Daily Record (New Jersey): Morristown National Historical Park to host "Revolutionary Times Weekend'
The Morristown National Historical Park will host a "Revolutionary Times Weekend," beginning April 15, in an effort to promote the importance of Morristown and New Jersey to the American Revolution.
All of the weekend activities will be held at sites within the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area to maintain a high level of authenticity. Most of the events are free and open to the public.
"The Morristown National Historical Park area is significant because Washington actually camped there during the Revolutionary War," said Justin Monetti, the park's chief of interpretation. "The other sites will generally serve to make it as it was during the time period."
Event topics are diverse, with the intent of encompassing most elements of 18th-century life. Participants can learn firsthand how food was prepared during the time period, as well as take part in traditional spinning and weaving demonstrations.
A Martha Washington Tea and Reception follows the opening ceremony on April 15, and a cocktail reception and conversation with Alexander Hamilton (as portrayed by a costumed interpreter) will take place on the same day.
There will be a Jockey Hollow Continental Army Encampment with the Helms Company, a group of volunteers dedicated to portraying New Jersey's second regiment in the Revolutionary War.
To help make a lasting impression, Helms Company will be assisted by approximately 40 additional costumed re-enactors as they present military and camp-life demonstrations throughout the day, including special "recruitment drills" for children.
"Quite a few people come out to the campsite," said Monetti. "Events are going on all day long, so it's a steady flow of people."
This year's "Revolutionary Times Weekend" is further aided in its effort to seamlessly connect New Jersey residents with its history by coinciding with Morristown's "Downtown Morristown Restaurant Week" on April 15 and April 16. "Restaurant Week" businesses will offer menus with fixed prices for lunch and/or dinner, or special promotions in their establishments.
Additionally, throughout the weekend, Morristown National Historical Park and National Park Service sales items and souvenirs from the park's gift shops will be available for purchase in downtown Morristown at the following locations: Del's Novelty & Party Supply Shop, 84 Elm St.; Greenberry's Coffee & Tea Company, 46 Park Place; International Pottery, 8 South St., and Swaine's of Morristown at 68 South St.
"I've really never touted myself as an extreme history buff, but this is a really wonderful experience for anyone, especially families," said Monetti. "Most of the events taking place are free, and in these tough economic times, it's great to have something that everyone can enjoy that won't cost you much."
