Experience five centuries of New Jersey’s history all in one place at the annual Spirit of the Jerseys State History Fair – a historical festival for people of all ages to be held on May 13 at Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Route 33, Manalapan.
This free event, which runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine, is an adventure into New Jersey’s past with living history demonstrations, military re-enactors, tours, exhibits, period music and dance, and historical organizations and museums from around the state. There is a suggested parking donation of $10 per vehicle, according to a press release.
This year’s fair will commemorate the 100th anniversary of America’s entrance into World War I with several special programs, including music of the era, a one-man stage production featuring President Woodrow Wilson and a reading of New Jersey poet Joyce Kilmer’s work.
Other new programs will feature the Princeton Swing Dancers and a presentation about Ann Baumgartner Carl, a New Jersey girl who trained with the Women Airforce Service Pilots during World War II.
There will be hands-on activities for children and adults, from participating in historical games to plowing a furrow or participating in a military drill.
Historical figures such as Harriet Tubman, President Teddy Roosevelt, Alice Paul, Dr. James Still, Walt Whitman, President Woodrow Wilson, Molly Pitcher and Gen. George Washington will be on hand, according to the press release.
One of the largest battles of the American Revolution took place in the fields and forests that now make up Monmouth Battlefield State Park. A visitors center features exhibits and media programs that interpret the Battle of Monmouth.
For more information and a complete list of activities at the fair, visit www.njhistoryfair.org or call 732-462-9616.
