If you’ve never seen a South Jersey historic site, odds are you just moved here. In which case, welcome! You’re now surrounded by history. But if you need some fresh ideas for a historic tour set in your backyard, try some of these towns (and villages).
Explore two-and-a-half centuries of Pinelands history at this former ironworks and glassmaking village that has survived through countless wars before New Jersey purchased the property in the 1950’s. Today, you can visit the living history site, stopping by the post office, mansion, blacksmith and more, hiking the surrounding nature trails and even dropping by the lake for scenic views. Tours of the village are typically available Wed. through Sun. starting in March, and guests are encouraged to call ahead.
The 30 acres of HCSV bring to life the day-to-day happenings of the 19th Century, with living history reenactors demonstrating blacksmithing, printing, woodworking, bookbinding and more. There is also a brewery and restaurant to grab a bite during your visit and a number of events throughout the season (Sea Glass Festival, May 9-10; Yesteryears Carnival, July 18-19).
While it’s officially just 150 years old, Haddonfield is still packed with plenty of history that reaches back to when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Start off by visiting “Haddy” on Main St. to learn about the world’s first nearly-complete dinosaur skeleton ever discovered. (You can also visit the site where it was discovered at the end of Maple Ave.) Then you can visit the historic buildings, like Indian King Tavern, that played an important role in the Revolutionary War and life before then. The tavern was a go-to meeting spot for founding fathers and other significant players in the revolution. And be sure to visit the Haddonfield Historical Society at historic Greenfield Hall, which was owned by Elizabeth Haddon, the namesake of Haddonfield.
Cape May
Stroll down the street to admire the luxurious architecture of Victorian Era homes and pop into Emlen Physick Estate for a tour of the former mansion paired with historic stories from people who lived and worked there. And don’t forget to visit the Harriet Tubman Museum for a download on how the Shore town served as a significant stop on the Underground Railroad as well as the town’s rich African American history.
Atlantic City
It’s easy to experience the entertaining and bright history of the late 20th century casinos and politics that took place along the Atlantic City Boardwalk – and you definitely should take a stroll and place a bet that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a flashback TV Show. But there’s also more to be seen in the seaside city, like the Absecon Lighthouse, opened in 1856, and Lucy the Elephant, built in 1882. As you explore, keep an eye out for surprise plaques that will offer some little-known history about the spot you’re standing in and a number of war memorials on the Boardwalk honoring the soldiers who gave their lives to protect and serve.
The Woodruff Museum Of Indian Artifacts
Before South Jersey looked anything like it does today, a number of Native American tribes called this area home. In Bridgeton, you can explore 30,000 pieces of Native American artifacts. While the collection was housed in the Bridgeton Library, it’s in the process of being moved to a new location this year. Check the website for reopening updates.
