The 10th “Spirit of the Jerseys” State History Fair will take place on Saturday, May 10 at Washington Crossing State Park in Hopewell Township, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin announced today.
The fair is a signature event in the commemoration of New Jersey’s 350th anniversary, which is being celebrated this year. The fair will showcase many contributions the Garden State has made to the country and world since New Jersey’s founding in 1664.
“As residents of New Jersey, we share a tremendous sense of pride in knowing our state has shaped so much of the progress that has defined the American experience,” said Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno. “From the American Revolution to the Industrial Revolution to generating innovation that continues to improve lives and change the world around us, New Jersey’s unique historical legacy is truly unparalleled. As we continue to commemorate the 350th anniversary of New Jersey’s founding, this year’s State History Fair will surely prove the most educational and exciting yet.”
The Spirit of the Jerseys Fair was first held in 2004 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of New Jersey’s State-owned Historic Sites – a system that began in 1903 with the state’s purchase of the Indian King Tavern in Haddonfield. The goal of the fair is to engage the public in discovering the state’s history in a fun and enjoyable manner.
New this year, the day starts with a 5k Trail Run and Walk, and ends with a free concert at 5:30 p.m. by the New Jersey 63rd Army Band.
“The State History Fair will give visitors an opportunity to experience five centuries of New Jersey history, and – fittingly – will be held at Washington Crossing State Park, which is the site of one of the pivotal events of the American Revolution,” said Commissioner Martin. “It is an example of the Christie Administration’s support of our state’s history – from the annual History Fair to the continued support for all of our state historic sites, which allow residents to better understand who we are, where we came from, and the role that our ancestors played in making New Jersey such a great state.”
More than 200 historical, government and nonprofit entities and organizations are partnering with the DEP at the annual event. All of the state’s 21 counties will be represented at the fair as well as exhibitors from Delaware, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and New York.
At the History Fair, you can take a step back in time and invent with Thomas Edison, tour the New Jersey Hall of Fame mobile museum, learn how to pound corn into flour, play historical games, see a historical fashion show, and experience New Jersey’s past by interacting with exhibitors who will provide insights into the state’s long history.
Activities at the State History Fair can help fulfill badge requirements for Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Brownie and Junior Girl Scouts. The Office of Historic Sites is offering three professional development hours to elementary and secondary school social studies teachers who attend the fair and engage in its historical activities.
A wide variety of gourmet food trucks will be stationed in the park. Vendors will offer a variety of refreshments, snacks and meals – everything from pastries to empanadas.
While admission is free, there will be an $8 fee per-vehicle parking donation to help defray the cost of the fair.
For more information on the State History Fair, including a listing of events and directions, visit www.njhistoryfair.org and for more information on New Jersey’s 350th anniversary, visit http://officialnj350.com
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