Rutherfurd Hall facts for kids
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Rutherfurd Hall
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 Location in Warren County, New Jersey
Location in New Jersey
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1686 Route 517, Allamuchy Township, New Jersey |
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| Area | 34.4 acres (13.9 ha) |
| Built | 1902 |
| Architect | Whitney Warren |
| Architectural style | Tudor Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 11000592 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | April 24, 2013 |
Rutherfurd Hall is a beautiful historic house located in Allamuchy Township, Warren County, New Jersey, USA. It's a special place that was once a large family estate.
This property was officially recognized as a historic district on April 24, 2013. It's important because of its amazing architecture and the interesting stories from its past.
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History of Rutherfurd Hall
Rutherfurd Hall was originally the home of a wealthy couple, Winthrop Chanler Rutherfurd and Alice Morton Rutherfurd. After Alice passed away, Winthrop married his second wife, Lucy Mercer Rutherfurd.
Building the estate began in 1902. It was a huge project that included a grand mansion, lovely gardens, a boathouse, and even a swimming beach. There was also a power station to generate electricity and a 9-hole golf course.
Rutherfurd Hall is one of the last big country estates left in New Jersey from the early 1900s. It shows how wealthy families at that time liked to build large homes in peaceful, natural areas near big cities.
A famous visitor to the estate was President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He came to meet with Lucy Rutherfurd in the 1940s.
From Private Home to Retreat
In 1948, the Rutherfurd family gave the property to a group of nuns called the Congregation of the Daughters of Divine Charity. They named it "Villa Madonna."
The nuns first used the estate as a quiet place for retreats and training. Later, it became a rest home for retired nuns. In 1959, an extra part was added to the mansion, making it even bigger.
Becoming a Public Place
In 2007, the property was sold to the State of New Jersey and the Allamuchy Township School District. This was an important step to protect the land and its history.
In 2013, the State of New Jersey provided $50,000 to the school district. This money helped with a project to preserve and take care of Rutherfurd Hall.
Design and Architecture
The main mansion was designed by a famous architect named Whitney Warren. It's built in the Tudor Revival style, which looks like old English country homes. It has brick and stone walls.
The mansion has three floors and originally had about 38 rooms. With the additions, it now has around 50 rooms! The beautiful outdoor areas were designed by the Olmsted Brothers. They wanted to create a simple, neat, and very scenic landscape.
Current Use of Rutherfurd Hall
Today, Rutherfurd Hall is owned and managed by the Allamuchy Township School District. It's no longer a private home.
It is now used as a community center for education and cultural events. You can call (908) 852–1894 for general information. People can also rent the hall for private parties and events. The Rutherfurd Hall Foundation helps support projects at the site.
The property is located right next to the beautiful Allamuchy Mountain State Park.
See also
- Pine Grove Community Club
- Vander Wilt Farmstead Historic District
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Warren County, New Jersey
