Club Meadows – Monthly History Discussions
Second Wednesday of every month March – October
Meet at the Wyckoff-Garretson House located at 215 South Middlebush Road from 6:30pm-8:30pm
This is not a presenter/audience-type event – it is a casual, friendly, unstructured meetup for folks who enjoy discussion various historic topics. The subject matter is decided by YOU. A book, an artifact, an idea, a movie, a myth or legend, a personal experience – whatever you wish to talk about is fair game. Have you always wanted to know about a particular place or event? Ask the other people in attendance, they might know! No need to dress up, bring something to eat or drink if you like, come late or leave early – it’s all good! There is no age limit, but minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Club Meadows is hosted by The Meadows Foundation and is open to all.
Light refreshments and beverages are provided. There is no cost and it is open to the public. You do not need to be a member of the Meadows Foundation to attend, though joining (for as low as $10-$20 a year) does help fund programs like these so you should think about it!
If you have any questions or would like to suggest a topic – email us at info@themeadowsfoundation.org or reach us at (732)328-9195 (text or call)
For the May discussion, join us May 13th at 6:30pm to discuss: The “Spring Awakening” at Middlebrook
By May 1779, the Continental Army had spent a grueling winter at the Middlebrook Encampment (located in the heights of the Watchung Mountains, just north of Franklin Township). This period was a turning point. Unlike the desperate survival of Valley Forge, Middlebrook was about transformation. While the soldiers faced the “logistical nightmare” of New Jersey’s spring mud and scarce supplies, they were also undergoing the rigorous training of Baron von Steuben. Simultaneously, the alliance with France was moving from paper to reality. The “French Connection” wasn’t just about soldiers; it was about the arrival of critical supplies and the strategic planning of the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route (W3R), which would eventually lead the army through the Millstone Valley toward the final victory.
In June discussion, join us on the 10th at 6:30pm to discuss: “The ‘Hot’ Summer of 1778”
Step back into the sweltering June of 1778, when the eyes of the Revolutionary War turned toward the winding roads of Somerset County. Following the British retreat from Philadelphia, thousands of “Redcoats” suddenly appeared on the doorsteps of local families, marching directly past the farms and homes we preserve today.
Join us as we explore the harrowing civilian experience of living through this massive military movement and the subsequent Battle of Monmouth. From the strategic maneuvers of General Washington to the local impact on properties, we will dive into the “local link” of one of the most pivotal summers in American history.
Free and open to the public. Discover the history that happened in your own backyard!
