The First Oval Office Project: Experience George Washington’s War Tent

ABOUT THE FIRST OVAL OFFICE PROJECT

December 13, 2025, the Lawrence Historical Society will host the First Oval Office Project at the Brearley House, featuring a full-scale replica of George Washington’s Revolutionary War headquarters tent. Presented in partnership with Lawrence Township Public Schools and the Museum of the American Revolution, this traveling exhibit brings national history to our local community.

Washington’s war tent—America’s first “Oval Office”—was the heart of leadership, struggle, and hope during the Revolution. The exhibit tells the story of Washington and all who served beside him, from soldiers to civilians who shaped a new nation, and all who were there.

The weekend will feature living history reenactments, student docents, and educational programming, connecting Lawrence to the NJ250 commemorations.

Highlights:

• Walk through Washington’s war tent
• Meet Revolutionary-era interpreters
• Celebrate history and community

Funds raised will support exhibit transport, staffing, student programs, and free public access. Donors will be recognized on our website and event materials.

Event Details

• Saturday, December 13, 2025
• 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• The Brearley House, 100 Meadow Road, Lawrence Township, NJ.
• Free event parking at 2000 Lenox Drive, a short walk from Brearley House
• Admission is free and open to the public (suggested donation: $10)

With Special Thanks to Our Event Champions

• Annika E. Alden-Siegel, Junior Historian Lead
• Mira J. Alden, MFA, Trustee
• Clifford Williams, PhD, Trustee

With Gratitude to Our Sponsors and Supporters

Founding Benefactor:
Matthew A. Peluso, Esq.

Founders’ Circle:
Lawrence Township Community Foundation
Mercer County Division of Culture and Heritage

Heritage Alliance:
Crossroads of the American Revolution
Ewing Township Historic Preservation Society
Historical Society of West Windsor
Hopewell Valley Historical Society
Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum
Trenton Historical Society

Sustaining Partner:
Hilton Garden Inn Princeton Lawrenceville
Old Barracks Museum

ABOUT THE LAWRENCE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Lawrence Historical Society (LHS) is a nonprofit, all-volunteer, nonpartisan organization preserving and sharing the history of Lawrence Township, New Jersey.

Our mission includes:

• Safeguarding treasured sites like the Brearley House (1761) and Port Mercer Canal House
• Bringing history to life for students and the public through immersive educational programs
• Strengthening community bonds through inclusive, story-driven events
• Directing every dollar raised toward sustaining local history and expanding public education

SPONSORSHIP

Ready to join the revolution? Your support makes this landmark event possible.

Founders’ Circle

Financial supporters who underwrite the project, echoing the Founders who shaped our nation.

+ Liberty Level $5,000+

+ Unity Level $1,000 – $4,999 +

+ Freedom Level Up to $999

Heritage Alliance

Historical societies united — like the colonies once were — to preserve our shared past.

+ Symbolic $250 (Celebrating America's 250th Annivarsary)

Sustaining Partners

Hotels, restaurants, caterers, and other organizations providing staff, shelter, and sustenance for those bringing history to life. In-kind staffing, lodging, or food & beverage support

Citizen Historians

Students, educators, and volunteers carrying forward the democratic legacy. Participation & service

Honored as Citizen Historians

Every contribution strengthens our shared story. Tax-deductible donations and in-kind gifts are made to the Lawrence Historical Society, a 501(c)(3) all-volunteer nonprofit.

Contact: info@thelhs.org · www.thelhs.org