George Morgan, Jr. House

(WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ) -- Thanks to a grant from the New Jersey Historic Trust, the Washington Township Historic Preservation Commission will receive grant funds in the amount of $72,000 to complete basement window repair and restoration including new areaways and masonry, as well as Phase 1B archaeology.

In 2019, the Commission was awarded a Capital I grant to make necessary repairs on the George Morgan Jr. house, also known as the Olde Stone House, the key feature of the Olde Stone House Village and icon of the Township. Much needed repairs were made to the first floor windows and doors, but after COVID, prices had increased to the point that other items in the grant scope of work were not possible at that time. This grant will provide the funding to complete the repairs and renovations.

According to Chairman Nick Appice, “The Commission is happy to have the support of the New Jersey Historic Trust, which has helped out in the past. These COVID funds will make it possible for the Olde Stone House to remain open to the public for some years to come.”

Repairs include regrading around the basement windows and replacing the windows to prevent water seepage damaging the wooden structural beams supporting the building. Along with this work, archaeology work is needed as required by the State whenever ground is moved at an historic site.

Additional funds will be provided by the Friends of the Olde Stone House Village.

The Olde Stone House Village is at 208 Egg Harbor Road, Sewell, New Jersey.

The Washington Township Historic Preservation Commission promotes awareness of local culture and history. The Board will preserve, present and educate the public about artifacts and traditions indigenous to Washington Township. The mission of the New Jersey Historic Trust is to advance historic preservation and through its education and financial investment programs, the Trust saves New Jersey’s heritage and strengthens its communities.