PLEASE CHECK BACK HERE OFTEN FOR UPDATES. Because these are historic homes, events may have to be moved, postponed or cancelled for various reasons. Any such occurrences will be posted on this page, as well as our calendar.
WE NEED YOUR INPUT!
We want to know what type of programming you would like to see. Suggestions for historic, local, environmental, educational, or fun events are all welcome and appreciated. We especially would like to engage our younger generations. Please send an email to info@themeadowsfoundation.org with your suggestions.
Second Sundays: Wyckoff-Garretson Museum House
Open FREE to the Public
2nd Sunday, Apr-Oct 2026 1-4pm 215 South Middlebush Rd, Somerset, NJ
Wyckoff-Garretson House, 1730 and 1805
The Meadows Foundation announces the opening of the Wyckoff-Garretson Museum House and Carriage Barn, every second Sunday of the month starting in April and going through October. There will be docents on hand to conduct tours and answer questions about colonial life. The recently renovated carriage barn features a used book and gift shop. The historic home is filled with artifacts and period furniture, clothing and other items.
In addition, talks and craft demonstrations will periodically be conducted in the conference room, and videos about life in colonial times will be shown in the media room. The buildings will be open from 1pm-4pm, May through October. This is a FREE EVENT, so bring family and friends and enjoy an interesting afternoon with us!
CLUB MEADOWS
April 8, 2026 6:30pm – 8:30pm Topic: The Battle at Van Nest’s Mill
2nd Wednesday of each month, 6:30-8:30 PM at the Wyckoff-Garretson Wagon Barn 215 South Middlebush Road
Club Meadows is a monthly, super-casual get-together for the purpose of hanging out and talking history!
This is not a presenter/audience-type event – it is a casual, friendly, unstructured meetup for folks who enjoy discussing various historic topics. The subject matter is decided by YOU. A book, an artifact, an idea, a movie, a myth or legend, a personal experience – whatever you wish to talk about is fair game. Have you always wanted to know about a particular place or event? Ask the other people in attendance, they might know! No need to dress up, bring something to eat or drink if you like, come late or leave early – it’s all good! There is no age limit, but minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Flyer PDF: Club Meadows April 2026
Murder Mystery Event: Hageman’s Hideout
Sunday, April 12, 2026 2pm-5pm
Gordon “Big G” Pastrami is throwing one of his swell parties at his secret
speakeasy called Hageman’s Hideout for his [undisclosed number] birthday, and 20
specially selected guests are being invited to join the festivities. It will be on April
12, 202
6 (Sunday) from 2-5 PM.
The party will begin with everyone singing Happy Birthday to Big G before he cuts the cake. Then the lucky guests will be entertained with the latest new music as they enjoy light fare and Hageman’s legendary décor. Also served will be trendy speakeasy mocktails and – of course! – Big G’s famous “bathtub gin”. Everyone who is anyone will be clamoring to get an invite to this history-making event! Pssst! Rumor has it that there is a hit out on one of the guests – and one of the other guests is tapped to do the dirty deed! No one knows who it will be – you’ll have to be there to find out. So put on your glad rags and cozy up to the bar – and don’t forget to look over your shoulder.
Flyer PDF: Hagemans Hideout 4-12-2026
To Choose Your Character: Click Here!
Cocktails with George & Martha at Hageman’s Tavern
Spend an evening having cocktails with George & Martha Washington as they regale us with their tales of the Revolutionary period! In conjunction with the Franklin Township 250th Committee, the Meadows Foundation presents George & Martha : A Cocktail Affair
Tickets: $50pp (incl taxes and fees)
George & Martha : A Cocktail Affair
Step Into History: An Evening with the Washington’s
As Franklin Township enters into America’s Semiquincentennial celebrations, join The Meadows Foundation and the Franklin 250 Committee for an evening that pulls back the curtain on our nation’s first “First Couple.” Move beyond the stodgy portraits and meet George and Martha Washington as they were at the dawn of the Revolution: a vibrant, middle-aged couple navigating the trials of war and the weight of leadership. This unique presentation explores their 40-year marriage, highlighted by the “tenderness and respect” that defined their bond and the unwavering support Martha provided during the long winter encampments.
A Modern Reflection at Hageman’s Tavern
This educational and romantic presentation offers a fresh perspective on the 250th anniversary, recognizing the diverse contributions of the women, Black Americans, and Native Americans who shaped our history alongside the Founding Fathers. For one night only, we are transforming the historic Hageman Barn into “Hageman’s Tavern,” recreating the warmth and spirit of an 18th-century gathering place. The evening will feature a light colonial-inspired menu and signature cocktails, offering the perfect atmosphere to mingle with the Washington’s in a setting true to their time. Join us on April 18th to celebrate the love story that helped sustain the American cause and to kick off our community’s journey toward 2026.
Join us for this special Franklin 250 collaboration.
A single $50 registration is all-encompassing, providing you with a seat for the presentation, a taste of 18th-century culinary delights, and a sampling of historic spirits from our open signature bar. Every ticket supports the ongoing preservation work of The Meadows Foundation.
“Must be 21+ to enjoy alcoholic beverages. Non-alcoholic colonial refreshments will also be available.”
Flyer: TBA
Gardening Club at Van Duyn-Van Wickle
Saturdays, 9 AM (weather permitting)
(Returning April, 2026 – Come back for details)
Come out for some fresh air, nature, conversation and comaraderie as we pull weeds and pleasantly pass the time. 1289 Easton Avenue, Somerset (next to Rutgers Prep, at the foot of DeMott Lane). Contact Terry Thorsen at isismaya@aol.com if you are interested.
An Annual Tradition: Sinterklaas!
December 6, 2026 – Van Liew-Suydam House, 280 South Middlebush Road, Somerset
Please bring the kids and join us for this favorite Dutch celebration!
There will be plenty to do and see for all ages during our annual Sinterklaas celebration. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season in the historic Van Liew-Suydam House.
There will be crafts and toys for the kids, ornaments for them to decorate and hang on the tree, games for all to play, and Dutch baked goods and seasonal beverages for sale. And of course, the day would not be complete without Sinterklaas himself! He will spend time with each child, checking his book to see if they have been good or bad, with goodie bags for each child to take home.
We hope to see you at the historic Van Liew-Suydam House located at 280 South Middlebush Road, Franklin Township, NJ. Please check our website for updates in regards to weather, logistics and for other upcoming events. In the meantime, be good – Sinterklaas is watching!
PDF Flyer: Coming Soon!