Monmouth County - Shrewsbury - Annual July 4th Celebration at Allen House
Annual July 4th Celebration at Allen House
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Join the Monmouth County Historical Association for a historic celebration in honor of Independence Day with a public reading of the Declaration of Independence on Tuesday, at Allen House, 400 Shrewsbury Avenue, Shrewsbury, NJ starting at 10:00 am.
Much like the day the Colonists first gathered to hear these stirring words, the bells at Christ Church will ring in honor of the signing. Attendees will also have the opportunity to add their own signature to an oversized replica of the Declaration. Rumson Boy Scouts, along with their Troop Leader, will serve as color guard during the Pledge of Allegiance. Merging the 21st century with the 18th, a life-size image of Thomas Jefferson, Founding Father and primary author of the Declaration, will be ready for selfies and group photographs.
Costumed interpreters will welcome guests and the Allen House will remain open for tours and visitors until 12:00 noon. Cookies and water will be served following the ceremony. Attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs. Parking is available in the Shrewsbury municipal parking lot across the street from the Allen House. This event is free.
Allen House was initially built circa 1710 as a second residence for a wealthy merchant, his wife and eight children. By 1754, Josiah Halstead had purchased the property and transformed the home into the Blue Ball Tavern, "the most noted tavern in Shrewsbury." Taverns served as community centers in the 18th century as well as places to drink and eat. Today, the house is furnished to reflect its early use as a tavern. For more information, call 732-462-1466 or visit www.monmouthhistory.org.
