2017 Event Overview…
The Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, in collaboration with twenty-nine local historical organizations and tourism partners, has designated the weekend of October 14 & 15, 2017 “Weekend Journey through the Past.” During this two-day period, twenty-nine (29) of the County’s significant historic sites will be open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday and 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday. This year’s event features two newly participating historic sites: The Griggstown Bridgetender’s House in Princeton and the Van Liew-Suydam House in Franklin Twp.
Participating historic sites have been grouped into three convenient tours by location: Northern, Central, and Southern Somerset County. A scenic route plan with driving direction has been prepared for each of the three tours (see link below). Admission to all sites is free.
For those who enjoy a challenge, a fun and educational detective investigation activity, What in the World is That? created for kids & the entire family, will test your powers of deduction to solve 29 mysteries complementing the various special exhibits, programs, and tours planned at each historic site (link available late September). This featured activity encourages a multi-generational outing for parents and grandparents alike, sharing stories and experiences about “the old days” with their children and grandchildren as they enjoy traveling from one historic site to the next. One unique item from the past will be displayed and identified, along with its description, at each of the 29 participating historic sites during this year’s weekend event.
This annual event is a perfect opportunity for a family outing. A visit to the County’s historic sites offers a unique educational experience for all ages, as well as a chance to visit some of Somerset County’s most picturesque and unspoiled areas.
Many of the sites have significant Revolutionary War histories which have contributed to the area’s designation as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution State Heritage Area”. Local historians will be on hand to share their knowledge and stories about Somerset County’s history.
Come and enjoy learning more about the area’s history. More information about this event, including a list of all 29 participating historic sites throughout Somerset County, a guide book, and map, can be found on the Somerset County website at www.co.somerset.nj.us.
