Bordentown Regional H.S. Students, Historical Society Unveil Banner Project Celebrating Revolutionary-Era Figures
BORDENTOWN CITY, NJ — Bordentown City's visitors and residents can now learn more about the town's role in the United States' Revolutionary era thanks to a project spearheaded by Bordentown Regional High School (BRHS) students and the Bordentown Historical Society (BHS).
The initiative — part of Bordentown's lead-up to the nation's 250 anniversary — features commemorative banners placed outside of the Friends Meetinghouse that recognize Francis Hopkinson, Patience Lovell Wright, and Thomas Paine, each of whom played a significant role in America’s founding and once called Bordentown home.
The trio each made lasting contributions to the Revolutionary cause. Hopkinson was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, Wright was a celebrated sculptor and outspoken patriot, and Paine authored the influential pamphlet Common Sense. Their shared connection to Bordentown highlights the City’s role as a hub of political thought and creative expression during the nation’s founding.
Members of the Bordentown Regional High School History Club worked closely with the BHS to research and develop the content for the banners. Students Julianna Morolda, Meredith Bolinger, Samantha Nowick, Grace Kennedy, Ava Brennan, and Emily Sara conducted in-depth research to ensure the historical accuracy of each display while making the information accessible to the public. Under the guidance of BHS member Julie Burns and BHS Director Kristi Kantorski, the students gained hands-on experience in public history, working directly with historical sources and interpretive methods.
An official unveiling ceremony of the banners took place on May 16 and drew members of the community, BHS members as well as Bordentown City Mayor Stephanie Lagos, Bordentown City Commissioner Grace Archer and State Senator Troy Singleton.
“As our nation prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, Bordentown City is proud to shine a light on the remarkable people and ideas that helped shape the founding of our country right here in our one square mile community, where Francis Hopkinson, Patience Lovell Wright, and Thomas Paine once lived and walked our streets,” said Mayor Lagos. “What makes this project especially meaningful is the partnership between the Bordentown Historical Society and our local students, who worked together to research and share these stories with the broader community. It is collaborations like this that keep history alive and help people feel connected to the place they call home.”
“I especially appreciate the Bordentown Regional High School History Club bringing these stories to life through their research and partnership with the Bordentown Historical Society," said Singleton. “This project connected a new generation to the people and ideas that helped shape our country hundreds of years ago. This weekend reinforced how fortunate I am to represent communities that are rich with history. This summer, please take a moment to explore Burlington County’s many historical sites!”
“This project exemplifies how local history can come alive through collaboration and scholarship,” said Steve Lederman, Co-President of the Bordentown Historical Society when the project was announced earlier this spring. “Our partnership with the high school history club not only deepens students’ understanding of the past, but also strengthens our community’s appreciation for Bordentown’s important place in the American Revolution.”
The banners are now on display on the front grounds of the Friends Meetinghouse, located at 302 Farnsworth Avenue, and will remain available for public viewing throughout the year. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stop by and learn more about Bordentown’s Revolutionary history.
For more information about the project and other programs, visit the Bordentown Historical Society’s website at www.bordentownhistory.org.