Programs & Events

Saturday, May 30, 2:00 PM
A Visit from Abraham Lincoln
An Opening Reception with a visit from Abraham Lincoln himself! Gain special insights into our country’s great emancipator in this living history program presented by the American Historical Theatre.
All Ages REGISTER

Tuesday, June 2, 7:00 PM
Lincoln President Elect with author Harold Holzer
Harold Holzer, award winning author, is one of the country’s leading authorities on Abraham Lincoln and the political culture of the Civil War. He is the co-chair of the Lincoln Bi-Centennial Commission and a frequent guest on the History Channel, A&E and PBS.
Adults REGISTER

Monday, June 8, 5:30 PM
Film Screening & Discussion: Glory
Glory recreates the stirring surrounding Col. Robert Gould Shaw and the US Civil War's first all-black volunteer company. A discussion of the historical account and background will be led by Frank Wetta of Kean University and members of the 6th United States Colored Troop Regiment.
Adults and Teens REGISTER

Friday, June 12, 7:00 PM
Stealing Lincoln’s Body
Thomas Craughwell exhumes a fascinating and bizarre tale that you didn’t hear in school: the plot hatched by a group of Chicago counterfeiters to steal Honest Abe’s remains and ransom them for $200,000 and the release of an imprisoned cohort. Meet the author of this fascinating story!
REGISTER

Saturday, June 13, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Civil War Living History Encampment
Live the life of a Civil War soldier! The New Jersey 2nd Brigade will give live weapons and cannon demonstrations as they recreate the life of a Civil War soldier. Visit a Civil War encampment with cavalry and artillery units. Get a first hand look at the weapons troops used and see them fired in a live demonstration! To top off the event, Toms River Township Clerk and Historian Mark Mutter will talk about troops from Ocean County who fought on the frontlines.
All Ages NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Monday, June 15, 7:00 PM
Get to Know Abraham Lincoln
President Lincoln was a man of strong and complex character and personality. Richard Trimble of Ocean County College will explore this multi-faceted man. Enjoy anecdotes about our 16th president, and learn more about his personal journey towards emancipation of slaves.
Adults REGISTER

Thursday, June 18, 7:00 PM
Charlie Zahm Plays the Tunes of the Civil War
Reminisce on days gone by with Charlie Zahm as he plays a rich selection of Civil War era tunes with the honor due both them and the subjects they recollect.
All Ages REGISTER

Saturday, June 20, 3:00PM
Forgotten Warriors: New Jersey's Black Soldiers in the Civil War with Author Joseph Bilby
Join author Joseph Bilby who wrote this book on New Jersey black soldiers during the Civil War. During this intriguing discussion, we'll learn about the effect the Emancipation Proclamation had on Northern military successes.
Adults and Teens REGISTER

Monday, June 22, 7:00 PM
Abraham Lincoln Coins
Discover the fascinating history and trivia behind Abraham Lincoln coins, and learn some little-known facts about the U.S. Mint! Jim Majoros, President of the Ocean County Coin Club, will guide us through the wonderful world of money! The first 50 pre-registered attendees will receive a new 2009-D Lincoln "Log Cabin" cent.
All Ages REGISTER

Tuesday, June 23, June 30, July 7, 6:30 PM
Abraham and Mary Lincoln: A House Divided (Film Series)
Through diary entries, old photographs, period objects, portraits, and historians’ musings this series delves deeply into the personal lives of these occupants of the White House, teaching us much about their time and the history of the Civil War.
Adults and Teens REGISTER: June 23, June 30, July 7,

Thursday, June 25, 7:00 PM
Lincoln, Emancipation and Civil War New Jersey with Author William Gillette
Author and Rutgers Historian William Gillette will share his expertise on the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the politics of the Civil War.
Adults REGISTER

Friday, June 26, 2:30 PM
Women of the Civil War
Learn about the complex world, accomplishments and contributions of women who lived during Civil War times, with a special presentation about women's dress with Mary Halasz.
All Ages REGISTER

Friday, July 10 11:00 – 2:00
Farewell to Abe
Visit the Ocean County Library on the last day of the Forever Free exhibit as we celebrate the life of President Lincoln and his remarkable efforts toward the abolition of slavery. Reminisce on the events of the past six weeks and enjoy some Civil War-style treats.
All Ages REGISTER