1. Diverse Exhibits

The New Jersey State Museum in Trenton offers a comprehensive look at the state’s natural and cultural evolution through its diverse collections of archaeology, ethnography, fine art, and natural history.

Key Exhibits and Themes

The museum organizes its displays to highlight New Jersey’s unique role in American history and its biological diversity:

• Pretty Big Things: Stories of New Jersey History: This long-term core exhibition uses a non-traditional, non-chronological approach to tell stories of everyday life from colonial times to the present. It focuses on oversized artifacts, such as a 1,400-pound Trenton-made anvil, an iron whale-blubber rendering pot from the Jersey Shore, and a “grandfather” clock created by the first African-American clockmaker.
• The Fine Art Collection: The American Perspectives exhibit showcases the state’s artistic heritage, featuring works by talented New Jersey artists and artisans.
• Natural History and Science: The museum features an active Paleo Lab where visitors can interact with scientists working on real fossils. It also houses a Planetarium that offers 360-degree celestial shows and customized sky talks.
• Indigenous Heritage: Exhibits such as A Much Moved People preserve the traditions and history of the Delaware Indians.

Historical Significance

A recurring theme throughout the museum is the tension and progress between revolutionary ideals and their practical application. Current displays focus heavily on the United States Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary), exploring how the foundational documents of the 1770s continue to influence civic dialogue and equality in New Jersey today.

Rotating and Special Exhibits

Changing exhibitions are a primary draw for repeat visitors, often focusing on specific eras or local archives:

• Revolutionary Stories: The current exhibit, “The Power to Change: Revolutionary Stories from the New Jersey State Archives,” showcases rare documents including the 1776 State Constitution, the Ratification of the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
• Cultural Nostalgia: Recent rotating displays like “Spirit of ’76: The Bicentennial” take visitors back to the 1970s, using artifacts like platform shoes and pinball machines to reflect on how the nation celebrated its 200th birthday fifty years ago.
• Local Archaeology: The museum frequently hosts themed exhibits, such as “History Beneath Our Feet,” which examines the archaeological discoveries of Trenton’s urban landscape.

2. Art Collections

The New Jersey State Museum integrates its fine art collection as a bridge between the state’s natural history and its cultural evolution, ensuring that visitors experience history not just as a series of dates, but as a visual and emotional narrative.

Notable Pieces and Collection Highlights

The museum’s art collection focuses on the diversity of American visions from the 19th through the 21st centuries. Key highlights include:

• The “Remembering the Revolution” Collection: This area features commemorative art, most notably the bronze panels by Thomas Eakins that depict the Battle of Trenton. These are regarded as some of the finest examples of commemorative achievement in the collection.
• American Perspectives: This long-term installation showcases a range of styles, including academic, expressionist, folk, modernist, and visionary art. A specific highlight is the work of Charles Ward, such as his 1934 Study for Mural.
• Artisan Craftsmanship: The collection emphasizes the intersection of art and utility, featuring works like the ceramics created by master potter Isaac Broome for the 1876 World’s Fair.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience

The art collection is strategically curated to add depth to the museum’s broader historical and scientific exhibits:

• Contextualizing History: By placing “significant NJ artists within the context of American art,” the museum allows visitors to see how local creators were influenced by global trends—such as travel to Europe—and how major political or cultural events shaped their work.
• Bridging Eras: The art galleries provide a stylistic timeline that complements the archaeological and natural history sections. While the fossils show biological evolution, the art collection shows the evolution of human perspective and identity in the Garden State.
• Diverse Voices: The inclusion of diverse voices—from immigrant artists to folk artists—ensures that the visitor experience is inclusive, reflecting the multicultural reality of New Jersey’s population.

3. Unique History

The New Jersey State Museum serves as the state’s primary repository for its natural and cultural heritage. Formally established by the New Jersey State Legislature in 1895, it has evolved into the largest museum collection in the state, housing over 2.4 million artifacts.

Role in Preserving State History

The museum acts as a steward of New Jersey’s identity by collecting and exhibiting specimens in natural history, archaeology, ethnography, and industrial history. Its role is not only to store these objects but to interpret them for the public. This is exemplified by its partnership with the New Jersey State Archives, which allows the museum to bring rare, high-security documents out of the vaults and into the public eye to educate citizens on the foundational laws and rights of their state.

Unique Artifacts and Local Stories

The museum utilizes specific artifacts to humanize the state’s history and tell stories of everyday life:

• Foundational Documents: The museum displays the state constitution of 1776 (New Jersey’s declaration of independence from the British crown) and the state’s ratification of the U.S. Constitution (1787) and the Bill of Rights (c. 1789), highlighting New Jersey’s role as the third state to ratify the Constitution.
• Indigenous and Colonial History: A 1677 vellum deed bears the marks of Indigenous leaders who sold rights to what is now Gloucester County to English settlers, illustrating the early complex interactions between tribes and colonists.
• Industrial Heritage: The “Pretty Big Things” exhibit features a 1,400-pound anvil from Trenton’s Fisher & Norris Eagle Anvil Works, showcasing the city’s industrial prowess.
• Cultural Diversity: The collection includes a “grandfather” clock made by the first African-American clockmaker, telling a story of skill and entrepreneurship amidst the constraints of the era.
• Natural History: The museum features the nearly complete skeleton of a Hyposaurus, a prehistoric crocodile that lived in Gloucester County approximately 65 million years ago.

4. Visitor Experience

The New Jersey State Museum is designed to be an accessible and engaging destination for visitors of all ages, offering a mix of self-guided exploration and structured educational programming.

Amenities and Services

Visitors can take advantage of several facilities designed for convenience and learning:

• Planetarium: A major highlight of the museum, the 140-seat planetarium uses “Full Dome” video technology to present public shows on space exploration, the solar system, and constellations.
• Auditorium: The museum includes a 384-seat auditorium used for lectures and events.
• Admission: Most areas of the museum offer free admission, making it an affordable cultural destination.

Tours, Workshops, and Events

The museum actively engages the community through the Bureau of Education and Public Programs:

• Educational Programming: The museum provides school groups with access to workshops, museum-based classes, and exhibition tours.
• Public Shows: The planetarium hosts public shows on weekends, during the summer, and over spring and winter school vacations.
• Guided Experiences: Guided tours and special events featuring workshops and guest speakers are available to enhance the visit.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features

The museum is structured to be welcoming to a wide range of guests:

• Family-Friendly Environment: The museum is cited as a captivating destination for families, featuring interactive displays and educational programs specifically designed to engage young minds.
• All-Ages Appeal: Reviewers frequently note that the museum is suitable for all ages, with enthusiastic guides and helpful staff to assist guests.
• General Layout: The facility is described as well-organized and clean across its four floors of exhibits.

NEW JERSEY STATE MUSEUM FOUNDATION: MEMBER CONNECTION
The Exclusive Bimonthly Newsletter of the NJ State Museum Foundation October / 2026 • Celebrating Over 50 Years of Support
A LETTER FROM YOUR FOUNDATION DIRECTOR Dear Member, Six months ago, I stepped into the role of Foundation Director with a deep sense of responsibility — and an even deeper sense of gratitude. For more than 50 years, the New Jersey State Museum Foundation has stood behind the New Jersey State Museum, championing its collections, its educators, its exhibitions, and its role as a gathering place for the people of our state. None of that history was built by one person. It was built by generations of board members, staff, volunteers, and members like you who believed — and still believe — that this museum matters. I want to begin this, my first newsletter to you, with a simple thank-you. Thank you to every Foundation leader, member, and donor who came before me. The legacy you have built is the foundation on which we will grow into this next chapter.With more than 20 years of experience in events, advocacy, strategic communication, and storytelling, I couldn’t wait to tell the story of this Foundation and dig into its history. Increasing visibility and awareness of the Museum and the Foundation will always be my number one priority, and these first months have been a joy spent connecting with our community — learning how we can collaborate and partner to uplift and amplify each other’s work.  “We don’t inherit a museum from the past so much as we borrow it from the future — and it is our members who make that borrowing possible.” This is an especially meaningful moment to be doing this work. New Jersey is approaching its 250th anniversary, and the Museum is marking the occasion with some of the most compelling programming in its recent history — I’m honored to share all of it with you in this issue. But that same momentum has created a pressing, immediate need, and before I get to the good news, I want to be direct with you about it below. With gratitude, Priscilla Hopkins-Smith  Foundation Director INVESTING IN OUR NEXT CHAPTER New Jersey’s 250th anniversary is here — and right now, more people are walking through our doors than ever before. That’s the opportunity in front of us. But rising visitorship means rising need, and that need is urgent: more educators in the galleries, more conservation for the collections in our care, more capacity to meet this moment before it passes us by. We can’t do it without you.  Every membership renewal, every gift, every dollar directly funds the staff, programs, and infrastructure that keep this Museum free and open to New Jersey’s students and families. The need is immediate — and so is the impact of your support. Give today at njsmfoundation.org/supportor by contacting info@njsmfoundation.org / 609.394.5310 — and help us meet this once-in-a-generation moment. GIVE TODAY MEMBER BENEFITS SPOTLIGHT Your membership is what keeps the Museum’s education programs free and accessible to students across New Jersey. As a thank-you, here’s a reminder of everything your membership unlocks: •  Invitations to member-only exhibition previews and curator talks •  Discounts on Museum classes, planetarium shows, and special programs •  Reciprocal admission benefits at museums nationwide •  This newsletter — your bi-monthly inside look at Foundation news New this cycle: ALL members now enjoy a 20% discount until November 30 at the Museum Shop. Find the perfect gift and give back this season! Use your holiday discount to shop our collection of locally crafted treasures and captivating books on New Jersey’s history, art, and natural science. It’s a wonderful way to bring a piece of the Museum home while supporting our mission with every purchase. Shop online at njsmfoundation.org/shop or in the store. Not yet a member, or due for renewal? Join or renew today to keep these benefits active and keep the Museum’s education programs free for New Jersey’s students. BOARD OF TRUSTEES NEWS Welcoming Three New Board MembersWe are delighted to welcome three new members to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Each brings a unique blend of expertise, community connection, and passion for the Museum’s mission. •  Ken Wiesen, PhD  •  Dawn Heitzner-Kadow  •  Grady N. Elliott Jr., MBA A Fond Farewell We also say a heartfelt goodbye to Jessica Moore, who has stepped down after many years of extraordinary service, including serving as Board Chair. Jessica’s steady leadership and dedication helped carry the Foundation to this moment, and we are deeply grateful for her vision and years of devoted service. GRANTS & WAYS TO GIVE Growth like this doesn’t happen alone, and we’re thrilled to recognize the grants fueling this next chapter.New Grant AwardsWe are proud and grateful to announce the following new grant support: •  PNC Grow Up Great Grant from PNC Bank — $26,000 to support early childhood education programming •  Discretionary Grant, made by a Trustee of the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation — $5,000 Give Through Your Donor-Advised Fund If you have a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF), it’s one of the easiest ways to support the Museum’s growth — and your gift may qualify for a tax deduction in the year it’s made. Simply recommend a grant to the New Jersey State Museum Foundation through your DAF sponsor’s portal (Fidelity Charitable, Schwab Charitable, Vanguard Charitable, and most community foundations all make this a quick, few-click process). Legal Name: New Jersey State Museum Foundation Federal Tax ID (EIN): # 22-6098724 Mailing Address: 205 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08625 Not sure where to start, or want to loop in your DAF sponsor directly? Contact us at info@njsmfoundation.org and we’ll walk you through it. ON VIEW NOW: CELEBRATING 250 YEARS In partnership with the New Jersey State Archives, the Museum is presenting The Power to Change: Revolutionary Stories from the New Jersey State Archives, on view through January 10, 2027. The exhibition showcases rarely seen federal and state charters and pivotal documents that illuminate the ideals of the Revolutionary era — and explores how those ideals continue to shape civic life in New Jersey today. The Power to Change is presented alongside two complementary exhibitions rounding out the Museum’s Semiquincentennial programming: •  Remembering the Revolution — exploring New Jersey’s pivotal, often-overlooked role in the fight for independence. •  Spirit of ’76: The Bicentennial — a look back at how New Jersey celebrated the nation’s 200th anniversary. Together, these three exhibitions offer members a full arc of New Jersey’s revolutionary story. We encourage every member to visit before The Power to Change closes on January 10, 2027. UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE MUSEUM Mark your calendar — here’s what’s coming up at the Museum in the weeks ahead. Planetarium Update: The Planetarium is back open following its equipment upgrades — come check out the newly upgraded dome in action! OCTOBER WEEKENDS: PLANETARIUM SCHEDULE 12:00 pm  Big Astronomy: People, Places, Discoveries 1:00 pm  Little Eve: Stories of Planet Earth (NEW!) 2:00 pm  Dynamic Earth 3:00 pm  Worlds Beyond Earth OCTOBER WEEKDAYS: PLANETARIUM SCHEDULE 2:30 pm  Worlds Beyond Earth FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 • 6:15 PM Observing Night with the AAAP Free. Join us in the Planetarium for a special extended sky talk focusing on what’s visible in the night sky and deep sky objects observable with a telescope. Afterward, follow us to the Simpson Observatory at Washington Crossing State Park, where members of the Amateur Astronomers Association of Princeton will help visitors view the sky through telescopes. In the event of poor viewing conditions, we’ll stay at the Planetarium and watch “Encounters in the Milky Way.” SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 • 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM International Archaeology Day Event Free. Explore the historic archaeology of Colonial and Revolutionary New Jersey. History organizations from around the state will present artifacts, posters, and activities highlighting their archaeological findings. Kids can pick up an “Archaeology Passport” and visit each station to fill in the pages, and visitors of all ages can join us in the Auditorium for presentations throughout the day. Don’t miss this deep dive into New Jersey history during our 250th year — and while you’re here, be sure to see  The Power to Change: Revolutionary Stories from the New Jersey State Archives, on display until January 2027. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20 • 12:00 NOON Lunchtime Learning: Trenton Archaeology and the Revolutionary War STEAM Center. Free. Join Richard Hunter to hear about archaeology at the Old Barracks, the William Trent House, and some of the finds his company made when the Route 29 tunnel was built.Go here to find the full calendar and plan your visit: nj.gov/state/museum/calendar.shtml. STAY CONNECTED — NEW WAYS TO FOLLOW US Our New Website Is Live – We’ve launched a brand-new website, built to make it easier to plan your visit, browse exhibitions, register for programs, and support the Foundation online. Explore it today at www.njsmfoundation.org. Our thanks again to the New Jersey Cultural Trust, whose grant support made this new site possible (more in Grants & Ways to Give, earlier in this issue). The Foundation Is Now on Facebook – After 50 years, the Foundation finally has a Facebook page of its own. Follow along for Foundation news, event recaps, member spotlights, and behind-the-scenes looks at our work supporting the Museum: facebook.com/NJSMFoundation. MUSEUM SHOP SPOTLIGHT The Museum Shop now has its very own Instagram — follow along at @njstatemuseumshop for a first look at new arrivals, behind-the-scenes finds, and member-favorite picks.The Shop is home to unique, one-of-a-kind, New Jersey-centric items you won’t find anywhere else — including original work from New Jersey artists. Shop in person or online, and every purchase directly supports the Foundation’s mission. Come see what our talented New Jersey artists have created, and shop knowing your purchase gives back. •  Instagram: @njstatemuseumshop •  Shop online: njsmfoundation.org/shop And don’t forget — your 20% member discount (see Member Benefits above) is good on every purchase, in person or online, all month long. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Tell Your StoryEvery member has a reason they first connected with the New Jersey State Museum. We’d love to feature member stories in future issues. Share yours at https://forms.gle/3v5ALADUjjcd4Xgv7. Share Your Feedback Have thoughts on this newsletter or ideas for the Foundation? Reach us anytime at info@njsmfoundation.org. We read every message. THANK YOU To every member reading this: thank you. Fifty years of impact is not an abstraction — it is the direct result of individuals who chose, year after year, to say yes to this museum. As we step into this next chapter together, I couldn’t be more grateful to be doing it alongside you.
New Jersey State Museum Foundation 205 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08625  |  609-394-5310  |  www.njsmfoundation.org. The New Jersey State Museum Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. EIN 22-6098724. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by the IRS. You’re receiving this email because you’re a valued member of the NJ State Museum Foundation.