In a world of highways and shopping malls, it may be difficult to think of Bergen County as an agricultural countryside, but it wasn’t too long ago that it was true. This Wednesday, September 20, BCHS interpreter (and broom-maker) Joe Restivo will discuss the history of HNBL’s restored nineteenth century barn and explain the uses of its artifacts and structure in an everyday Bergen lifestyle now gone. Come explore the conveyances and agricultural equipment in our collection to improve your interpretation of Bergen’s past!

While the barn is not open at all our events (no heat in the winter), it is always a popular exhibit when open, especially with kids. Even if you don’t normally work in it, having a knowledge of what’s there and of our farming past is helpful to the well-versed volunteer.

The meeting will start at the Steuben House at 7:30 and then move to the barn. Steuben House, 1209 Main St, River Edge, NJ 07661.