Franklin Community Star Recreation For All Ages Colonial Park This 542 acre facility includes scenic frontage on both the Delaware and Raritan Canal and the Millstone River. Facilities include family and group picnic sites, playgrounds, fishing ponds, open play fields, a fitness course, and a putting course. Paddle boat rentals and a canoe launch are also provided, along with a 1.4 mile paved bicycle path and 8 all-weather composition tennis courts. The Rudolf Van Der Goot Rose garden at Colonial Park displays more than 3000 roses in nearly 300 varieties. The formal garden setting is adjacent to a 5.5 acre arboretum. The Fragrance and Sensory Garden offers particular appeal and access for the physically disabled. Historic Landmarks The local Meadows Foundation renovated and maintains five historic homes in Franklin, including the 1722 Van Wickle Home where several Township-sponsored activities are held each year. Franklin is also the site of Rockingham on Old Georgetown Road where General George Washington bid farewell to his troops following the American Revolution. The Mule Tenders' barracks on the Griggstown Causeway is maintained by the Griggstown Historical Society. The Franklin Inn in East Millstone, once a tavern on the New York/Philadelphia stage coach express line, is now a charming, used book store. Hutcheson Memorial Forest This facility which is jointly owned by Rutgers University and Franklin Township is one of the last remaining uncut forests along the east coast. Rutgers University students have studied and documented changes in the forest's environment over the last several decades. Delaware and Raritan Canal Park This linear park follows the canal and Millstone and Raritan rivers from the Township's borders with New Brunswick in th e no rth to Princeton in the south. The state-owned facility includes the old towpath with park facilities in Somerset, Blackwells Mills and Griggstown. Six Mile Run State Park (In the planning stages) Located in the center of Franklin, the state has acquired 2,869 acres of farmland to be transformed into a state park facility. Senior Citizen Program This very active program includes club activities and recreational outings. Franklin Township is the site of one of Somerset County's nutrition centers. Villagers Barn Theatre The 35-year-old community theatre offers programs for children and adults. The two-stage modern facility is completely handicapped accessible and offers sign interpretive performances of all its main stage plays. Welcome Wagon The nationally-known organization offers various programs and activities for newcomers to the Township and a helpful insight into the Township and many local businesses. Four Golf Courses in Franklin Spooky Brook Golf Course and Quailbrook Golf Course are 18-hole facilities owned and operated by Somerset County and are open to the public. Bunker Hill and Tara Greens are private courses also available to residents. Park and Recreation Programs Franklin has ten different neighborhood and regional parks of approximate ly 100 acres with a variety of athletic facilities. In addition, the Township offers a wide variety of park and recreational programs for residents of all ages. Franklin Township Environmental Studies Center The Towsnhip Council, in conjunction with the Board of Education, opened a 95-acre woodland for ecological studies in 1993. This unique property boasts classroom facilities, an on-site Environmental Education instructor and is used for both school and Township-sponsored activities. Franklin Community Star