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Spend an Evening in 1776!
COMING SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH
Experience a unique, lively evening of music, food, wine, beer and 1776 storytelling!
The Washington Township Historical Society (WTHS) invites the community to step back together in time with a special evening entitled “1776 — The News of Independence Reaches German Valley,” a unique, living history event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding.
The year is 1776. The Declaration has been signed in Philadelphia—and the news has arrived in German Valley. This was what the early villagers called our town many years ago. It was some time before we became Washington Township in 1798 or changed the name from German Valley to Long Valley in 1918.
Residents would gather at the Old Stone Union Church on 6 Fairview Avenue for community gatherings and we will do the same on September 19.
Former German Valley settlers will describe what it felt like to suddenly hear that America had declared independence from Britain.
Upon hearing from “former settlers” guests will have an opportunity to vote yea or nay on separating from Britain. Guests are able to ask questions about what farmers, widows, soldiers, merchants, and others might have thought about the Declaration of Independence. For example, what would independence have meant back then for their family, livelihood, and future?
This program is designed to make history personal, fun and lively. It allows participants to experience some of the uncertainty and decision- making that defined everyday life at the start of the American Revolution.
The evening will feature:
- Live authentic music featuring cello, flute and violin
- Actors portraying influential settlers from German Valley in 1776
- Delicious appetizers with local cheeses, cold meats, veggies, fruit and more
- Local wines, beer, cider and other beverages
- An interactive atmosphere located in the ruins and original footprint of the 250-year-old Stone Church. This location is adjacent to the WTHS museum on 6 Fairview Avenue, Long Valley, NJ.
Parking is available at Zion Lutheran Church, 11 Schooley’s Mountain Road, Long Valley, a brief walk to the old Stone Church.
Saturday, September 19 at 5:00 PM
(Rain Date: Sunday, September 20)
Tickets: $45 for this special WTHS fundraiser.
Includes food, beverages and complimentary Washington Township Historical Society membership.
Tickets are available first-come, first-served online at: Purchase Tickets or in person Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon at the WTHS Museum (cash or check).
Attendees can also enjoy exclusive discounts at participating Long Valley restaurants following the event.