Thu · Oct 15 · 2am
Old First Cemetery Descendants Reunion in Elizabeth, NJ
Old First Cemetery and other Elizabeth landmarks
Some names carved on the old stones in Elizabeth still live on in families today. From October 15 to 19, descendants of families connected to Old First Cemetery will return to Elizabeth to reconnect with their roots and with each other.
The reunion is part of Elizabeth's 250th anniversary celebration and honors the families and stories that helped shape the city. Union County Life shares the schedule so Elizabeth residents and history lovers can follow along.
The week opens Thursday, October 15, with a welcome and hospitality event from 2 to 4 p.m. and a descendants reception from 6:30 to 9 p.m., with a ceremony, music, and networking. Friday, October 16, brings a Genealogy Workshop and Resource Day. Help comes from the Elizabeth Public Library, the New Jersey State Archives, the Union County Clerk, the New Jersey Historical Society, and others. Friday also offers a New York City trip, shopping at The Mills at Jersey Gardens, and faith and funeral heritage experiences.
On Saturday, October 17, the 4 Centuries in a Weekend historic tour visits Old First Cemetery, Snyder Academy, Boxwood Hall, Liberty Hall, and the Belcher-Ogden Mansion. On Sunday, October 18, the Elizabethtown Cocktail Reception, Dinner and Ball runs from 6 to 11 p.m. with live music, awards, and dancing. The reunion closes Monday, October 19, with a farewell.
Descendants of the Crane, Woodruff, Vanderpeer, Ogden, Harriman, Whitwood, and Caldwell families are among those taking part. For many, it will be the first time they walk the same ground as their ancestors. To learn more, email wlundy@goelizabethnj.com. Find more Elizabeth events, arts coverage, and community news on Union County Life.
Photo Credit: Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce
FAQ:
Q: When is the Old First Cemetery Descendants Reunion in Elizabeth?
A: The reunion runs Thursday, October 15, through Monday, October 19, 2026, as part of Elizabeth's 250th anniversary.
Q: Where does the reunion take place?
A: Events take place across Elizabeth, including Old First Cemetery, Snyder Academy, Boxwood Hall, and the Belcher-Ogden Mansion. Venues for the receptions and the Sunday ball have not been announced.
Q: Who can attend the reunion?
A: The reunion is for descendants of families connected to Old First Cemetery. Email wlundy@goelizabethnj.com to ask whether the public can join any events.
Q: How much does it cost to attend?
A: The announcement does not list prices for the reunion, the historic tour, or the Sunday ball. Email wlundy@goelizabethnj.com for details.
Q: Where can I find more Elizabeth 250th anniversary events?
A: Union County Life covers Elizabeth's 250th anniversary, local history events, and community news across Union County. Visit unioncountylife.com for more.
