Ocean County Historical Society

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 <td>OCHS Celebrates 250 Years of American Independence</td>
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Sunday, September 20, 2026 at 12:30 PM
<ul><li>You are invited to visit the Ocean County Historical Society on Sunday, September 20, 2026, as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence. There will be an open house commencing at 12:30 with guided tours of the Victorian style Elizabeth Sculthorp Force House and Museum. You will be able to view our newest display on the history of the American Revolution and the involvement of Ocean County. The display is co-sponsored by the Ocean County Cultural &amp; Heritage Commission. At 2:00, live music from the 18th century will be performed by Ministers of Apollo, followed by a celebratory cake.
Ministers of Apollo, a historical music and performance duo consisting of Eliza Vincz and Eric Lichack, recreate 18th century American life through authentic music, costumes, and living history demonstrations.
This event takes place at our museum at 26 Hadley Avenue in Toms River. There is no charge, but donations are appreciated. To attend, you must register in advance by sending your name, zip code, email address, and the date of the program (September 20, 2026) to <a href="mailto:oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com" target="_blank">oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com</a>.






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Local Event: OCHS Celebrates 250 Years of American Independence

Ocean County

Toms River

New Jersey

OCHS Celebrates 250 Years of American Independence


 
  OCHS Celebrates 250   Years of American   Independence
 

Sunday, September 20, 2026 at 12:30 PM
You are invited to visit...

Ocean County Historical Society Sponsors Holocaust Survivor, Arthur Spielman 
 

Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 2:00 PM
The Ocean County Historical Society welcomes Arthur Spielman, who will speak about how he survived the Holocaust. Arthur was born in 1928 in Krakow, Poland. He grew up in an Orthodox Jewish family with his father, mother and two sisters. Although his family was not required to move into the Krakow ghetto because his father was an international diplomat, the Spielman family chose to move to live closer to their extended family. Arthur Spielman’s family briefly lived in the Krakow ghetto before the liquidation process in Krakow began. As Arthur’s father became aware of the final solution, the family separated and was smuggled out of Poland first to Slovakia and eventually to Hungary. In 1942 Arthur’s grandparents were picked up by the Gestapo and Arthur never saw them again.
Arthur was interviewed by Stephen Spielberg for Schindler’s List and by the Holocaust Museum in Washington DC. He has spoken to many groups and believes very strongly in making sure the truth of the Holocaust experience stays alive in our collective memories.
These events take place at our museum at 26 Hadley Avenue in Toms River. These events are free, but your donations in support of our programs are appreciated.
SEATING IS LIMITED so reserve your seat early by sending your name, zip code, email address, telephone number, and the name and date of the program (October 11, 2026) to: <a href="mailto:oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com" target="_blank">oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com</a>

Local Event: OCHS Sponsors Holocaust Survivor, Arthur Spielman

OCHS Sponsors Holocaust Survivor, Arthur Spielman

Ocean County Historical Society Sponsors Holocaust Survivor, Arthur Spielman 
 

Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 2:00 PM
The Ocean...

Toms River South High School

Holiday Gifts, Crafts and Collectibles Faire
Sunday, November 1, 2026
10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Toms River High School South

OCHS will be hosting their 37th annual Holiday Gifts, Crafts and Collectibles Faire on Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It will again be held in the TomsRiver High School South cafetorium. Admission is free!
In addition to over eighty vendor tables, there will be historical and cultural displays, baked goods for sale, a used book sale, our popular 50-50 and much more. This event, sponsored in part by the Ocean County Cultural &amp; Heritage Commission, will feature an Ocean County History and Cultural Pavilion. 
Toms River High School South is in the Downtown Toms River area. Use 212 Hooper Avenue as a GPS setting. 
For additional information, please call Joseph at 732-998-5934 or email him at <a href="mailto:RJL072001@gmail.com">RJL072001@gmail.com</a>. 
Vendors: Please consult our website: <a href="https://oceancountyhistory.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oceancountyhistory.org</a> for further information.

Local Event: Holiday Gifts, Crafts, & Collectible Faire

Holiday Gifts, Crafts, & Collectible Faire

Holiday Gifts, Crafts and Collectibles Faire
Sunday, November 1, 2026
10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Toms River High School...

Ocean County Historical Society
Time: 2:00 PM 
 
Sunday, November 15th, General John Lacey and the Battle of the Crooked Billet, by historian Scott Randolph
 
The Ocean County Historical Society, in conjunction with the Lacey Township Historical Society, presents renowned historian Scott Randolph who will tell us how General John Lacey became a hero during the Battle of the Crooked Billet. Randolph will discuss the general’s ties to Lacey Township, named after him. The presentation will cover General Lacey’s relationship with Ocean County, why George Washington selected Valley Forge for his winter encampment and what was taking place in the area surrounding Philadelphia, how 22-year-old General John Lacey of the Pennsylvania Militia used his experience with the Continental Army under General Anthony Wayne to become the hero of the battle, and the horrible atrocities committed by the British army during the battle. 
 
Scott has worked in radio, film and television for over 30 years. He was an on-air talent for WJSLR Philadelphia, 92 SXTU Philadelphia and Atlantic City. In his TV career he directed “Christina Cook” on PBS for over 10 years and was the director of "Comcast News Makers” for 15 years. He produced and directed the award-winning documentary, “The Battle of the Crooked Billet,” which premiered at Valley Forge National Park.
These events take place at our museum at 26 Hadley Avenue in Toms River. These events are free, but your donations in support of our programs are appreciated.
SEATING IS LIMITED so reserve your seat early by sending your name, zip code, email address, telephone number, and the name and date of the program (November 15, 2026) to: <a href="mailto:oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com" target="_blank">oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com</a>

Local Event: General John Lacey and the Battle of the Crooked Billet, by Historian Scott Randolph

General John Lacey and the Battle of the...

Ocean County Historical Society
Time: 2:00 PM 
 
Sunday, November 15th, General John Lacey and the Battle of the Crooked...

General John Lacey and the Battle of the Crooked Billet, by Historian Scott Randolph

Holiday Open House
November 28, 2026 – 10 am to 2 pm

The Ocean County Historical Society invites you to attend our annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, November 28, 2026, from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Bring your children and grandchildren to meet Santa Claus. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be here for picture taking from 11:00 until 2:00, and they will be giving out gifts for the children. Tour our Victorian style house and museum complete with holiday music and decorations, play the colonial era bowling game of Skittles, see our new exhibit on the 250th anniversary of American Independence, and enjoy holiday refreshments. Best of all the event is free! Enjoy a fun-filled event for people of all ages.

This event takes place at our museum at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/26+Hadley+Avenue?entry=gmail&amp;source=g" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">26 Hadley Avenue</a> in Toms River. There is no charge, but donations are appreciated. For additional information, please contact Jeff at <a href="tel:(609)%20339-9134" target="_blank">609-339-9134</a> or <a href="mailto:jeffschenker@myyahoo.com" target="_blank">jeffschenker@myyahoo.com</a>

Local Event: Holiday Open House

Holiday Open House

Holiday Open House
November 28, 2026 – 10 am to 2 pm

The Ocean County Historical Society invites you to attend our annual...

Karen Wall

New York City Metropolitan Area

Brick

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Berkeley

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Point Pleasant

Lacey

Manchester

Monmouth County

Sara Winick

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Howell

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Freehold

Girl Scouts Of The Jersey Shore

THIS IS A 2-DAY EVENT!! Join us for the 3rd Annal Fall Rummage Sale and Book Sale, a massive 2-day community sale.&nbsp; 📅 Friday, September 18, 2026 | 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 📅 Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM The Rummage Sale will be featuring everything from home décor and furniture to electronics, jewelry, and toys. Don't miss out on the concurrent Book Sale featuring hundreds of books from just 25¢ to 50¢ and special deals on full bags!
🚫 No Early Birds Please.&nbsp; Sales begin at the posted opening times. 💚 Want to help even more? We're currently accepting donations of clean, gently used items for the sale. Your unwanted treasures can become funds that support local Girl Scouts. Please contact 732-966-5035 for donation information.&nbsp; Hosted by the Order of the Evergreen, all proceeds further our mission of supporting the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore.

Local Event: 2-DAY EVENT: 3rd Annual Fall Rummage Sale & Book Sale 

2-DAY EVENT: 3rd Annual Fall Rummage Sale &...

THIS IS A 2-DAY EVENT!! Join us for the 3rd Annal Fall Rummage Sale and Book Sale, a massive 2-day community sale.    📅 Friday,...

2-DAY EVENT: 3rd Annual Fall Rummage Sale & Book Sale 

Whiting United Methodist Church

Flea Market on September 19 at Whiting United Methodist Church; doors open at 8 AM until 1 PM; all sorts of wonderful finds; including baked goods, homemade soup, tools, household equipment, jewelry, collectibles, and more; refreshments served. All are welcome.

Local Event: Flea Market

Pine Lake Park

Flea Market

Flea Market on September 19 at Whiting United Methodist Church; doors open at 8 AM until 1 PM; all sorts of wonderful finds;...

Ocean County Library, Toms River

An outdoor book sale will be held during the Downtown Toms River Comfort Food Festival, Sept. 19, from noon until 3 p.m. Many books, CDS, DVDs, etc. CASH ONLY. Proceeds of the sale benefit library programs for children and adults.

Local Event: Friends of the Library Book Sale

Friends of the Library Book Sale

An outdoor book sale will be held during the Downtown Toms River Comfort Food Festival, Sept. 19, from noon until 3 p.m. Many...

St. Stephen's Episcopal Church of Whiting, NJ

Elder exploitation is an increasingly dangerous problem as verified by the F.B.I. An authorized speaker for the NJ Coalition Against HumanTrafficking as well as Manchester Police Detective, Thomas Chant will be discussing vulnerabilities of the elderly and how to avoid exploitation.&nbsp; Older adults, caregivers, family members, and concerned neighbors are encouraged to attend. The complimentary training will take place on September 19, 1:00 PM at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Whiting, NJ. Please call 732-350-2121 to reserve your seat, at no charge.

Local Event: Avoid Elder Exploitation and Elder Trafficking

Avoid Elder Exploitation and Elder Trafficking

Elder exploitation is an increasingly dangerous problem as verified by the F.B.I. An authorized speaker for the NJ Coalition...

St Stephen's Episcopal Church

Sunday , September 20th,&nbsp; 9:30am - 12:30pm.. St Stephen's Episcopal Church, 180 Rte 539, Whiting&nbsp; NJCome join us and enjoy delicious baked goods including scones, sausage rolls, cookies, cakes, cupcakes, and much more! All proceeds from this event will support NJ charities.

Local Event: Daughters Of The British Empire Bake Sale Fundraiser

Daughters Of The British Empire Bake Sale...

Sunday , September 20th,  9:30am - 12:30pm.. St Stephen's Episcopal Church, 180 Rte 539, Whiting  NJCome join us and enjoy...

Daughters Of The British Empire Bake Sale Fundraiser

September 20th at 10:00 AM<img alt="🌸" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/tf0/1/16/1f338.png"> A Simply Glamorous Ladies’ Brunch at The Mathis House <img alt="🌸" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/tf0/1/16/1f338.png">Gather your friends and dress in your elegant black dresses, hats, and gloves for a truly glamorous afternoon!<img alt="✨" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/tf4/1/16/2728.png"> Sip gourmet tea, savor a decadent brunch, and enjoy the sounds of live piano music in a beautifully decorated setting of teal, candles, pearls, and flowers.<img alt="🎉" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t8c/1/16/1f389.png"> The perfect occasion to celebrate birthdays and other special milestones!<img alt="📍" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t2d/1/16/1f4cd.png"> The Mathis House Victorian Bed &amp; Breakfast &amp; Tea Room <img alt="💵" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/tdf/1/16/1f4b5.png"> $50 per person plus gratuity <img alt="🍴" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t68/1/16/1f374.png"> Buffet &amp; Butler-Style Menu Highlights:Variety of Tea SandwichesGlazed Ham, Bacon &amp; SausageBroccoli &amp; Cheddar FrittataSpinach &amp; Artichoke TartletsCharcuterie Board &amp; Fresh FruitsCinnamon Raisin Scone BakeWarm Scones with Clotted Cream &amp; Lemon CurdGarlic Mashed Potatoes with ToppingsLarge Mixed Green SaladPetite DessertsNon-Alcoholic Sparkling Tea, Gourmet Hot Tea, Orange Juice, Coffee &amp; Iced Tea<img alt="📞" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t4d/1/16/1f4de.png"> Reservations: Call 732-818-7580 <img alt="💻" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t8c/1/16/1f4bb.png"> Or book online at <a href="https://www.mathishouse600main.com/?fbclid=IwcGRvZgFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFSc2Z5eWFVbVZVdm1qbkhoc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHnr92AFAdYR2E9OPM_V0ZoqHPHt-P3km7FJljgxw5dNIDAritBlrNzUqoASs_aem_FacmFmgKgky8SrDvOECjcw" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.mathishouse600main.com</a> via Resy. The best dressed in the teahouse this day will win an overnight stay to the Bed and Breakfast. Located at 600 Main Street in downtown Toms River.24 hour notice of cancelations result in a credit to the Mathis House for 2 years.Our events are interactive and guests are encouraged to wear outfits. The best dressed for the evening will win an overnight stay gift certificate to our new Huddy House Bed and Breakfast(valued at $249). Come dressed to impress.

Local Event: Breakfast at Tiffany's Buffet Brunch at the Historic Mathis House

Breakfast at Tiffany's Buffet Brunch at the...

September 20th at 10:00 AM A Simply Glamorous Ladies’ Brunch at The Mathis House Gather your friends and dress in your elegant...

Breakfast at Tiffany's Buffet Brunch at the Historic Mathis House

2026 Speaker Series presents - "Prvateers and Pine-Robbers" Coastal NJ&nbsp;during the American Revolution&nbsp;presented by author Robert Cobb. He will relate the story of John Bacon and his guerrilla loyalist raiders who fought for the British, including the 'Long Beach Island Massacre of 1782', one of the most important events of the Jersey Shore's Revolutionary War history.&nbsp;

Local Event: Speaker Series - 'Privateers and Pine-Robbers'

Island Heights

Speaker Series - 'Privateers and Pine-Robbers'

2026 Speaker Series presents - "Prvateers and Pine-Robbers" Coastal NJ during the American Revolution presented by author...

Pink Moon Yoga & Wellness

6-6:30p Shop + Mingle
6:30p-7:30p Reading + Restorative Yoga
7:30p-8p Refreshments
What if your next reading session came with blankets, bolsters, and restorative yoga? Join us on the fall equinox and set the tone for a new season ahead. Bring your current read or purchase a new one and settle into a cozy evening of gentle, supported restorative poses while you read, relax, and recharge. No assigned book. No agenda. Just quiet time, good books, and a very cozy way to unwind.
Join this collab with Bound + Bewitched Books &amp; Pink Moon for a beautiful evening with some uninterrupted you time.
Equinox Refreshments
<ul><li>Apple Rosemary Spritz&nbsp;</li><li>Cozy Tea Bar</li><li>Roasted Squash + Apple Bisque &amp; Rosemary Bread&nbsp;</li><li>Reading Nibble Cups</li></ul>

Local Event: Reading + Restorative: An Extra Cozy Silent Book Club

Reading + Restorative: An Extra Cozy Silent...

6-6:30p Shop + Mingle
6:30p-7:30p Reading + Restorative Yoga
7:30p-8p Refreshments
What if your next reading session came with...

Reading + Restorative: An Extra Cozy Silent Book Club

Virtual

Are you a current or former smoker or just worried about your risk for lung cancer?


 Join One Or All Sessions!


 Join Hackensack Meridian Health expert pulmonologists, interventional pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons for a free webinar series designed to empower you with the knowledge to take control of your lung health.


 This series will provide a comprehensive overview of common lung and respiratory conditions, the critical importance of lung cancer screenings, and navigating a lung cancer diagnosis and more.


 Whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or simply want to be more informed, this session will provide valuable information. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the experts and have your questions answered.


 <a href="https://events.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/event/hmhlungwebinars/summary?utm_source=HMH-CVENT&amp;utm_medium=&amp;utm_campaign=PatchOUMCEvent" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to learn more and register!

<img src="https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackimp/N1206502.274030PATCHMEDIA/B36626959.455676874;dc_trk_aid=650404057;dc_trk_cid=263513192;ord=[timestamp];dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;ltd=;dc_tdv=1?" attributionsrc="" border="0" height="1" width="1" alt="Advertisement">

Local Event: Living Well with Lung Disease: Webinars for Patients and Families

Living Well with Lung Disease: Webinars for...


    Are you a current or former smoker or just worried about your risk for lung cancer?


    Join One Or All Sessions!


   ...

Living Well with Lung Disease: Webinars for Patients and Families

Mathis House a Victorian Bed & Breakfast and Tea Room

Italian Candlelight Dinner with Live Music Date: Saturday, October 3rd at 7:00 PMJoin us for an enchanting evening at The Mathis House, located at 600 Main St in downtown Toms River, where authentic Italian cuisine in the beautiful Victorian Mansion. (Weather Permitting the event may be held outside and will be announced a week before the event).First Course- Warm Italian Bread and Mathis House Herb Butter served along:Second Course - Zuppa Italian SoupThird Course - Insalata Mixed greens with cured meats, olives, and shaved cheese dressed with Italian VinaigretteFourth Course - Entree Meat Lasagna Entrée served with sautéed vegetablesFifth Course - Dolce Cannoli bar with assorted fillings and toppingsThe Cost is $35 per person plus tax and a cash gratuity. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Mathis House at 732-818-7580, or visit our website at <a href="https://www.mathishouse600main.com/?fbclid=IwcGRvZgFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFxanQzNktCdXlDVUZTb0F1c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHtuKcrG59qomXm7d7hDrivQQEZlicIcPiV0obkbStKfXa28UX2WbSTZBXhDy_aem_fhffRI8LL9u7HXrFOBkn3g" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.MathisHouse600Main.com</a> using RESY or Eventbrite.We are a BYOB but do have Cream Ridge Wines available for purchase at the table.24-hour notice of cancelation result in a credit to the Mathis House for two years.

Local Event: Italian Candlelight Dinner with Live Music

Italian Candlelight Dinner with Live Music

Italian Candlelight Dinner with Live Music Date: Saturday, October 3rd at 7:00 PMJoin us for an enchanting evening at The...

Manahawkin Municipal Center

MANAHAWKIN, N.J. — Runners, walkers, and community supporters will gather next month for the Second Annual "Race to Remember" 5K Run &amp; Walk, held in loving tribute to Frankie Petillo Jr. The memorial event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, at the Manahawkin Municipal Center.
For Frankie’s family, the event represents a deeply personal mission: turning tragedy into future dreams and accomplishments. Frankie, a Stafford resident and Southern Regional High School graduate, was taken in the prime of his life when he was struck by an irresponsible student driver while walking on his college campus. Highly motivated to help others in need, his family established The Frankie-Foundation (The Frank A. Petillo Jr. Foundation) so that his memory could continue to uplift young people.
Because Frankie lived life to its fullest, the foundation's goal is to help others do the same. Organizers are working to fulfill that purpose by raising funds to support local students who are active in dance, theatre, and the arts. Each year, the foundation awards multiple scholarships to local music and dance schools as well as graduating high school seniors who demonstrate Frankie’s selfless, inspirational spirit.

Organized in partnership with the Mayors Wellness Campaign and Stafford Recreation, the October 5K serves as the foundation’s primary community gathering and fundraiser.
Race-day check-in and packet pickup will open at 7:00 a.m., followed by the official race start at 8:00 a.m.
In addition to runners and walkers, organizers are welcoming community partners and local businesses through four tiered sponsorship opportunities:
<ul><li>Platinum ($2,000): Prominent company logo placement on race shirts, digital branding and links on the event website, verbal recognition during the opening ceremony, and five complimentary race entries.</li><li>Gold ($1,000): Logo featured on race shirts, company logo on the event website, opening ceremony recognition, and four complimentary entries.</li><li>Silver ($500): Business or individual name listed on race shirts and the event website, along with two complimentary entries.</li><li>Bronze ($250): Name listed on the event website and one complimentary entry.</li></ul>
Community members interested in participating can sign up online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/search?q=https%3A%2F%2Fraceforum.com%2Fremember" rel="nofollow noopener">raceforum.com/remember</a> or by scanning the QR code featured on the event flyer.

Local Event: Second Annual 'Race to Remember' 5K Set for October 10 in Manahawkin

Barnegat-Manahawkin

Second Annual 'Race to Remember' 5K Set for...

MANAHAWKIN, N.J. — Runners, walkers, and community supporters will gather next month for the Second Annual "Race to Remember"...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

OCHS Celebrates 250 Years of American Independence

SEP

20

12:30 PM

Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ

OCHS Sponsors Holocaust Survivor, Arthur Spielman

OCT

11

2:00 PM

Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ

Holiday Gifts, Crafts, & Collectible Faire

NOV

1

10:00 AM

Toms River South High School, 55 Hyers St, Toms River, NJ

General John Lacey and the Battle of the Crooked Billet, by Historian Scott Randolph

NOV

15

2:00 PM

Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ

Holiday Open House

NOV

28

10:00 AM

Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ