Fort Nonsense To Reopen At Morristown National Historical Park

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown National Historical Park will reopen its Fort Nonsense area to the public at 8 a.m. Friday. The area — located near the intersection of Ann and Chestnut Streets — was closed to the public in mid-June due to a roadway and parking area pavement rehabilitation project.

In addition to reconstructing the roadway and parking area at the top of the hill, the project included drainage improvements, replacement of the roadway’s timber guardrail, replacement of metal gates, new pavement striping and new and improved traffic control signage.

"We're thrilled that Fort Nonsense is re-opening in time for visitors to enjoy throughout Labor Day weekend," said Morristown NHP Superintendent Tom Ross. "Fort Nonsense is an important location connected to George Washington's 1777 and 1779-80 Continental Army winter encampments in Morristown and offers a commanding view over the town and landscape beyond."

The grounds of all areas are open, and visitors can enter the following visitor buildings at its Jockey Hollow and Washington’s Headquarters areas:

• Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
• Ford Mansion at Washington's Headquarters
• Washington’s Headquarters Museum

The buildings are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Several areas within these visitor facilities remain closed in the interest of public health. The second floor of the Ford Mansion is closed. However, visitors can walk through the first-floor hall and experience the rooms that are viewable from there.

In the Washington's Headquarters Museum, touchscreens in the military gallery remain turned off, and the Discover History Center and park orientation film mini theater are closed. The park’s orientation film is available to view in the museum’s larger auditorium.

Occupancy levels are enforced by staff and volunteers and signed at each building. One-way visitor traffic flow is instituted within the buildings, and benches and other seating have been removed to discourage congregating and promote social distancing in the buildings.

“While adhering to COVID-19 precautions as outlined by the CDC, we continue to welcome visitors inside our museum and visitor buildings," Ross said. "Our park rangers and volunteers are eager to interact with visitors and share meaningful experiences at these sites. In addition, visitors can now use the NPS app to explore the park and have useful touring information at their fingertips."

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