Taking a Walk into History

Those who missed last week’s walking tour sponsored by the Historical Society of the Somerset Hills will have another opportunity to experience history this fall.

In the meantime, here is a brief look at recent walk, which has become a township tradition:

The weather was ideal Sunday, May 1 as about 27 people took a walking tour back into time, visiting many of the area’s historic sites with the Historical Society of the Somerset Hills.

Dressed in a Victorian walking suit on loan from the Trilogy Repertory Company, Paula Axt led the tour. Along the way, she relayed information about the historical locations and recounted stories/recollections gathered from township residents.

The tour began at the Brick Academy. The group then walked toward St. Mark's Church, where they stopped for a cookie break provided by Historical Society docent Margaret Skelly.

Participants also got a sneak peak at one of the gardens that will be featured on the June 17 Garden Tour before ending the 1 ½-hour walk at the Presbyterian Church.

Walkers were invited back to the Brick Academy, where they could see the restored 1890’s classroom on the top floor of the Brick Academy. June Kennedy, retired township historian, was on hand to answer any questions and provide additional insight.

Anyone with stories or memories about living in Bernards Township is encouraged to call Axt at 908-953-9521.

Watch Basking Ridge Patch for details about the next historic walking tour, which is planned for sometime at the end of October or the beginning of November.