5. Great Community "Finds"

      

Chase XCG-18A US Air Force glider at Mercer County Airport during WW II, 1947. courtesy of J. Turek

      Throughout the 175th anniversary year, the County will be sponsoring community "History Share" events where you're invited to bring in your own historic photographs, articles, programs, and other memorabilia about life in Mercer County. Items are scanned in, documented, and shared with the rest of the Mercer County community.

Testing a Switlik parachute during jump over Mercer County airport in 1936.  courtesy of R.L.Pidcock



      Folks at the first three events (in Trenton at the County's McDade Building, at the Lawrence Library and at the county's One-Stop office in Hamilton Twp.) brought in some great photographs and articles. You can see them by clicking on the "Photo Gallery" link on the Mercer 175 main page. In honor of Memorial Day, we're sharing some terrific photos and articles brought in by John Turek and Robert Lee Pidcock that show Mercer people and scenes during WW II and the Korean Conflict.

 

Trenton resident, Sgt. Michael Karaffa, a six-time decorated veteran flyer with the 394th Bomb Group during WW II
recalled to active duty during the Korean Conflict.  courtesy of J. Turek



4. Celebrating Petty's Run

Petty's Run by Martin Griff, The Times of Trenton

     It's not often past meets present so perfectly, but the grand opening of the Petty's Run archeological site between the NJ State House and the Old Barracks in Trenton last week was just such an exciting juncture for the city, county, and state - and history lovers worldwide. A couple of years ago the site, named for the Petty's Run Creek that rushed through the area to the Delaware River, was listed by Preservation NJ as one of the state's most endangered sites. Today it is preserved as an interpretive outdoor classroom for students of all ages interested in early colonial America, thanks to collaboration between the State and Mercer County - and to the passionate citizens who tirelessly advocated on behalf of the project. 

     The history of the site first as a source of fresh water and fish for native Americans and then as host to early paper, cotton and steel mills is explained on six interpretive signs ringing the 18 foot deep display. Hunter Research, Inc., was instrumental in advocating for and researching the site, and they maintained an excellent web journal that provides rich details about the site and the process of excavating, researching and preserving it. 

     For some fine coverage on the Petty's Run opening, check out this feature by Jenna Pizzi and Martin Griff of The Times.