October - December / 2007

NJ Legacy: Suburban State
December 16
The second half of the twentieth century witnessed a major shift in political power in New Jersey. In the early 1900s, a coalition of rural Republicans and urban Democrats controlled state politics. In the second half of the century political power shifted to the suburbs. The new state constitution of 1947 established a powerful Supreme Court, which became a flashpoint for controversy in the last half of the twentieth century.First presented in 2003.

To Grandfather’s House We Go
December 30
This NJN Classic starts with a family drive and some eye-catching old houses. What follows is a vivid, compelling exploration of Victorian homes in our part of America. The documentary illuminates how these homes stand as an expression of the beliefs, traditions and spirit of a compelling era. From the carpenter’s lace that swirl the cornices and eves, to the passionate poetry and literature that inspired them. First presented in 1979.

The Awakening: A Narrative in Bronze
December 23
J. Seward Johnson’s life-like, figurative sculpture sprawl on park benches, dangle toes in brooks and sit eating lunch on curbs. Johnson captured a stunning, naturalistic image of ordinary people. This NJN Classic gives voice to these silent, compelling creatures. Hear the artist describe his vision and then watch the dynamics behind creating these life-like bronze renderings. First broadcast in 1981.

Along the Delaware
November 18
Rich, vivid cinematography brings to life the people and places along the Delaware River as this program looks at how the river plays a significant role in their lives. The Emmy nominated documentary starts in New York and travels 'downriver' looking at the various styles of fishing which occur on the river. The program then examines various professions that depend on the river and looks at how the environment of the river has improved over the past few years. First broadcast in 1994.

Giants of the Deep
November 11
Experience the bite of the wind, the tumble of the sea and the treachery of the Barnegat Inlet. Captain Keith Larson and the crew of the Karen-L face it all in this NJN Classic. They are out for the catch and the cash it brings. This stunning film captures the drama of a long line fishing expedition. First broadcast in 1987.

Dutch Houses of Bergen County
November 4
This episode of our series “Fare Ye Well Old House” takes a penetrating look at the architectural history of one of the nation’s most affluent areas…the Hackensack Valley. Many of these structures are the work of Dutch colonial masters. This program introduces us to Bergen County’s historic homes and to the owners that love them. First presented in 1975.

Sand in Our Shoes
October 28
The people who live in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey have a deep connection to the land. This program is one of NJN's first documentaries on the Pines and is the only one to look exclusively at the philosophy and lifestyle of people who get the "sand of the Pines" in their shoes and can't leave it behind.

Revolutionary Travels
October 21
History and humor come together to tell the story of the American Revolution. Veteran funnyman Dick Debartolo of “Mad Magazine” fame delights kids of all ages as he goes in search of his revolutionary roots and explores historic sites in New Jersey. This classic earned a Mid-Atlantic Emmy nomination for its unconventional look at history with a comic twist.

Steamin’ Demon: A Rebirth
October 14
The USS ALGOL participated in battles ranging from World War II to Vietnam. Now the ship’s final resting place is on the ocean floor where it has been transformed into an artificial reef. Find out how this battleship once protected the freedom of our country and how it is now protecting underwater life.

The Turtle Stone: The Legacy of Abbott Farm
October 7
NJN Classics kicks off the new season with a trip back in time. Join host Marie DeNoia for an exploration of ancient artifacts at the Abbott Farm National Historic Landmark. Dr. Charles Abbott began searching for evidence of early man at his farm near Trenton in the late 19th century. His extensive findings played a significant role in the development of American archeology and sparked a legacy of scientific explorations at the site that has lasted more than a century.