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What does Ben Franklin have to do with the Jersey Devil?

Night Kitchen collaborated with Whitesbog Preservation Trust to produce Deep in the Pines: a self-guided mobile tour application. This iPad currently features two tours, Lore & Legend and Native Fruits & Superfoods.

Two people going through the woods looking at plants.

Whitesbog tour home screen

In Lore & Legend, visitors follow the fictional story of the disappearance of a podcaster, last seen searching for the Jersey Devil at Whitesbog. Visitors explore the trails for a chance to encounter the notorious myths and legends of the Pine Barrens. The app features illustrated myths, historic photographs, and augmented encounters, revealing the traditional folklore of the region and why it has gained such a mysterious reputation.

A floating augmented reality violin.

From foraging to farming, Native Fruits & Superfoods interprets the original foodways of the Lenape people, ingredients brought from Europe, and recipes developed by Elizabeth White. Immersive 360-degree images show the bounty of the forest through the seasons, visualizing fall cranberry and summer blueberry harvests at any time of the year. Visitors can unlock traditional recipes featuring the bright, fresh flavors of local ingredients.

A virtual reality room with a typewriter.

Archaic photograph of a person standing

This project was made possible by an NEH Digital Projects for the Public prototyping grant. It continues to develop, with a second phase supported by the New Jersey Historic Trust Funds for Heritage Tourism Program. To take a self-guided tour, visit the Whitesbog Visitor Center during their weekend hours!

Buzz

I loved the auditory explanations and details, it’s much more entertaining and interesting than reading signs!

β€” Whitesbog Visitor

I really loved learning about the food and recipes. I knew about the growing already but I was amazed when I saw how cranberries were harvested. I love just being in the forest.

β€” Whitesbog Visitor

I enjoyed hearing Ben Franklin talking trash, the greenhouse was beautiful, the Campfire sound design was so great. I saw a Fireball in the app, smacked a deer on the butt and heard a Ghost fiddle. Perfect!

β€” Whitesbog Visitor