You’ll find rich historical detail pretty much everywhere you look in Princeton, and there’s even more to discover that you won’t spot at first glance. Over the next few months, we’re diving into family and local history at the library from a variety of perspectives. No matter your area of interest, we’re sure you’ll find something tantalizing.
October is Family History Month, so we’re offering a class on getting started with the genealogical databases offered through the library: Ancestry Library Edition, HeritageQuest, and Fold3. All three databases can be used by anyone within the library, and library card holders can also access HeritageQuest and Fold3 remotely. The class will be held virtually on October 16 at 10 a.m., and you can register here.
We’re very excited about a couple of collaborative programs happening later in October. On October 22 at 7 p.m., four Princeton historical organizations will come together for House Genealogy to share how you can research the history of your home, from how and when it was built (or moved) to who lived or worked there over time. Learn how to use historical records and physical clues to discover your home’s story, and bring your questions!
Then, on October 31 at 4 p.m., the library will host a panel discussion, “Treaty Agreements and Responsibilities,” as part of the Fourth Annual Munsee Language & Culture Symposium. Panelists will discuss how treaty agreements established through wampum belts were upheld—or neglected—both on Lunaapahkiing (present-day New Jersey and surrounding region) and in the Lunaape (often spelled Lenape) diaspora.
Throughout the fall, take a daytime stroll with us to get a closer look at Princeton with our history walks. On campus, we’ll focus on some of the notable tigers dotted around and on the buildings, then look at the variety of grotesques (often called gargoyles) that adorn the campus in a myriad of shapes. We’ll also show you hidden aspects of Princeton’s history and share some unexpected tidbits about past and present features of the town. Space for these walks is limited, so register here.
As we gear up for election season and consider the shape we’d like the future to take, we invite you also to take a look back at elections from Princeton’s past. Join the library and the Historical Society of Princeton for an Open Archive on October 30 featuring materials from the Historical Society’s collection, including ballots, challenger permits, and more. Drop in any time between 6:30 and 8 p.m.
Finally, as we enter the colder months, we’re again partnering with the Historical Society on a couple of programs highlighting the vital roles taverns have played throughout history, in Princeton and beyond. First, we’ll offer another drop-in Open Archive on November 21 focused on the Hudibras Tavern. Then, on December 11, enjoy a hot beverage as author Michael C. Gabriele presents on colonial taverns in New Jersey and their role in the American Revolution.
This area’s history is full of fascinating moments, including both world-changing actions and the ordinary activities of everyday life. These histories have good and bad in them, but they all help tell the story of where and how we live. We hope you’ll join us to learn more this fall. If you’re not yet signed up for our weekly events newsletter, click here so you don’t miss anything.
Image courtesy of the Smithsonian Institute Open Access Collection.