The 2023 exhibition focuses on our community’s mid-century history, exploring the era of rock and roll, the Cold War, Civil Rights and mid-century advancements as reflected in Harrison, South Harrison and Elk Townships. The post-World War 2 period presaged the changes and growth that were to take place over the next 60 years.

While farming continued to dominate the local economy, more residents, many new to the community, were working outside of the township. New arrivals stimulated a need for housing and several of the larger residences in Mullica Hill were converted into apartments. Farmers began selling off lots with road frontage for new homes, all of which stimulated the need for new schools.

The decade was bracketed by new school construction in 1950 and 1960. New meeting halls built by Ewan Fire Company, the newly formed American Legion Post and Mullica Hill Grange provided new spaces for social gatherings, and the old schoolhouse in Richwood - today's Richwood Academy Cultural Center - was repurposed as a community hall. All were indications of more dramatic changes that were to come.

Back to the Fifties reflects back on this moment in time to examine life in our community from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. The exhibition features a variety of artifacts and photography from the Society's collection, many of which are being shown for the first time. In addition, three programs in April and May at Richwood Academy Cultural Center explore mid-century history and popular culture.

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Spring Viewings: Weekends, March 26th - June 10th. (Closed Easter and Mother’s Day.)

Fall Viewings: Weekends, October 7th - December 9th.

Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 1 - 4 PM. Free admission.

Additional information: Historical Society’s Facebook page; 856-478-4949.

Old Town Hall Museum, Harrison Township Historical Society, 62 S. Main St., Mullica Hill, NJ.