Morris County Highlights 250th Anniversary Plans on WRNJ
Published on February 11, 2026
Semiquincentennial Events Discussed During Live “Local Impact” Interview
The Semiquincentennial celebration in Morris County was the focus of a live WRNJ radio interview last week, where Morris County’s central role in the American Revolution, upcoming 250th anniversary events, and the economic and community impact of heritage tourism were highlighted.
The Feb. 4 broadcast of WRNJ’s “Local Impact” program featured Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw; Sarah Neibart, chair of the Morris County 250th Anniversary Committee; and Craig Schlosser, a Morris County Historical Society board member and First Night Morris co-chair. The panel joined host Joyce Estey for the hourlong discussion at WRNJ’s Hackettstown studios.
“The Semiquincentennial has arrived, and Morris County is celebrating all year long,” said Director Shaw. “From reenactments and exhibits to driving tours, concerts, a colonial cooking series and hands-on programs, there is truly something for everyone. Morris County was not on the sidelines of the Revolution --independence was fought for and won here. We invite everyone to be part of this once-in-a-generation milestone.”
A recording of the full WRNJ interview is available on the Morris County Government YouTube channel.
Director Shaw noted that Morris County stood at the center of what became known as the “Crossroads of the Revolution,” serving as the site of Gen. George Washington’s winter encampments. The county’s ironworks, supply routes, churches, taverns and private homes sustained the Continental Army.
Neibart, who oversees the 250th anniversary committee through the Morris County Tourism Bureau, emphasized the countywide collaboration supporting event planning and initiatives.
“This is truly a partnership-driven celebration,” Neibart said. “We are working alongside our 39 municipalities, historical societies, nonprofits, local businesses and county agencies -- including the Park Commission and County Library -- to coordinate programs and events that commemorate our history while engaging new generations. We want this to excite residents and visitors of all ages while welcoming them to experience and learn about Morris County’s Revolutionary story.”
“Heritage tourism is a powerful driver of visitation and local economic growth,” Schlosser said. “With the county’s annual $100,000 investment in 250th planning, along with additional public and private funding – including more than $375,000 in newly secured capital -- we are maximizing our resources to deliver a countywide celebration that elevates Morris County’s national profile and supports our local economy,” said Schlosser.
Beginning in 2024, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners committed $100,000 annually to the Morris County Economic Development Alliance and Tourism Bureau to support planning, marketing and coordination tied to 250th anniversary programs. Additional funding includes a dedicated $100,000 FM Kirby Foundation micro-grant program focused on capacity-building for local historical organizations in partnership with the Morris County Historical Society.
Director Shaw also highlighted Morris County’s long-term historic preservation commitment. Since 2003, the county’s Historic Preservation Trust Fund has awarded more than $56 million to preserve 136 historic sites, including 15 Revolutionary-era locations.
Upcoming events discussed during the interview include:
For a complete calendar of 250th events and information on how to participate, visit morriscounty250.com or follow “@MorrisCounty250” on social media.
Note: Some events have not yet been publicly posted. Links referenced correspond to the host organizations’ websites.
###
Photo 1: (l-r) Craig Schlosser, Morris County Historical Society board member and First Night Morris co-chair; Joyce Estey, WRNJ News Director; Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw; and Sarah Neibart, chair of the Morris County 250th Anniversary Committee.
Photo 2: (l-r) Stephen Shaw, Craig Schlosser (back center), and Sarah Neibart.