Children's Museums
Thomas Warne Museum/Madison-Old Bridge Township Historical Society
📍 4216 County Road #516, Matawan, NJ 07747🕐 Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | 12–4 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About Thomas Warne Museum/Madison-Old Bridge Township Historical Society
Thomas Warne Museum/Madison-Old Bridge Township Historical Society is a children's museum in Matawan, NJ. The museum features a preserved Cedar Grove Schoolhouse from 1820, providing a tangible example of early 19th-century educational infrastructure and rural life in New Jersey. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 15 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Natural History Museum
- Location
- Cedar Grove Schoolhouse on original Thomas Warne property (1000 acres from 1682)
- Best For
- All ages, school groups, genealogy research
- Admission
- Free (donations appreciated)
- Founded
- 1964 as Madison-Old Bridge Township Historical Society
💡 Did You Know?
- The museum features a preserved Cedar Grove Schoolhouse from 1820, providing a tangible example of early 19th-century educational infrastructure and rural life in New Jersey
- The museum can accommodate up to 55 students and chaperones per tour, with customizable school programs specifically designed for grades 1-8
- The museum offers genealogical research services using updated computer systems, positioning it as a regional resource for family history research beyond traditional exhibits
- The museum operates with a free admission model while appreciating donations, making it an accessible community resource for local history education
- The museum's collection includes artifacts related to the stoneware clay industry, documenting a significant regional economic and industrial heritage
💬 What Visitors Say
- Call ahead to book a tour with curator Kate, who receives specific praise in reviews for making tours 'very engaging and fun' and helping visitors discover new historical details even after decades of living in the area.
- Visit on Saturday afternoons (12PM-4PM) for walk-in access to the general public; weekday visits require advance appointment booking for group/school tours only.
- Plan 1-2 hours to explore the Cedar Grove Schoolhouse (1820) and local artifact displays; reviewers note it's a 'small' museum but 'worth the time' with plenty of engaging historical details to discover.
- The museum offers free admission with donations appreciated, making it an excellent no-cost option for families and repeat visitors; locals mention learning something new on each visit despite being in the area for decades.
- Book customized school programs for groups up to 55 students and chaperones; the museum specializes in engaging 1st-8th graders with interactive historical programs and living history events.
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