The preservation funding comes from a $2.6 million grant to "restore, preserve, and protect" 24 historic sites across Morris County.
MENDHAM, NJ — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners approved $2.6 million in grants from the county’s Preservation Trust Fund to help “restore, preserve, and protect” two dozen historic sites across Morris County, including five in Mendham Township and Borough.
The 24 historic sites to be restored span across 15 Morris County towns, with five of them in Mendham.
“We are proud to move these recommendations forward and continue our commitment to preserving Morris County’s rich historical legacy, which is so deeply tied to the shaping of America,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, liaison to the Historic Preservation Trust Fund Review Board. “These projects strengthen our local economy, promote heritage tourism, and connect residents and visitors with the stories that shaped both our county and our country.”
Other municipalities receiving funding for historical site restorations include Morristown, Parsippany, and Dover.
Since 2003, Morris County has issued more than $56 million in grant funds towards preservation efforts.
See which Mendham historical sites received grant funding below:
Phoenix HouseThe Phoenix House, located on Main Street in Mendham Borough, was built in the early 1800s. It served as an academy for young ladies before it was purchased by William Pheonix, who turned the building into an inn.
The Phoenix House is currently used as a Municipal building for the Borough of Mendham. The $250,000 construction grant will provide “exterior restoration and repairs and site drainage upgrades,” according to the county.
Scott Farm BarnThe Scott Farm Barn, located on Mountainside Road in Mendham Borough, was built around 1825. Mendham Borough purchased the 10.5-acre property in 2015.
A $305,172 construction grant will provide barn rehabilitation, including “roofing, structural upgrades, and interior and exterior lighting,” officials said.
Community Club of BrooksideThe community club was built in the 1860s and originally served as a schoolhouse. In 1923, the building was moved to Main Street in Mendham Township, and it has been used as a public meeting and event space since.
A $43,440 construction grant will fund the restoration of the building’s bell tower.
Ralston Cider Mill
The Ralston Cider Mill, located on Mendham Road W, was built in 1848. It served as a grist mill until it was converted to a cider mill and distillery in 1910.
Now, the fully-operational cider mill serves as a museum for residents and visitors alike. According to the county, the mill and equipment have been substantially restored, making it the only authentic historic cider mill in New Jersey.
A $26,624 construction grant will fund the mill’s roof repair and restoration.
Mendham United Methodist ChurchMendham United Methodist Church, located on Main Street in Mendham Borough, was built in 1893. A $26,400 non-construction grant will prepare a “preservation plan to guide the preservation, repair, and maintenance of the building,” according to the county.