Union County Historical Society Newsletter – May–June 2024, Issue No. 176

Annual Luncheon: Research on the 1780 Battles

More than 45 members and friends gathered on Sunday, April 14, for UCHS’s annual luncheon featuring a presentation on research at the Connecticut Farms and Springfield battlegrounds of June 1780. Dr. Richard Veit and Dr. Jonathan Mercantini summarized ongoing findings using cartography, archaeology, and historical sources, noting continued opportunities to interpret artifacts and troop movements as the 250th approaches.

UCHS presenters Dr. Jonathan Mercantini and Dr. Richard Veit with UCHS President Joanne Rajoppi and VPs.
Presenters Dr. Mercantini & Dr. Veit with President Joanne Rajoppi and VPs.
UCHS members and friends posing for a group photo at the annual luncheon.
Members and friends at the annual luncheon.

Kenilworth Program with Dr. Walter E. Boright

On Thursday, June 20, UCHS member and Kenilworth historian Dr. Walter E. Boright presents “A postcard journey thru Kenilworth history,” with rare postcards from 1899 to modern times, plus a mini-workshop on “Hints to dating old photos and postcards.” Sponsored by the Kenilworth Historical Society at the barrier-free Senior Citizens Center (526 Blvd.), 6:30 p.m. start; admission, parking, and light refreshments are free.

Flyer image for Dr. Walter E. Boright’s Kenilworth postcard history program.
Dr. Boright’s Kenilworth postcard program & photo dating workshop.

Student Scholarship Awards

UCHS will present its Student Scholarship Awards on Sunday, May 19, 2:00 p.m., at Hanson House, 38 Springfield Avenue, Cranford. All are invited; refreshments to follow.

Announcement for UCHS Student Scholarship Awards at Hanson House, Cranford.
Student Awards at Hanson House, Cranford.

Historic County Cards

More than 60 commemorative history trading cards, initiated by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, highlight notable people and historic places. Cards are available at local historical sites and via the county website.

Sampling of Union County Historic County Cards.
Sampling of Union County Historic County Cards.
Trading card describing Hannah Caldwell and the Battle of Connecticut Farms.
Hannah Caldwell: story from the 1780 Battle of Connecticut Farms.
Painting inspired by Rev. Caldwell’s 'Give ’em Watts, Boys!' episode at Springfield, 1780.
“Give ’em Watts, Boys!” — Rev. Caldwell at the 1780 Battle of Springfield.

FAQs

What new insights emerged from the luncheon research update?

The team is refining maps of the 1780 Connecticut Farms and Springfield actions, with ongoing archaeology and document study revealing artifact locations and possible troop movements.

What are Union County Historic County Cards?

A county initiative offering >60 trading cards on local figures and places, distributed at historic sites and online for public education and engagement.

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