Arneytown Historic District Burlington County, New Jersey
National Register of Historic Places Nomination Summary
Location and Setting
Arneytown is a small rural hamlet located four miles east of Chesterfield and two miles north of Jacobstown, New Jersey. The historic district consists of about six houses along Provinceline Road, surrounded by open farmland and notable for its preservation of 18th and 19th-century architecture.
Historical Background
The area was originally known as Upper Freehold by early Quaker settlers.
The name "Arneytown" has been in use since at least 1827, though its origin is disputed (possibly from John Arney or Arney Lippencott).
The village developed around Provinceline Road, which marked the boundary between East and West Jersey.
Historically, it served as a stopping point for travelers and as a site for official activities such as sheriff sales.
Architectural Significance
The district is distinguished by its 18th and early 19th-century houses, reflecting conservative vernacular styles and craftsmanship. Notable buildings include:
Duncan MacKenzie Place (Thomas Woodward House):
Originally built after a 1718 land transfer, with a brick section dated 1733 and a larger frame addition from around 1780. Features include original woodwork, fireplaces, and a central hall plan.
Myrtlebank (Wildes House):
Likely built before 1731, expanded in the early 19th century. Includes Georgian and Greek Revival elements, elaborate fireplaces, and woodwork.
Lawrie House:
Dating from the second quarter of the 18th century, once used as a tavern. Notable for paneled fireplace walls, Georgian cupboards, and original interior detailing.
Other Houses:
Several other late 18th-century houses, some in restoration or deterioration, most retaining significant original features.
Community and Preservation
Arneytown's isolation has preserved its historic character, with no modern buildings present.
The district exemplifies a rural village developed around a transportation route, with its layout and architecture largely unchanged.
Significance
The district is significant for its community development history and architectural integrity.
It offers insight into rural New Jersey life from the colonial period through the 19th century.
The interiors are notable for their craftsmanship and period details, while exteriors remain modest and typical for the area.
Official Status
The nomination was certified by state officials and included in the National Register of Historic Places in the late 1970s.
Key Buildings Overview
Building
Date
Notable Features
Duncan MacKenzie Place (Thomas Woodward House)
1733 (brick); ~1780 (frame addition)
Original woodwork, six fireplaces, central hall plan, paneled interiors
Former tavern, paneled fireplace walls, Georgian cupboards, original details
Other Houses
Late 18th century
Georgian mantels, corner cupboards, original interiors, some restoration
Summary Statement
Arneytown Historic District is a well-preserved rural hamlet in New Jersey, significant for its collection of 18th and 19th-century houses and its reflection of early community development patterns and architectural styles in the region. The district remains largely unaltered, serving as a historical example of a small, road-centered rural village.
