Ayers-Allen House facts for kids
|
Ayers-Allen House
Allen House Tavern |
|
 |
|
 Location in Middlesex County, New Jersey
Location in New Jersey
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 16 Durham Avenue Metuchen, New Jersey |
|---|---|
| Built | 1740 |
| NRHP reference No. | 85002002 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | September 5, 1985 |
The Ayers-Allen House is a very old and important home in Metuchen, Middlesex County, New Jersey. It was built way back in 1740. This house is also known as the Allen House Tavern because it used to be a tavern, a place where people could eat, drink, and stay.
The house was built by the families who were among the first settlers in Woodbridge Township. It stayed in the same family for many, many years. It is located very close to where some small battles happened during the American Revolutionary War. People also believe it was a secret stop on the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people find freedom.
Contents
The Ayers-Allen House: A Glimpse into History
The Ayers-Allen House is a special building with a long past. It has seen many changes since it was built in 1740. Imagine what life was like almost 300 years ago when this house was new!
A Look Back in Time
The house was built by families who were descendants of the first people to settle in the area. This means their ancestors were among the very first to build homes and communities in Woodbridge Township. The house stayed in the same family for a very long time, passing down through many generations.
Close to Revolutionary War Events
The Ayers-Allen House stands just yards away from places where small fights, called skirmishes, happened during the American Revolutionary War. This war was fought between 1775 and 1783. It was when the American colonies fought for their independence from Great Britain. The house's location means it was very close to important historical events.
A Place of Freedom: The Underground Railroad
Many people believe the Ayers-Allen House was a stop on the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was not a real railroad. It was a secret network of safe houses and routes. These routes helped enslaved African Americans escape to freedom in the northern states or Canada. If the house was part of this network, it played a brave role in helping people find their way to a better life.
A Special Landmark: Historic Listings
The Ayers-Allen House is recognized as a very important historical building. It is listed on two special registers.
National and State Recognition
The house was added to the New Jersey Register of Historic Places on July 7, 1985. This register lists important historical sites in New Jersey. Shortly after, on September 5, 1985, it was also added to the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of places across the entire United States that are important to American history. Being on these lists means the house is protected and its history is preserved for future generations.
See Also
