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A Guide to
Fine and Performing Arts Organizations
in Somerset County
Compiled June 2006
Last Updated May 2013
ARTS ORGANIZATIONS
CRAFTS
ASSOCIATION OF TRADITIONAL HOOKING ARTISTS
Alice Beatty Chapter
Vermeule Art Center
Clinton Avenue
North Plainfield, NJ 07060
Mailing Address:
12 Inness Place
Glen Ridge, NJ 07028
Contact: Norma Batastini, President
Phone: (973) 746-2936
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To promote the traditional art of rug-hooking
Membership Events: Meetings held monthly on 1st Wednesday,
10:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. (except June, July & August); Public
Welcome
Public Events: Scheduled public rug exhibitions (call for dates)
NEEDLEWORK AND CRAFTING GUILD
Senior Wellness Center
202 Mount Airy Rd.
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Meetings: “Knitting Club” meets every Wednesday, 10:45 AM
Warrenbrook Senior Center
500 Warrenville Rd.
Warren, NJ 07059
Meetings: “Knitting and Crochet Circle” meets every 2nd and 4th
Wednesday of the month, 10:30 AM
Washington School
614 First Ave
Raritan, NJ 08870
Meetings: Crocheting Group meets every Wednesday, 9 AM – 12
PM (at Washington School), with the exception of holidays.
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Contact: Caitlin Witucki
Office on Aging & Disability Services
P.O. Box 3000
Somerville, NJ 08876
Phone: (908) 704-6339
Fax: (908) 595-0194
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Public Agency
Purpose: To promote and encourage the art of quilting, knitting
and needlework; to provide a place for older adults interested in
learning and sharing the joys of quilting, knitting and various
needlework projects.
Meetings: Group meets every Wednesday 9 A.M. – 12 Noon
(at Washington School), with the exception of holidays.
PIECED TOGETHER QUILTERS
P.O. Box 8097
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Contact: Charledine Rome
Phone: (908) 766-5072
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Non-profit quilting guild
Purpose: Provides inspiration, encouragement, knowledge,
learning and friendship to its members; educates the members
and public about quilting through activities including meetings,
discussions, lectures, seminars and displays of quilts.
Membership Events: Meetings held the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays,
September through June, at the Green Knoll Rescue Squad
Building, North Bridge St., Bridgewater from 7:00 - 9:30 P.M.;
focus groups; bus trips to quilt shows; guest speakers; charity quilt
projects. Membership is open to anyone who loves quilts, and new
quilters are encouraged to join.
Public Events: Members’ quilt show
SENIOR ARTISTS & CRAFTERS
St. John’s Church
158 W. High Street
Somerville, NJ
Mailing Address:
9 Bell Avenue
Somerville, NJ 08876
Contact: Jack Agins
Phone: (908) 526-8769
Type of Organization: Non-profit
Purpose: To promote the art of handcrafting and to provide
a community service
Membership Events: Meetings held monthly on 2nd Tuesday
7:00 P.M. in the parish hall; membership dues $10 annually.
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Public Events: Among other activities, participates in Somerville
Street Fairs, June and October; Arts & Crafts Fairs in May
and September; Holiday Boutique in conjunction with Santaland
(Saturday following Thanksgiving-mid December). Call for other
sponsored activities and dates.
DANCE
BEE SHARPS SQUARE DANCE CLUB
685 Montgomery Road
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Contact: Nancy Ammons
Phone: (908) 369-3418
Fax: (973) 324-8373
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.squaredancing.com/beesharps
Type of Organization: Non-profit, Social Club for members
Purpose: to promote square dancing as a cultural & fitness
activity for people of all ages; also provides instruction in square
dancing
Membership events: Square dances are held every 2nd & 4th
Fridays at the Bound Brook United Methodist Church,
150 Union Avenue from September-May. Lessons are provided
at the Adamsville School, on Union Avenue in Bridgewater
every Monday night from mid-Sept.- June from 7:30 - 9:30 P.M.
All ages welcomed; partners not necessary.
Public Events: Three open house dances are held at the
Adamsville School from mid-September through early October for
people interested in learning to square dance. When requested,
organization participates in helping other organizations put on
square dances and barn dances as fundraisers or just for social
purposes. They have participated in SC 4-H Fair and for J&J as
a cultural activity for their foreign-national employees.
FRANKLIN HI-STEPPERS
Franklin Township Community Senior Center
505 DeMott Lane
Somerset, NJ 08873
Contact: Shonda Sanchez
Phone: (732) 873-1991, Select Option #4
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Volunteers
Purpose: To entertain at civic, county and state functions, nursing
homes, senior organizations and schools.
Membership Events: Practices held on Monday and Wednesday
mornings, 9:30 -11:30 A.M. at the Community Senior Center.
Public Events: Performances at local hospitals, nursing homes,
senior centers and schools.
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LIVING PARABLES / PUPPE’ N ’DANCE
196 Tanglewood Drive
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Contact: Loretta D. Fois, Artistic Director
Phone: (908) 595-0408
Fax: (908) 595-0408
e-mail: [email protected]
Web : www.puppendance.com
Type of Organization: Non-profit; Dance and Puppet
Performance Company
Purpose: To provide entertaining and artistic performances
for the general public
Public Events: Performances, Lectures & Demonstrations, etc.
MUSIC
THE BLAWENBURG BAND
8 Clermont Avenue
Ewing NJ 08618
Contact: Jerry Rife
Phone: (609) 882-4148
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.Blawenburgband.org
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose:
To perpetuate the tradition of the town band;
to reinforce the importance of the adult community band
in America; and to provide the opportunity for musical expression
and growth for performing members.
Membership Events: Rehearsals held weekly on Mondays at
7:30 P.M. at Princeton Junior School, 90 Fackler Road, Lawrence
Township. Area musicians are welcome.
Public Events: Concert series; an annual major public concert
in May; the band performs for community events, nursing
& retirement homes and church socials.
CENTRAL JERSEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
522 Old York Road
Neshanic Station, NJ 08853
Contact: Michael Avagliano, Music Director
Phone: (732) 549-3382
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.cjso.org
Type of Organization: Non-profit community orchestra
Description: Community based orchestra with members
from five counties across the state.
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Purpose:
To rehearse and perform standard symphonic
repertoire within the community, in addition to providing
a community outlet for symphonic performance.
Public Events: Concerts are held in November, February
and May and at other times at special venues throughout the year.
THE DISCOVERY ORCHESTRA
(formerly the Philharmonic Orchestra of New Jersey)
50 Mt. Bethel Road
P.O. Box 4064
Warren, NJ 07059
Contact: Diane Lester, Administrator
Phone: (908) 226-7300
Fax: (908) 226-7337
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.discoveryorchestra.org
Type of Organization: Interactive, educational orchestra; Nonprofit
Purpose: The Discovery Orchestra teaches the listening skills
that help people emotionally connect to classical music.
Public Events: Discovery Concerts™; In-Home Chamber Music
Recitals; Music Listening Courses & Lectures;
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Television shows also accessible via DVDs; Educational videos
and features on YouTube, facebook and Twitter; Educational
Outreach Programs
RARITAN VALLEY CHORUS
P.O. Box 6044
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Conductor: Don Kalbach
Contact: Don Kalbach
Phone : (732) 356-2966
e-mail : [email protected]
Web site: www.raritanvalleychorus.org
Type of Organization: Educational, Non-profit
Purpose: Raritan Valley Chorus is a community-based ensemble,
which includes people of various ages, backgrounds and careers.
Founded in 1990, it is open to all residents of the region and offers
a range of musical experiences.
Membership Events: Rehearsals on Tuesdays at 7:30 P.M.
at the Neshanic Reformed Church, 715 Amwell Road,
Hillsborough, September through May.
RARITAN VALLEY SYMPHONIC BAND
P.O. Box 6064
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Music Director: Larry Markiewicz
Contact: Mark Osman
Phone: (908) 963-4860
Fax: (908) 766-9330
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site : www.rvsb.org
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Type of Organization: Arts, educational, public, non-profit under
the direction of Larry Markiewicz
Purpose: To preserve the community concert band tradition
in American music; to rehearse and perform traditional
and contemporary music for wind ensemble; to provide
educational outreach; and support the cultural enhancement of the
central New Jersey community
Membership Events: Members attend rehearsals weekly
from September to June; perform in at least 4 public concerts
a year: January, March, late June, and December; and participate
in master classes and other educational programs. Programs
contain both classical and popular music.
Public Events: Three formal concerts and a children’s concert
are held yearly, and one or more informal outdoor "Pops" concerts
are held in the summer. All concerts are free and usually held
at the Hillsborough High School auditorium. The band sponsors
clinics and other musical events that are open to the public.
RIDGE LIGHT OPERA
120 Governor Drive
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Contact: William C. Corson, President
Phone: (908) 903-0702
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.ridgelightopera.org
Type of Organization: Non-profit; presenter of light opera
& musical theatre
Purpose: To preserve and maintain awareness of the musical
treasures of light opera and 20th century musical theatre through
high-quality performances, education and school programs
Events: Social only
Public Events: Performances of light opera, musical theatre,
musical reviews, cabarets, and concerts and lectures on the
performing arts for all ages in full theatrical settings; offers some
charity work and school programs
SOMERSET HILLS JERSEY HARMONY EXPRESS
Bridgewater-Raritan High School
600 Garretson Road
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Mailing Address:
18 Hillcrest Blvd.
Warren, NJ 07059
Contact: Win Winter
Phone: (908) 755-1089
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To perpetuate an old American music form, the
barbershop quartet; to promote and encourage vocal harmony; to
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establish and maintain music scholarships and benefit charitable
foundations
Membership Events: meetings 2nd & 4th Mondays; competitions
at quartet and chorus levels; awards for competence; and social
activities for members and their families; new members welcome
in all voice parts
Public Events: Presentation of musical concerts to assist other
charitable organizations in pursuit of their goals.
SOMERSET VALLEY ORCHESTRA
c/o Jointure for Community Adult Education
The Centre at Raritan
1124 Route 202 South, Suite B-11
Raritan, NJ 08869
Mailing Address:
137 Cherry Ave.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
Music Director: Larry Markiewicz
Contact: Don Kalbach
Phone: (732) 356-2966
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.somersetvalleyorchestra.com
Type of Organization: Non-profit, educational community
orchestra
Purpose: To present concerts for the community; to provide
music participation and education for local musicians; to provide
any amateur musician an opportunity to play with a symphony
orchestra, regardless of ability and with no audition; to encourage
cultural activity in Somerset County
Membership Events: Rehearsals are held throughout the spring,
fall, and winter months each Thursday evening from
7:30-9:30 P.M. at Bridgewater-Raritan High School, 600
Garretson Road, Bridgewater. The orchestra performs two or
more concerts each season.
Public Events: Two major concerts are performed each year,
which feature soloists and direct musical conversation between
the conductor and the audience.
TALENTED YOUNG MUSICIANS ASSOCIATION
46 Bolton Court
Somerset, NJ 08873
Contact: Lioudmila (Mila) Kozlova
Phone: 732-873-7376
Website: www.njtyma.org <http://www.njtyma.org/>
Type of Organization: Non-profit
Purpose: To educate the public through the cultural media of
music in live performance to promote and encourage the talents
and abilities of young musicians, ages 5-18.
Membership events: Offers professional music instruction for
children and teens; also offers workshops for teachers.
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Public Events: Annual Russian Music Competition featuring all
instruments and vocal music in November; public student recitals,
every other month; Student auditions (late May/Early June)
THEATRE
BROOK ARTS CENTER
10 Hamilton Street
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 387
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
Contact: Curt Schmidt, Chairman
Phone: 732-469-7700
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.brookarts.org
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To create an arts incubator/performing arts center
based at the Brook Theatre, a 1927 vaudeville house in Bound
Brook, NJ, to serve as a nurturing environment for the artist
to grow and mature, and to give Somerset County audiences a
chance to witness the process.
Public Events: Events offered cover a wide spectrum including
plays, musicals, and children’s shows, silent film screenings,
concerts and lectures.
SOMERSET VALLEY PLAYERS
689 Amwell Rd.
Route 514
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Mailing Address:
PO Box 6593
Hillsborough, NJ 08844-6593
Contact: Michael Muller
PHONE: (609) 369-7469
e-mail : [email protected]
Web site: www.svptheatre.org
Reservations: (908) 369-7469
Type of Organization: Non-profit, community theatre
Purpose: To provide quality theatre at affordable prices for adults
and children; to provide summer programs of theatre workshops
for teens and pre-teens and evenings of play readings by local
amateur writers.
Membership Events: Please call for monthly meeting dates.
Check web site for information. All are welcome.
Public Events: Nine major theatre productions per year; special
holiday program in December.
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SOURLAND HILLS ACTORS GUILD
P.O. Box 44
Blawenburg, NJ 08504
Phone: (609) 466-8729
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Non-profit, community theatre
Purpose: The Sourland Hills Actors Guild provides an affordable,
accessible, and inter-generational theatre experience for the
township of Montgomery, NJ and its surrounding areas. The goal
is a fun, engaging, educational, and positive experience of live
theatre for participants and audiences alike.
Public Events: All auditions and productions are open to the
public. Currently offer a Full-Length Musical presentation annually
in Novembers, and summer workshops for kids have been
offered.
THEATRE AT RARITAN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
118 Lamington Road
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 3300
Somerville, NJ 08876
Contact: Alan Liddell
Director of Theatre
Box Office Phone: (908) 725-3420
TDD: 800-852-7899
e-mail: [email protected]
Contact: Cristina Lankay
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.rvccarts.org
Type of Organization: Non-profit, Performing Arts Center
Purpose: To present cultural programming for the community
Public Events: Program featuring major artists/performers & two
children's series; one public and one field trip.
TRILOGY REPERTORY COMPANY
P.O. Box 199
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Phone: (908) 604-4800
Contact: Jaye Barre, Director
Phone: (908) 630-0199
e-mail : [email protected]
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: Trilogy Repertory Company provides area residents
with rewarding opportunities to participate in all aspects of theatre
performances, production & appreciation.
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Public Events: All auditions and productions are open to the
public. Major emphasis of the group is on projects involving the
local community: Children’s Participatory Theatre Production,
which tours local libraries and hospitals; Annual Workshop Day in
November, in cooperation with area Girl Scouts, to teach basic
theatre skills; and in cooperation with the Bernards Township
Department of Parks & Recreation, free performances are
provided in the outdoor amphitheater at Pleasant Valley Park in
July, and an annual picnic in the autumn.
THE VILLAGERS THEATRE
415 DeMott Lane
Somerset, NJ 08873
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 6175
Somerset, NJ 08875-6175
Phone: (732) 873-2710
Web site: www.Villagerstheatre.com
Contact: Donna Kimberlin, Trustee / Theatre Administrator
Fax: (732) 873-1149
Type of Organization: Non-profit
Purpose: The presentation and production of live theatre for all
ages through all forms of educational, performing and cultural arts,
as well as encouraging participation of local citizens, young and
old alike.
Public Events: Year-round presentations, offering five main stage
productions, three Black Box productions, three KidsVill
productions, one TeensVill production, one Summer Theatre Arts
Program, two Saturday childrens’ workshops, two teen
performance workshops, one new playwrights series and
numerous special events.
VISUAL ARTS
CAMERA NATURALISTS PHOTO CLUB
Somerset County Environmental Education Center
190 Lord Stirling Rd.
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Phone: (908) 766-2489
Web site: www.cameranaturalist.org
Contact: Phil Witt, President
1931 Mountain Top Road
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Phone: (908) 429-1326
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To promote interest in and appreciation of, nature
through the medium of photography
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Membership Events: Meetings held once or twice monthly, on
Thursdays at 7:30 P.M., at the Somerset County Environmental
Education Center; photography lectures; field trips; techniques;
occasional exhibitions; contests; education and service projects to
aid environmental group.
Public Events: Club membership is open to individuals interested
in nature photography at all levels, from beginner to advanced.
Guests are welcome.
THE CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ART
(formerly Somerset Art Association)
2020 Burnt Mills Road
Bedminster, NJ 07921
Contact: Elie Porter Trubert, Executive Director
e-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (908) 234-2345
Fax: (908) 275-8828
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.ccabedminster.org
Type of Organization: Non-profit visual arts
Purpose: The Center for Contemporary Art is a vital regional art
center with a comprehensive studio art school, professional
exhibition program and important community outreach component.
The mission of The Center is, “To provide a vibrant, contemporary
cultural center through arts education, exhibitions and community
outreach that will inspire creativity and enhance people’s lives.”
The Center is committed to broadening, deepening, and
diversifying participation among audiences; to challenging and
inspiring students, teachers, artists, enthusiasts and members of
the community through the many facets of the visual arts; and to
creating a culture of the highest standards and expectations for
artistic exploration, interpretation and perception. The Center
offers year-round art classes in a variety of media for children and
adults of all ages and levels of experience, children’s summer art
camps and birthday parties. The Center presents rotating
exhibitions of contemporary art, provides exhibition opportunities
for members, and hosts Youth Art Month exhibitions for Somerset
County. Outreach programs bring vital art experiences to
underserved populations such as children with Autism Spectrum
Disorder, adults with disabilities, and people affected by cancer.
Membership Events: Both members and the general public are
invited to participate in all of The Center’s educational programs
and special events. Membership is required to enter Members’
exhibitions, and members receive reduced rates on programming,
invitations to special events, and many other benefits.
Public Events: All offerings above, with exception of those items
available to members only.
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FLEETWOOD MUSEUM OF ART & PHOTOGRAPHICA
Clinton Avenue and Greenbrook Road
North Plainfield, NJ 07063
c/o Nick Ciampa
Mailing Address:
135 Sandford Avenue
North Plainfield, NJ 07060
Contact: Nick Ciampa
Phone: (908) 757-5507
e-mail: [email protected]
Tours/ Lectures: George Helmke
Phone: (908) 647-2562
Type of Organization: Municipal, Non-profit
Purpose: To promote interest in the art, science, technology
and history of photo imaging.
Membership Events: Periodic meetings
Public Events: Special tours/lectures for groups; remote displays
for libraries; Museum hours: Saturdays, 10:00 A.M.- 4:00 P.M.;
2nd Sundays, 1-4 P.M.; closed holiday weekends; free admission.
MATHENY MEDICAL & EDUCATIONAL CENTER
ARTS ACCESS PROGRAM
MATHENY MEDICAL AND EDUCATIONAL CENTER
ARTS ACCESS PROGRAM
65 Highland Avenue
P.O. Box 339
Peapack, NJ 07977
Contact: Eileen Murray, Director
Phone: (908) 234-0011, ext. 1-442
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.artsaccessprogram.org
Type of organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: Founded in 1993, the Arts Access Program is an
integral part of Matheny Medical and Educational Center, offering
opportunities for complete freedom of expression through the arts.
Using Arts Access’ specialized communication and choice
systems, the world of the artist with disabilities becomes unlimited
and rich with creative possibilities. Arts Access offers programs in
painting, digital painting, digital sculpting, choreography, creative
movement, drama and writing.
Public Events: The Arts Access annual signature arts
celebration, Full Circle, showcases the visual, literary and
performing created by the program’s artists with disabilities. This
event takes place in the fall on the campus of the Matheny
Medical and Educational Center. Please contact Arts Access for
more information.
PRINTMAKING CENTER OF NEW JERSEY
440 River Road
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Contact: Linda Helm Krapf, Executive Director
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Phone: (908) 725-2110
Fax: (908) 725-2484
E-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.printnj.org
Type of Organization: Nonprofit Arts Center
Purpose: The Printmaking Center of New Jersey (PCNJ) is an
uncommon, award-winning arts center founded in 1973. For 40
years, PCNJ has operated the state’s only open printmaking
studios. Artists access rare equipment and supplies at an
affordable rate to create art in the Center’s studio; all day, into the
night, 7 days a week. PCNJ also exhibits exceptional, thoughtprovoking art; offers sophisticated printmaking classes for adults;
and provides travelling art programs to children to stimulate lifelong creativity. Recently, PCNJ launched Combat Paper NJ, a
ground-breaking program that uses art to heal one of the most
vulnerable populations in America – veterans.
PROGRAMS:
Studio: PCNJ offers NJ’s only open studios for etching,
lithography, relief, screen-printing, letterpress, papermaking, book
arts and photography. PCNJ’s master printer has an extraordinary
aptitude for turning the studio into a laboratory where artists are
encouraged to push their boundaries to create dynamic new work.
Combat Paper: Eighteen American veterans commit suicide each
day. Combat Paper NJ is a weekly veteran-led art-making
experience where vets turn their combat fatigues into original fine
art prints. Fatigues can hold the worst memories of a veteran’s
life. Turning them into handmade paper is emotional, cathartic and
transformative. The paper provides the platform for art by adding
drawings, photographs, and words. The program is run by
veterans/for veterans. Combat Paper NJ operates a weekly dropin session each Sunday from 10am until 4pm. No registration is
necessary.
Exhibitions: PCNJ hosts engaging exhibitions in-house and at
off-site public and private locations. Exhibitions are invitational or
juried and explore dynamic themes that reflect upon contemporary
issues, while inviting broad and diverse interpretation.
Education: Professional artists and novices enroll in classes
taught by accomplished working artists. Classes are held in an
informal studio setting. Small class format allows for processoriented exploration and individualized attention.
Roving Press: Providing arts education to children is central to
PCNJ’s mission. That mission is upheld through the Roving Press,
an outreach program staffed by professional artists that brings
printmaking instruction to schools and community organizations
throughout the state.
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Artist-in-Residence (AiR): PCNJ offers a six week residency to
artists interested in developing new and innovative work in
printmaking and its related disciplines. The AiR is offered a
stipend and uninterrupted time in the studio to explore new ideas
and techniques.
Public Events: The Printmaking Center of NJ is open Tuesdays
through Fridays from 10am until 4pm and Saturdays from 12 until
4 pm. Exhibition tours are free and open to the public.
RARITAN VALLEY ART ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 281
Liberty Corner, NJ 07938
Contact: Linda Arnold, President
Phone: (908) 647-3610
e-mail: [email protected]
Contact: Susan Boyd, Membership Chairman
Phone: (732) 560-7241
Type of Organization: Non-profit, association of independent
artists in existence since 1939
Purpose: To provide demonstrations in various media; to hold
exhibitions of members' work.
Membership Events: meetings held monthly at the Somerset
County Library, meeting rooms A & B (except June, July and
August), usually the third Monday of every month (depending on
the holidays) at 7:30 P.M., business meeting followed by an
artist’s demonstration; dinners and a bus trip to NYC art
museums; two to three shows of members’ artwork a year.
Public Events: The public is invited to attend meetings
and demonstrations at no cost.
RARITAN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ART GALLERY
118 Lamington Road
North Branch, NJ 08876
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 3300
Somerville NJ 08876
Contact: Sandi Hartzell
Phone: (908) 218-8876
e-mail : [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Non-profit, educational
Public Events: Eight shows a season, including two student and
one faculty show; invitational exhibitions curated by faculty
and Artist Talks at Friday evening openings
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SOMERSET COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB
410 West Maple Avenue
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
Contact: David McRitchie
Phone: (732) 469-8481
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: http://somersetcountyphoto.99k.org/index.htm
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To provide a place where both amateurs and
professionals can meet, share ideas, gather new information and
display their photographic work; club activities are oriented
to digital photography.
Membership Events: Meetings are open to the public; entry of
digital images into competition is limited to members. Meetings:
7:00 P.M. on 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, September-June, Bound Brook
Memorial Library, 402 E. High Street (corner of Hamilton Street),
Bound Brook.
VERMEULE ART CENTER
Clinton Avenue and Vermeule Place
North Plainfield, NJ 07063
Contact: Janet Apgar, President
Phone: (908) 755-8288
Contact: Bea Danyo, Vice President
Phone: (908) 756-7724
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To promote interest in the arts
Membership Events: Watercolor workshop every Monday
9:30 A.M. - 12 Noon (Call 908-754-1408); Needlework Groupquilting, knitting, etc. every Wednesday 1:00-3:00 P.M.
(Call 908-755-8288); Porcelain China Painting class 2nd & 4th
Friday monthly, 9:30 A.M. -12 Noon (Call 908-647-3039); painting
on site; instructions in various crafts and quilting; Volunteers knit
and crochet for foster children and hospitals.
Public Events: Classes/workshops are open to the public and no
fee. The membership fee is $5 per year. Members receive news
letters, and can come to the summer picnic and the Christmas
Party in the winter. People who are interested to join are
welcomed.
WATCHUNG ARTS CENTER
18 Stirling Road, at the Watchung Circle
Watchung, NJ 07069
Contact: Stacy Gannon, Executive Director
Phone: (908) 753-0190
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.watchungarts.org
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To stimulate cultural awareness through programs and
classes in the visual and performing arts for children and adults.
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Membership Events: Photography workshops; art and dance
classes for children and adults; summer programs for children and
teenagers in art; open studio time; an opportunity to exhibit in
a member art show; members’ and children’s juried art shows;
and a monthly online newsletter.
Public Events: New art exhibits every month open to the public;
comedy shows, Indian music classical concerts, jazz, folk and
classical concert programs are offered also on a monthly basis.
Please check website for occasional extra offerings. Gallery
hours: W-F, 12-3 pm; Tue & Sat by appointment.
SOMERSET COUNTY MUNICIPAL ARTS
COMMISSIONS / COMMITTEES / COUNCILS
HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP CULTURAL & ARTS
COMMISSION
Hillsborough Municipal Complex
379 South Branch Road
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
e-mail: [email protected]
Contact: Art Carlson, Chairman
Phone: (908) 281-6922
Purpose: The Hillsborough Cultural & Arts Commission was
established in 1996 to promote awareness and understanding of
the arts; to nurture creativity; to showcase talent; and to utilize
available resources to reflect the cultural diversity of Hillsborough
Township.
Membership Events: Meetings are held monthly on the
3rd Thursday at 7:00 P.M. at the Hillsborough Municipal Complex.
The public is welcome.
Public Events: The commission presents an Annual Showcase of
Performers, which accompanies the Independence Day Township
fireworks display, and other activities from time to time. Please
call for further information.
NORTH PLAINFIELD CULTURAL ARTS COMMITTEE
145 Farragut Road
North Plainfield, NJ 07062
Contact: Janeann Dickerson, Secretary
Phone: (908) 561-7898
Fax: (908) 769-6116 (use cover page)
e-mail: [email protected]
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SOMERSET COUNTY COMMISSIONS / ORGANIZATIONS
OFFERING CULTURAL PROGRAMS
SOMERSET COUNTY 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
310 Milltown Road
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Contact: Lisa Rothenburger
County 4-H Agent
Phone: (908) 231-7000, ext. 7521
Fax: (908) 704-1821
e-mail: [email protected]
Additional Contact: Carol Ward
Phone: (908) 526-6644
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: County
Purpose: The Rutgers Cooperative Research & Extension
4-H Youth Development Program uses a learn-by-doing approach
to enable youth to develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills they
need to become competent, caring and contributing citizens
of the world. The mission is accomplished by using the knowledge
and resources of the land grant university system, along with
the involvement of caring adults.
Membership Events: Membership is open to all boys and girls
in grades K-13; includes activities in over 70 project areas; youth
can participate in clubs, school enrichment programs, or special
interest programs.
SOMERSET COUNTY PARK COMMISSION
355 Milltown Road
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 5327
North Branch, NJ 08876
Contact: Ray Brown, Secretary / Director
Phone: (908) 722-1200
Fax: (908) 722-6592
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.somersetcountyparks.org
Type of Organization: County
Purpose: Promotes stewardship of land and resources; provides
recreational opportunities and leisure services; and fosters a
service-oriented environment, which is responsive to public needs.
Public Events: Among other activities, the Commission sponsors
the following cultural events: free Summer Concert Series; Fourth
of July Family Festival; wildlife carving and art show; Lord Stirling
1770s Festival; and the Festival of Trees.
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STATE, REGIONAL, & NATIONAL CULTURAL
ORGANIZATIONS / RESOURCES
AMERICANS FOR THE ARTS
1 East 53rd Street, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 223-2787
Fax: (212) 980-4857
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.AmericansForTheArts.org
AMERICANS FOR THE ARTS
1000 Vermont Avenue, NW, 6th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20005
Phone: (202) 371-2830
Fax: (202) 371-0424
e-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.AmericansForTheArts.org
ARTPRIDE NEW JERSEY, INC.
432 High Street
Burlington, NJ 08016
Contact: Ann Marie Miller, Executive Director
Phone: (609) 479-3377
Fax: (609) 964-1566
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.artpridenj.com
ARTS HORIZONS, INC.
1 Grand Avenue, Suite 7
Englewood, NJ 07631-3550
Contacts:
Elizabeth Halverstam, Executive Director
Geri Iannaconi, Booking Assembly Programs
Jenifer Simon, Workshops / Professional Development / Seniors
Phone: (201) 567-1766
Toll Free: 1-888-522-2787
Fax: (201) 567-5312
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.artshorizons.org
CENTER FOR NON-PROFIT CORPORATIONS
1501 Livingston Avenue, Ste. 104
North Brunswick, NJ 08902
Contact : Linda Czito
Phone: (732) 227-0800
Fax: (732) 227-0087
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site : www.njnonprofits.org
Purpose: Offers Technical Assistance and Professional
Development for non-profit and charitable organizations focusing
on legal and management issues such as compliance, policy,
board development, grant writing, advocacy, etc.
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MID-ATLANTIC ARTS FOUNDATION
201 North Charles Street, Suite 401
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: (410) 539-6656
Fax: (410) 837-5517
TDD: (410) 779-1593
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.midatlanticarts.org
NATIONAL ART EDUCATION ASSOCIATION
1806 Robert Fulton Drive, Suite 300
Reston, VA 20191
Phone: (703) 860-8000
Fax: (703) 860-2960
Contact: Deborah B. Reeve, Ed.D., Executive Director
Phone: (703) 889-1283
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.arteducators.org
Membership (approx. 20,000) includes K-12 visual arts educators,
artists, supervisors/administrators, museum educators, students,
and higher education professors from throughout the United
States and several foreign countries. NAEA’s mission is to
advance visual arts education to fulfill human potential and
promote global understanding.
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Suite 726
Washington, D.C. 20506-0001
Contact: Rocco Landesman, Chairman
Phone: (202) 682-5414
e-mail : [email protected]
Phone: (202) 682-5400
TYY: (202) 682-5496
Fax: (202) 682-5602
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.arts.gov
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Room 503
Washington, D.C. 20506-0001
Contact: Jim Leach, Chairman
Phone: (202) 606-8400
General Information: (800) NEH-1121
TDD: (866) 372-2930
(202) 606-8282
Fax: (202) 606-8557
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.neh.gov
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Description: NEH is an independent, grant-making agency
of the U.S. government dedicated to supporting research,
education and public programs in the humanities.
NEW JERSEY ARTS EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP
29 Garthwaite Terrace
Maplewood NJ 07040
Contact: Kristin Wenger, Director
Phone: (973) 327-2090
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.artsednj.org
NEW JERSEY COUNCIL FOR THE HUMANITIES
28 West State Street, Sixth Floor
Trenton, NJ 08608
Phone: (609) 695-4838
Toll-Free Phone: 888-FYI-NJCH
Fax: (609) 695-4929
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.njch.org
NEW JERSEY STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS (NJSCA)
225 West State Street, 4th Floor
Trenton, NJ 08625-0306
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 306
Trenton, NJ 08625
Contact : Nicholas Paleologos, Executive Director
Phone: (609) 292-6130
Fax: (609) 989-1440
TDD: (609) 633-1186
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.njartscouncil.org
Description: Comprehensive programs offer grants, fellowships,
online newsletter, and registry.
CULTURAL DIVERSITY ORGANIZATIONS
SOMERSET & REGIONAL
AMERICAN HUNGARIAN FOUNDATION AND MUSEUM
300 Somerset Street
P.O. Box 1084
New Brunswick, NJ 08903
Phone: (732) 846-5777
Fax: (732) 249-7033
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.ahfoundation.org
Purpose: To support and promote an appreciation of Hungarian
cultural heritage in America and to document the contribution
to American life by Hungarians since 1766.
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ANCIENT ORDER OF HIBERNIANS
Somerset County, St. Patrick Division I
7 Robin Road
Somerville, NJ 08876-1725
Contact: Patrick J. Mulrooney, Trustee
Phone: (908) 725-1956
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose:
To foster the ideals, and cultivate the history
and traditions of the Irish; to promote friendship, unity
and Christian charity amongst members; and to uphold
and sustain loyalty to the U.S. Government.
Membership Events: Meetings held monthly on the 3rd Tuesday
(except July and August), at 8:00 P.M. at the Knights of Columbus
Hall, 495 East Main Street, Somerville
Public Events: Annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner-Dance; Annual
Irish/American Picnic; Co-Sponsor of St. Patrick’s Day Parade in
Somerville.
ASIAN CULTURAL ARTS SOCIETY KIN TATSU KAI, INC
P.O. Box 67
Raritan, NJ 08869
Contact: Patricia Sher
Phone: (908) 722-5875
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.kintatsukai.com
Type of Organization: Non-profit cultural and educational society
Purpose: To introduce and promote Asian culture to the general
public
Membership Events: Cultural events such as festivals, concerts,
and lectures
Public Events: Television program, Asian Culture in America
is aired on Channel 8 on Thursdays, 3:00 P.M. and CableVision
(PCTC) Mondays, 9:30 P.M. & Tuesdays, 1:00 P.M. & 6:30 P.M.
CHINESE AMERICAN
CULTURAL ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 12
Edison, NJ 08818-0012
Contact: Jack Yang, President
Phone / Fax (877) 859-8208
e- mail: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.cacanj.org
Purpose: To promote communication, understanding and
appreciation of Chinese and American cultures
Public Events: The CACA Murray Hill Chinese School, meets
every Saturday during the school year at Watchung Hills Regional
High School 12:30 A.M. - 3:30 P.M. tuition charged; open to the
public; please call Huan-Ching Liao, 732-926-8152 or
[email protected] for further information. The CACA
Raritan Valley Chinese School, meets every Sunday during the
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school year at Raritan Valley Community College 9:30 A.M. -12:30
P.M. Tuition charged; open to the public. Please contact
[email protected] for further information.
DEUTSCHE SPRACHSCHULE OF
CENTRAL NEW JERSEY, INC.
Advent Lutheran Church
128 Stirling Road
P.O. Box 4123
Warren, NJ 07059-0123
Contact: Ursula Freymuth
Phone: (609) 921-8284
Type of organization: Private, Non-profit
Description: German-language school, Saturdays only,
September - May, 9:00 A.M. - 12:00 Noon at Advent Lutheran
Church, Warren; for children from 3 years old to adult; AATG
Tests; AP tests, SAT II Exams; Sprachdiplom I & II; Students
offered participation in Student Exchange Program and other
travel possibilities.
Public Events: Holiday celebration in December, with visit
from St. Nikolaus.
GARDEN STATE SIKH ASSOCIATION
977 Washington Valley Road
Basking Ridge, NJ 07924
Phone: (908) 658-9805
Contact: Mr. Harvinder Singh Wason
Phone: (732) 246-3777
Fax: (732) 246-3780
Web site: www.gssagurdwara.org
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To promote awareness of Punjabi cultural heritage,
language, ethics and social values. The Sikh temple is open
to all people.
Public Events: Weekly gatherings; annual function on April 13;
Sikh Faith Founder’s Day in November; and annual parade
in New York City in April.
QING YANG DANCE STUDIO
HUAXIA PERFORMING ARTS TROUPE
QING YANG CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE TROUPE
SUNNY DANCE CLASS
3 Summer Cottage Lane
Franklin Park, NJ 08823
Contact: Qing Yang, Director
Phone: (732) 821-4791
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.qyds.org
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Type of Organization: Non-profit
Purpose: To promote Chinese culture and heritage
by performing Chinese dances, songs and plays.
Public Events: Annual performances at celebration events,
for New Year, Christmas, Chinese New Year, Asian Pacific
American Heritage Month, New Jersey China Day, etc.;
participation in community international culture events to celebrate
community diversity.
ITALIAN-AMERICAN SOCIAL CLUB
OF NORTH PLAINFIELD
403 Somerset Street
North Plainfield, NJ 07060
Contact: Art Abruzzese, Manager
Phone: (908) 757-0088
Fax: (908) 757-0088
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose:
To promote communication, understanding and
appreciation of Italian and American cultures.
Membership Events: Meetings held monthly on the 2nd Monday
at 7:30 P.M.; dinner dances to raise money for scholarships
and local charities.
JEWISH FEDERATION OF SOMERSET, HUNTERDON AND
WARREN COUNTIES
775 Talamini Road
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Contact: Diane Naar, Executive Director
Phone: (908) 725-6994, ext. 202
Fax: (908) 725-9753
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.jfedshaw.org
Description: The Jewish Federation of Somerset, Hunterdon
and Warren Counties is the umbrella organization of the area’s
Jewish community, bringing together agencies, organizations
and communities to support and fulfill the needs of the Jewish
people. The Federation raises funds to coordinate services
and helps support agencies that touch the lives of Jews
in Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties, in Israel
and throughout the world, including the Institute for Holocaust
and Genocide Studies, educational and social programming.
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF NEGRO WOMEN, RARITAN VALLEY
SECTION
P.O. Box 736
Somerville, NJ 08876
Contact: Edith C. Washington
Phone: (732) 424-2245
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Description: Non-profit organization addressing educational,
cultural and health issues as they relate to the African-American
community.
Membership Events: New members are always welcome.
Call for more information. Members meet on the third Saturday
of each month, except July and August, at 11 A.M.
in the Bridgewater Public Library.
Public Events: Annual Fashion Show; please call for more
information.
PHILIPPINE CHAMBER RONDALLA OF NEW JERSEY, INC.
9 Duncan Court
Hillsborough NJ 08844-3032
Contact: Clarita Ramos
Phone: (908) 359-3297
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Non-profit, cultural, traditional
string ensemble
Purpose: To promote Filipino cultural heritage, and to promote
and preserve the rondalla as a native Filipino string ensemble;
indigenous instruments are used
Public Events: Performs at heritage festivals, concerts
and social activities
PLAINFIELD GESANG- UND TURN-VEREIN, INC.
220 Somerset St.
North Plainfield, NJ 07060
Contact: Victor Braun
Phone: (908) 276-8572
e-mail: [email protected]
Additional Contact: George Keller
Phone: (908) 647-0819
Type of Organization: Non-profit, cultural, heritage
Purpose: To promote and cultivate choral singing; to provide
opportunities for those interested in fostering and preserving
German musical heritage; to perform in concerts and events which
provide entertainment and pleasure for others; to participate
in activities of service to the surrounding communities.
Membership Events: Ladies Auxiliary meetings held monthly
on the 1st Friday (except January); activities include planning
and participating in events to raise funds to support the endeavors
of the organization, followed by interesting programs; Saenger
Chor rehearsals held every Monday night from 7:30 - 9:30 P.M.
in Saenger Halle; public concerts are presented in Saenger Halle,
North Plainfield, and elsewhere.
Public Events: Christmas bazaars and other fund-raising events;
Spring, Liederabend and Christmas concerts; dinner dances
throughout the year; triennial concerts held in a major
northeastern city.
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RARITAN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
CULTURAL DIVERSITY CLUBS
P.O. Box 3300
Somerville, NJ 08876
Cultural Clubs:
 The Alliance: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning,
and ally (LGBTQA)
 Black Students Association (BSA)
 Brothers Helping Brothers: Network for RVCC AfricanAmerican & Hispanic males
 Filipino Pride Engagement Awareness & Cultural
Empowerment (P.E.A.C.E.) Club
 International Club
 Orgullo Latino/Latin Pride Club
 Sister to Sister Network: Network for underrepresented female
students
Contact: Student Life Main Desk
Office: Office of Student Life
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (908) 218-8873
Contact: President, Student Government Association
Office: SGA Office
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (908) 526-1200 x8911
Description: Sponsorship of different activities on campus
to promote cross-cultural and multi-cultural understanding.
RARITAN VALLEY SLAVIC CULTURAL
& HERITAGE SOCIETY
PO BOX 211
Raritan, NJ 08869
Contact : Catherine Barrek, President
Phone : (732) 469-3331
e-mail : [email protected]
Contact: Bernadine Liebrich, Publicity
Phone: (908) 233-6718
e-mail: [email protected]
Description: Our purpose is to maintain, promote, and provide
information about the various customs, folklore, history
and heritage of the many Slavic peoples: Poles, Slovaks,
Ukrainians, Czechs, Croats, Rusyns, Russians, etc.
SHIMON AND SARA BIRNBAUM
JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER
775 Talamini Road
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Contact: Debbie Golden
Phone: (908) 725-6994, ext. 201
Fax: (908) 725-9753
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Website: www.ssbjcc.org
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Non-profit
Description: The Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community
Center is a state-of-the-art non-sectarian facility that offers
educational and cultural activities for individuals of all ages that
are open to the entire community.
The JCC Dance School offers programs and classes
for
children in preschool through elementary school including
Creative Movement, Ballet, Tap, and Hip Hop Jazz.
The JCC participates in Jewish LIFE, a collaborative adult
education program providing lectures and programs
with
nationally and internationally acclaimed scholars, authors and
musicians and a monthly art exhibit, featuring local artists from
within the JCC membership and the local community.
Special events and entertainment are planned throughout
year.
the
SOMERSET COUNTY
CULTURAL DIVERSITY COALITION
PO BOX 5082
Somerville, NJ 08876
Contact: Dr. Tulsi R. Maharjan
Phone: (908) 369-4318
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.SCCDiversity.com
Type of Organization: Private, Non-profit
Purpose: To strive for greater awareness and respect for all
people in our community.
Membership Events: Meetings are held every other month
on the third Thursday at various times and places (members
are advised at the beginning of each new year)
Public Events: Diversity Resource Guide; Diversity Roundtables
& Seminars; Interfaith Forum; Diversity Dialogue Month; Heritage
Festivals; Diversity Leadership Breakfast (April / May); Interfaith
Thanksgiving Dinner (November); and a Speakers Bureau
UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE USA
135 Davidson Avenue
Somerset, NJ 08873
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 495
South Bound Brook, NJ 08880
Office of Public Relations: Rev. Ivan Synevsky, Director
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Phone: (732) 356-0090
e-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.uocofusa.org
Type of Organization: Religious, Ethnic, Cultural
1) Hendrick Fisher House and Graveyard
Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA
1960 Easton Avenue
Somerset, NJ 08873
Contact: Emil Skocypec
Phone: (732) 356-0090, ext. 115
Description: Restored historic structure c.1688, residence
of Hendrick Fisher, a noted New Jersey politician in the mid
and late 1700s who was present for the signing of the Declaration
of Independence on July 4, 1776. The historical residence boasts
beautiful inlaid oak and walnut floors, hand-carved balustrades
and spindles, original carved sandstone fireplace. The historic
Fisher family graveyard is located behind and to the right of St.
Andrew Memorial Church. Some legible gravestones mark the
final resting place of Hendrick Fisher and his descendants.
2) Library
Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA
135 Davidson Avenue, Somerset, NJ 08873
Contact: Larissa Bulya, Librarian
Phone: (732) 356-0090, Ext. 120
Hours: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday, 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.,
or by appointment
Description: Established in 1951 as the library of St. Sophia
Ukrainian Orthodox Theological Seminary, the library houses
over 40,000 volumes and reference materials primarily pertaining
to Orthodoxy, Christianity and theology, and religions of the world.
Literature, historical and cultural texts can be found in English,
Ukrainian, Russian and other Slavic and European languages.
The library includes a periodical room and archives of liturgical
music of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and Ukrainian Folk
music, as well.
3) Historical and Educational Museum
135 Davidson Avenue
Somerset, NJ
Contact: Natalia Honcharenko
Phone: (732) 356-0090, ext. 117
Hours: by appointment
Description: The Museum founded in 1967 houses many
collections of historical, religious, and ethnographic interest,
including ancient Slavic texts, religious vessels and vestments,
hand-woven cloths and tapestries, embroidery, statuary
and paintings, decorated Ukrainian Easter eggs and pottery
as well as other valuable Ukrainian cultural historical treasures.
Several pieces from the historical Fisher residence are included in
the collection.
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WELSH SOCIETY
OF CENTRAL NEW JERSEY
24 Essex Road
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076-2547
Contact: Philip Davies. President
Phone: (908) 889-4942
e-mail: [email protected]
Type of Organization: Society / Ethnic
Membership Events: Annual St. David’s Day Banquet
in the beginning of March; Welsh language classes (please call
for information)
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