Morristown, NJ (May 22, 2026) — Community leaders, historians, supporters, and residents from across the region gathered on Saturday, May 9, 2026, for the Morris County Patriots Ball at Morristown National Historical Park — an evening celebrating George Washington, Morris County’s Revolutionary legacy, and America’s 250th Anniversary.
Held on the grounds of the historic Ford Mansion, where General George Washington headquartered twice during the Revolutionary War, the event featured cocktails, dinner, dancing, historical tributes, live music, and special programming honoring Morris County’s critical role in the fight for American independence.
Throughout the evening, guests reflected on Morristown’s significance during the Revolutionary War, particularly the harsh winter encampment of 1779–1780 at Jockey Hollow, where Washington and the Continental Army endured one of the most difficult periods of the war.
“What made the evening so special was seeing so many residents and people from local government, businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations from across Morris County come together to create something meaningful, memorable, and bigger than any one person or organization could accomplish alone,” said Sarah Neibart, Mayor of Mendham Township and Chair of Morris County’s 250th Celebrations. “Morris County played such a significant role during the Revolution, and there was something incredibly meaningful about honoring that history in the exact place where so much of it happened.”
“The Patriots Ball was really about bringing history to life in a way that felt immersive, engaging, and welcoming to the community,” said Samantha Rutledge, Director of Tourism & Strategic Partnerships. “Seeing so many people embrace the event and celebrate Morris County’s Revolutionary history together was incredibly rewarding.”
“The story of Morris County is deeply intertwined with the story of America’s founding,” said Stephen Shaw, Commissioner Director of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners. “Events like the Patriots Ball not only honor that legacy, but also help ensure future generations remain connected to the history, sacrifice, and ideals that shaped our nation.”
One of the evening’s featured attractions was a commissioned replica of George Washington’s inaugural ball suit. The original suit, preserved within the collections of Morristown National Historical Park, was worn by Washington during celebrations following his inauguration as the nation’s first president in 1789. Guests were invited to view the replica inside the Ford Mansion as part of the event experience.
The evening also featured a performance by the Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey under the direction of Maestro Robert W. Butts, with selections inspired by Revolutionary-era music and composers familiar to Washington and his contemporaries.
Governor Mikie Sherrill recognized the significance of the celebration during her remarks and in a commemorative letter featured in the evening’s program, highlighting Morris County’s enduring role in preserving and celebrating Revolutionary history during America’s semiquincentennial year.
The Patriots Ball was made possible through the support of numerous sponsors, community partners, volunteers, supporters, businesses, organizations, and philanthropic leaders from throughout the region.
The Patriots Ball is part of Morris County’s broader America 250 initiative, which includes year-long events, educational programming, historical commemorations, and community partnerships honoring the nation’s founding and Morris County’s unique place in Revolutionary history.
Event photos can be viewed here:
https://wagnerphoto.smugmug.com/Patriots-Ball5926/n-76Rx4r
For more information about upcoming Morris County 250 events and initiatives, please visit MorrisCounty250.org.
About the 250th Anniversary of the Revolution: Morris County
The 250th Anniversary of the Revolution: Morris County initiative commemorates Morris County’s pivotal role in the American Revolution while engaging residents and visitors through events, education, tourism, and community partnerships throughout the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration.
A Thank You to Our Sponsors
The Morris County Patriots Ball was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, community partners, philanthropic organizations, and individuals committed to preserving and celebrating Revolutionary history during America’s 250th anniversary year.
Sponsors and supporters included David Mitchel Fine Event Design; Mr. and Mrs. J. Peter Simon; Mr. and Mrs. Gerald C. Crotty; Kim and Finn Wentworth; S. Dillard and Adrienne Kirby Family Philanthropic Fund; Crum & Forster; Sanofi; Richard & Catherine Herbst; Marta Hallowell Black & David Black; Healey Family Foundation; Washington Association of New Jersey; IAV Event Solutions; Sol and Meri Barer; Brian & Lisa Thebault; Ken Rent; Alstede Farms; HQ Plaza Morristown; Atlantic Health; Joshua Barer & Sarah Neibart; Ilene and Bruce Jacobs; Virginia and Rodney Frelinghuysen; Eileen K. Cameron; Elizabeth W. Holdsworth, Vice-Regent Emerita Mount Vernon Ladies ‘ Association; Laird & Company; Edward and Susanne von der Linde; Morris Museum; County College of Morris; Michael K. Mullen, Esq.; Walsh Company; The Schlosser Family; Ido and Jennifer Zairi; Colonel John Rosenkrans Chapter of the NJSSAR; Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Barkin; Gretchen Wilcox; Mayo Performing Arts Center; Ann W. Talcott, President National Society of the Colonial Dames in America in the State of New Jersey: Rosemary Becchi; Jersey 1st; and Kraus Marketing.