Hamilton Township announced it has been awarded two Preserve New Jersey Historic Preservation Fund grants totaling $79,783 to support continued preservation work at the Isaac Pearson House, one of the region’s most treasured colonial-era landmarks.
The grant funding was approved by the New Jersey Historic Trust, an affiliate of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, and will help ensure the long-term protection and enhancement of this historically significant site—one of Mercer County’s oldest surviving homes.
The first grant will fund professional services necessary for the next phase of restoration and accessibility improvements. This work includes the development of a comprehensive architectural restoration plan, the design of an ADA-compliant access path and parking area, an archaeological survey, civil engineering services, a topographic survey, and grading design. This type of planning will lay the foundation for future restoration efforts while ensuring compliance with both historic preservation standards and modern accessibility requirements.
The second grant award will support essential capital improvements to the house itself. This phase includes replacing temporary and non-secure exterior doors with historically accurate, traditionally constructed doors using mortise joinery; preserving and restoring original transom lights above the entrances to maintain architectural integrity; and making upgrades to both security and accessibility, including preparations to the south entrance for future ADA access.
“The Isaac Pearson House is a vital link to Hamilton’s rich colonial history,” said Mayor Jeff Martin. “As we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this funding ensures we can continue supporting the Hamilton Historical Society in preserving this important site for future generations. With these grants, we’re not just safeguarding a structure—we’re making it more accessible and welcoming to the public.”
Built in 1773, the Isaac Pearson House stands as a rare and well-preserved example of eighteenth-century architecture. The home reflects the wealth and influence of its original owner, Isaac Pearson, a respected merchant, landowner, and public servant. Pearson held several civic roles, including Justice of the Peace and member of the Provincial Congress during the years leading up to the American Revolution. His life came to a tragic and mysterious end in 1776, believed by some historians to be tied to his political involvement during a time of deep division and unrest. His story remains part of the area’s Revolutionary War-era lore, adding to the significance of the property’s legacy.
The home remained in the Pearson family for nearly 100 years, changing ownership several times after 1857, until Hamilton Township acquired the property in 2000. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Isaac Pearson House offers the public a rare opportunity to engage with New Jersey’s Revolutionary past in a direct and meaningful way.
“The New Jersey Historic Trust, through the Preserve New Jersey Fund, is excited to support so many impactful projects,” said Glenn Ceponis, Executive Director of the New Jersey Historic Trust. “These grant awards are helping preserve New Jersey’s historical legacy. Each funded project will benefit not only the individual historic site but also its surrounding community.”
The Preserve New Jersey Historic Preservation Fund, administered by the New Jersey Historic Trust, provides critical funding for planning, research, and restoration work on historically significant properties across the state. To learn more about the Isaac Pearson House and restoration project, visit https://www.nj.gov/dca/njht/funded/sitedetails/IsaacPearsonHouse.shtml.
