Washington Township Historical Society Launches New Self-Guided Walking Tour and 1776 Event

As part of the nationwide America250 commemoration, WTHS is launching "Discover, Experience and Celebrate America250 in Washington Township," a community-wide initiative featuring two unique opportunities to connect with local Revolutionary-era history.

Discover 1776: Self-Guided Walking Tour Launches on July 1

Beginning July 1, visitors can enjoy a new 250th Anniversary Self-Guided Walking Tour through the historic heart of Washington Township.

The tour highlights significant sites that existed during the Revolutionary period, including several homes, a mill, tavern, church, and river crossing that were part of everyday life. Participants may explore the tour at their own pace using their mobile device or with a printed walking tour booklet featuring a tour map, property descriptions, photographs, and audio recordings.

On Wednesday, July 1, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. the WTHS museum, located at 6 Fairview Avenue, Long Valley will have walking tour booklets available. Otherwise, on July 1 go to https://WTHSNJ.org/walking-tour/ and begin the self-guided and self-paced tour at your leisure. Booklets will be available at the museum Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The walking tour offers a unique opportunity to learn where local settlers lived, worked, worshipped, and discussed the issues of their day as the American Revolution unfolded. Discover what our valley was like in 1776!

Experience 1776: The News of Independence Reaches German Valley

The second part of the America250 initiative is a fund-raiser taking place on Saturday, September 19, when WTHS presents:

"It's 1776 - The News of Independence Reaches German Valley"

This entertaining, fun Revolutionary-era event invites guests to imagine themselves as local residents receiving the dramatic news that the Declaration of Independence has been adopted in Philadelphia.

Held on the grounds of the historic Old Union Church, participants will enjoy live period music, delicious appetizers, local wine, beer, and beverages while interacting with historical interpreters portraying local residents.

Guests will have the opportunity to consider questions that may have divided communities in 1776:

• Is independence a cause for celebration or concern?
• What risks would families face?
• Would you support the cause?

No costumes or historical knowledge necessary—just an interest or willingness to step into the story.

Tickets for this unique fund-raiser are $45.00 and include appetizers, beverages and a WTHS membership subscription. Obtain tickets and more information here: https://wthsnj.org/events

Celebrate Local History and Community Engagement

"America250 gives us a wonderful opportunity to connect people with the places and stories that exist right here in Washington Township," said Brian Bumpus, Vice-President of the Washington Township Historical Society. "Our goal is to help residents not only learn about history, but experience it in meaningful and memorable ways."

The America250 initiative is designed to bring local history to life through education, exploration, and community participation while highlighting the unique role Washington Township played during the nation's founding era.

Learn More

Information on the Self-Guided Walking Tour, September 19 event tickets, membership opportunities, and upcoming America250 activities can be found at: WTHSNJ.org

About the Washington Township Historical Society

The Washington Township Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Long Valley and Washington Township through educational programs, historical research, preservation initiatives, and community engagement.

For more information, visit our website or WTHS Facebook page.