Step Back to 1776: Glen Rock’s Revolutionary War Living History Day!
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Glen Rock NJ, Have you ever wondered what Bergen County sounded like when cannons roared and muskets clicked? This April, Glen Rock is turning back the clock for an immersive, family-friendly journey into the heart of the American Revolution.
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, history isn’t just in books—it’s alive in Veterans’ Park. Whether you’re a history buff or looking for a unique weekend outing with the kids, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
The Main Event: Heard’s Brigade Encampment
From 10 am to 3 pm, Veterans’ Park (located on Main St.) will transform into a Continental Army outpost. Heard’s Brigade, a renowned group of historical reenactors, will set up a full military encampment to show exactly how Bergen County’s own troops lived, worked, and fought.
What to expect at the Encampment:
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Live Demonstrations: Witness the precision of 18th-century musket drills and the thunderous power of a colonial cannon.
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Interactive History: Chat with “soldiers” and camp followers to learn about the daily grind of the Revolution—from the food they ate to the medical responses of the era (presented by the Glen Rock VAC).
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For the Kids: Watch their eyes light up as they discover that “History Day” means seeing real-life heroes in action, not just staring at a screen.
Continue the Journey: The Museum at the Station
After you’ve smelled the gunpowder at the park, take a short stroll to the Museum at the Station (176 Rock Road). This historic 1871 train station is the home of the Glen Rock Historical & Preservation Society and serves as the perfect “Part Two” of your afternoon.
Inside, you’ll find specialized exhibits detailing Glen Rock’s local role in the “Road to Liberty.” It’s a rare chance to see how our quiet borough fits into the grand narrative of America’s 250th anniversary (the Semiquincentennial).
Event Details at a Glance
| Activity | Time | Location |
| Living History Encampment | 10 AM – 3 PM | Veterans’ Park (Main St & Rodney St) |
| Musket & Cannon Drills | Various | Veterans’ Park |
| Museum Open House | 10 AM – 3 PM | 176 Rock Road (The Station) |
Why You Should Go
This event is part of the NJ 250 celebrations, honoring two and a half centuries of American independence. It’s a high-energy, educational way to connect with your community and teach the next generation that the “Road to Liberty” ran right through our own backyards.
Pro-Tip: Bring a camera! The photo ops with the brigade in full uniform are second to none.
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
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Tags: #GlenRockNJ #BergenCounty #RevolutionaryWar #LivingHistory #FamilyFunNJ #HeardsBrigade #NJ250 #LocalHistory #VeteransPark
