Tool Tales in the ArtifactLAB
From 12-3 on the second Saturday of each month from April-August
If you've ever wondered about a specialty tool from your grandfather's workshop, an interesting one you found at a yard sale or simply want to learn more about the tools in your collection, this event is for you. Our panel of knowledgeable CRAFTS of NJ (Collectors of Rare and Familiar Tool Society of NJ) volunteers will be in the ArtifactLAB helping to identify tools from the museum's collection but will also volunteer their time to carefully examine the items you bring in, helping you uncover the stories behind them.
Learn about the origins of our tools and/or yours, who crafted them, where they were made, and the ways they were used throughout history. With decades of combined experience, they will also offer insights into the broader history of craftsmanship and how these tools fit into the larger family of hand tools.
While our panel isn't made up of certified appraisers, they can provide you with an informed estimate of each tool's potential value, based on their extensive knowledge and hands-on experience. Whether you're curious about a rare item or simply passionate about the art of craftsmanship, Tool Tales promises an afternoon of learning, sharing, and discovering the fascinating world of tools!
Bring your own discoveries, share your family stories, and deepen your appreciation for the tools that shaped history.
(Interested in volunteering with our Collections Department? Use the button below!)
Discovery Days
June 12 to August 30
Most Fridays through Sundays June 12 - August 30 (Weather permitting and with some exclusions)
Step into history this summer during Discovery Days at The Red Mill Museum Village when our historic site comes alive with interactive, hands-on experiences for all ages. Enjoy:
•Guided Tours of our 10-acre site and 18th- and 19th-century buildings
•Costumed Interpreters sharing the stories and skills of early American life
•Traditional Trades & Crafts Demonstrations
With a rotating schedule of engaging, family-friendly activities, every visit offers something new to discover. Included with admission (which is free for members). Follow our social media pages for the most up-to-date schedule and details.
Needlework School: Vintage Textiles to Contemporary Collage
Sunday July 19, 1.00 - 4.00pm
Transform vintage textiles into contemporary works of art in this beginner-friendly workshop with textile artist Susan Bleignier. Using a curated selection of antique and vintage doilies, lace, embroidered linens, quilt fragments, and other repurposed fabrics, participants will create a unique hand-stitched collage while learning simple embroidery and textile art technique.
Participants will explore hand-coloring fabrics, composition, layering, and stitching to create a small artwork that blends history, creativity, and personal expression. No sewing experience is required, and all materials are provided.
Hand stitching is relaxing, portable, and rewarding. Join us for an afternoon of creativity, conversation, and community while giving new life to beautiful textiles from the past.
Rocking the Quarry - Summer Concert Series
Saturday June 27
The historic Mulligan Quarry has a long history of ROCK . . . this summer, we'll continue that tradition with rock music instead of limestone! The Clinton Music Studios Majors Band will be warming up the crowd at 6 each night with the headliners starting at 7 all for just $10 at the door.
Bring your chairs, blankets and dancing shoes. Picnic baskets are welcome, however we ask that you purchase your drinks here at this fundraising event. All proceeds benefit the Red Mill Museum Village.
Rug Hooking School
Saturday, June 27 2026, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Rug Hooking School at the Red Mill Museum Village offers a small-group, hands-on introduction to the craft, history and techniques of traditional rug hooking. Designed for beginners, this single-session class focuses on building a strong foundation through guided instruction from the Hunterdon County Rug Artisans Guild and active practice.
Students will begin hooking a simple heart design on an 8" x 10" linen backing, learning the essential techniques and rhythm of this historic fiber art. Instruction emphasizes developing the skills needed to continue working independently, rather than completing the mat during class. Each participant will leave with their project underway and all the materials needed to finish it at home.
Location: Administration Building Meeting Room at the Red Mill Museum Village
Cost: $130 per person (includes all materials) plus $25 registration fee (waived for current museum members)
Capacity: Limited for individualized instruction
Age Requirement: Participants must be 18 years or older
Rocking the Quarry - Summer Concert Series
Saturday July 18
The historic Mulligan Quarry has a long history of ROCK . . . this summer, we'll continue that tradition with rock music instead of limestone! The Clinton Music Studios Majors Band will be warming up the crowd at 6 each night with the headliners starting at 7 all for just $10 at the door.
Bring your chairs, blankets and dancing shoes. Picnic baskets are welcome, however we ask that you purchase your drinks here at this fundraising event. All proceeds benefit the Red Mill Museum Village.
Mill to Mill Textile Fellowship
Fridays, ongoing
The Mill to Mill Textile Fellowship invites makers of all experience levels to gather in community and explore the rich traditions of textile craft. As part of Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026, the Fellowship honors the diverse fiber arts that have shaped our nation's cultural heritage.
The Fellowship meets most Fridays from 1-3 PM, alternating between the Red Mill Museum Village and the Hunterdon Art Museum. Participants bring any hand-based textile work-crochet, knitting, weaving, spinning, embroidery, hand sewing, lacemaking, or other fiber arts-and work side by side in a supportive, skill-sharing environment.
Members exchange ideas, offer guidance, and celebrate the creativity that emerges when artisans come together. To find out when and where the next meeting will be held, please email Curator of Education Robbie-Lynn Mwangi at educator@theredmill.org
Friends of the Red Mill 2026 Schedule
The Friends of the Red Mill is a volunteer-driven organization that supports the Red Mill Museum Village. The group helps with a variety of tasks, from staffing the museum shop and assisting with special events to volunteering on numerous preservation and community projects. Their efforts help ensure that the historic Red Mill continues to be an accessible and engaging part of the local community.
In addition to their volunteer work, the Friends of the Red Mill host free monthly meetings open to the public. These gatherings feature guest speakers, presentations, light refreshments, and a chance to socialize with fellow history enthusiasts. It's a relaxed and welcoming way for anyone interested to learn more about the museum and the mill's history.
Mark your calendars for the 2026 meeting schedule, and feel free to drop by-no RSVP is required for most meetings. For more details or to inquire about specific events, you can email redmillfriends@gmail.com
2026 EVENTS CALENDAR
More events and information will be added, please check back frequently!
MAY 16: Shop and mill open, grounds closed for private event
MAY 17: Wheels for the Wheel
JUNE 6-7: UNCORK Summer Wine & Music Festival Weekend, ticketed event, regular museum prices/member perks do not apply
JUNE 11: Adult Field Trip
June 12: Poetry Reading
June13: Salute to Service
JUNE 14: Mill to Mill Peace Flag Project Exhibit Opening
JUNE 20: British Car Show
JUNE 27: Summer Concert with This Old Engine
JULY 18: Summer Concert with High in the Mid 80s
JULY 25: Shop and mill open, grounds closed for private event
JULY 31-AUG 2: Second Annual Soulstice Music and Arts Festival, ticketed event, regular museum prices/member perks do not apply
OCTOBER Fridays & Saturdays 2nd-24th: Haunted Red Mill
OCTOBER Saturdays: Happy Haunts
NOVEMBER 27th-29th, DECEMBER 5th-6th: Winter Village
DECEMBER 11th-13th, 18th-20th: Festival of Trees
