Saturday, May 16, 2026

12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

History, Rides, Games, Food, Entertainment, Street Acts

Join The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills (THSSH) as we help celebrate Charter Day, Saturday May 16, 2026, in downtown Basking Ridge.

Charter Day is coordinated by the Bernards Township Department of Parks & Recreation and is an annual event, which celebrates the history of Bernards Township and the issuance of the township charter on May 24, 1760 by Sir Francis Bernard, colonial governor of New Jersey from 1758 to 1760.

THSSH

As in past years, THSSH will provide an information booth from noon until 4pm on the town green in front of the Methodist Church.    Our booth will feature brochures, THSSH newsletters, and other information on the history of the Somerset Hills.  Antique collectibles and old books are also offered for sale to benefit THSSH programs.

THSSH’s historic Brick Academy Museum will be open for visitors from noon to 4pm.  The Brick Academy was built in 1809 and served Bernards Township as a school and municipal building.  It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

This year Charter Day also features:

• a street fair with area businesses, school groups, non-profit organizations, local artisans and food vendors.
• entertainment including musical and dance performances, demonstrations, strolling magicians and more.
• a student art exhibit (artwork is collected through the Township’s public schools). 
• historical displays at the Brick Academy.
• and amusement rides and games for children of all ages.