIGHTS MUSEUM --  down the shore but not too far, is holding an exhibit on flags and patriotic memorabilia thru next year.  why are we advertising this? well, our good friend and King of the American Flag (now THAT'S an oxymoron -- think about it....) Richard Pierce, has some of his flags in the show.... fyi, Richard is doing some new research for the Hunterdon 300th for next year's program on The Revolutionary War in Hunterdon County.... he is presenting a talk on Flags of the American Revolution on June 14th, Flag Day.  See below for the link to the show in Monmouth County.

  https://www.facebook.com/twinlightshistoricalsociety/

Scroll down to the first story: Historic Flags and Patriotic Artifacts....

OUR MOVIE EVENT IS HERE! PLUS A SNEAK PEAK AT OUR 2016 CALENDAR -- IT'S REVOLUTIONARY!

LET'S START WITH THE 300TH'S LAST EVENT IN 2015 -- IF THIS DOESN'T GET US A SELL OUT, WE DON'T KNOW WHAT WILL!  IN FACT, WE'RE OFFERING IT TWICE IN ONE DAY, WE'RE SO CONFIDENT OF A SELL OUT!

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH: HUNTERDON MOVIES!  A HERITAGE TRIPLE FEATURE:  An exciting triple feature of Hunterdon movies.... We start with the documentary short "A Man and his Land" made by the Grange League Federation (today's Global Agway) in 1941 about modern farming techniques.  The film features Harold Everitt and his farm on Kuhl Road in Raritan Township.  The second film is "Where Have All the Farmers Gone?" which was produced in 1999 by the Hunterdon Cultural & Heritage Commission about the loss of some of Hunterdon's best farms to development.  Finally, we show the Emmy Award winning "The Town That Disappeared Overnight" about the creation of Round Valley Reservoir and the taking of some of the best agricultural land by the State of NJ.  The film's producer, David Kuznicki and County Historian Stephanie Stevens will be on hand to answer questions.  

THERE ARE TWO SHOWINGS:  12:30 AND 3 PM -- TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW FOR BOTH SHOWINGS!  Please be advised this event will start promptly.  The films will be shown concurrently with little or no break.  The total viewing time of the three films is approximately 75 minutes followed by Q&A time with David and Stephanie.  

Fun snacks will be available before and during the event to be held at the Main Branch of the County Library.

The movies and snacks are free but reservations are required.

BEFORE REVEALING SOME OF OUR 2016 CALENDAR, WE HAVE GREAT COUNTY-WIDE HERITAGE OFFERINGS FROM SOME OF THE COUNTY'S BEST HISTORICAL ORGANIZATIONS:

Clawson House: Open House!   

All are Welcome to Walk Through to View the Fantastic Transformation in Phase One Completion

Saturday and Sunday, October 24 and 25 from 12:00 noon-3:00pm. Historic Clawson House at Clawson Park, Ringoes, NJ.  Ample parking is available and refreshments will be provided.

The Historical Society is sponsoring a two day Open House at the Historic Clawson House.  The Clawson House was built circa 1800 (at least) and at one time was the architectural center piece of Ringoes.  Acquired by the Township in the year 2000 – when the Township purchased the Clawson Farm for a park – it has sat boarded up ever since.  With grants from the County and funding provided by the Township, work has begun to bring the building and property back to life for everyone to enjoy.  Completion of the project is expected to take several years and this will be the first opportunity for the public to see the house in its “rough” state.  Enjoy the fall weather and spend a few minutes walking back into history.  Volunteers work at the Clawson House almost every Sunday from 10-12pm. If you are interested in being on the volunteer list, please sign up when you visit.

Oct. 24th 2015! The first Annual Vought House "Confiscation" Auction!  

Inspired by the Patriots' 1778 auction of household items confiscated from the Loyalist Vought family. 
   All proceeds benefit historic preservation of this Revolutionary War Loyalist Homestead!

This is a real live auction with an auctioneer, a food table, tent, and port a potty. ____________ Local artist Dan Campanelli signs his watercolor print of “Old Glass” which will appear in the auction

Antiques and “olde” household goods will be up for auction on Saturday, October 24th at 9:30 (previews) and 10:30 (auction starts) at the 1759 Vought House, 34 Grayrock Road, Clinton.  Professional auctioneer Michael J. Stasak, Jr., Antiques and Auction Service, Carpentersville, NJ, is generously donating his services, and friends and neighbors of the Vought House are donating quality household items, vintage and new, including furniture; art work; rugs; quilts; collectibles; china; and tools.  Approximately 100 items are up for sale and admission is free! Not just for history buffs, spread the word!

The latest highlight in the flood of donations is a print of a watercolor by Dan Campanelli of glass bottles, the last of this series available from Hunterdon County’s nationally known artist.  The original subject bottles are being auctioned as well.  Three antique samplers from the early and mid-1800s; a set of nine nesting Shaker wooden boxes; a three-piece wood entertainment unit with bookcases and cabinets; handmade quilts of various sizes; room-sized rugs; a pair of Tiffany-style hanging lamps; a Victorian bow-front curio cabinet with desk; a wooden pie cupboard; a Victorian carved wood bedstead; and a large brass Indian tray/ table are other highlights.

The 1759 Vought House is accepting additional donations until October 17th.  If you have clean, well-cared-for household items, old or new, that you would like to recycle from your home, garage or tool shed, please contact Kerry Cahill-Defuccio at 908-447-2006.

This fund-raising auction is inspired by a real auction in 1778.  This Revolutionary War Loyalist Homestead was the home of old Christopher Vought, his son John, and their families in the 1760s and 1770s.  When the men joined the British forces in New Brunswick in 1776, their wives and children, like many other Loyalist families, faced the anger of their Patriot neighbors, who stole some of their goods and finally auctioned off everything remaining.  In 1779, the farmstead itself was sold.  The Voughts were among the 33,000 Loyalists who resettled in Nova Scotia at war’s end. Today, the 1759 Vought House non-profit is restoring this stone house, which is on the state and national register of historic places, to what it looked like in 1776! Your participation and voluntary donations are essential to preserve this historic and architectural gem.

Come, have fun, bid on wonderful items, and support the exciting historic restoration of the Vought house!  Bargains galore, entrance free, donations received with gratitude.  All proceeds benefit the 1759 Vought House non-profit which is restoring this Revolutionary War Loyalist Homestead

Contact:  Kerry Cahill-Defuccio at
Phone: 908-447-2006
Location Details:
You can park at the Clinton Township Middle School
34 Grayrock Road
Clinton, NJ 08809

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST:  SAUSAGE MAKING EIGHTEENTH CENTURY STYLE:  Historic cook, Susan McLellan Plaisted, from Pennsbury Manor, will demonstrate authentic 18th century sausage making on November 1, 2015 between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Plaisted, proprietress of Heart to Hearth Cookery, a food history business based in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, holds a B.S. in food and nutrition and an M.S. in health education. Her specialty is American and Native American food during the Colonial Period.
The Farmstead is located at 114 Dreahook Road, in the Stanton section of Readington Township. If using a GPS, use Lebanon, NJ 08833. This is a free family friendly event, although donations will be gratefully accepted. In case of inclement weather please call the Museums to find out the status of the program.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH:  EAST AMWELL CEMETERY 'CLEAN UP' DAY - All Are Welcome to Participate Beginning at 11am.  Tucked away in the woods on Mountain Road in East Amwell are two small, adjoining cemeteries. These were family cemeteries for the Hunt and Simerson families. The cemeteries’ grounds have become overgrown and the early 1800s tombstones have been woefully neglected. The East Amwell Historical Society is sponsoring our first Cemetery Cleanup. When the work is complete and the twenty or so stones are uncovered – we will be honoring and preserving our Past for the future. More on the project – and the day’s proceedings – as we get closer to Cemetery Clean Up 2015.  For further information contact Jim Davidson at jdavid4194@aol.com.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH:  HUNTERDON HISTORICAL SOCIETY and THE HUNTERDON 300TH PRESENTS:  "Do They Know Where the Bodies are Buried?"  As a follow up on our Cemetery Cemener held on September 19th, on Wednesday, November 18, 2015, Michelle Kuhn & Mike Gagliano from the New Jersey Geological and Water Survey will review the findings of their recent Ground Penetrating Radar scans at the Flemington Presbyterian Church Cemetery. They say "We know where the bodies are buried."  But do they?

Did they find a mass grave location, used for poor people, within the cemetery?

Did they find the foundation of the original church?

Did they locate the three Revolutionary War soldiers mentioned in Dr. Mott's 1894 book, "History of the Flemington Presbyterian Church"?

Are there many graves without headstones?

They will also discuss how the Ground Penetrating Radar process works and software programs they use to interpret the data.

A Q&A period will follow their brief presentation.

This program may be of interest to church members, scientists, historians, cemetery enthusiasts/caretakers & archaeologists.

The program is free and open to the public;  7PM at the Flemington Presbyterian Church

WE KNOW YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING WITH BREATHS BAITED TO SEE WHAT WE HAVE IN STORE FOR HUNTERDON'S 302ND YEAR..... WHICH HAPPENS TO ALSO BE THE 240TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BEGINNING OF THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.

THE HUNTERDON 300^TH

CELEBRATING 300+ YEARS OF HUNTERDON COUNTY HISTORY

PRESENTS OUR 2016 CELEBRATION: 

“THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR IN HUNTERDON COUNTY”

2016 CALENDAR IN THE WORKS:

Lenape Medicine Pouch and more….

March 8: History Mapping the American Revolution

April 2:  Hearth Cooking Demonstration & Lunch

March 12: Children's Historical Craft Project: Corn Husk Toys, Lenape Medicine Pouch &                        More!

April 19:  Daily Life in 1776

April 26:  History Thru Art:  1700s Mural Panel

April 30:  Children’s Chat and Play:  A Child's Life in 1776 and Games of the 18^th Century

May 17:  The Revolutionary War in Pittstown

June 14:  Flags of the Revolutionary War

September 6:  Mapping Where Washington Slept

September 13:  The Potterstown Skirmish

October 18:  18^th Century Women’s Fashion Show

November 5:  Revolutionary War Cemetery Tour South

November 12:  Revolutionary War Cemetery Tour North

December 3:  The Skirmish of Geary’s Ridge

Other events planned include: A Tour of Washington Crossing State Park (PA and NJ); Hunterdon Returns to Trenton Bus Tour; The Crossings and Battles of Trenton Lecture; The Lowerys: Town and Country; Vought House Tour and Talk, Military Fashions and Arms and more!

WATCH OUR CALENDAR OF EVENTS GROW WITH EACH FUTURE BLOG!

FOR FULL EVENT DETAILS VISIT US IN 2016 AT WWW.HUNTERDON300TH.ORG.

MORE OCTOBER HUNTERDON HERITAGE AND A TASTE OF NEXT YEAR!

FIRST ABOUT NEXT YEAR -- 2016 brings us the 240th anniversary of the beginning of the Revolutionary War so the Hunterdon 300th will be bringing you an amazing lecture and tour series about The Revolutionary War in Hunterdon!  EVERYTHING we do next year will be NEW! NO REPEATS FROM 2014!  All new lectures and tours!  AND WE ARE INVADING MERCER COUNTY-- that is, the portion that once was Hunterdon County in 1776!  

To give you a taste of some of the fun in store when we take a bus tour of Hunterdon County's 1776 county seat, Trenton, we present the following invitation from the Old Barracks Museum for their annual Tavern Night -- how jolly!  

For $50 per person, on Saturday, October 3rd from 7 to 10 pm, you will be treated to what life was like in an 18th century tavern - Leave your 21st Century cares behind and get whisked away to an evening of 18th Century revelry and delights! The Board of Trustees of The Old Barracks Association requests the pleasure of your company for a night at Ye Olde Barracks Tavern.

Play colonial board and card games with the people who would have played them! Listen to colonial music, and learn the accompanying dances from an expert dance master! Be sure to explore the Petty's Run archaeological site just beyond our fence! Heavy hors d'oeuvres and drinks included in ticket price.

Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased in the Quartermaster's Store, by calling 609-396-1776 (that's a good phone number!) or you can go to the Old Barracks' website and order them via PayPal  at www.barracks.org.

We are planning an extensive visit to the Old Barracks and more next year when we take our deluxe coach bus to Trenton -- so why not take a peak at the past this year and come and join the fun on October 3rd..... No, this is NOT a Hunterdon County historical event, BUT it IS part of Hunterdon County's history!  Originally built in 1758 during the French and Indian War, the Old Barracks were used by American soldiers when the Revolutionary War first started.  In 1776, British and Hessian soldiers (hisssss) troops occupied Trenton and some were housed there along with some Loyalists.  When General Washington and his army made his surprise attack (yay!) after crossing the Delaware River the Americans took back the Barracks and used it until 1781.

FYI:  WE HOPE TO HAVE OUR ENTIRE 2016 CALENDAR OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR IN HUNTERDON COUNTY LECTURE AND EVENT SERIES SET BY LATE OCTOBER AND OUT TO YOU SO YOU CAN INK IN YOUR CALENDARS AND NOT MISS ANY OF THE FUN AND EXCITEMENT!

OCTOBER HAPPENINGS AT THE READINGTON MUSEUMS:

OCTOBER 4TH:  With roots dating as far back as the late 15th century, the technique of taking a bunch of strings, whether they are linen, silk, spun gold and silver, or cotton, and turning them into exquisite pieces of handmade lace is becoming a lost art form. There are artisans today who are helping to keep this time consuming and beautiful art form alive. On Sunday, October 4, 2015 Mary Roth Davies from the Cranberry Lacers Guild of Franklin Township will demonstrate the craft between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m. at the Readington Museums. Mary says about the craft, “Bobbin lacemaking is considered a slow art but one that I find rewarding and challenging. “ The program is located at the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead. The program is family friendly and free, but donations are gratefully accepted. Groups of six or more please call 908-236-2327 for a reservation.

OCTOBER 17TH:  Put on your dancing shoes for a night of family fun as the Readington Museums hosts its bi-annual Barn Dance on Saturday, October 17, 2015 from 7:00-9:30 p.m. The dance will be held inside the eighteenth century Wade-Wyckoff Barn at the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead located at 114 Dreahook Road in the Stanton section of Readington Township. This family friendly event is a wonderful way to have fun with the entire family. No experience is necessary. 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. Groups of six or more please call for a reservation, 908-236-2327.

You can check these events and more out at the Readington Museums website www.readingtonmuseums.org.

BUT BEFORE YOU PUT YOUR BARN DANCING SHOES ON, STOP BY THE HUNTERDON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S ANNUAL BOOK SALE FROM 9 AM TO 2 PM ON OCTOBER 17TH:  The Hunterdon County Historical Society is gearing up for the annual unique and rare book sale fundraising event at the Society’s archive building at 67 River Road in Raritan Township.  This year’s sale is remarkable with a number of exciting finds of books and pamphlets. Sale items are duplicates from the Society’s collections and library, along with gifts to the Society earmarked for the annual sale. This year’s sale includes some original editions and several rare books such as: Pamphlets from the Office of Indian Affairs, 1927; A Treatise of Bridge Architecture, 1811; Fitz Randolph Traditions, A Story of 1,000 Years, 1907; the story of a Mayflower family reported in excellent condition.  Also included in the sale are many genealogies, several rare slave biographies, travel pamphlets including one from 1824 to Niagara Falls; advertising cards, regional postcards, school books, almanacs, including Kate Greenway’s 1888 almanac and song books.

For more information about the Society and the annual book sale, visit the website: Hunterdonhistory.org or call the Society @ 908-782-1091. Cash and personal checks only are accepted at the sale.

OCTOBER HAPPENINGS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE EAST AMWELL HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

The Charles Lindbergh Series - Presented by Historian and Author, EAHS President Jim Davidson

Friday, October 2, 7:00pm at the Hopewell Train Station, Railroad Place, Hopewell, NJ

For Lindbergh Baby Kidnapping enthusiasts, East Amwell Historical Society President and Lindbergh author Jim Davidson will be presenting his fascinating “12 Theories of Who Kidnapped the Lindbergh Baby”.  The Sourland Conservancy is sponsoring this riveting program.  Doors open at 6:40. There is limited seating.  The suggested donation is $5.00.

Clawson House: Open House! 

All are Welcome to Walk Through to View the Phase One Restoration Completion

Saturday and Sunday, October 24 and 25 from 12:00 noon-3:00pm. Historic Clawson House at Clawson Park, Ringoes, NJ.  Ample parking is available and refreshments will be provided.

The Historical Society is sponsoring a two day Open House at the Historic Clawson House.  The Clawson House was built circa 1800 (at least) and at one time was the architectural center piece of Ringoes.  Acquired by the Township in the year 2000 – when the Township purchased the Clawson Farm for a park – it has sat boarded up ever since.  With grants from the County and funding provided by the Township, work has begun to restore the property.  Full restoration is expected to take several years and this will be the first opportunity for the public to see the house in its “rough” state.  Enjoy the fall weather and spend a few minutes walking back into history.  Volunteers work at the Clawson House almost every Sunday from 10-12pm. If you are interested in being on the volunteer list, please sign up when you visit.

SOMETIMES YOU JUST HAVE TO SUPPORT THE LOYALISTS.....  On Saturday, October 24th, the 1759 Vought House is having a fundraising auction... The event is inspired by a real auction in 1778 when victorious American Patriots confiscated the goods sand property of the defeated Vought family, who had remained loyal to the British king during the Revolution.  the auction will start at 9:30 am (previews) and 10:30 am (auction) at the 1759 Vought House, 34 Grayrock road Annandale (next to the Clinton Township Middle School).  Auctioneer Michael J. Stasak, Jr., owner of Antiques and Auction Service in Carpentersville, NJ, will preside.  Special items are already on the auction list which can be viewed at www.stasakauctions.com.  All proceeds benefit the 1759 Vought House.  For further information see their website at www.1759VoughtHouse.org.  DONATIONS TO THIS AUCTION ARE GRATEFULLY WELCOMED -- PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITE FOR CONTACT INFORMATION.

AND THE 300TH STILL HAS ROOM FOR YOU TO JOIN US: OCTOBER 3RD AT HOLCOMBE-JIMISON FARMSTEAD, OCTOBER 6TH AT THE MAIN BRANCH OF THE COUNTY LIBRARY FOR A TALK ON THE HISTORY OF 4 H IN HUNTERDON COUNTY, AND FOR OUR BARN TOUR ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH.  FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE RESERVATIONS FOR ANY OF THESE EVENTS, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.HUNTERDON300TH.ORG.