BCHS - Events & Lecture Schedule

October 16, 2008
LECTURE PROGRAM:
Time Traveller in the Garden State

An Artist Looks at Historic Sites, Space and Time
Despina Metaxatos will explore the ways in which physical space impacts many aspects of our lives—our daily routine, our perceptions, and especially our mental space. “History is experienced as nostalgia, and nature as regret – as a horizon fast disappearing behind us”, writes French philosopher Henri Lefebvre in The Production of Space. As physical space is usurped by virtual, abstract screen space, the concrete acquires that aura of nostalgia in historic sites, where the visible past punctures our present grid.New Jersey native Despina Metaxatos is an Adjunct Art Instructor at Bergen Community College and at Dominican College. She received her MFA in Visual Art from the University of Western Australia, Perth, in 2005, and her research was stimulated by comparative cultural spaces. The paper presented to BCHS is accompanied by a Powerpoint presentation which includes the author’s photographs as well as archival maps and images, many from Bergen County.

LECTURE PROGRAM LOCATION Unless otherwise noted, all lecture programs are held at the Second Reformed Church, corner of Anderson and Union Streets, Hackensack, NJ on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm. The public is invited to attend. No fee. Second Reformed Church, 436 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601. Lecture Location Map

SCHEDULE of Events & Lectures
Fall 2008 thru Spring 2009


	Sept 18, 2008 7:30 pm LECTURE PROGRAM: Strong Medicine Speaks: a Native American Elder has her say Amy Hill Hearth is a New York Times bestselling author and a Peabody Award-winning writer. Amy’s oral history, “STRONG MEDICINE” SPEAKS: A NATIVE AMERICAN ELDER HAS HER SAY, was published in the spring of 2008. An 85-year-old Native American Elder shares her life story, the unusual story of her tribe, and her views on American life in this very rare oral history. LECTURE PROGRAM LOCATION Unless otherwise noted, all lecture programs are held at the Second Reformed Church, corner of Anderson and Union Streets, Hackensack, NJ on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm. The public is invited to attend. No fee. Second Reformed Church, 436 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601


	Sept 6, thru February 9, 2009 From Belfast to Brooklawn, A Ridgewood Family Odyssey Told through decorative art objects, letters, photographs, and personal effects, the story of the Boyd family's life in Ridgewood, ath the dawn of the 20th century, is brought to life by guest curator Colette Marvin of the Smithsonian Associates. The School House Museum, 650 East Glen Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ,Exhibit hours TBA. Click here to download flyer. www.RidgewoodHistoricalSociety.org


	Actions and Actors of the Revolution ROUNDTABLE MEETING: Military chronicle of the Jersey Blues September 23, 2008: The Third New Jersey Regiment of the Continental Army engaged in combat from New Jersey to Canada in a number of campaigns. Re-enactor Scott Barone of Paramus, N.J., will describe its roles and explain how soldiers were uniformed and equipped--and why their contribution was important to the cause. Where are meetings held? The Iron Horse. Westwood, N.J. Open to the public? Yes, definitely. What time? Come between 6:30 and 7:00 PM for conversation and fellowship. Meals? Optional dinners costing $20, including gratuity. Advance reservations? Not required. Admission charges or dues? Not required. Questions? Contact Chairman David Whieldon at 201-967-7692.


	EVENT: Alpine Cemetery Marker Dedication: Saturday, Oct 25, 2008 10:00 am With the honorable Mayor Paul Tomasco and the Alpine Historical Society, it is our privilege to invite all those with an interest in Bergen County history to the dedication of the newest “blue marker” of the Bergen County Historical Society, commemorating Alpine Cemetery. A short ceremony will be held on Saturday, October 25 at 10 AM (rain date Sunday, October 26), after which we will conduct a brief tour of the cemetery. The cemetery is on Monument Lane (formerly Cemetery Street), which is between Forest Street and West Main Street, one block north of Closter Dock Road. We are proud of the role we have played over the past year in conducting the research behind this marker, which joins over a hundred that have been placed in the county since the 1960s. The new marker designates the resting place of, among others, Hudson River boatmen and fishermen and their families, once part of a thriving community in the “Closter Mountain”—now part of the rich “hidden history” of Bergen County. There is no need to reserve a place for this ceremony, which will be informal and open to all, but should you need more information or directions, please do not hesitate to call us at 201 768-1360 ext. 108. For the Palisades Interstate Park Commission, Eric Nelsen Historical interpreter Lindsey Foschini Historic site assistant
			BCHS Marker Program

EVENT:
Spook Bridge & the Legends of New Bridge
Saturday, Oct 25, 2008 7:00-9:00 pm
Enjoy an evening of haunted history and a dramatic presentation from Francis Koehler’s Hilda: A Romance of the Revolution, a tale of New Bridge. Rain or shine.

We will probably be inside unless the weather prediction is wrong.

Suggested donation for events unless otherwise noted: $7 adult, $5 children, BCHS members free. Takes place at the Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main St, River Edge, NJ.


	ROUNDTABLE MEETING: Mutinies of the American Revolution October 28, 2008: Provoked by harsh conditions and scant pay, soldiers of Pennsylvania regiments refused orders and set out to march on Congress in January 1781, from posts in New Jersey. New Jersey Continentals followed suit. John A. Nagy, president of Philadelphia’s American Revolution Round Table, details the events and outcomes. Where are meetings held? The Iron Horse. Westwood, N.J. Open to the public? Yes, definitely. What time? Come between 6:30 and 7:00 PM for conversation and fellowship. Meals? Optional dinners costing $20, including gratuity. Advance reservations? Not required. Admission charges or dues? Not required. Questions? Contact Chairman David Whieldon at 201-967-7692.
			The Iron Horse, Westwood, NJ



EVENT: Mitzvah Day Sunday, November 2, 2008 10:00-12:00 pm Help remove trash and invasive vegetation at Historic New Bridge Landing on UJA Federation’s 11th annual Mitzvah Day. The goal of Mitzvah Day is to involve people in a variety of community service activities throughout northern New Jersey thus enabling them to understand and experience, first hand, the vast network of social service agencies and organizations. Last year, over 1400 people participated in this wonderful event.
			Bring work gloves and tools for cutting brush. Bring a shovel and metal rake for moving wood chips on path. Meet at the lot across from the Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main St, River Edge, NJ, NUMBER 12 on map. Pre-register online at www.ujannj.org/mitzvahday or walk-ins must sign up at Solomon Schechter Day School, New Milford. Questions? Contact Alice Blass at 201-820-3948 or aliceb@ujannj.org.


		photo by Bruce Prince
	Please visit this link to view more photos from Mitzvah Day at New Bridge Landing. http://picasaweb.google.com/bruceprince532/MitzvahDayAtNewBridgeLanding To all the volunteers, a big Thank You! Also we would like the thank the Boro of River Edge for disposing of the trash picked up.



	EVENT: Harvest Home at the Black Horse Inn Fruits of the Harvest • tavern fare for $20 Sunday, November 16, 2008 1:00-4:00 pm Join us for an old-fashioned holiday gathering, a Harvest Home at the Black Horse Inn, to be held in the Campbell-Christie House, Historic New Bridge Landing, 1201 Main St, River Edge, NJ. The menu will feature an old-time fruits-of-the-harvest tavern fare of mulled cider, corn chowder and pies. The donation is $20 per person. Seating is limited to 30 at a time. The Jersey Dutch Out Kitchen will be demonstrating open hearth cooking and brick-oven baking. Your donations will assist the ongoing Forward to the Past fundraising campaign to raise a museum for the Bergen County Historical Society’s outstanding artifact collections.


	ROUNDTABLE MEETING: Cross the Delaware--with a crossing veteran! November 18, 2008: How does it feel to cross the Delaware River in winter with troops and artillery to attack a Hessian outpost? Ronald Rinaldi II knows because he’s impersonated Washington. Where are meetings held? The Iron Horse restaurant, Westwood, NJ. Open to the public? Yes, definitely. What time? Come between 6:30 & 7:00 pm for conversation and fellowship. Meals? Optional dinner costing $20, including gratuity. Advance reservations? Not required. Admission charges or dues? None. Questions? Contact Chairman David Whieldon 201-967-7692.


	EVENT: Holiday Open House Sunday, Dec 14, 2008, 2:00 - 4:00 pm Enjoy holiday treats, a visit from Sinter Claus, open-hearth cooking in out-kitchen and gift shop. Takes place at the Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main St, River Edge, NJ. Suggested donation for events unless otherwise noted: $7 adult, $5 children, BCHS members free.


EVENT: Winter Tavern Nights Thursday & Friday, Dec 18 & 19, 5:00 to 7:30 pm Join us at the restored 18th century Black Horse Tavern in the Campbell-Christie House for light tavern fare, dessert. Linda Russell & Companie will provide musical entertainment. Seating limited to 30 people. Donation: $30 per person. ($27 BCHS members). Tickets available in advance. Send your check with a SASE to BCHS Colonial Christmas, PO Box 55, River Edge, NJ 07661. Ticket sales available on internet on our website/Paypal. Suggest wearing walking shoes. Note: Dec 19th is sold out. Please order accordingly.


		To order tickets by PayPal or credit card
Historic New Bridge Landing, located where River Edge, Hackensack, Teaneck and New Milford come together, features three historic sandstone houses and an out kitchen on a Revolutionary War battleground overlooking the Hackensack River. Holiday decorations based upon ancient sources, including Jan Steen's 1664 painting, The Visit of St. Nicholas, which depicts a favorite domestic theme of the American holiday, so familiar to modern eyes: Sinter Klaas has come down the chimney, bringing treats to good children. The decorations include an ancient Kissing Bough, supposedly of Druidic origin, celebrating the solstice and the birth of the new solar year. Here people may meet under the mistletoe for the blessing of harmony. The origins of other holiday customs are explained, as for example, how in an age before cheap glassware, a piece of toasted bread was dipped into the wassail bowl by one and all to make a festive "toast."

	For a short history on Bogert's Candy Kitchen of Hackensack. Clear toy candies from antique Bogert's Candy Kitchen molds.


EVENT: 25th Annual Colonial Christmas Concerts Saturday, Dec 20 - 7 & 8:30 pm Sunday, Dec 21 - 6 & 7:30 pm Our magical holiday concerts, featuring Linda Russell, & Companie, will be held in the Campbell-Christie House with seating limited to only 20 guests per show. Enjoy the open-hearth cooking demonstrations in the Outkitchen. Not suitable for small children. Suggested Donation: $25 ($23 for BCHS members). Tickets available in advance. Send your check with 1st & 2nd choice of time & date & a SASE to BCHS Colonial Christmas, PO Box 55, River Edge, NJ 07661. Ticket sales available on internet on our website/Paypal. Suggest wearing walking shoes. Note: Dec 20,both shows are sold out. Dec 21, both shows are sold out.

		To order tickets by PayPal or credit card


	Historic New Bridge Landing, located where River Edge, Hackensack, Teaneck and New Milford come together, features three historic sandstone houses and an out kitchen on a Revolutionary War battleground overlooking the Hackensack River. Holiday decorations based upon ancient sources, including Jan Steen's 1664 painting, The Visit of St. Nicholas, which depicts a favorite domestic theme of the American holiday, so familiar to modern eyes: Sinter Klaas has come down the chimney, bringing treats to good children. The decorations include an ancient Kissing Bough, supposedly of Druidic origin, celebrating the solstice and the birth of the new solar year. Here people may meet under the mistletoe for the blessing of harmony. The origins of other holiday customs are explained, as for example, how in an age before cheap glassware, a piece of toasted bread was dipped into the wassail bowl by one and all to make a festive "toast."


	EVENT: The Society’s Twelfth Night Party Sunday, January 4, 2009 - 2:00-5:00 pm Close out the winter holiday season with us! We invite members and guests to bring a favorite food or drink, to share in an afternoon of celebration and New Year cheer at Campbell-Christie Tavern, HNBL.



	ROUNDTABLE MEETING: SPEAKER CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER January 27, 2009: Battle of Princeton: Hard-Won Ground Being Lost? In early 1777, after Trenton, Washington surprised British regulars and drove them off at Princeton. Some of the sacred soil is protected, but some is threatened, notes Jerry Hurwitz, President of the Princeton Battlefield Society. He’ll describe the original conflict and efforts at preservation. Where are meetings held? The Iron Horse restaurant, Westwood, NJ. Open to the public? Yes, definitely. What time? Come between 6:30 & 7:00 pm for conversation and fellowship. Meals? Optional dinner costing $20, including gratuity. Advance reservations? Not required. Admission charges or dues? None. Questions? Contact Chairman David Whieldon 201-967-7692.


	EVENT: History Café • Valentine’s Day at Historic New Bridge Landing Sunday, February 15, 2009 - 1:00-4:00 pm The Bergen County Historical Society presents Brenda Miller of Myerstown, Pa., an expert at Scherenschnitte, the art of papercutting with scissors, at the History Café in the Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main Street, River Edge, NJ 07661 from 1 to 4 PM on Sunday, February 15, 2009. Suggested donation: $7 adult, $5 children, BCHS members free. German immigrants brought Scherenschnitte to colonial America. Brenda Miller will repeat half-hour presentations throughout the afternoon (as necessary), discussing the history of the craft, its cultural impacts, different techniques and tools. There will also be an opportunity for hands-on cutting of a heart and love-birds design. The Historical Society will display an 1838 Valentine with an elaborate cut-paper border, inscribed with a poem, which includes a marriage proposal to Henry Bertholf, Sr., of Amos St., New York, from a secret admirer in Bergen, NJ. BCHS is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) volunteer organization, founded in 1902, to develop public appreciation for Bergen County's remarkable history.

			Card from BCHS collections. I erased the name on this photo. Please click on the link and use for your Valentine -- if appropriate!

LECTURE PROGRAM:
History of the Meadowlands
From glacial morass to cultural landform
February 19, 2009, 7:30 pm

Slide show and lecture by Bergen County Historian Kevin Wright. Kevin gave this talk for the first time for the NJ Meadowlands Commission at the Environmental Center last Tuesday night. He agreed to give it again Thursday night for our lecture program as the scheduled speaker canceled.

LECTURE PROGRAM LOCATION Unless otherwise noted, all lecture programs are held at the Second Reformed Church, corner of Anderson and Union Streets, Hackensack, NJ on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm. The public is invited to attend. No fee. Second Reformed Church, 436 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601



	EVENT: Because of the great coverage in the Bergen Record for this event and because we are on the eve of the transfer of the Steuben House and State owned lands to the HNBL Park Commission, we asked HNBLPC Chairman Mike Trepicchio to arrange with the DEP to open the Steuben tomorrow, Sunday. WASHINGTON'S BIRTHDAY AT HISTORIC NEW BRIDGE LANDING A Country Ball upon the Anniversary of Washington’s Birthday will be held at New Bridge Landing on Sunday, February 22, 2009, between 1 and 4 PM. Under Denise Piccino’s direction, the Tricorne Ensemble will demonstrate 18th-century dances in the parlor of the Steuben House! Ridley & Anne Enslow provide musical accompaniment on fiddle and hammered dulcimer. Rodger Yaden portrays General Washington. In the Campbell-Christie House we have an exhibit of prints of George Washington from the BCHS collections. Join us in the tavern for hot cider and crullers. Our gift shop is open, stocked with the New Bridge souvenir jug for sale. Don't miss Mary and Barbara cooking in the Bergen Dutch Out-Kitchen. Suggested donation: $7 adult, $5 children, BCHS members free. Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main Street, River Edge, 07661

			Ridley & Anne Enslow at the Campbell-Christie House


	ROUNDTABLE MEETING: The Vital Role of Taverns in the Revolution February 24, 2009: Taverns ranked with churches as social institutions in the Colonial and Revolutionary periods. Dr. Mark E. Lender, Professor of History at Kean University, explains the significance of New Jersey taverns to drinkers, travelers, merchants, politicians, military men, and others, of various ranks. Where are meetings held? The Iron Horse restaurant, Westwood, N.J. Open to the public? Yes, definitely. What time? Come between 6:30 and 7:00 PM for conversation and fellowship. Meals? Optional dinner starting at 7:00 PM and costing $20, including gratuity. Advance reservations? Not required. Admission charges or dues? None. Questions? Contact Chairman David Whieldon at 201-967-7692.
	1763 Tavern Rates from BCHS Collections



	March 19, 2009 LECTURE PROGRAM: The Better Half of Bergen History How did gender influence societal roles and political empowerment in our history and prehistory? What part did the industrial revolution play in freeing humankind, especially women, of drudgery? And finally, how did the hard-fought expansion of American civil rights overcome “traditional” limitations and advance the political and economic status of women in Bergen County in recent generations? Historian Kevin Wright will explore these interesting topics in an informative discussion of “The Better Half of Bergen History.” LECTURE PROGRAM LOCATION Unless otherwise noted, all lecture programs are held at the Second Reformed Church, corner of Anderson and Union Streets, Hackensack, NJ on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm. The public is invited to attend. No fee. Second Reformed Church, 436 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601



	EVENT: History Café • Lenape New Year Sunday, March 22, 2009 – 1:00 to 4:00 pm The Dark Moon marks the arrival of Chwame gischuch, the Shad Moon, and the New Year of the ancient Sanhicans and Minisinks, locally known as the Hackensacks and Tappans. Bob Wills, of the Sunrise Trading Post, will share his knowledge of Lenape. Suggested donation for events unless otherwise noted: $7 adult, $5 children, BCHS members free. Takes place at the Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main St, River Edge, NJ.


	ROUNDTABLE MEETING: Rebels Who Made the Supreme Sacrifice—as Prisoners March 24, 2009: Twice as many patriots died in British jails and prison ships as on battlefields. Their obscure role is the avid research concern of Dr. Edwin G. Burrows, Brooklyn College history professor, author, and Pulitzer Prize winner. Where are meetings held? The Iron Horse restaurant, Westwood, N.J. Open to the public? Yes, definitely. What time? Come between 6:30 and 7:00 PM for conversation and fellowship. Meals? Optional dinner starting at 7:00 PM and costing $20, including gratuity. Advance reservations? Not required. Admission charges or dues? None. Questions? Contact Chairman David Whieldon at 201-967-7692.


	EVENT: History Café The Hudson 400 Sunday, April 5, 2009 – 1:00 to 4:00 pm On April 4, 1609, Henry Hudson set sail from Amsterdam in the yacht Half Moon on his history-making voyage of discovery. When he finally came into the river that now bears his name, he entered an ancient world with a diversity of peoples and languages. Uninvited, he found a “country which was never lost.” In commemoration of the Hudson 400, the Bergen County Historical Society welcomes you to a History Café at Historic New Bridge Landing, 1201-1209 Main Street, River Edge, NJ 07661 from 1 to 4 PM on April 5th. Historian Kevin Wright will speak at 2 PM and 3 PM on his forthcoming book 1609: A Country That Was Never Lost, presenting his extensive research not only on Hudson’s epic voyage, but also upon the indigenous population of the Middle Atlantic coast. Four rarely seen illustrations from David Pietersz deVries’ Short History and Journal Notes, drawn by Symon Cornelisz Brekegeest and published in 1655, will be displayed in the Campbell- Christie House. Captain DeVries settled in Edgewater in 1640 and the woodcuts for his book are the earliest known depictions of the Hackensacks and Tappans. Refreshments will be served in the Tavern. Visit a working Bergen Dutch Out-Kitchen and our fine gift shop. Suggested donation: $7 Adult, $5 children, BCHS members free. Takes place at the Steuben House and Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main St, River Edge, NJ.


	April 16, 2009 LECTURE PROGRAM: Alice Guy Blache Tom Meyers, the Executive Director of the Bergen County Film Commission, will deliver a lecture / screening on Bergen County’s role as birthplace of the American film industry. Included in this program will be a discussion of the career of the first women director in cinema history, Alice Guy Blache. Alice Guy Blache built and operated Solax studio in Fort Lee from 1912 through World War I. She produced, directed and wrote hundreds of films at this location. The Bergen County Film Commission and the Fort Lee Film Commission are presently petitioning the Director’s Guild of America to grant Alice Guy Blache entry. LECTURE PROGRAM LOCATION Unless otherwise noted, all lecture programs are held at the Second Reformed Church, corner of Anderson and Union Streets, Hackensack, NJ on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm. The public is invited to attend. No fee. Second Reformed Church, 436 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601


SITE SEEING TOUR: *Join Us for a Rare Dining & Historical Treat to Help the Bergen County Historical Society, April 18.* Luncheon at the Culinary Institute of America will be served followed by a tour of the magnificent Frederick Vanderbilt Mansion a monument to the Gilded Age of the 19^th Century. The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) is one of the premiere gourmet cooking and restaurant management schools in the U.S., where the “Iron Chefs” of the future enter their profession. The four-course presentation includes: • Rigatoni with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, sausage & feta cheese • American Bounty Caesar Salad • Parmesan Supreme of Chicken stuffed with Mushrooms & Merlot Sauce Hominy Sun-dried Tomato Gratin • Chef’s choice of vegetables. • Seasonal Fruit Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream. No substitutions permitted. The cost of $105 per person includes transportation, admission to both locations, luncheon at the Culinary Institute and a donation to the BCHS. Reservations must be made by March 31 and payment of $105 per person must be received by Mainly Meetings Travel LLC, 535 Floyd St., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 by April 10, 2009. Departures from Nutley Library, Clifton City Hall parking lot, New Bridge and 560 Sylvan Ave. (Rte. 9W) in Englewood Cliffs.
	Photo by Deborah Powell
		For information, call 201-568-2146 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, or email Linda@MainlyMeetingsTravel.com. Refund policy: Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. No refunds except if Mainly Meetings Travel cancels the tour. Registrants may pass their reservation(s) to another party, but Mainly Meetings Travel must be notified before the excursion date. Click here for flyer. Please contact me on how you liked the trip! -- D. Powell contactBCHS@bergencountyhistory.org

ROUNDTABLE MEETING:
Nathan Pushee: Continental Private, British Sergeant
April 28: Many men loyally served both sides during the Revolution, avers Todd W. Braisted, independent researcher and long-serving officer in the Brigade of the American Revolution. His discovery: Adventurer and turncoat Pushee was awarded both Nova Scotia land by the crown and a pension by the new United States!

Where are meetings held? The Iron Horse restaurant, Westwood, N.J. Open to the public? Yes, definitely. What time? Come between 6:30 and 7:00 PM for conversation and fellowship. Meals? Optional dinner starting at 7:00 PM and costing $20, including gratuity. Advance reservations? Not required. Admission charges or dues? None. Questions? Contact Chairman David Whieldon at 201-967-7692.


EVENT: Pinkster Fest A Colonial Celebration of Spring Sunday, May 3, 2009 – 1:00 to 4:00 pm Summer is a-coming in! Join us around the Maypole on Sunday, May 3rd, from 1 to 4 PM at Historic New Bridge Landing, 1201 Main Street, River Edge. Imagine you are back in a time when the spring planting was done and nature allowed a moment of relaxation and community celebration. The Jersey Dutch joyously observed Pentecost as Pinkster, a holiday marking the budding of trees, the flowering of shrubs and feasting upon the first harvest of spring grains. In farming communities, a May-tree or pole was set in the ground and decorated with nosegays woven from wildflowers. A sporting contest, usually involving foot or horse races, determined who would be crowned as a figurative bride and groom, the May Queen and King. This flower-crowned couple led merry-makers in a procession, going door-to-door and gathering dyed eggs, butter, bread, cream, coffee, sugar, and tallow candles in their baskets. Food collected in these spring baskets furnished the table of the communal Pinkster supper, actually a mock wedding feast, complete with ring dances. Toasts with buttermilk, known as “white wine”, singing, and recital of the Pinkster Ode complete the celebration. Visit the historic Campbell-Christie, Demarest and Steuben Houses at the Bridge That Saved A Nation. The white oak dugout canoe from BCHS collections will be on display. There will be games and activities for children. Refreshments will be served. The public is most welcome. Suggested donation for events unless otherwise noted: $7 adult, $5 children, BCHS members free. Takes place at Steuben House and the Campbell-Christie House, 1201 Main St, River Edge, NJ.
	EVENT FLYER for download

		Schedule for May 3 1:15 pm Ode to Pinkster (Porch of Demarest House) 1:30 pm Maypole Dance (Front of Demarest House) 2:00 pm Historic New Bridge Landing Illustrated talk (in Steuben House) 2:45 pm Dance in Steuben House 3:45 pm Maypole Dance (Front of Demarest House) 4:00 pm Pinkster Ode & Closing (Porch of Demarest House) 4:45 pm Tavern & Gift Shop (Campbell-Christie House)


	EVENT: History Café Two First Ladies to Visit Bergen County Historical Society Sunday, May 17, 2009 – 1:00 to 4:00 pm During the Civil War our nation had two presidents and two first ladies. While every American knows something, whether true or false, about the volatile yet charming Mary Todd Lincoln, how much do they know about her counterpart, Varina Howell Davis? On Sunday, May 17 The Bergen County Historical Society will present a Living History program entitled “If We Had Known Each Other.” Two local actors, Eva Vita and Rosann Pellegrino will respectively portray Mary and Varina in a short drama they have written for the Society’s event. According to history, the two women never met, but Eva and Rosann have decided to explore the historical facts about these women in a series of fictional meetings when they were young single women. There are enough parallels and contrasts in the lives of both women to make the premise of them having a relationship quite plausible and interesting. Ms. Vita and Ms. Pellegrino eventually want to write a whole series of these dramas, taking the first ladies through the Civil War and their lives afterward. The March 17 program is the first in the planned series. They will perform their show in repeated segments between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. at the Steuben House, Main Street, River Edge.


	May 21, 2009 LECTURE PROGRAM: The Unspoken Truths of the Great-Great-Greats: History Speaking for Itself in Fiction Land So Fair, a historical novel set in Bergen County in the eighteenth century, is a hybrid of fact and fiction. The basic biographical details about the main characters are accurate, and the historical details come from the same sources and public records that inform Firth Fabend’s prize-winning Rutgers University Press book, A Dutch Family in the Middle Colonies, 1660-1800. But many details of dialogue and dress, and so forth, were necessarily imagined, and the author took certain liberties with the historical record. In her talk, she will explain what these are, why they were necessary, and what parts of the novel are purely invented. She will detail the repositories and resources she used to provide historical authenticity, and discuss the fine line that separates fact and fiction. LECTURE PROGRAM LOCATION Unless otherwise noted, all lecture programs are held at the Second Reformed Church, corner of Anderson and Union Streets, Hackensack, NJ on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm. The public is invited to attend. No fee. Second Reformed Church, 436 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601

ROUNDTABLE MEETING:
Crossroads National Heritage Area: How It Benefits New Jersey
May 26: This federally recognized historic area embraces more than 250 Revolutionary sites in 14 counties. The nonprofit Crossroads Association promotes popular understanding and heritage tourism, according to Cate Litvack, Association CEO, who will detail current activities and invite us to participate.


SITE SEEING TOUR: Retrace Your Roots on Ellis Island Special Tour by the Bergen County Historical Society, May 30, 2009 Private Tour of Ellis Island. Participants will be conducted on a private tour of Ellis Island by a retired park ranger. During this special one-hour exploration of one of America’s signature locations, we will be given a rare insight into the challenges and emotions experienced by millions who made this country their home. Many families’ American Experience began at Ellis Island in New York Harbor just offshore from today’s Liberty State Park in Jersey City. Join with the Bergen County Historical Society and other area libraries, heritage organizations and community groups on Sat., May 30, 2009, in visiting this national monument. Ellis Island is now dedicated to immigrants from all lands who made the United States home for themselves, their children and their posterity. Transportation arrangements are being made by Mainly Meetings Travel LLC from the Nutley Library, Clifton City Hall and 560 Sylvan Ave. (Rte. 9W), Englewood Cliffs (plus other locations if needed) to the Ellis Island parking area. There participants will board a ferry to Ellis Island for a private tour. Most important, they will have time to trace their family roots in the United States.
	Ellis Island website photo
		The $70 price includes: · transportation · ferry to and from Ellis Island · guided private tour · donation to participating groups. Please call 201-568-2146 or email to Linda@MainlyMeetingsTravel.com to make your reservation. Please click here for flyer. Please contact me on how you liked the trip! -- D. Powell contactBCHS@bergencountyhistory.org


	BCHS Luncheon & Election: Make your reservation! Saturday, June 6, 2009 12-4:00 pm Sanducci's in River Edge. Reserve early to enjoy a wonderful lunch plus a special presentation by BCHS Past-President Kevin Wright New Bridge Landing 1954-1956 NEVER BEFORE SEEN PHOTOGRAPHS of the Historic Demarest House move and Wonderland! Sanducci's in River Edge.570 Kinderkamack Rd River Edge, NJ 07661 (201) 599-0600 Make your reservation by May 26th, 2009. For more info and menu


	SITE SEEING TOUR: June 20, 2009 From Beauty to the Eye, the Touch and the Nose at the exquisite New York Botanical Gardens Rose Festival to an incomparable taste of Italy on world-famous Arthur Avenue, you will enjoy a buffet of colors & scents, textures & flavors, bucolic splendor & urban energy on Saturday, June 20. Travel across the Hudson River to two unique oases in the urban landscape of the Metropolitan Area as the Bergen County Historical Society tours the New York Botanical Gardens. For $79 per person, enjoy coach transportation with admission to the Botanical Gardens for a private tour by tram including the Rose Festival at the Peggy Rockefeller Garden. Then you can browse along Arthur Avenue and have yourself an Italian delicacy. You will also be helping the Bergen County Historical Society carry on its efforts to preserve history. There will be pick-ups at Clifton City Hall and 560 Sylvan Ave. (9W) in Englewood Cliffs. Other stops may be added. Contact Mainly Meetings Travel at 201-568-2146 or email Linda@MainlyMeetingsTravel.com for reservations. Please click here for flyer. Please contact me on how you liked the trip! -- D. Powell contactBCHS@bergencountyhistory.org
			Photo by Deborah Powell

EVENT:
CANOE DOWN THE HACKENSACK
Sunday, June 27, 2009 – 12:00 to 4:30 pm



	www.meadowblog.typepad.com

Come and join the Bergen County Historical Society (BCHS) and the Meadowlands Environmental Commission (MEC) for a fabulous afternoon paddling down the Hackensack River on Saturday, June 27th followed by a wonderful New Jersey Symphony Orchestra (NJSO) concert that evening at DeKorte Park. (Please make your own reservations for the NJSO concert; information is at the bottom of this message.)

WOW, what an incredible day less than 10 miles from the greatest city in the world!

We will be putting in from Historic New Bridge Landing at approximately 12:00 p.m. and doing a relatively easy paddle down the Hackensack River to the Meadowlands. We will be pulling out in the Meadowlands (final exact destination to be advised once you sign up). Our arrival time in the Meadowlands is anticipated to be approximately 4:30 p.m.

The cost is $25.00 per adult and children over 9 years of age travel for free. There is a three person maximum per canoe (three adults or two adults and one child over the age of 9). Sorry, but no child under the age of 9 is permitted on any of the canoes.

The flotilla will be lead by the eminent Marine Biologist, Dr. Angela Cristini, Director of the Environmental Education Programs at the Meadowlands Environment Center and Professor of Biology at Ramapo College. If you've ever heard Dr. Cristini speak aboard one of the annual Meerwald Sails on the Hudson River (the upcoming BCHS July fundraiser -- SEE LISTING BELOW), you know that you are in for a special treat.

Rain will cancel the flotilla and there is no rain date.

Reservations are required since we will have canoes only for people who have signed up and paid by Thursday, June 25th. There are a limited amount of canoes available so the earlier you sign up, the more likely that you will be able to participate.

To sign up for the flotilla ONLY, please e-mail bzmarchant@verizon.net or leave a message at 201-592-1126 (British English voice on machine). Please leave your name, telephone number and number of persons who will be participating and we will call you back to obtain your credit card information.

Information regarding the NJSO concert is noted below.

At 7:30 p.m., the NJSO will be performing patriotic favorites and selections from Carmen, Don Giovanni and The Mikado for an additional $5.00 per person (persons under 17 are free).
For tickets for the NJSO concert ONLY - Payment by credit card: Call the Berrie Center at Ramapo College at 201.684.7844.
For tickets for the NJSO concert ONLY - Payment by cash or check: Call the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission at 201.460.4637.

EVENT:
You are invited to sail on NJ’s official tall ship, the A.J. Meerwald
July 15, 17, 18 & 19

This is a great opportunity to view the majestic NJ Palisades and the New York skyline from the deck of a magnificently restored 1928 two-masted, 115-foot Delaware Bay oyster schooner driven by over 3,500 square feet of sail—not your typical pleasure cruise! Each cruise will feature a program or guest speakers about New Jersey’s history and environment. This is an open deck vessel with hatch covers and wooden deck boxes for seating. Feel free to bring food and beverages (no liquor) but be prepared to take everything with you when you leave.

Wednesday, July 15
10:00 am** SKYLINE SAIL
$65/person - Dr. Angela Cristini, PhD, Ramapo College, NJ Meadowlands, Director of Environmental Education and Kevin Tremble, President, Crossroads of the American Revolution Assn.

Friday, July 17
9:30 am BRITISH INVASION
$45/person - Kevin Wright and Todd Braisted, former BCHS Presidents and historians will illustrate the nearly decisive British Invasion of 1776, on location.

1:30 pm CHILDREN’S SAIL
$25/child $50/adult- See fish , crabs & creatures of the Hudson River with TNC’s Executive Director & marine biologist, Jennifer Kleinbaum. An easy relaxing sail for parents & fascinating hands-on learning for kids (5-12).

5:30 pm FOLK MUSIC
$65/person- Folk Music and Sea Shanties with Thad MacGregor, Performer at the Kearney House

Saturday, July 18 SOLD OUT
9:30 am CONTINENTAL COLLIDE (GEOLOGY)
$45/person - Dr. George Harlow, Dept of Earth & Planetary Sciences, American Museum of Natural History

1:30 pm CHILDREN’S SAIL SOLD OUT
$25/child $50/adult- See fish, crabs & creatures of the Hudson River with TNC’s Executive Director & marine biologist, Jennifer Kleinbaum. An easy relaxing sail for parents & fascinating hands-on learning for kids (5-12).

5:30 pm ROMANTIC NIGHT ON THE HUDSON RIVER WITH RICK NESTLER SOLD OUT
$70/person– A relaxing sail with Rick Nestler, singer, songwriter, and also called the “Hudson River Balladeer”.

Sunday, July 19
12:00pm DRAWING DOWN THE RIVER
$45/person–Sketching ship structures and Palisade scenery with Abby Miranda, TNC educator and local artist.
Bring your own materials or use those supplied by the artist.

3:30 pm** HUDSON 400 SOLD OUT
$75/person - Kevin Wright, historian, former BCHS President and author of forth-coming book, 1609: A Country that was Never Lost, 400th Anniversary of Henry Hudson’s Visit with North Americans of the Middle Atlantic Coast.

** Sail between Liberty State Park & Alpine Boat Basin (between 4-5 hours). Bus transportation included; meet at the boat basin

Each trip is limited to 45 people and reservations must be paid in advance (check-in at the dock). If it is drizzling/raining, meet at the ship, wear rain gear and be ready for an adventure! In case of severe weather, the Captain may cancel the sail at the dock and a voucher will be issued for use at a future date (there are no refunds). A portion of BCHS’s ticket sales directly benefit our mission and is tax-deductible to the extent provided by law.

Folding chairs are not allowed, as they are not stable on deck. Folks have brought stadium seats (with backs) and sit on the boxes. Also, there is no bathroom—there is a “head” but it is only for emergencies.

The Palisades Interstate Park charges a $5 parking fee on weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Your ticket price does not cover this parking fee.

Each trip is limited to 45 people [to the Coast Guard, everyone from infants to seniors are “people”, so there are no discounts.] Reservations must be paid in advance and only the Captain can/will cancel the sail in case of inclement weather. Although there are no refunds, a voucher will be issued to be used at a future date (their website has the schedule). A portion of the fee is donated to the sponsoring organization through which you register and is tax-deductible to the extent provided by law.

Cosponsored by Bergen County Historical Society, ANJC, and Tenafly Nature Center.

Ticket sales purchased here benefit the BCHS, a 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer organization that promotes the preservation, study and appreciation of local history. This page will be updated with sails that are sold out.

DIRECTIONS TO ALPINE BOAT BASIN

Subject to availability. Parking fee not included in ticket price.
.
To visit the A.J. Meerwald website, click here.

Register early – last year we sold out
all trips!
MAKE IT EASY -- USE OUR
PayPal Page
or
CALL 201-679-5182
TO SPEAK WITH BCHS REP
CREDIT CARD or Mail.

Meerwald Flyer with info (pdf)

A.J. Meerwald

View from the A.J. Meerwald

View from the A.J. Meerwald

On deck of A.J. Meerwald

DIRECTIONS TO
ALPINE BOAT BASIN

EVENTS:
Our events generally take place at Historic New Bridge Landing. The Steuben House and Campbell-Christie House are open for special events. 1201 & 1209 Main St, River Edge, NJ.

LECTURE PROGRAM:
LECTURE PROGRAM LOCATION Unless otherwise noted, all lecture programs are held at the Second Reformed Church, corner of Anderson and Union Streets, Hackensack, NJ on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm. The public is invited to attend. No fee. Second Reformed Church, 436 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601

ROUNDTABLE MEETING:
Where are meetings held? The Iron Horse Restaurant, Westwood, N.J. Open to the public? Yes, definitely. What time? Come between 6:30 and 7:00 PM for conversation and fellowship. Meals? Optional dinner starting at 7:00 PM and costing $20, including gratuity. Advance reservations? Not required. Admission charges or dues? None. Questions? Contact Chairman David Whieldon at 201-967-7692.
20 Washington Avenue, Westwood. Westbound Washington Avenue just west of Broadway and the railroad tracks.


	The Bergen County Historical Society, a non-profit, 501(c)(3) volunteer organization, was founded in 1902 to develop public appreciation for Bergen County's remarkable history, especially through the preservation and study of its material culture. We are the only historical association to focus on the Bergen County as a whole, from its prehistory to the present day. Our museum collections are presently on display in a limited basis at Historic New Bridge Landing. Public programs include placement of informative roadside historic markers, educational events, museum exhibits, monthly lectures, and a library collection. We are not a government agency.

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