Independence Day, also known as the 4th of July, is quickly approaching. This holiday has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues.
This year, America celebrates its 250th anniversary. Our region, situated along critical waterways near Philadelphia, was a strategic corridor during the Revolutionary War, where local communities experienced first hand the challenges and divisions of a nation fighting for independence.
From nearby battles and raids to the everyday sacrifices of residents who supported the cause, this history lives right here in our backyard. America’s anniversary is a chance to inspire future generations.
By connecting our community to the courage, resilience and civic responsibility demonstrated during the revolution, we can foster a deeper appreciation for the values that continue to shape our nation.
We encourage you to experience the places where history was made – right here in South Jersey.
Historical research conducted in early 2026 and reviewed by the Camden County Historical Society has documented a direct genealogical and land-ownership connection between Saddlehill Cellars – our 70-acre estate winery and farm – and the family of Timothy Matlack Jr., the patriot and scribe who embossed the official parchment copy of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
The Matlack family owned about 1,500 acres across what is now Camden County beginning in 1701, including the elevated ridge tract then known as Sand Hills in present-day Voorhees. That land passed through the Wilkins family, who bear the Matlack name in their own genealogical records, and ultimately to John Stafford, a member of Washington’s personal life guard, who settled the Sand Hills tract and established what is now Saddlehill.
On behalf of the Voorhees Township Committee, have a safe, happy and meaningful Fourth of July!
Summer music
Mark your calendars for July 23 as the Thursday summer concert series welcomes Stealing Savannah to the Connolly Park. From crowd-pleasing rock anthems and chart-topping pop hits to country, hip-hop, and timeless favorites, there’s something for everyone. The show begins at 7 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a night of free family-friendly entertainment.
Tax help
The township is hosting a property tax relief filing event on Thursday, Aug. 13, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lion’s Lake. Residents aged 65 and over, or those receiving Social Security Disability benefits, are invited to meet with a tax division representative for assistance with filing their application for the Senior Freeze, Anchor and Stay NJ program.
This event will focus on the blue 2025 Form PAS-1 booklet received in the mail. Please bring the following items: photo ID, Social Security number, income documentation and property tax totals billed for both 2024 and 2025. No appointments are necessary; this is a first-come, first-served event, and you do not need to be a Voorhees resident. More information can be found at www.nj.gov.
