The Martin Berry House is one of the oldest houses in Pequannock Township, NJ. Built about 1730 -- so long ago that reliable records just don't exist -- it somehow survived the centuries mostly unchanged or unaltered. It most respects, it's the same house built over 300 years ago... well before the Revolutionary War.
And there's a danger that it could be razed, replaced by yet another highway strip mall.
The Friends of Martin Berry House -- a group of volunteers from in, and around, the area -- banded together in 2014 to help preserve this important part of Pequannock Township's history. We've recently incorporated as the Pequannock Township Historical Society, and are applying for non-profit status. Working with the Pequannock Historic District Commission -- the volunteers who spearheaded the purchase and restoration of the Pequannock Township Museum, also known as the Pompton Plains Railroad Station -- we're committed to convincing the Township Council to purchase the Martin Berry House.
What are we doing?
The Township has a unique opportunity to purchase this property so that it can be preserved for present and future generations, both as a living museum and as a community meeting space.If approved, the purchase will be made with available grant monies. No additional taxpayer funds will be used for the purchase.
Our mission
Our mission is to persuade the Township Council to purchase the home. To do that, we've been garnering support from citizens in Pequannock and surrounding communities.We need to demonstrate that our growing group of volunteers can raise sufficient funds to maintain the home without using taxpayer money. And you can help!
With the help of the PTHS and the Township, this old house will become a community resource for the community. We'll help maintain the House, and use it to preserve and interpret the history of the area. We also plan to host certain township events. What sort of events? That's part of the fun. We have some thoughts, but we always welcome new ideas -- and new members.
What can you do?
We're in need of assistance, so why not join our band of merry volunteers? Persuading the Council to buy the home is just the first step. After that we'll need lots of help to... but please, click here to read more!When & where?
The Pequannock Township Historical Society currently meets twice per month at the American Legion Hall, 700 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Pompton Plains (next to the now-closed Gilly's). Check our meeting & events calendar for upcoming dates. We'd love to see you there!Want to know more... volunteer to help... or just suggest a course of action? Email us. We also invite you to visit, and 'like', our Facebook page, where you'll find more information and lots of photos.
The Martin Berry House is located in a wooded glen just north of the GoodWill/Stefano's parking lot, on Route 23 South. It's difficult to see from the highway, although there is a historic marker to note its presence. Please note that the House is currently a private residence, and at this time is not open to visitors. Please respect the owners' privacy.
