Historic Site | Historic House

Wallace 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.

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Somerville, NJ

The Wallace House is an eight-room Georgian-style residence constructed in 1776 by John Wallace, a prosperous Philadelphia fabric merchant. Originally called “Hope Farm,” the home was selected by General George Washington as his headquarters during the second Middlebrook encampment, from December 1778 to June 1779. Washington briefly departed for the Continental Congress in Philadelphia but returned in February 1779 with his wife, Martha. It was during this period that Washington planned the Sullivan Campaign, a critical military effort against the Iroquois Confederacy, aimed at dismantling their alliance with the British. The house served as a hub of activity, hosting notable guests such as General Henry Knox, Baron von Steuben, Alexander Hamilton, Benedict Arnold, and Lord and Lady Stirling.

Stories from Wallace House

Biography

A self-educated bookseller and artillery expert, Knox led artillery efforts that forced the British to evacuate Boston and later serving as a trusted officer under General Washington and the first U.S. Secretary of War.

Biography

George Washington’s leadership guided the American colonies through revolution and into nationhood. As a general and the first president, he played a crucial role in shaping the United States’ early foundations.

Trail Site

The Royal Governor's Mansion of New Jersey is the only remaining proprietary governor's mansion of the original Thirteen Colonies still standing today. Built in the 1760s, it served as the residence gubernatorial residence of William Franklin, Benjamin Franklin's Loyalist son.