Washington Township Historical Society launches America250 walking tour, Revolutionary-era events
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — The Washington Township Historical Society is launching a series of America250 programs designed to help residents and visitors explore the township’s Revolutionary War-era history through a new self-guided walking tour and an interactive living history event.
The initiative, titled “Discover, Experience and Celebrate America250 in Washington Township,” commemorates the nation’s 250th anniversary by highlighting local sites and stories from the Revolutionary period.
Beginning July 1, the historical society will offer a new 250th Anniversary Self-Guided Walking Tour through the historic center of Washington Township. The tour features sites that existed during the Revolutionary era, including historic homes, a mill, tavern, church and river crossing that played a role in everyday life in what was then known as German Valley.
Participants may take the tour at their own pace using a mobile device or a printed booklet that includes a map, property descriptions, photographs and audio recordings.
Walking tour booklets will be available from 10 a.m. to noon July 1 at the Washington Township Historical Society Museum, 6 Fairview Ave., Long Valley. Afterward, booklets will be available at the museum on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. The tour also is available online at wthsnj.org/walking-tour.
The second part of the America250 initiative will take place Sept. 19 when the historical society hosts “It’s 1776 – The News of Independence Reaches German Valley,” a Revolutionary-era fundraising event at the historic Old Union Church.
The event invites guests to imagine they are local residents learning that the Declaration of Independence has been adopted in Philadelphia. Historical interpreters portraying local residents will interact with guests as they enjoy period music, appetizers, local wine, beer and other beverages while considering the choices and challenges faced by communities during the American Revolution.
Tickets are $45 and include appetizers, beverages and a Washington Township Historical Society membership.
“America250 gives us a wonderful opportunity to connect people with the places and stories that exist right here in Washington Township,” said Brian Bumpus, vice president of the Washington Township Historical Society. “Our goal is to help residents not only learn about history, but experience it in meaningful and memorable ways.”
The Washington Township Historical Society said the America250 initiative is intended to bring local history to life through education, exploration and community engagement while highlighting the township’s role during the nation’s founding.
More information about the walking tour, the Sept. 19 event and other America250 activities is available at wthsnj.org.
