Are you ready to step back into history this 4th of July weekend? The Van Campen Inn will be open Sunday, July 7th from 12 pm - 4pm. #walpackhistory #walpacknj #mydwgnra #findyourpark #npsvolunteer

For the next few days we will be featuring the five signers of the Declaration of Independence from #NewJersey. Our first is Abraham Clark, who was born in 1726 at his father's farm in what is now Roselle. For many years, he served the Crown as high sheriff of Essex County and as clerk in the colonial legislature. Between 1774 and 1776 he attended several Revolutionary conventions, and won election to the provincial assembly. In June of 1776 he became a Congressional delegate and would sign the Declaration of Independence. In 1783 he returned to NJ where he served a number of political roles on both the State and National levels. He died of a sunstroke in 1794 at his home in Roselle. He is buried in Rahway Cemetery. #njhistory #SpreadTheHistory

ON THIS DAY in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed by America’s founding fathers, signifying the birth of this country. Exactly 50 years later, in 1826, two of them died within five hours of each other – Thomas Jefferson (age 82) & John Adams (age 90). A remarkable concurrence.
Both men were unwell, but their deaths still came as a surprise. How did this coincidence occur on such a significate date & anniversary? A possible scientific explanation could be the men “held on” to see the 50th anniversary of the Declaration’s signing.
It is said Jefferson had often expressed the desire to die on the Fourth of July. He supposedly refused his usual morphine-laced laudanum treatment the night before he died.
It is also said Adam’s granddaughter observed his doctor administering an experimental medicine, saying it would either prolong his life by two weeks, or bring it to a close within 24 hours.
Today, the historical evidence to these suppositions is scarce, and the actual reasons, if not pure coincidence, will likely never be known.
Finally, exactly five years later, the last of the founding fathers – James Monroe – died on July 4th as well. History is a funny thing.
Photo courtesy of wikimedia commons
#njshpo #july4 #thomasjefferson #johnadams #jamesmonroe

Walpack Historical Society members have spent countless hours restoring beauty and dignity to the gravesites of all who rest in the Lower Walpack Cemetery. Flags have been placed to honor the Veterans of all who have proudly served our country. The restoration efforts are continuing. Look for more details in the upcoming WHS Summer Newsletter. #walpackhistory #walpacknj #NPSVolunteer #MyDWGNRA #FindYourPark

This looks like a great opportunity.