Blackberry picking supports Parker Homestead restoration

By JEREMY GROSSMAN

Staff Writer

Vintage baskets for berry gathering will be in use once more for a Community Blackberry Pick being held to support the ongoing restoration of the barns and home that comprise the Parker Homestead in Little Silver. LITTLE SILVER A trove of vintage berry-picking baskets discovered at the historic Parker Homestead will be used during a community event to support the restoration of the circa-1665 property that was home to eight generations of the Parker family.

On July 19 and 26, residents of Little Silver can embrace history hands-on when the Parker Homestead hosts its first Community Blackberry Pick.

Although the event is free, donations will be accepted in support of the Parker Homestead-1665, a nonprofit formed to spearhead efforts to restore the Parker Homestead.

In 1995, Julia Parker the last of eight generations of the family gifted the property to the borough of Little Silver upon her death, with the stipulation that it be preserved as a historic landmark and for educational purposes. She died in 1996.

The Parker Homestead is one of the oldest homes in the nation, and is listed on both the state and national registers of historic places.

The homestead was built by Peter Parker and includes sections dating to 1720, the late 19th century and early 20th century.

Located on Rumson Road near Sickles Park, the homestead includes a main house and three outlying barns.

The baskets, which were used by members of the Parker family in the 1950s and 1960s, were found during restoration of one of the barns on the property.

Originally posted here:
Blackberry picking supports Parker Homestead restoration