HISTORY This extensive renovation and restoration project began to repair damage caused by time and the elements. Structure by structure, the buildings that comprise the East Jersey Old Town Village (EJOT) are being renovated for use as a village devoted to New Jersey’s rich heritage. The Village is a collection of original, replica and reconstructed 18th and 19th century structures. While most of the buildings have been relocated to the site, others were constructed here. They represent the vernacular architecture typical of farm and merchant communities, once found in central New Jersey. The Village functions as an educational model, dedicated to teaching the history, traditions, folk arts and craftsmanship of the people who lived and worked throughout the region. It offers public programs in the highest standard of excellence, among them: educational workshops, seminars and lectures, in-service training for teachers, exhibitions, concerts, storytelling session, community gatherings and theme based projects.
Completed renovations and restoration work have brought ten buildings into public use, following Americans with Disability Act (ADA) guidelines. They are
New Brunswick Barracks, Runyon House, Vanderveer House, Fitzrandolph House, Smalleytown Schoolhouse, Farley Blacksmith Shop, Williamson Wheelwright Shop, Church of the Three Mile Run, Six Mile Run House and the
Indian Queen Tavern.
Click here for the Indian Queen Tavern Archeological Dig.
By mid-2015, the Jeremiah Dunn House and the Runyon Wagon House will join the list of historic structures that have been restored to their original beauty and preserved for future generations.
PROGRAMS
The Village presents original research and timely topics, interpreting the history, society and people of the Raritan Valley. No other museum or historic site in the state, presents compelling and fascinating historical narrative about the place where you live - Middlesex County and its neighboring towns along the Raritan River.
EXHIBITIONS
LECTURES
East Jersey Old Town Village presents a number of exciting lectures throughout the year. Held in conjunction with exhibits at the Village, participants learn about the traditions and origins of various Holidays.