Film Screening: NJ Folklife Short Films
Film Screening: NJ Folklife Short Films
Film Screening: NJ Folklife Short Films
Join us for our August Wednesday Film Feature as we explore the traditions, craftsmanship, and communities that have shaped New Jersey’s cultural heritage through a collection of historic documentary films.
This special screening features five short documentaries from the 1980s highlighting traditional activities within the New Jersey Pinelands National Preserve, followed by the documentary The Sea Bright (1991). Together, these films celebrate the people, occupations, and waterways that have defined New Jersey’s history for generations.
August Wednesday Film Feature: NJ Folklife Short Films
The first five films were created for the New Jersey State Museum’s exhibition, “New Jersey Pinelands: Tradition and Environment,” based on fieldwork conducted by the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. Originally distributed by New Jersey Network, these documentaries introduce viewers to some of the region’s enduring traditions, including:
- Railbirding in the coastal meadows
- Cranberry growing in the Pine Barrens bogs
- Foxhunting through the pine forests
- Garvey boat building for Delaware Bay clamming
- Cedar harvesting in the Pinelands swamps
Following the short films, enjoy The Sea Bright (1991), which traces the history of the traditional Sea Bright skiff along New Jersey’s northern coastline. Master boatbuilder Charles Hankins demonstrates how these distinctive wooden boats were built, while interviews explore their many roles throughout history—from commercial fishing vessels and lifesaving boats to competitive rowing skiffs and lifeguard patrol boats.
Whether you’re fascinated by New Jersey history, traditional craftsmanship, maritime culture, or the people who helped shape our state’s identity, this August Wednesday Film Feature offers a fascinating look into the stories and traditions that continue to inspire us today.
Event Details
Discover New Jersey’s traditions through historic documentary films during our August Wednesday Film Feature.
📅 Date: Wednesday, August 12th. 2026
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM
📍 Location: Bayshore Center at Bivalve
🎟 Admission:
- Free for members
- $7 for non-members (paid upon arrival)
🍿Popcorn will be provided.
Plan Your Visit
The Bayshore Center at Bivalve is located along the Delaware Bay and offers a unique setting to experience local history, culture, and maritime heritage.
We encourage guests to arrive a few minutes early to get settled and enjoy the space before the screening begins. This is a great opportunity to connect with others in the community while learning something new about the history of our region.
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