Hamilton's History
Hamilton's Historic Destinations
Enjoy the historic...
Kuser Farm Mansion
In 1954, Helen Almy West documented the earliest days of our municipality when she authored "A History of Hamilton Township."
Copies of this 120 page hard bound book are scarce. The Hamilton
Library is the best place to find one. Two decades later, a group of
locals organized the Hamilton Historical Association and a special
committee from that organization accepted the task of publishing a 36
page brochure updating Ms. West's book. They called it "Old Nottingham."
We invite you to visit the Hamilton Library so that you might enjoy a
comprehensive tour through our colorful past. The following summary of
these two historical offerings are furnished as an incentive to anyone
interested in our unique beginnings. You may find that an understanding
of our roots will provide a more vivid understanding of our current
conditions and those we can look forward to in the new millennium.
John Abbott II House
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John Abbott II House
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Situated in the shadow of Veterans Park, this elegant historic site
still houses a secret involving patriot funds hidden from the British as
they were advancing on Trenton in November of 1776. Abbott, a bachelor
87 years old when he died in 1795 lived in the house built in 1730 by
his father and located then on the North side of Crosswicks Creek. The
John Abbott House is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 Noon to 5 pm.
Civil War and Native American Museum
Located directly behind the Abbott House in Veterans Park, the museum
has been in operation for three years. The museum is showcasing
exhibits dealing with the American Civil War as well as Delaware Indian
artifacts. More information is available Here.
Isaac Watson House
Still beautiful with graceful architectural lines and thick walls and
fireplaces, the Watson House is one of the oldest homes in this area.
Park Avenue near South Broad Street Park was a wilderness when the
house was built in 1708 on 800 acres of land.
Isaac Pearson House
Elected several times to the State Assembly, Isaac Pearson was
reported to have done much entertaining in this house until the
rebellion broke out against England. While riding on horseback to New
Brunswick, he was killed either by robbers or Continentals who were
angry with his siding with the British. Hamilton Township recently took
possession of the home and is now in the process of restoring the site
and converting it for use as a tourist attraction.
The John Abbott House is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 Noon to 5 pm. (last tour starts at 4:15 pm)
Miscellany
Hamilton is blessed with many historic structures and a wealth of
artifacts left by the Lenape Indians, the first residents of our land.
Highlights of the text and the pamphlet described above include:
- A description of historic homes and buildings.
- Notes from the Town Book of Nottingham.
- A description of General Washington's march across our township.
- A fascinating local ghost tale.
- A story of forbidden love.
- The murder of Isaac Pearson.
- Early government leaders.
- The Villages of Hamilton.
Presently, a new effort is underway to update the history of our
municipality. The list of contributors to this latest endeavor is quite
lengthy. Your interest is invited and appreciated. When the project
is completed, the Hamilton Library will be the best source for
information and distribution.
Note: "A Narrative History of Hamilton Township"
published by the Hamilton Township Historical Society is on sale at
Mercer Ace Hardware, Mercerville Shopping Center, Rt. 33, Mercerville.
$15.00 soft cover. Hardcovers may be purchased at the John Abbott II
House for $25.
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