Well, I wish you a Happy New Year.
I hope you are looking forward in a positive fashion as life is good and optimism is a best way to experience the world. This is true for Sussex County history!
Here is a schedule of events for the year.
First, let me acknowledge a couple of items. I thank the Sussex County Commissioners for selecting me as historian and their continued support of my efforts.
The commissioners deserve recognition for continuing to fund the programs that I have taken responsibility to help maintain and to support my efforts in creating and nurturing new programs during my tenure.
I also want to thank Straus News for its continued support by allowing me space to inform county residents of our history.
Before beginning, let me say that I have space on the Sussex County website for Sussex County history. Much of what I say here can be found online on the Sussex County History page of the county’s website: www.sussex.nj.us
• Sussex County Historical Marker Program. This very popular program lets local societies and people propose landmarks in their town that they feel are worthy of county recognition with our iconic markers. The application period opens up for the 2024 about Feb. 15. The applications and details of the program can be found on the county website. The application period closes May 30. Judging and selections will take place and awards will be given out on the first Saturday night of the New Jersey State Fair.
• Young Historians. This program is intended to inspire and encourage our youth to take interest in history. It opens March 1 and closes June 30. Information about this program is on the website, and awards will be given on the first Saturday night of the fair.
• Rails to Trails. I continue to sponsor and encourage additional efforts in our county for converting abandoned rail lines to walking and hiking paths. Information on this is available on the county website and on the Hardyston History & Heritage Society’s website.
• Revolutionary War 250. This is the big, exciting program starting to roll out this year. Remember the hoopla in 1976 for 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence? Well, believe it or not, it is 50 years later, and we will be celebrating again!
In April 1775, the war began with the “Shot Heard Round the World” so that event is slightly more than a year from now! We have a core team beginning our preparations from the historical point of view and will involve all 18 or so historical societies in the county along with towns and the state. Cool!
These are some things to look forward to in 2024. Have a great year!
Bill Truran, Sussex County’s historian, may be contacted at billt1425@gmail.com