SCLSNJ’s Bridgewater Library branch

This event takes place at Bridgewater Library, 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater NJ 08807. Kitchen gardens in the 1700's fed, healed, and clothed Early American families. The 18th century "huswife" skill set included "physicke, cookery, distillation, perfumery, the making of wool, hemp, flax, dayries, brewing, baking," and, of course - gardening. Growing plants both Native American and from their homelands, these women turned their soup pots into the "melting pot" that is America and exemplified all the best qualities of plantswomen and patriots. Presenter: Lesley Parness - For the past 5 decades travel, academic studies, and work have provided a rewarding context for Lesley's love of plants. After a long career in museums and botanic gardens around the world she retired from her final post as Superintendent of Horticultural Education at New Jersey's Morris County Park Commission where she oversaw programming and interpretation at The Frelinghuysen Arboretum, Willowwood Arboretum and Bamboo Brook Outdoor Education Center.

Listen to and illustrate the story of Liberty Hall Museum’s mascot, Livingston Fox, and explore the tall tales of the heroes of the American Revolution at the Bridgewater Library. Read, draw, and play with Liberty Hall Museum! Tall tales and folktales have been passed down through generations and offer a rich tradition to be shared in stories, illustrations, and music! This program is recommended for children ages 3-12 and their families. Made possible with funds from the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the New Jersey Historical Commission.