Freehold Council President Sharon Schutzer and Councilman Jeff Friedman accepted the 250America Resolution plaque from Monmouth County Director Tom Arnone and Monmouth County Clerk Christine Hanlon at the recent meeting of the county-wide group panning and organizing a host of events for the nation’s 250 anniversary next year.
Monmouth County officials launched “America 250 Monmouth NJ” celebrating the county’s significance at the time of the American Revolution and America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. America250 – Monmouth NJ Committee Co-Chairs are Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone and Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon, with Ted Maturo the executive director of the Committee.
The enthusiasm, background and advance planning of the Freehold council members at the County’s recent meeting give all the indications there will be a town wide celebration in 2026, and all are invited to participate.
Local leaders point out the importance of the celebrations not only for the historic significance of the borough in the events of the 18th century but also because of the tourism attractions which will draw many first time visitors.
Schutzer, who was reelected to another term on the governing body last November, is a retired teacher with a degree from Marshall University in West Virginia, and like Friedman, has always been an advocate of promoting the importance of the borough’s history at the time of the Revolution. Both officials cite the Battle of Monmouth, regarded as a turning point in the Revolution, as the site from where the British began their retreat through Middletown to Sandy Hook.
Friedman also points out that the borough mirrors the evolution of the nation from its agricultural roots through the industrial and manufacturing ages and as such is a microcosm of America as the gathering point and crossroads of Monmouth County.
The borough is one of the three original municipalities in the county, the seat of the county government and home of the Monmouth County Historical Association, the councilman added. Because of this, “we are excited for the celebration of our nation’s 250 Anniversary, and we look forward to people visiting downtown Freehold borough and taking in the history and vibrancy of one of America’s original downtowns,” the two members of the 250America committee said.
In seeking another term on the governing body, Schutzer had pointed out she was “motivated by my love for Freehold,” and is driven by roots that taught her to become involved and give back. She is always quick to add “there is nothing about Freehold that doesn’t bring a smile to my face.”
Friedman indicated the Downtown Freehold organization he manages is already active in planning and preparing for the 2026 activities and plans to incorporate many of the organization’s regular events as part of the nation’s celebration. “We have had two meetings so far,” he said, and “we will be incorporating the 250 celebrations into the many town wide events we have throughout the year including St. Pats Parade, McGackin Awards Dinner, the Memorial Day Parade, 4th July fireworks, Old Freehold Day and others.”
When Hanlon announced at the 250 America meeting one of the highlights on the Fourth of July will be a huge parade in Middletown, Shutzer was quick to point out good naturedly it is Freehold that has the history of staging the oldest, and largest parade in Monmouth County history.
Both Shutzer and Friedman also noted they are confident the borough schools at all levels will also be planning and staging celebratory events for the anniversary, and the 250America team also announced there will be several contests in art and literature available for students in all the Monmouth County schools in 2026.
For more information on events for next year, visit Monmouthnj250.com and DowntownFreehold.com
