Updated December 2013
As the birth month of our first President, February not only offers a day off from school, but a great opportunity to get to know some of our former commanders-in-chief. And New Jersey is the place!
Learn about George Washington
Morristown National Historical Park, 973-539-2016 x210: The site of the Continental Army's 1779–1780 winter encampment is dedicated to all things Washington. Take part in Making of an American Icon on Feb. 16, Winter of 1777 on Feb. 22, and Myths of George Washington (Washington never had wooden teeth!) on Feb. 22. While here, take advantage of the park’s Junior Ranger program: Pick up a free booklet that sends kids on a hunt for information throughout the park. Those who complete the quest earn a Morristown Junior Ranger Badge.
Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville, 609-737-2515: On Feb. 16 from 12:30–2 pm, a reenactor portraying George Washington speak about his childhood and life as a leader in the Johnson Ferry House. After, enjoy Washington’s Birthday Celebration from 1–4 pm. There’ll be music in the parlor, colonial toys and games, and woodworking, along with punch and gingerbread. Be sure to visit the park’s museum, which is home to some very cool Revolutionary War artifacts, including a letter from Washington himself.
The Montclair Historical Society’s Israel Crane House, 973-744-1796: On Feb. 16 from 1–4 pm, travel 200 years back in time and experience American life just as our forefathers did.
NJ’s Native President…
Learn about Grover Cleveland
Grover Cleveland Birthplace, Caldwell, 973-226-0001: Show your Jersey pride and celebrate Presidents’ Day here on Feb. 17 from 1–4 pm. Family activities will include self-guided tours of the historic house museum and a scavenger hunt (items include a 126-year-old piece of wedding cake—seriously!). Kids will also have the chance to dress up like Cleveland and his wife, Frances, and play period games. Call to confirm hours.
Did you know?
- Grover Cleveland is the sole U.S. President to have served two non-consecutive terms (1885–1889 and 1893–1897), and therefore is the only one counted twice in the numbering of presidents. He was also the first President to marry during his term.
- After leaving the White House, Cleveland retired to his home in Princeton, and served as a trustee of Princeton University from 1901 until his death. He refused overtures from his party to run again in 1904!
- According to two of Cleveland’s biographers, his last words were, “I have tried so hard to do right.”
If the living is your thing…
Have your kids write to one of the five living past presidents. They just might write back! What a great way to engage them in learning on several levels.
Contact Presidents Carter, Clinton, Obama, or one of the Bushes from the comfort of your own home and see if they respond! Let us know if you have or are planning to write and whether you receive a reply!
The Honorable Jimmy Carter
Office of Jimmy Carter
The Carter Center
453 Freedom Parkway N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30307
The Honorable George H. W. Bush
Office of George H. W. Bush
P.O. Box 79798
Houston, TX 77279-9798
The Honorable William J. Clinton
55 West 125th Street
New York, NY 10027
The Honorable George W. Bush
Office of George W. Bush
P.O. Box 259000
Dallas, TX 75225-9000
And for the sitting U.S. President, you can find all the info you need to contact him here.
Renée Sagiv Riebling is a freelance writer from central New Jersey who is always on the lookout for new family adventures.
