MORRIS COUNTY, N.J. — More than 29 historic sites and museums across Morris County will open their doors for free during the 17th annual Pathways of History Fall Tour on Saturday, Oct. 3, and Sunday, Oct. 4.
The Morris County Historical Society will host the family-friendly, self-guided tour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. The event will be held rain or shine.
The tour features historic homes, museums, American Revolution-era landmarks and other sites highlighting the people, industries and events that shaped Morris County.
“The Pathways of History Tour is a great way to experience the history that surrounds us in Morris County,” said Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw. “As we celebrate the Semiquincentennial, we encourage everyone to visit the places where that history happened and learn from the volunteers dedicated to supporting these special sites.”
Visitors can begin at any participating location. Sites on the Blue Tour will be open Saturday, while sites on the Red Tour will be open Sunday. Some participating locations will be open both days.
“The Pathways of History Tour is a great way to explore local history, see some of Morris County’s incredible historic sites, and meet some of the region’s most dedicated historians. This year, in honor of America 250, a record number of locations will be open across the weekend, and organizations will be offering special exhibits and presentations,” said Amy Curry, Executive Director of the Historical Society.
Launched in 2009 with five participating organizations, the tour has grown to include more than 29 sites and more than 115 volunteers. Participating organizations operate independently and will offer free admission during the tour weekend.
Among this year’s locations is the L’Ecole Kinnelon Museum, housed in a former one-room schoolhouse in Kinnelon and featuring exhibits on education and women’s health.
The United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey at the Boonton Yard is also participating. The organization recently received a Merci Train boxcar, a World War I-era railroad car, which is among a collection of approximately 60 historic locomotives and railroad cars.
Earlier this year, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners awarded the railroad society an $18,560 Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund grant to support construction documents for interior and exterior preservation work on the boxcar.
The 2026 tour is part of Morris County’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence and provides visitors an opportunity to explore the county’s connections to the nation’s founding and its history.
A complete list of participating sites, maps and tour information is available at PathwaysofHistoryNJ.net. Visitors are encouraged to check individual organizations’ websites and social media pages for information about specific exhibits, presentations and other programming.
