First Night Morris County to highlight Revolutionary history during New Year’s Eve celebration
MORRISTOWN, N.J. (Morris County) — First Night Morris County will spotlight local history during its New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 31, using the annual event to help launch Morris County’s 250th anniversary commemorations with expanded Revolutionary-era programming.
In addition to more than 80 performances scheduled throughout Morristown, this year’s First Night will feature a series of history-focused programs presented by local organizations aimed at connecting visitors to Morris County’s role in the American Revolution and the early years of the nation.
“As we begin celebrating the Semiquincentennial, Morris County is ringing in the new year with an expanded First Night event that highlights our county’s pivotal role in securing America’s independence,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, a member of the Morris County 250th Anniversary Celebrations Committee. “These unique programs highlight the people, places and stories that shaped our county and, in turn, the nation.”
At Morristown High School, the “Pathways of History Community Showcase,” presented by the Morris County Historical Society and the Morris County Heritage Commission, will feature more than 30 volunteer-run historical organizations from across the county. The interactive exhibit introduces visitors to the annual Pathways of History tours, which open dozens of historic sites each spring and fall.
“We hope attendees gain an appreciation and awareness for the more than three dozen town-based history organizations found throughout Morris County and the rich resources they hold,” said Amy Curry, executive director of the Morris County Historical Society. “These are the treasures that tell the incredible story of Morris County and its people for nearly 300 years. We’re excited to participate so we can increase awareness of the people, places and events that have given Morris County a special place in history of New Jersey and America.”
The Woman’s Club of Morristown will host “Heroines of History: Women Illuminating Morristown” at the historic Dr. Lewis Condict House. The family-friendly program will include guided mini-tours and costumed interpreters portraying women who influenced the community’s civic and cultural life following the Revolution.
“We are delighted to welcome guests to the Dr. Lewis Condict House for ‘Heroines of History’ at First Night,” said Susanne Reilly, president of the Woman’s Club of Morristown. “This program brings to life the women who illuminated Morristown’s past, while inviting visitors to enjoy our historic clubhouse in a joyful, welcoming setting.”
Macculloch Hall Historical Museum will also host several history-based activities, including tours of three holiday-decorated exhibits focused on the Macculloch family’s influence on Morristown and the nation. Guests can view Thomas Nast’s Santa Claus illustrations, listen to live music by the Dolce Trio and participate in a hands-on ornament-making activity.
The museum will also present “Eyewitness to History: The Marquis de Lafayette Visits Morristown,” commemorating the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s 1825 visit to the town. The exhibit examines Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution and Morristown’s part in welcoming him during his return.
The evening will conclude with a midnight countdown and fireworks display, weather permitting. All history programs are included with a First Night admission button, which provides access to more than seven hours of performances and exhibits. Complimentary parking and shuttle service will be available beginning at 4 p.m. at Morristown parking garages.
Admission buttons are available through FirstNightMorris.org or the Mayo Performing Arts Center box office. Early bird pricing is available through Dec. 21, and children 4 and under are admitted free.
