About the Club
The Historical Writing Club is a unique opportunity for students in grades 6–12 to explore local history through original research and writing. Members gain access to museum and archive collections, work with historians and professors, and publish their work in meaningful ways.
Why Join?
Whether you’re a future historian or just curious about the past, the Historical Writing Club offers hands-on, real-world experience you won’t find in a classroom. As a member, you’ll:
- Access archives, museum collections, and records not open to the public
- Work with professional historians, professors, and museum staff
- Learn research and writing skills that prepare you for college
- Publish your work in newsletters, journals, and public exhibitions
- Build a portfolio that showcases your voice, your research, and your ideas
This isn’t just an extracurricular, it’s your chance to tell stories that have never been told before.
How it Works
Joining the Historical Writing Club is easy — and your journey as a researcher starts right away.
1. Become a Member
Sign up and receive access to our member portal, including project guides, research topics, and digitized records from participating institutions.
2. Explore a Club Topic
Each season, members will investigate a specific historical theme—for example, Industry in Central Jersey, 1900–1950. We provide the focus, background materials, and research guidance to help you dive deep and uncover untold stories.
3. Do Real Research
Use exclusive materials from museums and archives, either online or during guided visits. Mentors will help you analyze sources and structure your writing.
4. Write & Revise
Draft your article, receive feedback from editors and mentors, and shape your work into something you’re proud of.
5. Get Published
Your finished piece may be featured in newsletters, journals, exhibitions, or partner publications—and you’ll receive credit for your work.
For Museums, Archives & Educators
Help shape the next generation of historians.
The Historical Writing Club partners with museums, historical societies, libraries, archives, teachers and university faculty to provide students with access to real records, mentorship, and publishing opportunities. Your institution can play a key role in preserving and sharing local history while inspiring young researchers.
Ways to Get Involved:
- Share select records or digitized materials with members
- Host student visits or virtual sessions
- Mentor students on research methods or writing
- Suggest topics, stories, or underrepresented voices
- Feature student work in your newsletters or exhibits
Participating Institutions
We are proud to collaborate with museums, archives, teachers, and historians who believe in making history accessible to young voices. Our growing network of partners provides students with rare access to records, research support, and opportunities to share their work.
Current Partners Include:
- Historical Society of Princeton (Princeton, NJ)
- Howell Heritage & Historical Society (Howell, NJ)
- Jamesburg Historical Association (Jamesburg, NJ)
- Morven Museum & Garden (Princeton, NJ)
- National Guard Militia Museum of NJ (Sea Girt & Lawrenceville, NJ)
- Wicoff House Museum (Plainsboro, NJ)
We welcome new institutions, professors, and teachers to join our mission.
© 2025 Historical Writing Club
Affiliated with the Wicoff House Museum