Step Back in Time: Celebrate the “Shad Moon” at Historic New Bridge Landing this April
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
River Edge NJ, As the spring thaw wakes the Hackensack River, a centuries-old tradition returns to River Edge. On Sunday, April 26, 2026, the Bergen County Historical Society (BCHS) presents a captivating afternoon of living history: “Chwame Gischuch: Under the Shad Moon.”
From 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM, the landmark Historic New Bridge Landing will transform into a hub of Indigenous culture and Revolutionary-era survival skills. Whether you’re a history buff, a local explorer, or looking for a unique family outing, this immersive program offers a rare glimpse into the “Shad Moon”—the seasonal marker that once signaled the end of winter scarcity for the Lenape people.
🏹 Event Highlights: Scouts, Soldiers, and Survival
This isn’t your average museum tour. The BCHS has curated a lineup of expert presenters to bring the 18th century to life:
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Native Americans in the Colonial Wars: Featured presenter Drew Shuptar Rayvis explores the complex roles of Indigenous “Scouts and Soldiers.” Expect live demonstrations of fire-making, wampum crafting, and the combat tools used during 18th-century conflicts.
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Revolutionary Foraging: Primitive technologist Steve Adams will demonstrate the “old ways” of survival, including flint knapping (stone tool making) and how soldiers used plant fibers to endure the Revolutionary War.
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Jersey Dutch Hearth Cooking: Visit the out-kitchen to see live cooking demonstrations featuring Indigenous ingredients that would have graced the tables of early Bergen County settlers.
🌽 Activities for All Ages
The entire 1201 Main Street site will be buzzing with activity. Your admission includes:
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The Steuben House: View rare Revolutionary War and Native American artifacts in a National Historic Landmark.
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Hands-on Crafts: Try your hand at broom-making at the Westervelt-Thomas Barn or make corn husk crafts with the kids.
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The Great QR Hunt: A modern twist on history! Engage the whole family with a digital scavenger hunt across the grounds.
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Tours: Explore the historic Campbell-Christie House and enjoy seasonal refreshments.
đź“Ť Plan Your Visit
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When: Sunday, April 26, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
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Where: Historic New Bridge Landing, 1201 Main Street, River Edge, NJ.
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Admission: $12 Adults | $7 Students | Free for BCHS Members.
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Getting There: Free on-site parking is available. Or, take the NJ Transit Pascack Valley Line directly to the “New Bridge Landing” station—it’s just steps away!
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Pet Policy: Leashed dogs are welcome on the beautiful grounds (though they must stay outside the historic buildings).
Tickets & Info: Visit BergenCountyHistory.org or email contact@bergencountyhistory.org.
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Supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.
Tags: #BergenCounty #RiverEdgeNJ #NJHistory #LivingHistory #NativeAmericanHeritage #RevolutionaryWar #FamilyEventsNJ #VisitNJ
