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Online Exhibit: Yes

When Women Vote: The Old Barracks And the Anti-Suffrage Movement

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The Old Barracks’ origin is rooted in the military struggles of the 18th century, but the building also has a unique history tied to a group of affluent Trentonian women.

In 1902, The Old Barracks Association (OBA) was founded entirely by women living in the Trenton area with the goal of preserving the historic structure. These women were from well-connected families and as such, were expected to be involved in the local community and pursue philanthropic projects.

Despite their personal stories not always fitting the early 20th century ideal of womanhood, many of the founding members of the OBA were staunchly opposed to the idea of women having the right to vote.

This exhibit aims to explore their story and reasons for supporting the Anti-Suffrage Movement.

A Symbol of New Jersey to the World: The Old Barracks at the World’s Fair

Written by bmclendon on .

Built in 1758 to house British soldiers during the French and Indian War, used throughout the Revolutionary War, and witness to the Battle of Trenton, the building now affectionately known as the “Old Barracks” was selected three times to represent New Jersey at the World’s Fair, an honor never repeated for any other site.

Facsimiles of the building were constructed in:
1915 – Panama-Pacific International Exposition (PPIE)
1926 – Philadelphia Sesquicentennial Exposition
1939-40 – New York World’s Fair “World of Tomorrow”

This exhibit explores the importance of World’s Fairs to the global community and the role of the Old Barracks as a symbol of New Jersey to the world.

Necessary and Proper for the Public Good

Written by bmclendon on .

The year 2017 marks the centennial of America’s entrance into World War I. To commemorate the occasion and honor those who served abroad and at home, the Old Barracks Museum presents this digital exhibit, which highlights the use of the Old Barracks building by the Trenton Chapter of the American Red Cross during the war.

By the time America entered World War I, the conflict had been raging in parts of the world for almost three years. The Red Cross steadily increased its efforts to provide aid and support, even before the United States entered the war. Women accepted the task of Red Cross work with honor and determination, and quickly proved their capability.

When called upon to help with the war effort, the women of Trenton, through community volunteerism within the Old Barracks Association and the Red Cross, selflessly provided supplies and a willing workforce to the cause. The women of the Old Barracks Association did not hesitate to offer the building to the Red Cross for its war work, and wasted no time in organizing and volunteering. Though such women were expected to participate in charitable causes due to their social status, the enthusiasm with which Trentonians served was truly a credit to the city.

This exhibit reveals and honors a part of Trenton’s altruistic and patriotic past.