The Parker Homestead, a National Historic Site, will host its first Community Blackberry Pick 8 a.m. to noon on July 19 and 26 at 235 Rumson Road, Little Silver. Rain dates will be July 20 and 27.
Up to 50 families will be allowed to participate on a first-come, first-served basis. Little Silver residents can register one week prior to a pick date. Nonresidents may also register, but priority will be given to Little Silver residents.
The Parker Homestead had been occupied by the Parker family since 1665. In 1995, Julia Parker — the last of eight generations of the family — gifted the property to the borough of Little Silver upon her death, with the stipulation that it be preserved as a historic landmark and for historic educational purposes.
Parker Homestead trustees and volunteers will provide containers, but pickers can also bring their own. Wearing comfortable working clothes, shoes and a broad-brimmed hat are recommended. Ice-chilled bottled water and Sickles and Parker family recipe items will be available. To register for the pick, email Bonnie Akey at [email protected].
Farm implements from the property are on display for a Monmouth County Historical Association exhibit on early farming. For more information about the exhibit, visit www.monmouthhistory.org.