Nature Center to Host American Shad Activities

Historical methods of catching and preparing the American shad will be on display during “Discover the American Shad” at the Tulpehaking Nature Center

Traditional practices of fishing will come to life for one afternoon at the Tulpehaking Nature Center during “Discover the American Shad” on Saturday, April 14, from 1 to 3 p.m. Participants can experience a key part of this region’s history through hands-on activities.

Visitors will have a chance to make cordage for nets and practice fish scaling and other skills of the old-time fishermen. This program costs $5 per person or $20 per family. Registration is required by (609) 888-3218 or this link: https://goo.gl/forms/.

The spring shad runs provided an important source of food for both the Lenape and Colonists gathered here. In the late 1800s, the Delaware River produced more shad than any other river on the East Coast, with much of the catch centered in the area between Trenton and Philadelphia.

This program is part of History Weekend at the Abbott Marshlands in partnership with the Friends for the Abbott Marshlands and other local organizations. On April 14 and 15, explore the rich history of the Abbott Marshlands with special lectures, programs and tours of historic homes and sites. Learn how events here contributed to the growth of America from pre-historic times to the modern era. Full schedule of events can be found at www.abbottmarshlands.org.

The Tulpehaking Nature Center is located at 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton, NJ. It is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm, and Sundays from noon to 4pm.

The nature center provides programs and exhibits that encourage visitors to explore and discover the many cultural, historic and natural resources of the Abbott Marshlands. It is owned by the County of Mercer and operated by the Mercer County Park Commission. For more information about the nature center, programs and schedule of events, go to www.mercercountyparks.org.

 

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