Cranford is truly and “all-American town.”  The residents represent a rich diversity of cultures, religions, and backgrounds, and a walk through town is like a visit to a little piece ofAmericana.  We have many to thank and to honor for allowing us the freedom to do so.  The Cranford Historical Society is planning a variety of activities to help us do so.

            “Four Centuries In A Weekend,” a living Civil War display, will be in place on October 21^st and 22^nd at the Crane-Philips House Museum.  Members of the 2^nd Rhode Island Volunteer Company D will set up a period encampment right on the grounds, be dressed in period clothing and Civil War uniforms, and welcome visitors to stop by, look around, chat, ask questions, and learn about life for soldiers and their families during the Civil War.  What a wonderful, locally convenient way to make history literally come alive for both children and adults!

The Cranford Historical Society will have a special display at Hanson House on November 10^th and 11^th, from 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM, entitled “Honor All Veterans,” that does just that.  Inside Hanson House, there will be an arrangement of artifacts, uniforms, and memorabilia from various wars waged throughout our country’s history, from the Revolutionary War, to the Civil War, to both World Wars, and all the way to Iraq and Afghanistan.  Outside of the house will be an army truck and tank.  In addition, the society, along with the Cranford Public library, will present the movie “Glory” on Wednesday, Nov. 14^th, at 7:00 PM, and “Jews and the Civil War” with historians Mira and Bruce Form on Wednesday, December 19^th.,  both at the Cranford Community Center.

Also during the month of November, a display on the main floor at the library will be available for viewing, for visitors to learn more about theUnited StatesSecret service.  How interesting that, from the 1960’s to the present day,Cranfordhas produced six members of the Secret Service!  Who knew?!

            We have such a rich history, and the Cranford community is proud that our town has been the birthplace of many a soldier and patriot.  These are some ways that we can honor them, remember what they have done for our nation, and make them feel real and heroic to our children.  Don’t miss out on these great opportunities!