In recognition of the 2016 presidential election, the Morris County Historical Society offers the thought-provoking “Race to the Finish: Newspaper Coverage of Presidential Elections, 1789-2008” beginning Sun., Oct. 30 in the Exhibit Galleries at Acorn Hall. Featured in the exhibit are rare, original, historic presidential newspapers from the personal collection of local historian, author, and MCHS Board of Trustees member Peter J. Tamburro, Jr.
On Thur., Nov. 10, an exhibit opening and reception with light refreshments is planned from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., highlighted by a special guided tour of the exhibit at 4:30 p.m. led by Tamburro.
In this exhibit, newspaper headlines and articles illustrate the campaign promises, electoral obstacles, and political gaffes of more than 20 U.S. presidents and their rivals. See early newspaper coverage of George Washington’s election through Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign, and an authentic copy of the 1948 “Dewey Defeats Truman” headline of the “Chicago Daily Tribune.” Complementing the newspapers are period clothing such as an 1876 dress worn to an inauguration party for President Rutherford B. Hayes, political paraphernalia including campaign buttons for Adlai Stevenson and Franklin Roosevelt, and a 1917 telegram sent by President Woodrow Wilson and other cultural artifacts– all from the extensive collections of the MCHS. The exhibit closes on Jan. 29, 2017.

The cost to participate in Tamburro’s exhibit tour is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, $7 for students, and free for MCHS members. Tour participation is limited to the first 25 registrants, and prepayment is required. To make a reservation, contact the MCHS at 973-267-3465 or, MCHSAcornHall@gmail.com.