Honoring 250 Years in the Garden State
By: Julia Ventrone
As one of the original 13 colonies, New Jersey holds so much history within its borders. While America’s 250th anniversary celebrates a milestone date, the meaning extends far beyond July 4. From Washington’s Crossing to our state capital, Trenton, there is a centuries-long past that has made New Jersey what it is today.
That’s not where the importance of the semiquincentennial ends. It affects our neighborhoods and communities far and wide across the Garden State. As a Realtor®, you’re often the bridge between a property and its place in history. The excitement surrounding America’s 250th anniversary offers a unique opportunity to deepen your knowledge of our state’s history and integrate that local expertise into your business.
“All across New Jersey, counties are making improvements to their historic neighborhoods to honor America’s 250th anniversary.”
The Statewide Momentum
All across New Jersey, counties are making improvements to their historic neighborhoods to honor America’s 250th anniversary. According to WRNJ Radio, various counties are investing in visitor improvement projects and historical landmark restoration. “Among the state’s largest projects is the construction of a new museum and visitor center at Washington Crossing State Park in Mercer County, which officials have described as New Jersey’s gift to the nation for the semiquincentennial celebration,” said WRNJ Radio.
Other historic site improvements include Trenton Battle Monument, Princeton Battlefield State Park, Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Proprietary House in Perth Amboy, Indian King Tavern in Haddonfield, Wallace House in Somerville, Boxwood Hall in Elizabeth, and Rockingham in Kingston, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. These projects are making neighborhoods more attractive for new homeowners looking to plant roots.
“The Crossroads” of the American Revolution
A shared history brings people together, regardless of scale. Communities throughout the state are sharing stories of their roles in the Revolutionary War and why the 250th anniversary matters. For example, Morris County is improving the visitor experience for all the history buffs looking to take a trip into its past. According to Sarah Neibart, Executive Director of the Morris County 250th Anniversary Celebrations Committee and Mendham Township Mayor, “History belongs to all of us, and America 250 has provided an opportunity to celebrate that shared heritage as a community.” From students to businesses, Morris County wants everyone to help celebrate their heritage.
“We are currently launching a series of self-guided digital tours through the STQRY platform, utilizing Morris County’s Revolutionary Planning and Preservation Maps. These tours will allow residents and visitors to explore Revolutionary-era sites and stories at their own pace while learning about the people and places that shaped our county and our country,” said Neibart.
Hidden Gems Across the State
Being an expert in your community means not only knowing the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems in your area. Morris County is a great example with a wide variety of historical evidence throughout the county. While many are familiar with historical sites like Washington’s Headquarters and the Jockey Hollow encampment, “Fort Nonsense is another great example. People drive by it all the time without realizing it served as an important defensive position overlooking Morristown during the Revolutionary War,” said Neibert. “The Washington- Rochambeau Revolutionary Route is another hidden gem. Many residents don’t realize Morris County is connected to the route used by American and French forces as they coordinated military operations that ultimately helped secure independence.”
Turning Knowledge Into Sales
The longstanding American Dream is homeownership. Sharing local history with current and potential clients accredits you as a trusted source.
Some valuable ideas for your physical or digital marketing to tie into the American 250th anniversary include:
• A “Did you Know?” section of a brochure or online space to list one historical fact about the home or area.
• Share walking tours and revolutionary facts with your audience on social media through written or video posts. • Highlight historical sites and hidden gems in your town that someone may not know.
The National Association of Realtors® is accepting short one minute videos on how you have contributed to helping a client unlock the American Dream of homeownership. Share how you have helped grow a community by closing or selling a home.
The significance of America’s 250th anniversary and the revitalization of historic sites and preservation play a significant role in the community. As a Realtor®, share the story of your town’s or municipality’s history. Every community has a story unlike any other, and to become part of a community is to become part of its continuing story.
Some Non-Revolutionary War-Based Historical Sites to Discover
• Historic Speedwell: Where the telegraph was demonstrated
• Morris Canal: A canal to carry coal mined in Pennsylvania to New Jersey
• Patriots’ Path: A connection of trails and open spaces linking federal, state, municipal parks, land, and more through Morris County
• Acorn Hall: One of the last standing historical homes in Morris County, from 1853
• Fosterfields Living Historical Farm: Experience how farm life was 100 years ago
• Waterloo Village: Authentic 19th-century village in Musconetcong