May 2026 REV250 at the Elizabeth Public Library
2026-05-02 - 2026-05-31 | Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ, 07202, United States
The Elizabeth Public Library is continuing its American Revolutions: REV250 programming with a full month of exhibits, cultural presentations, educational events, and family-friendly activities across multiple library branches in Elizabeth.
This May 2026 lineup offers residents and visitors a variety of ways to engage with local history, American identity, and community storytelling as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Registration is required for certain events. To register, visit the library event calendar at elizpl.org or call (908) 354-6060 for assistance.
Featured May 2026 REV250 Events
Mini Exhibit: Industrial Revolution in Elizabeth
May 5–31, 2026
Main Branch – Third Floor, Elizabethtown Reading Room Exhibit Case
Learn about the history of the industrial revolution in Elizabeth through this month-long mini exhibit.
Native American Heritage Program by Carla Messinger – All Ages
Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Main Branch – Auditorium
This program includes a lecture, demonstration, hands-on exhibits, and craft projects for children.
Registration required.
Candle Making – Adult Program
Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 3:30 PM
EPort Branch
Experience firsthand how challenging candle production was before the Industrial Revolution transformed mass manufacturing.
New Jersey’s Revolutionary Rivalry by Rick Geffken – Adult Program
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 12:00 PM
Main Branch
Author Rick Geffken explores the stories of Captain Joshua Huddy and Colonel Tye in a powerful program on Revolutionary New Jersey.
This is a joint program between the Elizabeth Public Library and the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs.
Make Your Own Amber Fossils Craft – Children’s Program
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 4:00 PM
Main Branch
Children can create their own ancient treasure in this fun and engaging craft activity.
Patriotic Wind Chime – Children’s Program
Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 4:00 PM
LaCorte Branch
Kids can paint, decorate, and design their own red, white, and blue keepsake while celebrating patriotic holidays.
Registration required. Limit 20 people.
America 250: A Musical Journey by Dan Furnald – Adult Program
Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 10:15 AM
Elmora Branch
Through songs and styles from many eras and cultures, this program explores how music has helped tell America’s story from its earliest roots to today.
Registration required.
These programs reflect the Elizabeth Public Library’s ongoing role as a civic and cultural anchor in the city, while also complementing the broader public storytelling mission of GoElizabethNJ250.
Whether you are interested in local industrial history, Revolutionary-era figures, Native heritage, music, or hands-on family programming, the May REV250 calendar offers multiple ways to explore Elizabeth’s place in the American story.
Library Locations:
Main Branch: 11 S. Broad St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Elmora Branch: 740 W. Grand St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
LaCorte Branch: 418-424 Palmer St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
EPort Branch: 102-110 3rd St at E. Jersey St, Elizabeth, NJ 07206
View More GoElizabethNJ250 Events

Native American Heritage Program at Elizabeth Public Library
2026-05-02 13:00 (America/New_York) | Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ, 07202, United States
Join the Elizabeth Public Library for a meaningful and interactive Native American Heritage Program presented by Carla Messinger on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 1:00 PM in the Main Branch – 4th Floor Auditorium.
This special program celebrates the local Lenape (Delaware Indian) culture and the broader contributions of Native Americans through an engaging presentation designed for both adults and children. Attendees will experience a combination of lecture, demonstration, hands-on interactive exhibits, and craft projects for children.
Carla Messinger is a cultural educator from Pennsylvania who has lived there her entire life. She is descended from the Lenape people who remained in Pennsylvania while other Lenape communities migrated west. Her presentation offers an opportunity to learn more about Native heritage through personal, cultural, and historical perspectives.
This event is a strong fit for the broader public history and educational mission connected to GoElizabethNJ250, helping residents and visitors explore the many cultural stories that shape Elizabeth and the American experience.
Registration is required. Please register through the Elizabeth Public Library event calendar at elizpl.org or call 908-354-6060 ext. 7220 for assistance.
Please note that photography and recording are not permitted during this program.
Event Details:
Saturday, May 2, 2026
1:00 PM
Elizabeth Public Library, Main Branch – 4th Floor Auditorium
11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
To discover more historical, cultural, and community events connected to Elizabeth’s 250th anniversary, explore the growing calendar and storytelling platform at GoElizabethNJ250.
View More GoElizabethNJ250 Events

Industrial Revolution in Elizabeth Mini Exhibit
2026-05-05 - 2026-05-31 | Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ, 07202, United States
Visit the Elizabeth Public Library this May for Industrial Revolution in Elizabeth, a special mini exhibit presented as part of the library’s American Revolutions: REV250 programming.
On view from May 5 through May 31, 2026, this exhibit invites visitors to learn more about the history of the industrial revolution in Elizabeth and the city’s role in a period of major economic and civic transformation.
The exhibit is part of the library’s ongoing effort to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence through monthly displays that highlight revolutionary themes, important local stories, and notable Elizabeth figures.
This mini exhibit will be displayed in the Third Floor Elizabethtown Reading Room Exhibit Case at the Elizabeth Public Library Main Branch, located at 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202.
For residents, students, and visitors interested in local history, this exhibit offers a quick but meaningful opportunity to engage with Elizabeth’s industrial past and see how the city helped shape larger American narratives.
Exhibit Details:
May 5–31, 2026
Elizabeth Public Library
Third Floor Elizabethtown Reading Room Exhibit Case
11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
To explore more historical and cultural programming connected to Elizabeth’s 250th anniversary, visit the growing GoElizabethNJ250 events calendar.
View More GoElizabethNJ250 Events

New Jersey’s Revolutionary Rivalry: The Untold Story of Colonel Tye & Captain Huddy
2026-05-13 12:00 | Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ, 07202, United States
Join the Elizabeth Public Library for a compelling American Revolutions: Rev250 program featuring historian and author Rick Geffken. This special presentation explores the untold story of Colonel Tye and Captain Joshua Huddy, two fierce rivals whose lives and legacies reveal the complexity of the Revolutionary War in New Jersey.
The program will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 12:00 PM in the 4th Floor Auditorium of the Elizabeth Public Library Main Branch, located at 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202.
After the Battle of Monmouth Courthouse, the Revolutionary War in Monmouth County evolved into a series of violent skirmishes between local militias and British Loyalists. Among the most notable figures in this struggle were Captain Joshua Huddy, remembered as a rebel hero, and Colonel Tye, a formerly enslaved Black man who escaped bondage and fought for the British. Their rivalry reveals a deeper and more layered history of war, allegiance, freedom, and survival in Revolutionary New Jersey.
In this presentation, Rick Geffken shares the story of these two men whose actions and beliefs left a lasting mark on the historical record. The program offers a thoughtful look at the human conflict behind the Revolution and invites attendees to consider the many perspectives that shaped the era.
This event is part of the growing public history conversation connected to America’s 250th anniversary and aligns strongly with the educational mission of GoElizabethNJ250, which continues to highlight the people, places, and stories that shaped Elizabeth and the nation.
Registration is requiredClick Here to RegisterEvent Details:
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
12:00 PM
Elizabeth Public Library, Main Branch – 4th Floor Auditorium
11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
To explore more local programs, stories, and historical content connected to Elizabeth’s 250th anniversary, visit the GoElizabethNJ250 platform and follow the growing calendar of events across the city.
View More GoElizabethNJ250 Events

The Declaration of Independence & NJ Signers
2026-06-02 - 2026-07-31 | Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ, 07202, United States
The Declaration of Independence & NJ Signers
American Revolutions: REV250 at the Elizabeth Public Library presents The Declaration of Independence & NJ Signers, a mini exhibit celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Visitors are invited to learn about the Declaration of Independence and the New Jersey signers who helped shape the nation’s founding story. This exhibit highlights revolutionary events, civic history, and Elizabeth’s connection to the broader American Revolution narrative.
The mini exhibit will be on display from June 2 through July 31, 2026, in the Elizabethtown Reading Room Exhibit Case on the third floor of the Elizabeth Public Library Main Branch.
Exhibit Details

Dates: June 2 – July 31, 2026
Location: Elizabeth Public Library – Main Branch
Exhibit Area: Third Floor, Elizabethtown Reading Room Exhibit Case
Address: 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Website: elizpl.org
Phone: 908-354-6060 ext. 7220

Why This Exhibit Matters
The Declaration of Independence remains one of the defining documents in American history. By focusing on New Jersey’s signers and revolutionary-era events, this exhibit helps visitors connect national history to local and state stories.
As Elizabeth prepares to mark America’s 250th anniversary, programs like this mini exhibit make history more accessible, visible, and connected to everyday civic life. It is a quick but meaningful stop for residents, students, families, and visitors exploring Elizabeth’s role in the American story.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Declaration of Independence & NJ Signers exhibit?
The Declaration of Independence & NJ Signers is a mini exhibit at the Elizabeth Public Library focused on the Declaration of Independence and New Jersey signers as part of REV250 programming.
When can visitors see the exhibit?
The exhibit is available from June 2 through July 31, 2026.
Where is the exhibit located?
The exhibit is located on the third floor of the Elizabeth Public Library Main Branch in the Elizabethtown Reading Room Exhibit Case at 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202.
How long does it take to view the exhibit?
Visitors should plan for approximately 15 to 30 minutes to view the mini exhibit.
Elizabeth Public Library Events

History of Tattoos in NJ
2026-06-03 15:30 | Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ, 07202, United States
History of Tattoos in NJ
American Revolutions: REV250 at the Elizabeth Public Library presents History of Tattoos in NJ, a special history program exploring the art, culture, and evolution of tattooing in New Jersey.
Join the Elizabeth Public Library for a presentation by Tony Rodriguez of the Tattoo Museum of the Jersey Shore, who will showcase the fascinating history of tattooing and the stories behind this expressive art form.
Guests will learn about the diverse styles of tattoo art, from traditional designs to innovative modern techniques. Each tattoo carries meaning, creativity, and cultural connection — and this program invites attendees to look at tattooing as both personal expression and living history.
Event Details

Date: June 3, 2026
Time: 3:30 PM
Location: Elizabeth Public Library – Main Branch Auditorium
Address: 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Ages: 13–19
Registration: Required

Registration Information
Registration is required for this program. Visitors may register through the Elizabeth Public Library event calendar at elizpl.org or call 908-354-6060 for assistance.
Why This Event Matters
This program connects art, identity, culture, and history through the story of tattooing in New Jersey. As part of the broader REV250 programming at the Elizabeth Public Library, the event helps young people explore how everyday forms of expression can reflect larger cultural movements and personal stories.
Presented in downtown Elizabeth, this library program adds another meaningful layer to the city’s growing calendar of history, education, and cultural events connected to America’s 250th anniversary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the History of Tattoos in NJ event?
History of Tattoos in NJ is a presentation at the Elizabeth Public Library featuring Tony Rodriguez of the Tattoo Museum of the Jersey Shore. The program explores the history, styles, and cultural meaning of tattooing.
Who is this event for?
This event is designed for ages 13–19.
When and where is the event?
The event takes place on June 3, 2026, at 3:30 PM in the Main Branch Auditorium at the Elizabeth Public Library, located at 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202.
Is registration required?
Yes. Registration is required through the Elizabeth Public Library event calendar at elizpl.org, or by calling 908-354-6060 for assistance.

History & Significance of Tattoos
2026-06-17 12:00 | Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ, 07202, United States
History & Significance of Tattoos
American Revolutions: REV250 at the Elizabeth Public Library presents History & Significance of Tattoos, an enlightening presentation exploring tattooing as art, history, identity, and cultural expression.
Join the Elizabeth Public Library for a presentation by Dr. Matt Lodder, Senior Lecturer in Art History and Theory and Director of Undergraduate Studies in Art History at the University of Essex.
Dr. Lodder’s research focuses on the application of art-historical methods to the history of Western tattooing from the 17th century to the present day. This program invites attendees to consider tattooing not only as body art, but as a meaningful historical and cultural practice.
Event Details

Date: June 17, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Elizabeth Public Library – Main Branch
Room: 4th Floor Auditorium
Address: 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Ages: 18+
Website: elizpl.org
Phone: 908-354-6060 ext. 7220

Zoom Information

Meeting ID: 886 2544 4861
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Why This Event Matters
Tattooing has long carried personal, cultural, and historical meaning. Through this REV250 program, attendees can explore how tattoos have evolved across centuries and how body art reflects identity, memory, creativity, and social change.
Hosted at the Elizabeth Public Library, this program adds a thoughtful arts and culture perspective to the broader American Revolutions series, connecting local audiences with global conversations about history and expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the History & Significance of Tattoos event?
History & Significance of Tattoos is a REV250 presentation at the Elizabeth Public Library featuring Dr. Matt Lodder, who will discuss the history and cultural meaning of tattooing.
Who is Dr. Matt Lodder?
Dr. Matt Lodder is a Senior Lecturer in Art History and Theory and Director of Undergraduate Studies in Art History at the University of Essex. His research focuses on Western tattooing from the 17th century to the present day.
When and where is the event?
The event takes place on June 17, 2026, at 12:00 PM in the 4th Floor Auditorium at the Elizabeth Public Library Main Branch, located at 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202.
Is this event available on Zoom?
Yes. The flyer includes Zoom access with Meeting ID 886 2544 4861 and passcode [REDACTED].
Elizabeth Public Library Events

Revolutionary Lives: Living the American Experiment Then and Now Exhibit
2026-06-23 - 2026-07-07 | NJ
Revolutionary Lives: Living the American Experiment Then and Now Exhibit
American Revolutions: REV250 at the Elizabeth Public Library presents Revolutionary Lives: Living the American Experiment Then and Now, a traveling exhibit from RevolutionNJ exploring the stories of everyday people during the American Revolution in New Jersey.
This 12-panel exhibit invites visitors to look beyond familiar names and major battles to consider how ordinary people experienced the American Revolution. Through personal stories, historical interpretation, and public history displays, the exhibit connects the founding era to the ongoing American experiment.
The exhibit will be on view from June 23 through July 7, 2026, in the Third Floor Exhibit Area at the Elizabeth Public Library Main Branch.
Exhibit Details

Dates: June 23 – July 7, 2026
Location: Elizabeth Public Library – Main Branch
Exhibit Area: Third Floor Exhibit Area
Address: 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Website: elizpl.org
Phone: 908-354-6060 ext. 7220

About the Exhibit
Revolutionary Lives: Living the American Experiment Then and Now is a traveling exhibit that explores the stories of everyday people during the American Revolution in New Jersey. Presented through 12 portable panels, the exhibit highlights the choices, challenges, and lives of people who experienced the revolutionary era.
This exhibition is a project of RevolutionNJ, a public/private partnership between the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the New Jersey Department of State, and Crossroads of the American Revolution Association Inc.
Why This Exhibit Matters
Revolutionary history is not only the story of famous leaders. It is also the story of residents, workers, families, soldiers, communities, and everyday people whose lives were shaped by the conflict and its aftermath.
As Elizabeth prepares to mark America’s 250th anniversary, this traveling exhibit offers a meaningful way to connect local audiences with New Jersey’s revolutionary past and the larger question of what it means to live the American experiment then and now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Revolutionary Lives exhibit?
Revolutionary Lives: Living the American Experiment Then and Now is a RevolutionNJ traveling exhibit that explores the stories of everyday people during the American Revolution in New Jersey.
When can visitors see the exhibit?
The exhibit is available from June 23 through July 7, 2026.
Where is the exhibit located?
The exhibit is located in the Third Floor Exhibit Area at the Elizabeth Public Library Main Branch, 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202.
How long does it take to view the exhibit?
Visitors should plan for approximately 20 to 40 minutes to view the traveling exhibit.
Elizabeth Public Library Events
