The annual Weekend in Old Monmouth tour will return with 49 historic sites throughout Monmouth County opening their doors to visitors interested in local history from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 6 and from noon to 5 p.m. May 7.
“Weekend in Old Monmouth is a wonderful event for anyone interested in our rich history and unique architecture,” Monmouth County Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry said. “For two days, the entrance fees at these historic gems are waived, providing special access to all those who wish to enjoy all there is to offer in historic Monmouth County”
According to a press release from the county, three sites have been added to the 2017 tour:
• Crawford House (c. 1920) in Tinton Falls is associated with three generations of an influential local family which 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. 1778) in Asbury Park was home to the author of “The Red Badge of Courage.”
The sites on the tour are generally operated independently, according to the press release.
In addition to the waived fees, the hours of operation are all the same for the two days. The self-guided tour has recommended routes that guide history buffs who travel by foot, bicycle or car to the various locations. Preview the tour sites on the county’s website at www.visitmonmouth.com
In mid-April, the 2017 detailed tour book and tour map will be available on the county website. On the tour dates, each tour stop will have maps and booklets available. For more information, email history@co.monmouth.nj.us
Western Monmouth County sites on the tour are the Allentown Presbyterian Church, Allentown; Ardena School Museum, Howell; Baird House, Millstone Township; Covenhoven House, Freehold Borough; Craig House, Freehold Township.
And, the Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County, Freehold Township (May 7 only); Monmouth County Historical Association Museum, Freehold Borough; Montrose Schoolhouse, Colts Neck; Oakley Farm House, Freehold Township; Old Tennent Church, Manalapan; Old Yellow Meeting House, Upper Freehold Township.
Also, Roosevelt Borough (Jersey Homesteads) Historic District, Roosevelt; St. Peter’s Church, Freehold Borough; Village Inn, Englishtown; Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold Township; and West Freehold School Museum, Freehold Township.
The Weekend in Old Monmouth tour is coordinated by the Monmouth County Historical Commission, which is dedicated to the preservation of the county’s rich historic heritage, according to the press release.
