Swearing in of new Town Council

Rockaway Township 2007 Veterans Day Ceremony at American Legion Post 344.  Joining Legion Officials were Council President Joseph O’Connor, a veteran himself and Picatinny Arsenal Garrison Commander Lt. Col. John Stack.

"Recognition Award"

The Rockaway Township Citizen's Recreation Committee has sponsored the Walter Stasiak Coaches Award.  This was created in recognition of Walt Stasiak, whose life ended much too early, as an individual who was committed to integrity, compassion and education of young athletes of Rockaway Township. Walt was a long time member of the Citizen's Recreation Committee.  On May 1, 2007, Walter's wife Barbara, along with their David, accepted the first recipient as Walt Stasiak.  This award will be presented to a worthy individual who exhibits the qualities that Walt lived his life.

"National Day of Prayer"

Approximately 100 people attended the 2007 National Day of Prayer observance at Park Lake Gazebo.  The hour long gathering was hosted by Mayor Louis Sceusi.  The following clergy participated in the program:  Rev. Peter Pavlov, Rev. John Hackwoth, Rev. Rob  Halsing, Rev, John Hansen Rev. Eider Reyes and Rabbi Asher Herson.  The children from Sacred Heart School and Saint Cecilia’s Bell Choir were participants.  Nancy Schum performed the vocals.

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“Rockaway Township Easter Festival”

The Easter Festival Event was held at Copeland Middle School on March 31st.  Over 200 children enjoyed a visit from the Easter Bunny and Molly the Clown.  The event was sponsored by the Township Parks Dept., and the Parent Resource Network, with prizes and refreshments donated by the Rockaway American Legion Post 344, the Township F.O.P. and the P.B.A.Police organizations.

“Rockaway Welcomes Theaters back to the Township”

Mayor Louis Sceusi addresses first responders and other municipal officials at the new AMC Theaters Grand Opening November 16, 2006
Photo provide by: Todd Mundt

Rockaway Township 1st Annual Community Halloween Party

Wallmart Shopping Center - October 30, 2006
Photo provide by: Todd Mundt

Wallmart Shopping Center - October 30, 2006
Photo provide by: Todd Mundt

Mayor Louis Sceusi announces winners of the Halloween Costume Contest, assisted by judges Carolyn Stanke, Asst. Mgr. and Jason Woodlief, Mgr.
Photo provide by: Todd Mundt

Wallmart Shopping Center - October 30, 2006

 “Rockaway Township Fire Department Annual Inspection Day” October 20, 2006

“Hessian Session”

October 14, 2006 – Ford-Faesch Manor, Rockaway Township

      The Historical Society presented a unique ‘Living History’ program entitled “Hessian Session”, which describes Rockaway Township’s direct link to the American Revolution.  Historical Society members dressed in period costumes and provided for an interactive historical program that engaged the attendees.

       On Christmas Eve 1776, General George Washington crossed the Delaware River and subsequently captured Trenton along with roughly 1000 Hessian Mercenary Troops.  Approximately 35 Hessian POW’s were transported north and held captive at the Ford Faesch Manor here in the Township.  The prisoners were loaned to the Iron Master to work in the Mt. Hope Furnace in lieu of jail.  The Mt. Hope Furnace at the time was supplying munitions to Gen. Washington and the Continental Army.  After the war ended, many of the released Hessian prisoners actually remained in the Mt. Hope area and settled raising families and contributing to the local economy.

      The “Hessian Session” is one of a series of programs offered by the Historical Society throughout the year.  For more information on the Historical Society or to find out to become a member, please email rockawayhistory@aol.com .

Heather McNall-Lang gives quill writing lessons to students who fill out a replica of the original POW indenture agreement to Faesch

 “Leopold”, named after one of the Mt. Hope Hessians, hangs around waiting for visitors in the supposed prisoner chambers in the basement of the Ford-Faesch Manor.

 Arnold Arvidson, one of the “Mt. Hope Minutemen” gives a musket demonstration

The Faesch Repertory Players take a bow after treating the visitors to an action packed re-enactment of the Hessian prisoners at Mt. Hope

 Left to right

Will Kmec as Capt. Selin; Heather McNall-Lang as the narrator; John Dunado as Ironmaster John Jacob Faesch; Brian Sellers is Manager Bernard Smith and David Lang as Hessian POW Leopold Zindle

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