The iconic image of the “Little Red
Schoolhouse”, which is held so dearly by many, always includes “Old Glory”
proudly flying from the cupola or a flagpole in the schoolyard. But that
was not always so.
Throughout much of the
19th century our flag flew mainly over governmental or military sites not
private ones. The story of how the use of the American flag began to
change and how it came to be associated with the schoolhouse involves diverse
elements. Learn more about this interesting story through a first person
dramatization by historic interpreter Maureen O’Connor Leach who will portray a
one room school house teacher sharing the story of how the flag came to fly
over her schoolhouse.
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The program is set in the 1920s as the presenter reflects on how the flag came
to fly over her schoolhouse and explains the ties with the Columbian
Exposition in Chicago (1892-3). You will hear about the development
of the salute to the flag and the Pledge of Allegiance. Maureen O’Connor Leach is a historic
interpreter and museum administrator. Currently she is a consultant to
historic sites and cultural institutions and counts the Trenton Historical
Society and the Colonial Dames NJ among her clients. She is a
Commissioner for the Monmouth County Historic Commission and a member of the NJ
Living History Advisory Council.
Call 732-577-9766 or email ftheritage1686@yahoo.com for more
information. IMPORTANT—SPACE IS LIMITED - PLEASE RSVP BY JUNE 11,
2014. Parking is available alongside the Schoolhouse by the soccer
fields. The Freehold Township Heritage Society, is
a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation; the
organization is member-supported through yearly memberships, donations, and
fundraising. Properties managed by FTHS
also include the Oakley Farm House Museum on Wemrock Rd. and Georgia Road
Schoolhouse at the corner of Georgia Rd. and Jackson Mills Rd. For further information or membership
application: email: ftheritage1686@yahoo.com
- phone: 732-577-9766 or visit: http//twp.freehold.nj.us/freehold-township-heritage-society.
