Apr 01, 2017
Weekend in Old Monmouth
By Lori Draz
Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7 are this year’s dates that mark the return of the annual “Weekend in Old Monmouth.” Bonafide buffs and the historically curious wait for this special weekend that runs every year, rain or shine.
“Weekend in Old Monmouth” is a perfect introduction to the rich history of Monmouth County, as well as the knowledgeable members of the numerous historical societies and volunteers who make this weekend possible.
Every year, the event attracts thousands of residents and visitors who set out to visit, learn, and experience more than 40 historic sites throughout Monmouth County. These sites waive their admittance fees during this weekend and many of the locations host tours, live demonstrations, costumed greeters, and storytellers who share the charming and fascinating histories of the homes, farms, battlefields, churches, and museums.
In all, 48 different historic sites are on the list of places you can visit during this year’s event. Three new sites have been added to the 2017 Weekend in Old Monmouth roster:
- Crawford House (c. early 1800s) in Tinton Falls is associated with three generations of an influential local family that operated a butcher shop on this site in the heart of the town’s historic district.
- Spring Lake Historical Society Museum is dedicated to local history and the borough’s connection to the surrounding communities.
- Stephen Crane House (c. 1878) in Asbury Park was home to the famed author who wrote The Red Badge of Courage.
Sites returning in 2017 include Ardena School Museum (Howell), Red Bank Woman’s Club (Red Bank), and Twin Lights Museum (Highlands), along with Seabright Lawn Tennis and Racquet Club (Rumson), and Longstreet Farm (Holmdel), to name just a few. You can map out your own course or use a pre-routed tour guide, which you can print. There will also be a virtual tour app accessible online that can help you find the locations you’re seeking. The recommended routes guide history buffs as they travel by foot, bicycle, or car to the various locations.
Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the county’s Historical Commission, the coordinator of the weekend event, said, “For two days, the entrance fees at these historic gems are waived and the volunteers are out conducting tours and answering questions, all so those who wish to can enjoy all there is to offer in historic Monmouth County.”
It is an exciting weekend and one that will fill you with pride and surprise at the incredibly rich history to be found right in your own backyard in Monmouth County. “A Weekend in Old Monmouth” runs Saturday, May 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, May 7 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. To learn more and see a list of all the places you can tour, you can visit Monmouth County’s website at www.co.monmouth.nj.us, the Monmouth County Park System website at www.monmouthcountyparks.com, or www.visitmonmouth.com. “Weekend in Old Monmouth” is held rain or shine.
