Benjamin Cooper House facts for kids
The Benjamin Cooper House is a very old house in Camden, New Jersey. It was built way back in 1734. This historic building served as both a home and a ferry stop. Later, it became a hotel and a fun place for people to visit. Sadly, a big fire badly damaged the house on Thanksgiving Day in 2012.
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The Benjamin Cooper House: A Historic Home
What is the Benjamin Cooper House?
The Benjamin Cooper House is an old farmhouse. It also worked as a ferry house, which means it was a place where people waited for a ferry boat. It is located on Erie Street in the Pyne Point area of North Camden.
A Home with History
The house was first built in 1734. It started as a two-story Dutch colonial home. This is a special style of old house. Later, in the late 1700s, another part was added. The main part of the house is made of stone. The newer part is made of brick.
A Revolutionary War Headquarters
During the American Revolutionary War, the house played an important role. British and Hessian soldiers took over Philadelphia. At that time, the Benjamin Cooper House became a main office. It was used by a British army leader named Lieutenant Colonel Abercromby.
From Ferry Stop to Fun Spot
In the early 1800s, the house changed again. It became a "pleasure garden." This was like a fun park or garden that was open to the public in spring and summer. It was the last place in Camden that served as both a ferry tavern and a saloon. A saloon is a type of old pub or bar. People sometimes called it the "Old Stone Jug." Towards the end of the 1800s, a company called John H. Mathis bought the house.
What Happened to the House?
The Benjamin Cooper House has seen many years and many changes. In 2012, a big fire caused a lot of damage to the building. It is an important part of Camden's history.
