Steel and Iron - Special Holiday Gift for History Lovers

 

 

        Here’s a special “ring out the old” end-of-year gift from historian Clifford Zink who was one of the presenters at the County’s “Mercer Makes…” symposium in October. He just shared an expanded version of the presentation he had prepared for the symposium with us, and it’s terrific! Thanks and congratulations to Clifford, and best wishes to all of you for the coming year. Read all about it in his online article Iron and Steel: Entrepreneurs on the Delaware.

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.