tour of franklin nj

Participate In The Tour

Sponsorship opportunities, ride at the tour, special thanks to our sponsors, about the tour.

Established in 1989, the Tour de Franklin is the largest fundraising event of the year for the Franklin Food Bank and a staple in the community. Participants choose from several rides and walks through Franklin Township – traveling as little as 1 mile and as far as 62!  The 2023 Tour de Franklin was the largest event yet, exceeding fundraising goals before the start time on Tour Day! With the help of sunshine and a safe Somerset, we hope to set another record this year.

The tour day is open to the public from 8am- approximately 3:00pm. The events are staggered so that everyone will be finished around lunchtime. Your start time depends on the event you signed up for:   

62 mile – 8am

40 mile – 8:30am

25 mile – 10am & Canal 5-10 mile – 10am

Canal 1-5 mile – 10:30am

10 mile – 11am

1-5 mile – 10:45am

Yes, you can register on the day. We accept cash, card, check. But we encourage you to register early and set up a fundraising page to raise money for the Franklin Food Bank! Register by April 1st before the prices are raised.

 The 5, 10, 25, 40 and 62-mile events all start at Franklin High School in Somerset, NJ. The 5-mile Canal walk/ride event starts at the Ranger station on Canal Rd/Blackwells Mills Rd.

The Tour De Franklin is a fun event open to all with access to bathrooms, registration, t-shirts, breakfast, lunch, and access to medical support.

• Adult Rider $75
• Virtual Rider $75
• Adult Casual Walker-Rider $60
• College Student Rider $40
• Child-Teen Rider $35
• Children ages 5 and under are free to ride!

If you registered before April 1st, you’ll receive a Tour Classic Tee. The Tour de Franklin’s goal is to raise as much money as possible for the Franklin Food Bank, so we encourage everyone to set up a fundraising page!

Head to our payment homepage by clicking here!

If you register before April 1st you are eligible for our Tour de Franklin Classic Tee.

If you raise $150 (including your registration fee) you are eligible for our special edition black and silver tee.

If you raise at least $300 (including your registration fee) you are eligible for our black and gold tee.

Set up your fundraising page on the registration page! We hope you will ask your family and friends to support you in raising money for the Franklin Food Bank. Everything you fundraise makes a direct and immediate impact for our neighbors!

You can click on each link below to read the ride routes.

There are marked rest areas along each of the routes. The stops will have food, drinks, and access to bathrooms.

“Don’t have a bike for the event? No problem! Unlimited Biking is the official bike rental partner of Tour de Franklin 2024! Rent a Top Quality Cannondale Bike or Specialized with Unlimited Biking All bikes will be brought to the start line and picked up at the finish line for convenience. Helmets are provided with all rentals. All rentals must be booked in advance by clicking on this link: https://unlimitedbiking.com/events/tour-de-franklin-bike-rentals/

No, it is not a race, it is a charity bike ride to raise funds for the Franklin Food Bank. Everyone is encouraged to have fun and enjoy the day!

 Yes, helmets are required for all riders!

The Tour de Franklin is a rain or shine event . We’ll have a great day even if the weather doesn’t cooperate!

If you have trouble in the middle of one of the rides, you can flag down one of our SAG (Support And Gear) vehicles or you can call our lead SAG driver (the phone number will be on your cue card) and we will send the closest driver to help you. 

It takes a whole team to make the Tour a successful event. Reach out to our general email address and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Email: [email protected]

Ranging from $10,000 to $250 in sponsor levels, we hope you support the Tour de Franklin and reach many with your financial impact!

Head to our online Sponsorship page by clicking this link: https://give.classy.org/sponsortour24

You can also pay with check, cash, money order. Please reach out to [email protected]

Ride Sponsors

Tour premiere sponsor, 40 mile ride sponsor.

L’Oreal

10 Mile Ride Sponsor

Kurry and Nan

Billboard Sponsor

Masjid-e-Ali

This is the heading

Event sponsors, breakfast sponsor.

Link Logistics

Lunch Sponsor

Sag vehicle sponsor.

Inside Edge Consulting

Franklin Township Republican Club

Councilman Sivaram “Ram” Anbarasan

The Halal Guys

Karuna Charities New York

Rest Area Sponsor

In Honor of  Dr. Mark Weiner

In Honor of  Dr. Rebecca Steckel

Mile Marker Sponsor

Ramblin Wrench

Max Bussel & Co

Thomas Edison EnergySmart Charter  School

Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation

T-Shirt Sponsors

Sleeve sponsors.

Pig & Parrot Brielle

YingHua International School

Pig & Parrot Hoboken

Cedar Hill Prep School

Physical Therapy & Wellness at Somerset

Project Management Institute of New Jersey

Notre Dame Club of Central New Jersey

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Tour 2023 Photo Album

Tour Media Coverage

How you can help fight hunger in Franklin Township on April 28

The Franklin Food Bank’s Tour de Franklin Charity Bike Ride is returning in late April.

The 35th annual event will be held on Sunday, April 28 at Franklin High School. Up to 800 cyclists are attracted to the Tour de Franklin, the Franklin Food Bank’s largest annual fundraising event, which provides critical funding for its operations.

The event has grown into a spring tradition in Franklin, when avid cyclists, the community and sponsors join to fight local hunger. The Tour is the first cycling event of the season for many cyclists.

The Tour de Franklin consists of seven events in one day, including 62-, 40-, 25-, 10-, and 5-mile rides through the township, as well as a 10-mile ride and 1.5-mile walk-or-ride along the D&R Canal, offering something for casual riders and families as well as experienced cyclists. The rides are staggered throughout the morning with breakfast, lunch and snacks provided.

All participants are eligible for a free bike drawing. Everyone who fundraises $150 or more than $300 receives a special silver and black or gold and black T-shirt. To encourage fundraising, ThorLabs of Newton donated $10,000 as matching funds to bring people closer to their fundraising totals.

The Tour de Franklin started in 1989 when a small group of cyclists banded together to support the Franklin Food Bank, raising $1,500. The Tour continued annually since then and grew to become part of Somerset County’s community fiber and an anticipated annual ride among avid cyclists while raising funds.

More: Franklin Food Bank 'ridiculously busy', expands outreach

“We are thrilled to reach this 35-year milestone! While the Tour de Franklin has seen changes over the past 35 years, it has always been a fun day for everyone and a great way for cyclists and the community to support the Franklin Food Bank. We look forward to a great Tour event on April 28th!” said Tour de Franklin Chairperson Lisa Frey in a news release.

All proceeds raised by the Tour de Franklin directly support the Franklin Food Bank operations and the funding is critical to fight hunger in the community. The 2023 United Way ALICE report estimates more than 9,000 families in Franklin are experiencing food insecurity.

The Franklin Food Bank was recently awarded a $1 million grant from MacKenzie Scott's Yield Giving Open Call Awards, recognizing the significant impact that it has had on the community it serves. The funds are earmarked for a larger location, as the Food Bank has outgrown the current facilities.

“The Franklin Food Bank plays a vital role in reducing food insecurity in the community through a variety of programs and partnerships,” said Franklin Food Bank Executive Director Derek Smith in the press release. “In 2023, the Food Bank distributed an estimated 2.75 million pounds of food and accommodated approximately 30,000 visits to the Client Choice Market and Drive-Through events. We are very appreciative of the funding that the Tour de Franklin provides to support these efforts.” Last year the Tour raised more than $120,000, directly supporting these efforts to fight hunger in the Franklin Township community.

To learn more or register for the Tour de Franklin, visit franklinfoodbank.org/tourdefranklin/ and follow @TheFranklinFoodBank on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Brad Wadlow is a staff writer for MyCentralJersey.com

Tour de Franklin

Sunday, April 28 at the Franklin High School in Somerset, NJ

Register to participate.

• Register for the Tour and solicit sponsors by setting up fundraising pages on FirstGiving.  You can bike, hike, walk and encourage your friends and family to support the Food Bank.
• Visit FranklinFoodBank.org, click the Donate button on the home page and give what you can.
• Like or follow New Franklin Food Bank on Facebook.  Then like, comment and share its posts.  Help us get the word out that the Food Bank is open and needs help.

Destinations

• Daytrip map
• Historical Sites
• Farm Visits
• Attractions
• Accommodations

Trip the (Fluorescent) Light Fantastic

• Franklin Mineral Museum

by Kathryn Ptacek

Is it the bronze statue of the miner on the front lawn greeting the visitor or perhaps the full-size replica mine inside the building? Or could it be the lure of dinosaur footprints from New Jersey, the world's largest polished slabs of petrified wood, scorpions, dinosaur dung, and over 3000 specimens of local minerals that brings nearly 20,000 school-age children to the Franklin Mineral Museum each school year. The Museum, a non-profit educational institution which opened in 1965, is located in Franklin (Sussex County), New Jersey.

Visiting kids and adults are fascinated, excited, awed, and curious about what they see during their visit. The museum contains a systematic collection of local minerals on display in the local room, mining artifacts, map models explaining how zinc was extracted from the ores, and what the product was used for. There are more mineral species found at Franklin than any other place on the face of the earth (372). Most of them are on display here.

Franklin and nearby Ogdensburg are world-famous for their zinc mines, with Franklin being particularly known for its colorful fluorescent minerals. Franklin was proclaimed "the Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World" by a New Jersey State resolution in 1968.

The building in which the mine replica is housed is listed on New Jersey State Historic Site Register and until the late 1800s was the engine house for the Taylor mine. Behind the museum, collecting is available on the world famous Buckwheat dump where people can find their own fluorescent rocks. Dark room facilities are available as are identification services."

The Franklin Mineral Museum is well-known in New Jersey schoolrooms. The teachers coordinate with the guide staff to present an age and curriculum appropriate tour, with grades ranging from kindergarten-aged children to post graduate students. Mineral ID kits and check lists are available to the teachers. A staff person is usually available to assist teachers and students with field collecting. Summer programs are implemented for younger rock hounds. Geology patch courses for scouts and story time sessions are growing ever popular.

The museum hosts exhibits pertaining to many realms of earth science; a room dedicated to American Indian archaeological and cultural artifacts; another full of fossil fish, shells, dinosaur eggs, fossil teeth and fossil dung and a wall full of striking polished slabs of petrified wood. And Welsh Hall holds more than 5,000 specimens of minerals from around the world. But the Museum’s mission is to “preserve and disseminate knowledge related to the mineral wealth, geology, and history of ‘the greatest mineral locality on Earth,’ and to foster scientific inquiry into those subjects.” Accordingly, the Museum’s primary efforts are for the acquisition and display of mineralogical and geological specimens, artifacts, and documents specific to the history and mineralogy of the Franklin-Sterling Hill mining district.

In the Fluorescent Mineral room, a thirty-two-foot-long pageant of rocks includes many of the ninety-plus fluorescent minerals found here. When the lights go out, the brilliant rainbow that jumps from under the display glass never fails to amaze. And in the Local Minerals room, the Museum’s curator, Dr. Earl Verbeek, recently completed a complete reorganization of more than two thousand specimens representing most of the 372 mineral species native to Franklin, twenty-four of which appear nowhere else. It will take some time in this room to begin to comprehend why this place is world famous, but it’s all there; how each relates to the other and to us. Verbeek and his colleagues constantly tend to the collection, and a large part of the Museum’s purpose is continued research at this extraordinarily complex and abundant resource.

The old Taylor powerhouse now contains an underground mine replica, which was constructed originally by the New Jersey Zinc Company as a training facility for its miners. Before the underground labyrinths were built for zinc mining, Taylor Mine ore came from an open quarry known as the Buckwheat Pit. Waste rock from that pit, rock containing too little zinc to merit smelting, was left in a huge mound that occupies more than three acres on the Museum grounds. Collectors have scoured the Buckwheat Dump for decades in search of fluorescent treasure, so much so that the huge pile is now half its original size. But the Buckwheat is still prime territory. “Because zinc is no longer mined, there are few new specimens available to us,” explains Dr. Verbeek. “So, prices keep going up for collectors. People find good stuff all the time. One gentleman recently found a piece of esperite worth $1,000!” Collectors can comb the dump whenever the Museum is open, using an ultraviolet light and black plastic trash bag to block the daylight; or during special nighttime digs. There is a small admission charge and poundage fee for whatever is taken away.

Depending on the age and interest level of the group, tours can last from thirty minutes to one hour, while collecting generally lasts much longer--there's always the possibility a visitor might make a genuine discovery.

Kids and their teachers or parents can picnic in a large area behind the building, and if the weather should prove inclement, the peanut butter and jelly sandwich set can move indoors to the lecture hall. Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, come spend an hour or two or three and steep yourself in the mineral-rich history of the area. You might just learn something--and have a lot of fun at the same time.

Franklin Mineral Museum 32 Evans Street, Franklin Open Daily April-November Monday – Friday, 10-4; Sat, 10-5; Sun. 11-5 Click or call 973-827-3481

Nearby accommodations and attractions

• Appalachian Trail, Sunfish Pond

Follow the tiny but mighty Wallkill River on its 88.3-mile journey north through eastern Sussex County into New York State.

Located in Sussex County near the Kittatinny Mountains the camping resort offers park model, cabin and luxury tent rentals as well as trailer or tent campsites with water, electric and cable TV hookups on 200 scenic acres.

69 Kymer Rd., Branchville

Peters Valley shares the experience of the American Craft Movement through interactive workshop learning through a series of workshops. A shop and gallery showcases the contemporary craft of residents and other talented artists at the Crafts Center...ceramics, glass, jewelry, wood and more in a beautiful natural setting. Open year round. Closed Thursday.

19 Kuhn Road, Layton

“The Fluorescent Mineral Capitol of the World" Fluorescent, local & worldwide minerals, fossils, artifacts, two-level mine replica.

32 Evans Street, Franklin

Related topics.

• Mines, Metal and Men
• Wawayanda State Park
• Sterling Hill Mine Tour and Museum
• Oxford Furnace
• Long Pond Iron Works
• Pequest Furnace
• Mt. Hope Mines
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• In The Loop
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• Super Intentions
• Iron, Sparta Mountain and Edison
• Zinc Mines and Fluoresence

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A Visit to Sterling Hill Mining Museum & The Franklin Mineral Museum

With everything going on in the state of New Jersey people tend to forget about the history that the state has. Recently I took a trip to Ogdensburg NJ to visit the Sterling Hill Mining Museum. Ogdensburg, which is a small town located in Sussex county holds home to the last operating zinc mine.

The museum holds over thirty acres of exhibits, displays and historical buildings. Part of the experience of the museum is taking a tour of the underground tunnel.

The tunnel curves in and out of the mountain displaying amazing views of rock formations and minerals. The tour continues through a section of the tunnel called the Rainbow Tunnel. In the Rainbow tunnel the tour guide used waves of ultra violet lights to illuminate the tunnel and exposing its various samples of glowing rock. The tour guide was full of knowledge about the history of the area and the process of the entire mining culture he did a great job of giving many details and answering the many questions our group had.

The tour is almost two hours long, but do not worry for all the claustrophobic people out there you do not spend the entire tour in the mine! The tour starts inside the exhibit hall which contains a variety of mining memorabilia, fossils and rock samples. While you are there take a look at the shop you can purchase books, memorabilia on mining and grasp an even better concept of what mining has done for the state of NJ.

The one tip for the tour is, bring a jacket! No matter what time of the year you go it is always cold in the mine. Consequently this is why the mine tours are closed from December to March.

While you are enjoying the Sussex county area visiting the Sterling Hill’s neighbor is a must! Located in the close town of Franklin NJ is the Franklin Mineral Museum. This is a non-profit museum and educational institution located at 32 Evans Street.

The museum houses hundreds of varieties of minerals from over centuries of zinc mining and they are all on exhibit for your viewing pleasure. When you are here be sure to check out their display of fluorescent minerals. They also use an ultra violet light to bring out the colors within the rocks; this was probably the most amazing display of colors you have seen.

The museum is full of beautiful and educational displays be sure to read and interact with the displays. This is the only way you with truly understand the rich history of mining and how important it was to NJ.

A must out of all the exhibits is the mine waste pile just outside the Franklin Museum. You can collect mineral specimens and test them for fluorescence. This is fun for the kids to check out hopefully it will help them understand about the process of mining. Plus it is always fun to find a surprise in a pile of mining waste.

Be sure to call ahead to both the Sterling Hill Mining Museum and the Franklin Mineral museum for schedules and prices. While the tour is great for people of all ages keep in mind it may be a little long for younger children.

Additional Information on the Sterling Hill Mining Museum: Address: 30 Plant Street, Ogdensburg, NJ Phone: (973) 209-7212 Website

Additional Information on the Franklin Mineral Museum: Address: 32 Evans Street, Franklin, NJ Phone: (973) 827-3481 Website

Author: Jessica Barberia

Jessica is originally from Nutley, and now a Caldwell resident. She loves running, biking and pretty much anything outdoors. She also enjoys trying new places to eat and drink… and anything & everything to do with the NY Mets. Share this:

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Our Location

Street Address

32 Evans Street Franklin, New Jersey 07416 Tel: (973) 827-3481

GPS Coordinates

41º 06' 49” North Latitude 74º 35' 20” West Longitude

Admission Prices: Individual

Family Fun! Hands-On Activities, Great for Kids of All Ages

“Adventure Package” Children (3-12) $29.00 Adults $34.00

Includes admission to Museum Exhibits, Rock Collecting, Fossil Dig, and Gem Panning. Spend the whole day with us!

Combination Museum Exhibits & Rock Collecting

Adult $20.00 Children (3-16) $15.00 Senior Citizens (65+) & Veterans $18.00

Includes collecting bag and two pounds of specimens per paid admission. Additional poundage fee: $2 per pound.

Museum Exhibits only

Adults $15.00 Children (3-16) $12.00 Senior Citizens (65+) & Veterans $14.00

Rock Collecting only

Adults $12.00 Children (3-16) $10.00 Senior Citizens (65+) & Veterans $11.00

Includes collecting bag and two pounds of specimens per paid admission. Additional poundage fee: $2 per pound. All persons going into rock collecting areas must pay admission. Collecting area closes 30-minutes prior to museum closing.

$12.00 per person

Price includes one fossil to take home, but participants can uncover as many fossils as they like before choosing which one to keep.

Gem Panning

$18 per bag of gem rough

Similar to panning for gold: Gems are obtained by washing away sand of lighter weight in a water sluice.

Children MUST be accompanied by a paid adult at all times.

Admission Prices: Group Rates for School / Scout / Camp 

Reservations must be made in advance 973-827-3481

“Adventure Package”

$20 per person

Includes admission and tour of Museum Exhibits, Mine Replica, Rock Collecting, Fossil Dig, and Gem Panning. Spend the whole day with us!

Basic Package  $15 per person

includes admission and tour of Museum Exhibits, Mine Replica and Rock collecting.

$10 per person

Each admission includes a Museum-supplied collecting bag. All excess poundage not inside the provided bag is $2 per pound.

Birthday Party $20 per person, includes tour of Museum Exhibits, Mine Replica, Fossil Dig and Gem Panning.

*A viewing shed equipped with an ultraviolet light is available for inspecting your minerals for fluorescence.

Call for details (973-827-3481).

Reservations Policy

• Reservations are required and may be made up to a year in advance. Please call us at 973-827-3481 to reserve a time slot for your group.
• The following qualify for Group Rates: School groups. Scout, camp, and home-school groups of 10 or more attendees.
• All prices are subject to change without notice.
• These rates do not apply to special events or digs.
• Steep grade to dump. Natural rocky terrain.
• Rates do not apply to special digs or events.
• NO REFUNDS.

General Information

• Self-Guided tours. Visitors are welcome to view the exhibits and walk through the museum without a tour guide, but some restrictions may apply if group tours are in progress.
• Rock collecting is available daily, except during extreme weather. The primary mineral collecting area, the Buckwheat Dump, closes 30 minute prior to the Museum . Proper footware (no open-toed shoes) is required; collectors must also wear protective eyewear when using tools (hammers, chisels, etc.). Claw hammers are not allowed. The museum does not supply collecting tools; please bring your own. A viewing shed equipped with an ultraviolet light is available for inspecting your minerals for fluorescence.
• In addition to school groups, the Franklin Mineral Museum also hosts children’s parties, camps and scout group activities, and scout achievement award programs. The Museum also hosts an Annual Science Award Competition, during which local students compete for scholarships. The awards ceremony is held in conjunction with the Museum’s annual “Miners and Volunteer Appreciation Day,” held the first Sunday in May.
• While here, visit the Museum store. Local and worldwide minerals are available for sale, along with ultraviolet (UV) lights, jewelry, rock ID kits, books on minerals and fossils, and teaching aids. It’s a great place to shop for unique birthday and holiday gifts!

Museum Displays

Historic Mine Features

Collections

Museum Store

About The Tour

The Tour De Franklin is a spring tradition in Somerset, NJ, as avid cyclists and the community join together in late April to fight local hunger!

All funds raised support the Franklin Food Bank and is the Food Bank’s largest annual fundraiser!  

We can't do this without each and every one of you - whether you participate, volunteer, sponsor, or support a rider.  This event is truly what "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" is all about and we at the Franklin Food Bank are grateful.

For more event information and details visit:  franklinfoodbank.org/tourdefranklin

We're fundraising to make a difference!

Ride, donate, support the Tour De Franklin 2024!

500 Elizabeth Avenue, Franklin Township, NJ 08873

Franklin High School has many options for parking. The entrance for the event is at the back of the high school by their track and field.

Registration Info

All registered participants will be encouraged to fundraise

Adult Rider

This registration covers the cost of one adult in the 10, 25, 40, or 62-mile rides. *If you raise $150 or more by asking your friends and family to donate on your fundraising page, you can receive our signature black&silver Tour Tee, $300 or more and earn the black&gold signature Tour Tee.

Virtual Rider

Register as a virtual rider if you are not able to participate on April 30t but you want support the Franklin Food Bank. Local riders (must be able to pick up) who *If you raise $150 or more by asking your friends and family to donate on your fundraising page, you can receive our signature black&silver Tour Tee, $300 or more and earn the black&gold signature Tour Tee.

Adult Casual Walker-Rider

This registration covers the cost for one adult to walk or ride in the 5-mile on-road event or either of the Canal events. *If you raise $150 or more by asking your friends and family to donate on your fundraising page, you can receive our signature black&silver Tour Tee, $300 or more and earn the black&gold signature Tour Tee.

Student Rider

This registration covers the cost for one student to ride, or walk and participate in the Tour De Franklin. *If you raise $150 or more by asking your friends and family to donate on your fundraising page, you can receive our signature black&silver Tour Tee, $300 or more and earn the black&gold signature Tour Tee.

Child Rider (6-12)

This registration covers the cost for one child/teen between ages 6-17 to ride, or walk and participate in the Tour De Franklin. *If you raise $150 or more by asking your friends and family to donate on your fundraising page, you can receive our signature black&silver Tour Tee, $300 or more and earn the black&gold signature Tour Tee.

Children age 5 and under are free

Children age 5 and under are free. *If you raise $150 or more by asking your friends and family to donate on your fundraising page, you can receive our signature black&silver Tour Tee, $300 or more and earn the black&gold signature Tour Tee.

Support a Fundraiser

Search for a fundraiser or team to support

Top Fundraiser

Most Donors

Most Members

Top individuals.

Steven Hornstein has raised $4,663 out of their goal of $4,000

Tristan & Karla's Franklin Food Bank Fundraiser has raised $2,894 out of their goal of $1,500

Barry Gilmore has raised $2,705 out of their goal of $3,000

Celia Hills has raised $2,740 out of their goal of $2,500

Stephen Byrne has raised $2,352 out of their goal of $500

The Hops and Props Experience 2024 has raised $4,708 out of their goal of $3,000

The Melillo Foodbank has raised $3,355 out of their goal of $5,000

Team OFS has raised $1,685 out of their goal of $1,500

The New Jersey FamBam! has raised $1,705 out of their goal of $1,000

Oldies But Goodies has raised $1,156 out of their goal of $1,000

Fundraising Activity and Testimonials

See who supports the Franklin Food Bank and what they have to say about it!

• All {{type.total}} -->
• Comments {{type.total}} -->
• Donors {{type.total}} -->

Asad Mazharullah purchased a registration

Asad Mazharullah created a fundraising page

A $75.00 registration was credited to Asad Mazharullah's page

Jun Leon purchased a registration

Franklin Food Bank

224 Churchill Avenue

Somerset, New Jersey 08875 US

908-507-9004

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32 Evans Street, Franklin, NJ 07416

973-827-3481

[email protected]

Register now to get full access to our museum.

OPERATING SCHEDULE

The museum will be open with the following hours:

APRIL– NOVEMBER:  Open

Wednesday: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

Thursday: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

Friday: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Sunday: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

Admission Prices: Individual

Family Fun! Hands-On Activities, Great for Kids of All Ages

Kids Adventure Package

• Children (3-12) $34.00
• All Inclusive (Ages 3-16) Fossil Dig / Gem Panning / Museum Admission

Combination Museum Exhibits & Rock Collecting

• Adult $20.00
• Children (3-16) $15.00
• Senior Citizens (65+) & Veterans $18.00
• Includes 2 pounds of rocks per person and collecting bag. All additional poundage @ $2 per pound.

Rock Collecting only

• Adults $12.00
• Children (3-16) $10.00
• Senior Citizens (65+) & Veterans $11.00
• Includes collecting bag and two pounds of specimens per paid admission. Additional poundage fee: $2 per pound.
• All persons going into rock collecting areas must pay admission. Collecting area closes 30-minutes prior to museum closing.

Admission Prices: Group Rates for School / Scout / Camp

Reservations must be made in advance 973-827-3481

Reservations Policy

• Reservations are required and may be made up to a year in advance. Please call us at 973-827-3481 to reserve a time slot for your group.
• The following qualify for Group Rates: School groups. Scout, camp, and home-school groups of 10 or more attendees.
• All prices are subject to change without notice.
• These rates do not apply to special events or digs.

Adventure Package

• Call For Details
• 973.827.3481
• Includes admission and tour of Museum Exhibits, Mine Replica, Rock Collecting, Fossil Dig, and Gem Panning. Spend the whole day with us!

Basic Package

• Call for Details
• Includes admission and tour of Museum Exhibits, Mine Replica and Rock collecting.
• Each admission includes a Museum-supplied collecting bag. All excess poundage not inside the provided bag is $2 per pound.

Birthday Party

• Call for details
• Includes tour of Museum Exhibits, Mine Replica, Fossil Dig and Gem Panning.

• Steep grade to dump. Natural rocky terrain.
• Rates do not apply to special digs or events.
• NO REFUNDS.

A viewing shed equipped with an ultraviolet light is available for inspecting your minerals for fluorescence.

Call for details (973-827-3481).

OPENING HOURS

Wed ‒ Fri: 11:00am ‒ 4:00pm Sat: 10:00am ‒ 5:00pm Sun: 11:00am ‒ 5:00pm

Visit our Admissions Page

32 Evans Street, Franklin, NJ 07416 973-827-3481 [email protected]

The Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Semi annual garage sale.

• Saturday, April 27, 2024
• 10:00 AM 4:00 PM 10:00 16:00
• Sterling Hill Mining Museum (map)
• Google Calendar ICS

Garage sale will be held in Christiansen Pavilion

• Sunday, April 28, 2024

Garage Sale in Christiansen Pavilion at Sterlng Hill

Good Friday Tour

• Friday, March 29, 2024
• 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 13:00 15:00

President's Day

• Monday, February 19, 2024
• 9:00 AM 3:00 PM 09:00 15:00

We will have a 1:00 PM tour

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

• Monday, January 15, 2024

We will have a 1:00 tour on Monday January 15, 2024

Black Friday Tour

• Friday, November 24, 2023

There will be a 1 PM tour on Friday November 24, 2023

2023 GeoSTEM Academy for Elementary and Middle School Teachers

• Saturday, October 21, 2023

An Earth Science Journey from Ore to Store

Description: The origins of our everyday “stuff” is a mystery to most. This workshop will take you on a natural resource journey from ore to store to explore how Earth materials are acquired and refined for use in our daily lives. The content of this workshop is a perfect fit for elementary, middle and high school teachers seeking innovative ways to identify and connect students to everyday and local Earth and Space Science phenomena. Registration: https://nestanet.org/event-5286293

Columbus Day

• Monday, October 9, 2023

We will have a 1PM tour on Monday October 9, 2023 in observance of Columbus Day. Gift shop will be open 10AM to 3PM. Mineral collecting and sluicing are also available

New Jersey Paranormal Ghost Hunt

• Saturday, October 7, 2023
• 7:00 PM 11:00 PM 19:00 23:00

OCTOBER 7, 2023:  SOLD OUT  THE STERLING HILL MINING MUSEUM GHOST HUNT   7:00 PM UNTIL 11:00 PM   $55 PER PERSON EMAIL: [email protected] TO RESERVE AND PAY FOR YOUR SPACE. LIMITED NUMBER OF SPACES AVAILABLE LOCATED AT 30 PLANT STREET IN OGDENSBURG, NJ

• Saturday, September 16, 2023
• 7:30 PM 11:30 PM 19:30 23:30

SEPTEMBER 16, 2023:  SOLD OUT THE STERLING HILL MINING MUSEUM GHOST HUNT   7:30 PM UNTIL 11:30 PM   $55 PER PERSON EMAIL: [email protected] TO RESERVE AND PAY FOR YOUR SPACE. LIMITED NUMBER OF SPACES AVAILABLE LOCATED AT 30 PLANT STREET IN OGDENSBURG, NJ

2023 Franklin/Ogdensburg PBA Local 404 Food Truck Festival

• Saturday, July 29, 2023
• 11:00 AM 6:00 PM 11:00 18:00

The PBA Local #404 is having a fundraiser at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum. There will be Food Trucks, Live Music, Beer, Wine and vendors. Tickets can be purchased here.

VIP Night Event/Ghost Hunt

• Sat, May 13, 2023 7:00 PM 19:00 Sun, May 14, 2023 12:00 AM 00:00

VIP NIGHT EVENT/GHOST HUNT WITH DUSTIN, CODY, SATORI AND NJP ​7:00PM UNTIL MIDNIGHT MEET AND GREET WITH DUSTIN PARI, CODY DESBIENS AND SATORI HAWES DUSTIN PARI LECTURE CODY AND SATORI LECTURE FEATURING SOME OF THEIR MOST HAUNTED OBJECTS 4 HOUR GHOST HUNT WITH DUSTIN PARI, CODY DESBIENS, SATORI HAWES AND NEW JERSEY PARANORMAL $120 PER PERSON EMAIL: [email protected] TO RESERVE AND PAY FOR YOUR SPACE TO EITHER EVENT. LOCATED AT 30 PLANT STREET IN OGDENSBURG, NJ

Paranormal Meet and Greet and Lantern Tour

• Saturday, May 13, 2023
• 3:30 PM 5:30 PM 15:30 17:30

MAY 13, 2023 : TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!!! ​ THE STERLING HILL MINING MUSEUM PARANORMAL EVENT WITH  DUSTIN PARI, CODY DESBIENS, SATORI HAWES AND NEW JERSEY PARANORMAL!! DAYTIME EVENT: 3:30PM UNTIL 5:30PM MEET AND GREET WITH DUSTIN PARI, CODY DESBIENS AND SATORI HAWES DUSTIN PARI LECTURE CODY AND SATORI LECTURE FEATURING SOME OF THEIR MOST HAUNTED OBJECTS LANTERN TOUR THROUGH THE HAUNTED STERLING HILL MINE $25 PER PERSON

Sterling Hill Garage Sale

• Sunday, April 23, 2023
• 10:00 AM 5:00 PM 10:00 17:00

Garage Sale in the Christiansen Pavilion at Sterling Hill Mining Museum

• Saturday, April 22, 2023

New Jersey Paranormal

• Saturday, March 4, 2023

MARCH 4, 2023 :  TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!!!​ THE STERLING HILL MINING MUSEUM GHOST HUNT   7:30PM UNTIL 11:30PM    $55 PER PERSON EMAIL: [email protected] TO RESERVE AND PAY FOR YOUR SPACE. LIMITED NUMBER OF SPACES AVAILABLE LOCATED AT 30 PLANT STREET IN OGDENSBURG, NJ

• Monday, February 20, 2023

We will have a 1:00PM tour in observance of President’s Day

Martin Luther King Day

• Monday, January 16, 2023
• 10:00 AM 3:00 PM 10:00 15:00

We will have a 1:00 PM tour in observance of Martin Luther King Day

Untitled Event

• Mon, Dec 26, 2022 1:00 PM 13:00 Sat, Dec 31, 2022 1:00 PM 13:00

We will have public tours on December 26, 2022 through December 31, 2022 at 1:00PM. Please be here between 12:30PM and 12:45PM for 1:00PM tour.

Black friday.

• Friday, November 25, 2022

We will have a 1:00PM tour on Black Friday

Veteran's Day

• Friday, November 11, 2022

We will have a 1:00PM tour in observance of Veteran’s Day. Tour is free for veteran’s with valid military ID

• Monday, October 10, 2022

We will have a 1:00 PM tour in observance of Columbus Day

Sterling Hill Mining Museum

• Sunday, September 25, 2022

Garage Sale in the Christiansen Pavilion at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum.

• Saturday, September 24, 2022

World Suicide Prevention Day Special Tours

• Saturday, September 10, 2022
• 1:00 AM 4:00 PM 01:00 16:00

We will have 2 special tours on Saturday September 10, 2022 to raise funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The tours will be at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. You must call to make reservations.

Franklin/Ogdensburg PBA Local 404 Food Truck Festival

• Sunday, August 21, 2022
• 12:00 PM 5:00 PM 12:00 17:00

Fund Raiser for Franklin/Ogdensburg Local 404 for information go to:

https://www.eventbrite.com/.../franklinogdensburg-pba...

Mine tours at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

Memorial Day

• Monday, May 30, 2022

We will be open for 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM tours. Mineral Collecting and Gift Shop are also open.

Garage Sale

• Sunday, April 24, 2022

Garage Sale to be held in the Christian Pavilion at the Syerling Hill Mining Museum

• Saturday, April 23, 2022

Garage sale to be held in Christian Pavilion at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Easter Week Added Tours

• Mon, Apr 18, 2022 10:00 AM 10:00 Fri, Apr 22, 2022 1:00 PM 13:00

We will be open for 1:00 PM tours from April 18, 2022 through April 22, 2022 for Easter Vacation

New Years Holiday

• Sat, Jan 1, 2022 12:00 AM 00:00 Sun, Jan 2, 2022 12:00 AM 00:00

The Mine will be closed for the New Year Holiday

December 27, 2021 through December 31, 2021

• Mon, Dec 27, 2021 1:00 PM 13:00 Fri, Dec 31, 2021 1:00 PM 13:00

Tours every day this week at 1PM.

973-209-7212 -- [email protected] -- 30 Plant Street -- Ogdensburg, NJ 07439

A Guide to Local Real Housewives of New Jersey Landmarks

In New Jersey, Wednesday nights are for girls, specifically Bravo TV’s The Real Housewives of New Jersey . During every episode, viewers are treated to a weekly dose of family, drama, and wine wrapped neatly into a one-hour package. And while the group may jet off to Cabo and Oklahoma on the regular, real fans know that the life of a RHONJ isn’t as far from the Garden State and Hoboken as one may think. These major landmarks will take your RHONJ knowledge from a basic fan to a housewife-in-waiting. Read on for your guide to RHONJ ’s local landmarks in New Jersey.

The Brownstone | 351 West Broadway, Paterson

Party the Manzo way at The Brownstone in Paterson. Fans will recall The Brownstone as the setting for the tiff between the Manzos and Danielle Staub. Never forget when Staub arrived for a benefit at the venue and a table for her and her entourage was nowhere to be found.

North Jersey Country Club | 594 Hamburg Turnpike, Wayne

Even the newest member of the Bravo Fan Club will know this as the infamous location of the Ashley Laurita vs. Danielle Staub showdown. After Teresa Guidice and Jacqueline Laurita chased Danielle out of Kim DePaola’s fashion show, teenage Ashley tried to defend her mother and ripped out Danielle’s extensions as she was trying to leave.

Rails Steakhouse | 10 Whitehall Road, Towaco

Fans will recall this upscale eatery as the venue for Melissa Gorga’s birthday party in the Season 9  RHONJ  premiere. Just off the Montclair-Boonton line Towaco stop, Rails Steakhouse combines atmosphere and sizzling cuts for a culinary experience of the ages. Mend friendships, meet new people, and celebrate milestones at the local establishment, just don’t shove cake in anyone’s face.

Aydin Plastic Surgery | 140 North Route 17, Paramus

If you love Jennifer Aydin’s lips, don’t worry, we won’t tell Margaret. Get the look at house-husband Bill’s private practice. Dr. Aydin’s office is located in Paramus for all your cosmetic procedures, from augmentations to fillers (and you just might catch a glimpse of the housewife dropping lunch off to her husband).

Pizza Love | 637 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff

She may have started small in her own kitchen, but Kathy Wakile has taken her culinary talents to the big leagues at her own pizza joint , Pizza Love, in Wyckoff. While Teresa may be the star of the current show, at Pizza Love it’s all about Kathy. After dinner, end the evening with cannolis, as only Kathy would.

Envy By Melissa Gorga | 609 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair

Whether you’re obsessed with her slim-fitting bodysuits or you want to get on her shoe-game level, Envy by Melissa Gorga brings together classic styles with modern trends to give every Jersey Girl a look they’ll love. The Montclair boutique is right on Bloomfield Avenue and houses everything from a little black dress to the perfect pair of sunglasses to take you from day to night. And while you probably won’t see Joe Gorga hanging out there anytime soon, you can hope for Mrs. Gorga to make an appearance every so often.

Lu Nello | 182 Stevens Avenue, Cedar Grove

There’s never a bad time for Italian cuisine , but table flips will NOT be on the menu at this Cedar Grove restaurant. While Lu Nello may look like a quiet restaurant, it’s hard to forget the iconic Teresa Guidice table flip that will live on for eternity in TV history. While the relaxing vibe may seem unexpected given the scene history of the place, if you listen closely, you can still hear echoes in the walls screaming, “ …engaged nineteen times. ”

The Manor | 111 Prospect Avenue, West Orange

The introduction of Melissa and Joe Gorga into the show was certainly not without its obstacles, one of those being a christening brawl. You may recall Joe Gorga and Joe Guidice battling it out while their wives screamed — and Kathy Wakile tried to shuffle their children away from the full-on family quarrel. It’s unlikely the event venue had ever seen such a massive fiasco, and doubtful they ever will again.

Fresco da Franco | 15 Church Street, Montclair

This classic Italian eatery in Montclair has been a hot spot for lunch with the housewives since season seven. Stop by for Italian and fare and you might spot one of them there!

The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel |1401 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park

The sons of Caroline Manzo and her husband Albert, partnered with The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel in Asbury Park to revamp the indoor and outdoor space. Now, they run the food and beverage operations in the hotel, including the Blue Bar and poolside lounge, which features cabanas, a koi pond, and a balcony terrace with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Full Blown Blow-Out + Beauty Lounge | 42 Lake Drive, Wayne

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Lauren Manzo (@laurenmanzo)

This full-service salon is owned by Lauren Manzo and offers services in hair, makeup, eyelashes, and organic airbrush tans. Lauren herself works at the salon and is said to give a mean blowout!

Jenks Club | 300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach

In 2019, during a trip to Point Pleasant, the housewives grabbed a bite to eat at Jenks Club and explored the boardwalk afterward.

Bonus: 10th Street Pizza and Pasta | 1000 Willow Avenue, Hoboken

While not necessarily “on” the show’s highlight reel, this local Italian favorite was actually co-owned by none other than Chris Manzo. Once in a while, you’ll even see his OG RHONJ mama, Caroline Manzo, make an appearance.

also appears in

Alyssa Kelly

The Louisiana native started at NYU in 2016 and is currently working on her degree in Media and Communication. She is making her way through the Mile Square neighborhood, one coffee shop at a time. When she isn’t writing or getting her caffeine fix, Alyssa enjoys trying out new dessert recipes (especially if there’s chocolate in it) or attending a midnight showing of the newest blockbusters. On a typical Saturday night, you can usually find Alyssa either at a concert or watching Netflix’s newest binge-worthy TV series.

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Franklin Lakes GOP will have another contested council primary. Here's who's running

2-minute read.

FRANKLIN LAKES — For a third year, a previously unified Republican party is presenting voters with a contested primary election.

Three Republicans are running for two three-year seats in the June 4 primary.

Councilman Thomas Lambrix is not seeking a new term. There are no Democratic challengers.

The Franklin Lakes GOP County Committee is backing incumbent Michele DeLuccia, elected to a one-year unexpired term last fall, with newcomer and fellow Parks and Recreation Foundation member Constantine "Dean" Skamas under the "Republicans for Responsible Government" slogan.

Former Councilman Joseph Cadicina is seeking a fourth term under the alternate "Republicans for Franklin Lakes" banner.

Committee choices

It is unclear what the local GOP Committee's choices signify in terms of direction or goals.

In the 2022 primary, without public explanation, the committee ousted Cadicina from the party line after three terms of unchallenged support along with fellow three-term Councilwoman Ann Swist. The committee shifted its support to newcomers Joel Ansh and Ardith Cardenas, who were elected to their first terms.

Planning Board Chairman Gary Sheppard ran unsuccessfully as an independent in the November race. Councilwoman Gail Kelly ran unsuccessfully for mayor on the alternate GOP slate with Cadicina and Swist as council candidates.

CIGNA REZONING APPROVED Franklin Lakes approves rezoning of Cigna property. Here's what it means

Ansh and Cardenas frequently attend Ramapo Indian Hills Board of Education meetings where Ansh's wife Kim is now board president, where they speak in support of parents' rights and other educational issues. However, the two split over the controversial Cigna property rezoning vote last November. Ansh voted in favor of rezoning while Cardenas voted against it.

For a second time in the 2023 primary, the Franklin Lakes County Committee bumped incumbent Kelly, now seeking her second council term, to the alternate party line. Instead, the committee tapped Sheppard to run under its banner with Council President Dennis Bonagura, seeking his third term. GOP voters defied the slate, instead electing Sheppard and Kelly to run without opposition under the GOP banner last November. Sheppard voted in favor of the Cigna rezoning, Kelly voted against it.

Republicans for Responsible Government candidates

Michele DeLuccia , a 23-year resident, is seeking her first full term after serving the one-year unexpired term of Charles Kahwaty after he was elected mayor last November. She holds a bachelor's degree in English from Villanova University. The stay-at-home mother of four has been appointed to two terms on the Franklin Lakes Parks and Recreation Foundation and served as a member of Mayor Frank Bivona's Community Advisory Group. Her volunteer work includes the PTAs at Woodside Avenue School and Franklin Avenue Middle School.

Constantine "Dean" Skamas is a 20-year resident seeking his first council term He holds a degree in economics from Syracuse University. During his 13 years as an officer in the U.S. Army Reserves, he was deployed to the Persian Gulf as part of operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He serves as treasurer of the Franklin Lakes Parks and Recreation Foundation. He is also a member of the Franklin Lakes Office of Emergency Management. He recently retired after working more than 30 years in the financial services industry.

Republicans for Franklin Lakes candidates

Joseph Cadicina is a 13-year resident, and former councilman elected to full terms in 2014, 2017 and 2020. At age 19 in 1990, he was elected to a term on the Garfield Board of Education, eventually serving as vice president and president. He holds a bachelor's degree in political science from Seton Hall University and a law degree from Western Michigan Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He is a member of a matrimonial and family law practice in Morristown. He has served as president of the Morris County Bar Association and Foundation.

Penn Relays, 2024: Complete N.J. boys 3,000-meter run preview

• Updated: Apr. 23, 2024, 1:20 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 23, 2024, 12:45 p.m.

CBA’s Alex Kemp Joe Warner | For NJ Advance Media

• Bakari Tice | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Thursday marks the 128th running of the Penn Relays at Franklin Field in Philadelphia.

Below, find the N.J. outlook for the boys 3,000-meter run.

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