COUNTY: Officials gearing up for annual ‘Weekend in Old Monmouth’

Among the local historic sites are Roosevelt Borough and the Old Yellow Meeting House and Historic Walnford, both in Upper Freehold.

FREEHOLD — The annual “Weekend in Old Monmouth” event returns with 45 historic sites throughout Monmouth County opening their doors to visitors interested in local history. Hours for most sites are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 3 and from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 4.
   Among the local historic sites are Roosevelt Borough and the Old Yellow Meeting House and Historic Walnford, both in Upper Freehold.
   ”Weekend in Old Monmouth is a wonderful event for anyone interested in history and architecture,” said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the County’s Historical Commission, coordinator of the weekend event. “The sites on the tour are generally operated independently of one another, but this special tour project coordinates the hours of operation at several locations so history buffs can travel by foot, bicycle or car to enjoy and take in many of the county’s rich historic places all in one weekend.”
   ”The tour includes 45 sites and each illustrates a piece of local history,” said John Fabiano, executive director of the Historical Commission. “The outlined tours help put the pieces together by theme or geography. Tour visitors can see the places in any order of their own selection. The proposed starting points are just suggestions for those who may be seeking guidance.”
   Local history buffs can start planning routes by previewing the tour sites on the county’s website at www.visitmonmouth.com.
   After April 15, a detailed tour book and tour map will be available on the Monmouth County website at www.visitmonmouth.com. On the tour dates, each tour stop will also have maps and booklets available.
   The tours also represent several historic themes including the shore, churches, Revolutionary War and other military sites. Other elements on the tour also include lighthouses, Victorian homes, agriculture, industry, education and science. All of the sites contributed to the importance of preservation and history throughout Monmouth County.
   The county supports the preservation movement annually by awarding preservation grants to historic sites. Many of the tour locations have received grants in the past.
   A site list and map are available on the county’s website at www.visitmonmouth.com.