Liberty Hall Celebrates 250th Anniversary with “Housewarming” Event
December 2024
The Kean University Foundation was proud to sponsor “Governor Livingston’s Housewarming” this fall at Liberty Hall Museum, a celebration marking 250 years since New Jersey’s first elected governor, William Livingston, moved into the colonial mansion.
As a former home to Livingston and a symbol of American heritage, Liberty Hall has witnessed the nation’s history unfold over centuries. The event raised essential funds for the museum’s preservation efforts and educational programs, supporting the mission to bring this rich history to life for future generations.
The celebration invited guests to explore rare documents signed by America’s founding fathers and taste colonial-era wines, transporting them to a different era.
Foundation Board members, corporate and individual sponsors and Kean University officials joined Museum leaders in honoring the mansion’s legacy and ensuring its continued impact on the community.
“Liberty Hall’s 250th anniversary is an important milestone. It is also a kick-off event,” said Museum Trustee John Kean Jr. “In two years, our nation will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. We anticipate more 250th celebrations to come.”
Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., joined in congratulating Liberty Hall on this milestone.
“We gather tonight, surrounded by centuries of stories that remind us of the triumphs and the struggles that have shaped our nation’s history,” Repollet said. “As we celebrate this anniversary, let’s remember that Liberty Hall’s story is still being written. Together, we ensure its legacy endures, inspiring us to learn from our past as we build a brighter future.”
Kean thanked the audience for their shared belief in the importance of the national landmark site, noting in particular the generosity of event sponsors, which along with the Foundation included the Kean Family, BCB Bank, Orloff, Lowenbach Stifelman & Siegal, PA, BNC Telecom, the Kean University Alumni Association, The Glenmede Trust Company and Grace Photography.
In a moment that bridged past and present, Kean took on the per sona of William Livingston, bringing the spirit of the estate’s history to life.
Liberty Hall’s history is entwined with the birth and growth of America. Livingston, who served as a representative to the First Continental Congress and later as a Brigadier General of the New Jersey Militia during the Revolutionary War, was elected New Jersey’s first governor. Since his time, Liberty Hall has been home to senators, congressmen and captains of industry, and has hosted nine U.S. Presidents. Converted into a museum in 2000, it now s erves as an educational center with community-focused programs welcoming thousands of visitors each year.
For more information on programs and events at Liberty Hall, visit libertyhall.kean.edu.