Franklin residents found a fun, safe way in the midst of the pandemic to celebrate the Township’s 175th Anniversary: A Historical Treasures Road Rallye.
The non-profit organization, Rural Awareness, organized the event that was held on Saturday, October 24 at the Elks’ large field across from the Municipal Building. Driving and navigating teams followed a 28.7-mile route showcasing Franklin’s historical sites, preserved farmland, open space, and its scenic by-ways. Added attractions were provided by local thespians in period dress playing out life scenes from the 1800s portraying hunters, fishers, farmers, teachers, picnickers, tea partiers, and hoop-skirted strollers with parasols in Quakertown.
Teams were asked to answer 48 questions along the route, each worth one point. Winners were judged on how well they followed the route and answered questions. Three essay questions worth two points each were optional—but, as scorers said, could prove critical in case of a tie. And that tie actually happened.
At an awards ceremony held at 6:00 pm at the Elks’ field, Franklin’s Mayor Philip Koury introduced Elizabeth Shaw, Rural Awareness president. She presented awards to the three winners before Franklin hosted the movie, Goosebumps.
First and Second Place winners both had prefect scores. The deciding factor for the win was their response to the essay questions.
First Place went to Jim and Laura McDevitt, who won a print of Dan Campanelli’s painting, The Shade Garden.
Second Place went to Brad and Leah Urmston who got a copy of the Arcadia Press pictorial history, Franklin Township, Hunterdon County, autographed by authors Marty Campanelli and Lora Jones.
Third Place went to Dominic and Donna Mustillo who only missed one question, but nailed the mileage of 28.7. They got a copy of the book, All Roads Lead to Pittstown, autographed by the author, Stephanie Stevens.
All winners got colorful certificates for driving and navigating.
Interesting cars in the rally included Teslas, a 1957 Porsche 356A, a 2003 Corvette, and a Jaguar,. A bright red 1958 Devin Special Sports Racer dressed the grounds, but was not in the rally.
Any participants that would like to pick up their answer sheet you can do so at the Franklin Township Municipal Building during regular business hours.
If you would like a blank copy of the instructions as well as the answer sheet it can be found on our community page