Hunterdon County approves $90K historic preservation grant for Tewksbury Township Public Library

TEWKSBURY TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — The Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners has approved a $90,000 historic preservation grant to support structural repairs and restoration at the Tewksbury Township Public Library building, a 218-year-old landmark in Oldwick.

The grant, endorsed by the Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Commission and the Parks and Open Space Advisory Committee, will be funded through the county’s Historic Trust Fund. The library building, located at 31 Old Turnpike Road, once served as Barnet Hall Academy and is considered an important cultural and educational site in Tewksbury Township.

As part of the grant requirements, the project must receive authorization from the State Historic Preservation Office, including the submission of detailed project specifications. The Library Association will also be required to install interpretive signage to highlight the building’s historical significance.

Deputy Director Shaun C. Van Doren, a lifelong Tewksbury resident and president of the Tewksbury Historical Society, praised the project and emphasized the importance of safeguarding historical assets.

“Hunterdon County is deeply committed to protecting the historical character of our communities. The Tewksbury Library building is more than a public resource — it is a valued link to the past,” Van Doren said. “This grant ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from both its services and its historical significance.”

Kelly Brakewood, chair of the Library Board of Trustees, attended the meeting along with representatives from the Tewksbury Planning Department and the Capital Campaign Committee. She highlighted the importance of preserving the structure.

“This 218-year-old building has stood through generations, and with these essential repairs, we can ensure it remains for the next 100 years,” Brakewood said.

The county’s Historic Preservation Grant Program supports municipalities, nonprofit groups and historic property stewards in preserving significant sites throughout Hunterdon County.

“We appreciate the partnership and commitment shown by the Tewksbury Planning Department and Capital Campaign Committee as they work to safeguard this important landmark,” Van Doren added.