History Happened Here: Student Toolkit

Students will explore the personal and cultural relevance of history by connecting it to their own lives, interests, family, and community. By examining local stories and traditions, they will see how historical events shaped their immediate environment. This engagement with history fosters a deeper understanding of identity and belonging, encouraging appreciation for the diverse narratives that influence their lives. Ultimately, this exploration promotes critical thinking and empathy as students reflect on history's impact on their present and future.

Participating Sites

Botto House / American Labor Museum (Paterson, NJ)

Caldwell Parsonage (Union, NJ)

Gloucester County Historical Society Library and Museum (Woodbury, NJ)

Camden County Historical Society and Museum (Camden, NJ)

Hoboken Historical Museum (Hoboken, NJ)

Hunterdon County Historical Society (Flemington, NJ)

Middlesex County Cultural and Heritage Commission, East Jersey Old Town and Cornelius Low House (New Brunswick, NJ)

Monmouth County Historical Association (Freehold, NJ)

The Museum of Cape May County (Cape May Court House, NJ)

Ocean County Library (Toms River, NJ)

Newark Public Library (Newark, NJ)

New Jersey State Archives (Trenton, NJ)

Plainfield Public Library (Plainfield, NJ)

Salem County Historical Society (Salem, NJ)

Schuyler-Hamilton House (Morristown, NJ)

Shippen Manor (Oxford, NJ)

Somerset County Library (Bridgewater Township, NJ)

Sparta Historical Society (Sparta, NJ)

Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center (Millville, NJ)

General Research

Research is a methodical study focused on finding and explaining facts, updating accepted ideas, or using new concepts. It includes different methods from various fields, encouraging critical thinking and creativity. The results of research greatly help improve science, technology, and social knowledge, which in turn influences policies and practices.