By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor
The Pennsauken Historical Society, an organization dedicated to preserving the history, heritage, and memory of the people of Pennsauken Township, is preparing to celebrate a true milestone this month: 50 years of making local history come alive. And to mark the Historical Society’s anniversary, a special open house is being held on Saturday, June 13 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the historic Burrough-Dover House, located at 9201 Burrough-Dover Ln., right off of Haddonfield Rd. near the Wyndham Rd. traffic signal.
“The Burrough-Dover House and the Griffith Morgan House mean so much to our community,” says Jack Weber, president, Pennsauken Historical Society. “This is where Pennsauken’s history started.”
“The Pennsauken Historical Society is something very special,” adds Pennsauken Deputy Mayor John Figueroa, who serves as the Township Committee’s liaison to the organizations that are stewards of the two historic homes in our community. “They are very dedicated and committed to preserving our Township’s history. They do a fantastic job.”
Starting at 12:00 p.m., the Burrough-Dover House will be open for tours with docents in all rooms. According to Weber, these dedicated individuals are the life’s blood of the organization. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to show the house.” One such docent is Adele Haines, who at 97 years young still drives herself to the Burrough-Dover House and eagerly greets guests.
At 1:00 p.m., there will be demonstrations by the Pennsauken Fire Department. But instead of harkening back to firefighting’s past, they’ll be using the most modern and up-to-date equipment to be found anywhere in the area.
Beginning at 2:00 p.m., the grounds of the Burrough-Dover House will be occupied by the 12th New Jersey Civil War re-enactors. Visitors can see how soldiers of the past camped and look over their equipment. Re-enactors will also be happy to answer questions from the public.
At 3:00 p.m., members of Pennsauken’s Township Committee and other distinguished guests will be on hand for a special ceremony: the dedication the “Joseph E. Fitzpatrick Nostalgia Museum.” Joe was a long-serving president of the Pennsauken Historical Society and a very active community member who passed away in July of last year.
“We are so proud and honored that this museum is being dedicated in his memory. It means so much to our family,” says Beverly Fitzpatrick, Joe’s widow. “Joe loved this old house and he loved taking care of it. We’re so happy that his legacy will go on and that he’ll be remembered through the museum.”
After the ceremony, the Pennsauken Historical Society will cut their anniversary cake, which will be shared with all guests in attendance. Throughout the day, there will be musical entertainment, as well as the “Gimmee Delights” Ice Cream Cart, which will be distributing free ice cream. Visitors are also welcome to tour the grounds and the nature trail during the event.
The Burrough-Dover House attracts visitors not just from Pennsauken, but surrounding communities as well. Often times, these guests are actual descendants of the Burrough family who still live in the area. Rich Burrough of Audubon spoke of the sense pride his family has, knowing that his ancestors are part of Pennsauken’s historical fabric. “I call the Burrough-Dover House a ‘mini Smithsonian.’ It’s a great little museum and time piece.”
“We feel it’s our responsibility to show up and be there for the Historical Society,” adds Burrough. “They’re all volunteers; it’s a great thing all around.”
According to Weber, the key to having the Pennsauken Historical Society around for another 50 years is volunteers. “That’s a big thing. We need more volunteers to be able to make this place grow.” He also spoke of the importance of creating additional awareness of both the Burrough-Dover and Griffith Morgan houses, two touchstones that reach back to Pennsauken’s past. “The houses speak for themselves. We need people to come out to see what’s here.”
