Saturday, June 14
“Heavens to Betsy!”—The Millville Historical Society (MHS) is thrilled to welcome the famous flagmaker herself, Betsy Ross, on Flag Day. Festivities for this year’s MHS Ice Cream Social begin at 1 p.m. at the 1814 David C. Wood Mansion House, at 821 Columbia Avenue, Millville. At 2 p.m, enjoy a special performance by Jill Lawrence (pictured) of the American Historical Theatre, portraying Betsy Ross.
Attendees will have the opportunity to master Betsy’s “famous” trick—cutting a five-pointed star with a single snip of the scissors.
“Jill earned her BFA with honors in Musical Theater from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and has performed with the Ziggaraut Theater in Los Angeles, The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, American Family Theaters and The Philadelphia Shakespeare Festival. For many years she welcomed visitors from all over the world as Betsy Ross at the Betsy Ross house.” (AHT)
Guests are invited to enjoy a scoop of ice cream. There will be a build-your-own sundae bar and a demonstration on how to make ice cream using an old-fashioned hand crank. There will be a display of vintage ice cream utensils.
Adding to the patriotic atmosphere of the day, Cynthia Smith will be playing the dulcimer, flute, and whistle. Cynthia has been researching, performing and recording her music from the 1700s for over 15 years.
Topping off the day’s activities, the MHS will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly completed shed built to house the 1886 Whitaker Ice Wagon. While the wagon itself has not yet been restored, “she” will proudly take her place in her new home as she awaits a future facelift.
Vintage photos of the historic wagon will also be on display. A special thank you to the Cumberland County Cultural & Heritage Commission for their help with the day. The event is free and open to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted.
As a proud partner of RevolutionNJ, MHS continues to present programs relating to the commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution.
Parking is available behind the Mansion House, accessible from Church Street.
