Caldwell Parsonage facts for kids
Caldwell Parsonage
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![]() House in 2007
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Location | 909 Caldwell Avenue, Union, New Jersey |
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Built | 1782 |
NRHP reference No. | 82004785 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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Added to NRHP | 1982 |
The Caldwell Parsonage is a historic house located in Union Township, New Jersey. It was once the home of Reverend James Caldwell. He was a Presbyterian minister who strongly supported the American fight for independence during the American Revolutionary War.
This old farmhouse was built in 1782. It is a great example of an 18th-century home. Because of its history and how well it has been kept, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
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A Home with a Story
The story of the Caldwell Parsonage is closely tied to the American Revolutionary War. Before this house was built, an earlier parsonage stood on the same spot. This first home, built around 1730, was sadly burned down in 1780. This happened during the war, set on fire by people who supported the British side.
Tragic Events During the War
Later in 1780, a very sad event took place. Reverend Caldwell's wife, Hannah, was killed by British soldiers. This happened right inside their home during a battle known as the Battle of Connecticut Farms. Just a year later, Reverend Caldwell himself was shot. He was killed by an American guard.
Building a New Home
After the war ended, in 1782, the Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church built the house you see today. This new building became the home for their pastors for many years. It served this purpose until the 20th century, when the church built a new home for its ministers closer to the church building.
The Parsonage Today
Today, the Caldwell Parsonage is a special place. It works as a historical museum. The Union Township Historical Society owns and takes care of it. You can visit the museum on weekday mornings and afternoons. Over the years, the house has received money from the state. This helps with renovations and keeping the old building in good shape.