Dr. William Robinson Plantation & Museum
593 Madison Hill Road
Clark, NJ
The Dr. William Robinson Plantation Museum circa 1690, one of oldest houses in New Jersey, is listed on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places as a rare showing of late 17th century frame construction.
The house was built on the 700 acre farm of Dr. William Robinson, one of the early physicians in the area, who emigrated from Scotland with his family. Today the museum and restored farm house sit on a land size of 100' x 400'.
This house is one of the few examples of 17th century architecture remaining in the United States. One outside feature is the 17" overhang at the east end of the roof which is different from the west end. This is called a Garrison Overhang and is one of the features of houses of this period. It protected a person in the window from missiles.
The construction of the restored farm house features chamfered and carved summer beams, rubble stone foundation, and massive fireplace foundation in the cellar. The exterior, characteristic of that era, has a steeply pitched roof, crenellated chimney, diamond-paneled casement windows, and broad overhanging corner pendants.
The house occupied until 1973 has since been taken over by the Township of
Clark, NJ.
The property is maintained and preserved by The
Clark Historical Society, a non profit society.
During the regular open months in March through June; and September through December, there are special events occurring.
For dates, times, and information on other events, please contact the Plantation Museum.
Phone: (732) 340-1571