New Jersey highlights $130 million in upgrades at historic sites ahead of nation’s 250th anniversary
NEW JERSEY — New Jersey officials are highlighting more than $130 million in restoration and visitor improvement projects at state-owned historic sites as preparations continue for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Acting Environmental Protection Commissioner Ed Potosnak announced the investments at the Wallace House Historic Site in Somerville, where restoration work is underway at the former headquarters of Gen. George Washington during the Continental Army’s winter encampment of 1778-79.
More than 30 projects are in various stages of planning, design and construction across the state, with many expected to be completed or substantially finished this year.
“The determination and resilience of America and her people can be found in the pivotal actions of New Jersey’s contributions from 250 years ago to today,” Governor Mikie Sherrill said. “As we welcome the world to our state this year, our state historic sites are testament to New Jersey’s crucial role in the creation of our country.”
Among the state’s largest projects is the construction of a new museum and visitor center at Washington Crossing State Park in Mercer County, which officials have described as New Jersey’s gift to the nation for the semiquincentennial celebration.
“The Sherrill Administration is on a mission to deliver a government that works for people and is proud to expand services that all residents and visitors can enjoy, including protection of historic and natural resources,” said Acting Commissioner Potosnak. “The ongoing projects across our state historic sites, including the Washington Crossing Visitor Center — New Jersey’s gift to America in celebration of the 250th, will ensure a safe, educational, enjoyable, and welcoming experience for the many visitors we expect to have this year from around the country and world for this milestone anniversary, and in the future.”
In Somerset County, work is underway or planned at the Wallace House Historic Site and the Old Dutch Parsonage in Somerville, as well as the Rockingham Historic Site in Franklin Township.
In Sussex County, restoration projects are underway at Stokes State Forest in Sandyston Township. At Waterloo Village Historic Site in Byram Township, a historic structure is being restored, while the Iron Masters House and the historic Inclined Plane on the Morris Canal are being stabilized.
“These state-owned historic sites tell the story of the critical role that New Jersey played in shaping the nation,” said John Cecil, Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites. “As we celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, these investments enhance the visitor experience and ensure that New Jersey’s historic places continue to educate and inspire visitors for generations to come.”
Additional projects are underway at historic sites throughout New Jersey, including the Walt Whitman House in Camden, Liberty State Park’s historic train shed in Jersey City, Princeton Battlefield State Park, Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Ringwood Manor and the Proprietary House in Perth Amboy.
“Adding state-of-the-art technology to the state’s Revolutionary War historic sites allow visitors of all ages and future generations to experience history in new ways,” said Mark Texel, Administrator for State Historic Sites. “New Jersey’s role as the Crossroads of the American Revolution is unmatched, and these investments will help ensure the legacy that is our American story.
To learn more about New Jersey’s State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites, visit stateparks.nj.gov.
