Colonial Taverns of New Jersey Libations, Liberty and Revolution Book by NJ Author Michael Gabriele "New Jersey author Michael Gabriele will present a program on his newest book on New Jersey history, Colonial Taverns of New Jersey – Libations, Liberty and Revolution, published by The History Press, on Thursday, May 16, 7 p.m. at Historic New Bridge Landing, 1209 Main St, River Edge, NJ. New Jersey was the “Crossroads of the American Revolution,” and as battles raged during the 1700s, colonial taverns formed the social network that held the state together. Taverns were the stage for the unfolding drama of a colony transitioning into statehood and making decisions about declaring a war of independence. Taverns were the “seedbeds” for the revolution, strongholds for political activities, beacons for travelers, and venues for entertainment, merriment, and libations. They were the places where the voices of history took shape, used as recruitment stations for colonial militias and meeting places for local committees of safety, which ran daily municipal matters for colonial communities. George Washington used taverns as headquarters, where he drafted his letters and planned strategy with his generals. New Jersey had many colonial taverns (an estimated 400) along well-traveled routes, due to the demand for carriage travel between New York and Philadelphia—transporting people and commercial goods. A haven for Patriots and Loyalists alike, the colonial tavern was the main stage for key debates on the question of independence and conversations on politics, business and daily life." The Bergen County Historical Society headquarters are at Historic New Bridge Landing since 1939.

HNBL, 1209 Main Street, River Edge, NJ. Free parking or take the train.  Event is subject to change.