The Van Veghten House, located in Bridgewater Township, New Jersey, is a two-and-a-half-story brick structure built around 1725 by Michael Van Veghten. Situated along the north bank of the Raritan River, the house is one of the few remaining Raritan River mansions from the early 18th century. During the American Revolutionary War, it served as the headquarters for Quartermaster General Nathanael Greene during the second Middlebrook encampment in 1778–1779. Greene and his wife, Catharine, were hosted by Derrick Van Veghten, Michael's son, who offered the house and surrounding land to the Continental Army without compensation. The property also accommodated troops under General Anthony Wayne. A notable social event occurred on March 17, 1779, when General George Washington attended a gathering at the house, dancing with Mrs. Greene for over three hours.
The Van Veghten House is recognized as both a New Jersey State and National Historic Site and is one of the "Five Generals Houses" associated with the Middlebrook encampment. In 1971, the house and its surrounding acre were deeded to the Somerset County Historical Society, which now uses it as its headquarters, museum, and research library. The house is also part of the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, commemorating the allied march to Yorktown in 1781.
Stories from Van Veghten House
The home of a prominent Philadelphia merchant, this was the largest home built in New Jersey during the Revolution. During the Continental Army's encampment at Middleburg, it served as George Washington's Headquarters.
Morristown National Historical Park marks the site of the Continental Army’s 1779-80 encampment under George Washington. It symbolizes America’s fight for independence and Washington’s leadership in uniting the army, remaining a lasting symbol of resilience and patriotism.