Historic Morven

Phase I: Exterior Restoration
Phase II: Interior Restoration
Phase III: Preservation Plan

Morven, built in the 1750s, is a National Historic Landmark. The first owner, Richard Stockton was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Today Morven is owned by the State of New Jersey and administrated by Historic Morven, Inc.

The Phase I exterior restoration of the house was restored to its c. 1870 appearance. The work included installing new slate roofs and flashing, masonry and window restoration. A lime wash was applied to the exterior brick similar to the lime wash applied in the 1850s. Barrier-free access was provided to first floor areas and a porch reconstructed on the rear of the building. The Outbuilding was restored for use as a Visitor Center with an exhibit describing the history of the site. Three centuries of gardens were restored to provide a history of horticulture. Historic Building Architects (HBA) provided key assistance to Historic Morven, Inc. and the State of New Jersey in the preparation of a successful grant application to the New Jersey Historic Trust. As preservation consultants, HBA provided material analysis, details, contract documents and construction administration services for the preservation work.

The interior has been restored as a decorative and fine arts museum. The Phase II Interior Restoration included installation of museum quality mechanical, electrical, lighting and security systems and careful preservation of the existing historic plaster finishes, fireplaces and woodwork, while providing all the necessary museum amenities. This phase of the work was completed in 2003.

HBA completed a Preservation Plan for the Carriage House and Pool House in 2002, which was funded by a Historic Site Management Grant from the New Jersey Historic Trust in 2000. HBA received a NJ State Historic Preservation Award for the Phase I restoration in 2001.

www.historicmorven.org

Lime applicatoin