Programs & Events

The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills presents a variety of programs throughout the year, providing many opportunities to learn more about the history of our community.

Check out our Upcoming Programs & Events, or look back through time to see what you missed!

Upcoming Programs

Stranger Stop and Cast an Eye: An Introduction to New Jersey’s Historic Burial Grounds

October 21, 2026

Brick Academy, 15 W. Oak St., Basking Ridge, NJAdmission: $15 members, $20 guest (Cash only) Far from being scary, spooky places, New Jersey’s historic burial grounds are treasure troves of information for historians, genealogists, archaeologists, and art historians. This richly illustrated presentation examines New Jersey historic cemeteries from High Point to Cape May.&nbs... Learn more

Kidnapping the Enemy & George Washington’s Nemesis

December 13, 2026

Kidnapping the Enemy: The Special Operations to Capture Generals Charles Lee & Richard Prescott and George Washington’s Nemesis: The Outrageous Treason and Unfair Court-Martial of Major General Lee During the Revolutionary War Presented by: Christian McBurney, author Part of the Series – “The Capture of General Charles Lee at Widow White’s Tavern and its Local Impact”... Learn more

Upcoming Events

1770’s Festival at Lord Stirling Park

October 4, 2026

THHSH is again participating in the 1770s Festival hosted by the Somerset County Park Commission. This year’s event will be held Sunday October 4, 2026, 11:30am to 4pm at Lord Stirling Park off Lord Stirling Road in Basking Ridge. This family-friendly event features reenactors and demonstrations of colonial arts and crafts. Note: This event is... Learn more

Somerset County’s Journey Through The Past 2026

October 10, 2026

The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills will be participating in Somerset County’s 2026 Journey Through the Past October 10 and 11. We invite you to visit us at the Brick Academy, an 1809 schoolhouse in the heart of Basking Ridge, NJ. Today, the Brick Academy houses a museum where you can explore exhibits about the history of the Somerset Hills and visit a replica of a late 1800s classroom. Docents will be on hand to answer questions.

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Special America 250 Dinner Program & Annual Members Meeting

November 12, 2026

Join us for an enjoyable evening of dining and history featuring acclaimed historian Mark A. Turdo of the Hopewell Museum.

The evening begins with a cash bar at 6:30 p.m., followed by a brief Annual Members Meeting. Guests will then enjoy a three-course dinner with a choice of pan-seared salmon, salt brick crispy skin chicken, or braised short ribs.

Mark’s engaging presentation, “The Drink That Fueled Colonial America,” explores the surprising role hard cider played in colonial life and its influence on the years leading up to the Revolutionary War.

This will be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an exceptional meal, connect with fellow members, and experience a fascinating presentation in the charming setting of “The Bernie” social club.

... Learn more

Past Programs

History Happened Here: America 250 in the Somerset Hills

March 8, 2026

Brick Academy, 15 W. Oak St., Basking Ridge, NJAdmission: Free The country’s first Centennial flag returns to the Brick Academy! Mark your calendars for Sunday, March 8 at 2:00 PM at the Brick Academy as THSSH unveils a new exhibit highlighting its recently restored 38-star American flag. The flag will be surrounded by the special exhibit entitled History... Learn more

Catharine “Caty” Greene: Eyewitness to the American Revolution

February 26, 2026

Brick Academy, 15 W. Oak St., Basking Ridge, NJAdmission: $15 for current members, $20 non-members. New members welcome. Cash only to be collected at the door. Immerse yourself in history celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States as Carol Simon Levin portrays Catharine “Caty” Greene, the indomitable wife of Nathanael Greene, one of Gen.... Learn more

Prohibition 2025

November 13, 2025

Location: Gladstone Tavern – 273 Main St, Gladstone, NJ 07934Cost: $50* Space is limited, so register soon to reserve your place. Enjoy forbidden cocktails and sweet dessert treats at the historic Gladstone Tavern on November 13th from 7:00 – 9:00 PM as we join historian, Mike Dixon who will discuss the nation’s centuries long effort... Learn more

Past Events

The Pluckemin Cantonment – The Original West Point

July 25, 2026

On July 25th the Jacobus Vanderveer House (JVH) Commission together with The Historical Society of Somerset Hills (THSSH) are pleased to present this rare opportunity to see two noted historians join forces to celebrate General Henry Knox’s birthday and America’s 250th birthday! Distinguished Archaeologist and Educator Dr. John Seidel and notable author and historian W.... Learn more

Bernards Twp. Charter Day 2026 Street Fair

May 16, 2026

Coordinated by the Department of Parks & Recreation, Charter Day is an annual event which celebrates the history and 1760 Charter of Bernards Township and showcases community groups, businesses and talent. The event is held on the 3rd Saturday of May from 12pm – 6pm in the Downtown Basking Ridge area. Our event map and schedule of entertainment is posted in early May.

... Learn more

THSSH Holiday Party 2025

December 7, 2025

You are cordially invited to eat, drink and be merry with your fellow THSSH members at our Annual Holiday Party. Enjoy delicious food, refreshing cocktails and lots of fun, surrounded by festive decorations guaranteed to raise your holiday spirits.

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