General Mead Birthday celebration 2026

The Philadelphia Civil War community gathered to celebrate the 210th birthday of General George Gordon Meade at Laurel Hill Cemetery on December 31st. Old Baldy members present included Walt Lafty, Calvin Kinsel, Dave Gilson, Paul Prentiss, Mike Bassett, Nancy and Russ Bowker, Mary Wible, Deitrich Preston, and former members John Voris and Kerry Bryan. Since there was a cold wind off the river, the ceremony was held at the Gatehouse. Also in attendance were members of the Meade Society, Legon Post 405, and several Union units from the area. Beck's Band performed period music, and all toasted the General on his birthday and wedding anniversary. President Calvin Kinsel and Past President Dr. Rich Jankowski ventured up to the grave to place the Old Baldy CWRT wreath on General Meade’s grave.

Now seeking Judges

­Judging for NJ History Day is one of the most satisfying volunteer experiences anywhere. As a judge, you'll work on a team to review a group of student-created projects, learning something new from each one. You'll hear from the students themselves about what they learned in their research. Then, you and your team will share thoughtful feedback to guide students in improving their projects.

Judges join us from 8 AM to about 2:30 PM, March 7, 2026 for NJ History Day.  We provide a hot breakfast, plenty of coffee, lunch, and lots of thanks. It's a great way to get insight into how History Day works and see the historical process in action. 

Learn more at the Judges' page on our website. and use the Judges' Registration Guide to find and register for the contest(s) you'd like to help with.   The registration deadline is February 1, 2026. 

The more, the merrier! Share your judging opportunity with like-minded friends and make a day of it. ­