2021-11-27 TO 2022 - Monmouth County - Freehold - Let Us Play @ Monmouth County Historical Association (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays)

 

In celebration of the holiday season, Monmouth County Historical Association will debut Let Us Play on November 27, the newest exhibition at the Association’s Museum and Library & Archives in Freehold, NJ.  Drawing on MCHA’s extensive collection, Let Us Play will trace several centuries of children’s joyful pastimes and their evolving playthings.

Let Us Play will feature every child-related article in the Association’s collection, many on display for the very first time.  From the colonial era through the 20th century, the exhibition will trace the evolution of play and the effect the industrial revolution, consumerism, and the burgeoning influence of advertising had on children’s ideas of fun and their beloved toys.  Childhood treasures displayed will range from dolls and dollhouses, games, and cast iron banks to books, carriages, and historic photos.

“We are so happy to present this joyful exhibit for the holidays, especially during this challenging era in our contemporary history,” said MCHA Director of Collections Bernadette Rogoff.  “I have always been enchanted by the extensive trove of childhood treasures in the MCHA collection and I am thrilled to finally be able to bring them to the museum to share with everyone.”

“The Association is thrilled to welcome the community back to the Museum this holiday season,” commented MCHA Board of Trustees President Linda Bricker.  “It is heartwarming to see through this exhibit that throughout our nation’s history, both dark and triumphant, the exuberance and optimism of children endures and adapts.”

Let Us Play will generally be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays each week from 12 noon-5pm at the MCHA Museum, Library, and Archives, but please check here for current hours.

Since its founding in 1898, the Association has enriched the quality of life in Monmouth County by preserving its heritage for future generations.  It is the Association’s mission to ‘preserve and celebrate the history of Monmouth County for all’.  The largest history-focused private non-profit organization in NJ, MCHA operates a Museum and Library & Archives at its headquarters in Freehold in addition to five historic house museums located throughout the county that tell the story of the founding of the country.  The Association brings history to life and engages thousands of residents and businesses in the community each year through its insightful and meaningful programs and exhibitions.