Weekly spring tours at the James and Ann Whitall House are now open to the public.
The tours take place Thursday through Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m., at Whitall, 100 Hessian Ave. in National Park. Tours will include an exploration of Colonial times as well as information on Red Bank Battlefield, where the house stands.
“The park comes alive in the spring,” Gloucester County Commissioner Director Frank DiMarco said. “Residents and history buffs can enjoy the grounds in nice weather while admiring the Delaware River and the Philadelphia skyline.
“Whether you’re coming for a tour or just a walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
An upcoming spring event hosted at the Whitall House is the anticipated Red Bank Battlefield spring festival on Saturday, April 9, from noon to 4 p.m. Activities will include demonstrations of hearth cooking, candle making and weaving. Special programs will involve wood dyeing and Colonial technology presentations, and there will be crafts, games, farm animals and tours.
The festival is free, and it’s only the start of spring events at the Whitall House. DiMarco noted the standout archaeological exhibit that features various artifacts found at Red Bank Park over the years.
The next step? Getting the public involved in more discoveries during late April or early May.
“We will be offering a public archeology day where park visitors can assist our latest archeology project,” DiMarco said. “We will update our website and social-media pages as we begin to iron out more details.”
The Whitall House and Red Bank Park are prepped for the season and are currently looking for volunteers for upcoming events and school trips. Anyone interested can email Jen Janofsky for more information.
As spring flowers begin to blossom, Gloucester County parks invite visitors to enjoy local nature and programs.
“Our parks are at their best during the springtime, so we encourage all our residents to find time in their schedules to take a visit to James G. Atkinson Park in Sewell, Scotland Run Park in Clayton or Red Bank Battlefield in National Park,” DiMarco said.
