The Gloucester Township Historic & Scenic Preservation Committee will be holding its first South Jersey History Fair on the grounds of the historic Gabreil Daveis Tavern Museum House on Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
More than 35 historical groups from South Jersey will attend the fair.
Exhibitors and activities include historical groups and committees from seven South Jersey counties, including Camden, Gloucester, Burlington, Salem, Cumberland, Atlantic, and Cape May. There will also be one attendee from Mercer County.
All of those counties will display their historical backgrounds and more with artifacts, local history stories and information on visiting their sites. In addition, there will be authors, living history demonstrations and an antique appraiser. Those who attend are encouraged to bring their treasured possessions for a free appraisal that will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will also be pony rides for children, $5 per ride, and other colonial children’s games.
The idea is to give people in South Jersey an idea of the unique history that surrounds them on a daily basis so they can experience it.
“Part of our mission as the historic committee is to educate the public about the history of our township and just general history because New Jersey is rich with historical sites and events that have taken place over the years,” said Stephanie Roberts, vice president of the Gloucester Township Historic & Scenic Preservation Committee.
As a special commemoration, the American Legion Post 281 honor guard will perform a three volley salute to honor veterans and the 75th anniversary of D-Day at 1:30 p.m.
Other activities include an “Introduction to your Genealogy” table hosted by committee members.
The Mainstage Encore Choir will be singing and dancing during the event.
Although this is the first time the event will be held, it was attempted last year on May 19 with the rain date scheduled for May 20.
“We planned it last year, but it rained really bad on the event day and the day after,” said Roberts.
Be sure to bring your camera, as you will also tour the historic Gabreil Daveis Tavern and grounds. The tavern has been in place since 1756. Children will get to experience colonial chores around the tavern and also get to garden in the nearby fields.
The event is completely free and open to the public. The rain date is scheduled for Sunday June 9. For more information go to www.facebook.com/glotwphistory.
