The Hunterdon County Board of County Commissioners, at the August 17th meeting, renewed its continuing commitment to historic preservation by approving five grants, funded by the County’s Historic Preservation Fund, for projects in Stockton, Lambertville, Readington, High Bridge and Tewksbury.
Commissioner Matt Holt, the Planning and Land Use liaison for the Board, said, “The Board has invested in preservation; not just in buildings, but the programs and people who continue the heritage and legacy of those who have gone before. Ensuring that non-profit entities and municipalities have the funds necessary to maintain and refurbish these historic locations and the stories they contain, is important to the County’s tourism industry.
“The cultural and historical sites draw individuals and families within Hunterdon County and from neighboring counties and metropolitan areas, to Hunterdon County and are integral to our economy.”
The Historic Preservation grants recommended for approval by both the Parks and Open Space Advisory Committee (POSAC) and the County’s Cultural and Heritage Commission, and approved by the Board of Commissioners, include:
Delaware River Mill Society, Stockton Borough, $95,000, roof replacement on the Prallsville Grist Mill. The Society was established in 1976 to maintain and operate the land and properties of the historic Prallsville Mill, along the Delaware River, and buildings date back to the late 1700s.
The Lambertville Jail, Lambertville City, $40,000. The old stone jail, built in 1840, is a two-story stone structure which has been closed for more than 50 years. Recently, renewed interest from local officials has resulted in restoration and preservation of the building which is a historic landmark.
Thomas Bouman House, Readington Township, $35,750, roof replacement and restoration. A Dutch homesteader, Thomas Bouman, built the house in 1741 and remained with the Bouman family until the mid-1800s. Containing Dutch and German architectural influences, the house is an example of settlers’ life and is an important part of the county’s heritage.
Solitude House, High Bridge, $44,500. With portions of the House built in 1712, Solitude has hosted several high-profile guests from the Revolutionary War, such as George and Martha Washington, General Lafayette, Colonel Charles Stewart, and Aaron Burr.
Tewksbury Historical Society, Tewksbury, $16,000, roof replacement and restoration for its Headquarters Building. The Tewksbury Headquarters Building is an important part of maintaining the area’s history and supporting those who research and preserve it.
Commissioner Deputy Director John E. Lanza, said, “Historic preservation confirms our commitment to the county’s early days and the people whose hard work and sacrifice helped shape the landscape we enjoy today. I am proud to be a member of the county’s Commissioner Board which understands how vital preservation is for sustaining economic growth and increasing tourism in the county.
The Commissioner Board is most appreciative of the efforts of the volunteers who serve on POSAC and the Culture and Heritage Commission for bringing these important grant requests to our attention.”