NJDEP-Parks and Forests-Centennial of NJ State Historic Site

The American Historical Theatre Presents

General Sir William Howe
"Loyalty to our noble King"

Sir William Howe was British Commander of His Majesties Royal Forces in America. Why was he unable to quell the rebellion? Why was he holding back? Is there a deep dark secret? History says he had the opportunity and the force to obliterate Washington and the ragged Patriot forces. Now you can hear it from the General’s mouth as he tells the story of trying to catch the old Fox, Washington. Robert (Bob) Gleason will portray the General. Gleason holds a degree in Theater Arts from West Chester University & is an ardent historian.

Harriet Tubman
19th Century Emancipator

Daisy Nelson Century will portray this fugitive slave, abolitionist, nurse, spy & social reformer. Tubman was born a slave, escaping to Philadelphia & getting her freedom in 1849. Not content with her liberty, she made 20 trips into the South during the Civil War to rescue fellow slaves. Come meet Harriet & learn of her struggles & life work in person. Daisy Nelson Century lives in Philadelphia where she pursues her interest in the Women's Movement &, writes short stories, songs & poetry. She has appeared in several films & performs with local theaters.

History Alive! Rich Pawling Presents

CANAWLING" ON AMERICA'S CANALS (John Hummel, 1870's Canal Captain)"Cappy" Hummel represents hundreds of fellow canalmen (Irish ditch diggers, towpath walkers, muletenders, locktenders, and boatmen) who built and travelled America's canal systems. Hear the "sneckehorn" blow, and hear the songs from the past as "Cappy" takes you for an entertaining, action-packed trek on the canal.

Frank Attwood Portrays Thomas A. Edison

Ever wonder where Thomas Edison got his inspiration for his many inventions? You can ask Edison yourself. Mr. Frank Attwood will portray Edison - talking about his life, career and how his life's work changed the face of our everyday lives. Mr. Attwood performs several times each year for schoolchildren, theatergoers and business people at conventions and conferences. www.attwoodasedison.com

Authors' Tent

The Literacy Volunteers in Mercer County is Author's Tent sponsoring an Authors' Tent this year. Books on NJ's history and other aspects of the State will be featured. So come meet an author. Buy a book & have it autographed. This is your opportunity to browse some of the many titles that have been written about the Garden State.

Quilting Bee and Appraisal

Whether gathered around the quilting frame or an informal quilting circle, a
quilting bee is not just for sewing. It's a time to catch up on news of the
day, exchange ideas, and share the joy of quilting. Come & experience a live quilting bee presented by the Batsto Quilters and the Crazy Quilt Club of Atco.

Also enjoy the children's interactive program provided by Judy Kronmeyer or bring your family heirloom to be valued at our quilt appraisal booth. Two trained quilt appraisers will give verbal appraisals of quilts for a nominal fee of $20. Those wishing to take advantage of this unique opportunity must register by April 30, 2009. Applications will be accepted as they are received. To register for an appraisal, please contact Daniel T. Campbell, Historian, Bass River State Forest at 609-296-1114 or brsfris@hughes.net

THE GREAT RACE THROUGH TIME

T Great American Race eam up with your family and/or friends to take a journey through time at this year's History Fair. Do you enjoy challenges? Are you good at solving clues and willing to test your knowledge of New Jersey history? Then this is the game is for you!

This game can be played alone, as a team, or as two or more teams competing against each other. However you choose to tackle this game remember, it is for pure enjoyment. So prepare to travel back through history on The Great Race Through Time.

Great Race Through Time game sheet & instructions

Players MUST stop at the Visitor Center to begin the race.

SPECIAL EXHIBITS

Come see this new exhibit on Blacks in the American Revolution. Learn about their struggle to break the chains of slavery and burden of oppression. Which side would secure them a better future - The Loyalists or the American Rebels?

Olivia Glenn of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection will give an overview of this new traveling exhibit. Her presentation will highlight the dynamics surrounding the service of black soldiers from both sides who fought for freedom. She will also spotlight the outcomes of some freedom fighters at the War's conclusion.

Classic Antique Cars

The Mid-Jersey Antique Car Club (AACA) will once again bring an outstanding display of antique cars dating from the 1920s to the 1960s. Visitors can talk with car owners and learn about the history and workings of these beautifully restored automobiles.

One of the featured cars will be a Mercer, named after Mercer County, and designed by C.G. Roebling. 2009 marks the 100th anniversary of the Mercer Automobile Company. Built near Trenton, these cars were famous for their undisputed dominance of the early national auto racing scene.

To help commemorate the 175th anniversary of the Delaware and Raritan Canal’s official opening in 1834, a special postal cancellation will make its debut at this year's history fair. A postal official from the Kingston post office will be on hand to stamp your mail with the tribute cancellation. Loose stamps, books of stamps, stamped cards and envelopes will also be available for purchase.

So make sure to stop by the Kingston post office’s table and get this limited D & R 175th Anniversary Station postal cancellation! Following the Fair, this cancellation will be available at the Kingston post office during the month of May.

Passport to Adventure
The Division of Parks & Forestry's Passport to Adventure encourages residents to discover the unique cultural and natural wonders in New Jersey's state parks, forests and historic sites. The Passport features fun facts and opportunities for recreation and education for the whole family. So make your way to the State History Fair and get your Passport!

Historic New Jersey Puzzle & Poster
This great new puzzle and poster is beautifully illustrated and packed with information. Featuring historical facts, portraits of famous people and museums about New Jersey's contribution to American history. 1000 pieces: Finished size 24 X 30: Artist: Randy Green. Visit our gift shop online to purchase a puzzle or a poster.