Washington Township Historical Society Historic House Tour - Dec. 14

After a five-year hiatus, the Washington Township Historical Society (WTHS) is excited to announce the return of its beloved Historic House Tour on Saturday, December 14, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This cherished community tradition offers a rare opportunity to explore the rich history and architectural heritage that defines Washington Township.

This year’s tour will feature a selection of historic homes within the Long Valley and Middle Valley areas of Washington Township, each brimming with stories and charms of the past. Attendees will have the unique chance to experience local history up close, with docents at each property guiding visitors and sharing interesting insights throughout the homes.

Tour Highlights:

• Visitors will receive a tour booklet containing instructions for the self-paced journey during the specific hours of 11:00 to 4:00 p.m., including a map, house descriptions and parking designations for each home.
• Docents inside the homes will help visitors enrich their experience with fascinating historical anecdotes.
• The tour is suited for ages 12 and above. Children under the age of 12 attending with an adult will not require a ticket. Strollers will not be permitted and the tour is not recommended for toddlers or pets. Tickets are necessary for anyone 12 years and older.
• We aim to make the tour a wonderful outing for history buffs, and those interested in architecture.
• Please note: the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs and limited walkways in some of the homes.

Tour parking will be available only in designated areas near each home, and visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the historic properties. Additional information will be provided to all ticket holders.

Ticket Information (All ages 12 and above):

• Advanced tickets: Are available for $25 (plus service fee) here online.
• In-person advance tickets: Cash-only tickets can be purchased at the WTHS Museum, 6 Fairview Avenue in Long Valley, during its normal operating hours, Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.
• Day-of tickets: Will be available on the day of the tour for $30 (cash) at the WTHS Museum starting from 9:00 until 1:00 p.m. or online.

Historic House Tour program booklets will be emailed in advance to patrons purchasing tickets, starting December 7, one week prior to the tour, December 14. Printed copies will be available at each house when a ticket receipt is presented.

Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards supporting the ongoing work of the Washington Township Historical Society, including the maintenance and operations of the WTHS Museum.

This year’s tour marks the 40th anniversary of the event’s inception, and the Society is thrilled to welcome the community back to this iconic celebration of local heritage. Don’t miss this special occasion to rediscover Washington Township’s hidden gems and immerse yourself in the history that helped shape our community.

About the Washington Township Historical Society

TheWashington Township Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting
public interest in the history of Washington Township and surrounding areas. It aims to give interested people a better understanding of our community, state and nation and helps us realize the true value of our heritage.

TheHistorical Society serves the community by actively investigating and promoting
collections in historical records and material culture, making available our collections for exploration and research, publicizing historical information and promoting the preservation of historic sites.

TheSociety has published two books on the history of Washington Township: A History of Washington Township byVirginia Allen, and Images of America: Washington Township, Morris County, by Elizabeth Guzenski and Charlotte and Juergen Arndt. Copies are available for purchase at the museum.

The Society promotes the education of our young people in the field of local history by offering volunteer opportunities as well as an annual scholarship award to eligible students. Our members train high school students as docents, as well as mentor internships and Eagle Scout projects.

For more information on the society as well as updates on the tour, please visit the WTHS website or the WTHS Facebook page. Purchase your tickets today and be a part of this unforgettable historical experience!