This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Morris Plains Museum Association Prepares to Celebrate New Jersey's 350th Anniversary

Morris Plains: The 350th Anniversary of the founding of the State of New Jersey has arrived with 2014. Even though a number of statewide activities are planned, the town of Morris Plains is busy getting ready for their own celebration of the area’s history.  The Morris Plains Museum is a treasure trove of history for area residents.  The museum, located on the lower level and rear entrance of the town’s Community Center at 51 Jim Fear Drive, just off Malapardis Avenue, is open every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (or for groups by appointment) and some of the special exhibits are already in place.

 

As the Morris Plains Museum Association volunteers compile important dates in the history of the town to create a detailed timeline and photographic display, historic miniature scenes and a miniature house are already in place for visitors to enjoy.  Hand-crafted by Ellie Arnould-Tomb, a new member to the association, the detailed miniature scenes provide a window back in time.  The displays include a Turn-of-the-Century Doctor’s Office, a Wig Shop from the Colonial Period, a Prairie Home from the late-1800’s, a 1920’s Kitchen and a Vegetable Stand from the World War II era.

Find out what's happening in Morristownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

 

The full time line display should be in place before the end of February, but there’s lots to see right now.  Residents, and former residents, of Morris Plains can get a good feel for how the town started and grew over the years.  Many artifacts, maps, documents and photographs from various time periods are already on display.  Lucky visitors may even get a guided tour from the town historian, Dan Myers, if he’s available.  Dan stated that, “the association members are looking forward to banner year and we’re prepared for lots of extra tours.”

Find out what's happening in Morristownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

 

The museum was founded in September of 1974 thanks to the former Borough Historian Muriel Rennie, and has been in several different locations.  In 2005 the museum moved to its present location.  Books and postcards are available for those who want to study the town’s history on their own in more depth.

 

For more information call 973-683-1089, go to the museum website at http://www.morrisplainsmuseum.org or email them at info@morrisplainsmuseum.org.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?