Discover Morris County's Past with the Pathways of History Spring Tour 2026
The Morris County Historical Society is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of the
Pathways of History Spring Tour. Set to take place on
May 2nd and 3rd, 2026, this exciting event invites families and history enthusiasts alike to embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Morris County's historical landscape. The event runs from
11 AM to 4 PM each day and is open to the public at no cost.
A Celebration of Local History
This year marks the 17th anniversary of the Pathways of History Tour, which has grown significantly since its inception. Starting in 2009 with just a handful of participating organizations, the tour now boasts
over 31 historic sites and museums throughout Morris County. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore diverse locales, ranging from
Revolutionary War landmarks to
cultural heritage sites, each telling unique stories of the area’s past. The expansion this year is especially significant as it honors the
250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a fitting theme for such a historic outing.
Morris County Historical Society’s Executive Director,
Amy Curry, emphasizes the unique value of this community-driven event. “The Pathways of History Tour is a fantastic way to explore local history, see some of Morris County's incredible historic sites, and meet some of the region's most dedicated historians. This year’s event, with a record number of participating locations, offers an experience that you won't want to miss.”
How the Tour Works
Visitors can kick off their historical adventure at any of the participating locations. Each site will offer a warm welcome, guiding guests through the history that shaped Morris County. The tour is divided into three distinct routes:
- - The Blue Tour (Saturday, May 2, 11 AM – 4 PM)
- - The Red Tour (Sunday, May 3, 11 AM – 4 PM)
- - The Blue and Red Tours (Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM – 4 PM)
Whether you choose to explore one route or make the most of your weekend by attending both days, there's no shortage of stories to uncover. Attendees can find comprehensive details, including a complete list of sites and maps, online at the Morris County Historical Society’s website, which also provides information about specific programming at each location.
New Additions to the Tour
This year's tour includes exciting new entrants such as the
L'Ecole Kinnelon Museum, which showcases local education history via its quaint one-room schoolhouse. Additionally, the
Denville Historical Society's Second Union School is also part of the tour, reflecting the early foundations of community learning in the area. These sites not only enhance the diversity of the tour but also deepen the experience with immersive historical contexts.
Partnering for Success
The Morris County Historical Society extends its gratitude to various sponsors and partners including the FM Kirby Foundation, NJ Highlands Council, and New Jersey Historical Commission, among others. Their support is instrumental in making this commemorative event possible.
Engaging with Community and History
As a member-supported 501(c)(3) organization, the Morris County Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting the area's historical legacy through education, advocacy, and community involvement. The efforts of over
115 volunteers, who work tirelessly year-round, ensure that Morris County's history remains accessible and vibrant, an asset for both residents and visitors.
Join us in this enriching exploration of Morris County's heritage during the
Pathways of History Spring Tour 2026. Experience firsthand the stories that have shaped our community and continue to inspire future generations. Mark your calendars for May 2nd and 3rd, and get ready to journey through time!