PISCATAWAY – The Middlesex County Office of Culture and Heritage, in partnership with the Archaeological Society of New Jersey, is holding an Archaeology Symposium at historic East Jersey Old Town Village. This free program will take place from 1:15 to 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, May 21, at East Jersey Old Town Village, 1050 River Road in Piscataway. The event will examine two New Jersey historic sites and the work that was done to uncover their history.
The first presentation offers a look at a 19th-century female seminary in Burlington City. The site opened in 1829 and was originally operated as a Quaker seminary. The presentation will cover academic life and women’s history in the earlier days of New Jersey.
The second presentation will be about the First Reformed Church of New Brunswick and will include a look at the most recent work on the site, which was conducted during a reconfiguration of the historic sanctuary. This dig uncovered archaeological deposits, including evidence of the 18th century church. The lecture will also examine two other projects – when 23 19th century graves were moved in 1994 for the construction of a breezeway and the more recent work of examining over 125 pew footstools which provided evidence of personalization by past congregants.
“I truly admire all they’ve done and continue to do in order to celebrate and spread knowledge of our local history,” said Middlesex County Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios.
“Projects like the Raritan Landing exhibit have shown that there is a lot of important history here in Middlesex County,” said Freeholder Kenneth Armwood, Chair of the Business Development and Education Committee. “I know the Office of Culture and Heritage will offer much to enjoy and learn at their latest historical event.”
This event is held free of charge, but registration is required. Call 732-745-3030, ext. 310 for directions or information. Persons with hearing disabilities may dial 732-745-3888 (TTY users only) or 711, the New Jersey Relay System.