MIDDLESEX COUNTY

CULTURAL AND HERITAGE COMMISSION

East Jersey Olde Towne Village

PROGRAMS

The Village presents original research and timely topics, interpreting the history, society and people of the Raritan Valley. No other museum or historic site in the state, presents compelling and fascinating historical narrative about the place where you live - Middlesex County and its neighboring towns along the Raritan River. Programs draw on expertise and experience from across New Jersey, and appeal to all age groups and interests.

EXHIBITIONS

Take a step back in time for "A Look at the History of the Vanderveer House." This exhibit traces this historic structure and its occupants from construction in 1745 by Jacobus Vanderveer, to its moving to East Jersey Olde Towne Village in May of 1976. Through text and images, the home's historic building techniques and the Vanderveer family history are discussed. Artifacts found during the restoration of the house are displayed. These items include, among other things, bottles from the mid 1800s, eating utensils from the early 1800s and a shoe from the late 1700s. Visitors will want to explore Runyon House, and learn about the residents of Raritan Landing (once the name of the area along the River in Piscataway) and discover the occupations which made up this once-thriving river port.

Changing exhibitions include "Traditions of the Season," that traces the history of antique holiday tree ornaments from 1850 to 1950. Often handmade, these glass decorations were made by highly skilled craftsmen. In February, visitors will enjoy the display of Valentine Greetings representing 1840 to 1940, explaining the origins of Valentine cards in the mid 1800s to the mass production of cards.

STORYTELLING

Once a month, the Village presents a storyteller, representing a world culture, who is expert in this folk art. The Storytellers Cottage series is the only project in the state, that preserves ethnic traditions through the spoken word. Ask for a schedule.

SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS

Street address:

1050 RIVER ROAD

PISCATAWAY

NEW JERSEY (Intersection of River Road & Old Hoes Lane Phone No: 732.745.3030 )

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The Middlesex County Cultural and Heritage Commission is funded in part by :

The New Jersey State Council on the Arts, Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts

New Jersey Historical Commission, a Division of Cultural Affairs in the Department of State.

Middlesex County Cultural & Heritage Commission

703 Jersey Ave,

New Brunswick, NJ 08901-3605

(732) 745 4489 FAX (732) 745 4524 Email [ mailto:culturalandheritage@co.middlesex.nj.us] TTY users only call (732) 745 3888