Museum and Archives


The Museum and Archives Department collects, curates, and conserves the history of Monmouth County in relation to the many parks and historic sites operated by the Monmouth County Park System.
 

Mission Statement

Historic Sites:
 
Historic sites within the Monmouth County Park System are preserved, operated, and interpreted for the educational, recreational, and scientific benefit of the public.

Other Park Sites:

Many properties acquired by the Park System are rich in local history. Preservation and interpretation of artifacts from these sites can contribute to public appreciation and understanding of the County’s heritage.

  visitors browsing exhibit
Rotating exhibit at Historic Walnford
 

Collections

The Monmouth County Park System collections include:
  • Archaeological Collection: Artifacts recovered from archaeological field schools, site work, and pedestrian survey on park land.
  • Archives: Papers and documents relating to Monmouth County Park System owned properties.
  • Art Collection: Regional artists primarily focusing on 18th-20th century paintings, drawings, and photography. Landscapes and scenes from Monmouth County are prioritized.
  • Historic Object Collection: Items relating to the Monmouth County Park System historic sites as well as New Jersey manufactured items, typically dating between the 17th and 21st century.
  • Institutional Archives: Papers and documents relating to the Monmouth County Park System and the history of its operation since 1960.
  • Library: A library covering a wide range of topics with an emphasis on Monmouth County history.
  • Photo Archives: A digitized archive of all photos contained within the Monmouth County Park System.
  • Rare Books: Limited print or out of print book collection focusing on regional history.

Research Request

The use of the collections is by appointment only. Completed research request forms may be emailed to Museum Curator, Romana Schaeffer, at romana.schaeffer@co.monmouth.nj.us. All archaeological research requests can be sent directly to Senior Historic Preservation Specialist, Kristen Hohn, at kristen.hohn@co.monmouth.nj.us.

Research Request Form
  
Donations
  
Completed donation forms may be emailed to Museum Curator, Romana Schaeffer, at romana.schaeffer@co.monmouth.nj.us. All archaeological donations can be emailed to Senior Historic Preservation Specialist, Kristen Hohn, at kristen.hohn@co.monmouth.nj.us.
 
Hours 
Monday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Closed Thursday, Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays