Events

Osborn Cannonball House Museum Open May 5th

3 May 2024
The Osborn Cannonball House, located at 1840 Front Street in Scotch Plains, will be open to the public on Sunday, May 5, 2024, from 2.p.m. to 4 p.m.
 
Period accurate, costumed docents will be giving tours of this c.1750 museum, which was home to one of Scotch Plains earliest families. The story of the family of Jonathan and Abigail Osborn, the owners of the home in the 18th century, is a fascinating one. The Osborns are part of the early fabric that helped create the tapestry of the Scotch Plains that we know today.
 
Two of the Osborn sons fought in the war for freedom against the British practically in their own backyard. In fact, a skirmish took place right in front of their home on the corner of Front Street and Park Avenue in Scotch Plains during The Battle of the Short Hills on June 26, 1777. The nickname given by the neighbors to the house of “Cannonball House” comes from a legend that the house was hit by an errant cannonball during that battle.
 
Also on display at the museum will be summer dresses from the late 19th and early 20th centuries and a collection of original accessories from the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries, including shoes, purses, hats, etc. from the museum’s vast collection of antique clothing and accessories.

There will be a craft for children to make in the museum’s craft tent and a snack for them as well.

Step back in time at the Osborn House and see, hear, and feel what life was like for an 18th Century Scotch Plains family. We hope to see you there!
 

For more information email Info@HistoricalSocietySPFNJ.org or call 908-322-6700 Extension 230.

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Joy Ann Cabanos presents ORIGAMI FOR FUN AND FOCUS

11 April 2024

You probably think Origami is a hobby practiced mostly by females. You would be only partially right. It is used in the engineering world and in the therapeutic treatment of various problems and in mindfulness. Origami has many benefits: creating beautiful designs; helping reduce stress; improving eye-hand coordination; enhancing patience and persistence, promoting learning, education and boosting creativity.

Origami was popularized in Japan but its origins started in China where paper making can be traced to about 105 AD.  Paper Origami was originally practiced by monks who brought paper and the ideas for folding it to Japan in the 6th century. Orikata meant folded shapes. It was a vital skill for aristocrats & high ranking soldiers in Japan as well as decorating temples & shrines. Origami is derived from two Japanese words, Ori (folded) & Kami (paper). This transition came into use in the 1880’s.

Our presenter, a gifted artist, is well named: Joy Ann Cabanos. She IS joyful and is very excited to supervise us in the making of Origami tulips. She was one of those kids who drew on the walls at home. Art was her favorite subject in school and eventually became something she did. Her art springs from a deep love of nature, people & animals, music, poetry and dance. She has been part of many groups and solo exhibits in the Philippines, the UK and the USA. Her work is featured in private collections locally and internationally. She continues in-person & online watercolor & Origami workshops.

We welcome everyone to join us for this Fun and Focused evening where we make Origami tulips, instructed &  supervised by Joy. The meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday April 23rd at the Shady Rest Country Club, 820 Jerusalem Rd. (at the corner of Plainfield Avenue) in Scotch Plains. This upcoming meeting is free and all are welcome. Refreshments and fellowship will follow the presentation. For questions, please email Info@HistoricalSocietySPFNJ.org or call 908/322-6700 Extension 230.

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Osborn Cannonball House Museum Open April 7th

5 April 2024
“All are invited to attend the 2024 opening of the Osborn Cannonball House Museum on Sunday, April 7, 2024 from 2pm to 4pm.

As part of a springtime celebration, the museum display will feature antique Edwardian clothing from the museum’s vast antique clothing collection.

Costumed docents will be available to give tours of the c.1750 house and will share with you the story of the Osborn Family, the two Revolutionary War Soldiers who grew up in the house, and other stories of this important, early Scotch Plains family. You will also hear how the house became known to the community as the “Cannonball House.”

There will be a spring-themed craft for kids in our backyard tent and a special treat for children who visit.

The museum is located at 1840 Front Street, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076.  Admission to the museum is free, but donations are always welcome.

We hope you will join us in this celebration of spring!”

For more information email Info@HistoricalSocietySPFNJ.org or call 908-322-6700 Extension 230.

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