Historic Pearson Mansion Earns National Recognition,

Securing Place in American History

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, MERCER COUNTY, NJ  

On April 18, 2025 The Isaac and Abigail Pearson Mansion, a pivotal landmark in Hamilton Township, Mercer County, has been officially documented by the Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS),cementing its place in the Library of Congress and the national historical record.

Built in 1773 and located on its original site on Hobson Avenue, the Pearson Mansion was preserved from demolition by Hamilton Township. This historic gem, listed in both the State Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places, served as the home and farm of the Pearson family. Isaac Pearson was a prominent figure in the colonial era, serving in various local and provincial roles, including Township Committee member, Tax Collector, Justice of the Peace, and Judge of the County Court.

Pearson’s 1,350-acre property—and its vital drawbridge over Crosswicks Creek— witnessed the passage of thousands of American, British, and Hessian troops on their way to and from Bordentown and the Battle of Trenton during the Ten Crucial Days in American history, December 25, 1776 to January 3, during which General George Washington and his Continental Army achieved a series of victories, most notably at Trenton and Princeton, a turning point of the American Revolution.

That same week Isaac Pearson was murdered.

The Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) is a program established in 1933 to document America's architectural heritage. The comprehensive HABS project encompasses measured drawings, large-format photographs, detailed descriptions, and historical reports all of which are permanently recorded and shared through the Library of Congress. HABS created the nation's first federal preservation program, and its comprehensive documentation serves as a valuable resource for understanding, preserving, and restoring historic buildings. 

The Isaac and Abigail Pearson Mansion is a rare example of a place that meets all of HABS criteria for inclusion: it is associated with a historically significant person; and historic events; and has special architectural character. The HABS project marks the culmination of years of dedicated effort.

“This national recognition in the Historic American Building Survey is a momentous occasion. This achievement is a testament to the shared commitment and diligent work of everyone involved, and we extend our sincere gratitude to all who contributed. The successful documentation of this historic structure ensures its preservation for generations to come,” announced Michael Skelly, Director of the Isaac Pearson Mansion for the Historical Society of Hamilton Township.

“Seeing the Isaac and Abigail Pearson Mansion documented by HABS and officially recognized as part of American history has been a long-held dream,” Skelly said 

Funding for the project was made possible through donations and grants secured by the Historical Society of Hamilton Township, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Significant financial support was provided by Hamilton Township, Mercer County, the New Jersey Historic Trust, and generous donors and volunteers.

Professional work was completed by Janet Sheridan of Down Jersey Heritage Research of Salem, NJ, and Westfield Architects & Preservation Consultants of Hadden Heights, NJ.

Ongoing multi-year efforts by the Historical Society and Hamilton Township aim to fully restore the mansion and open it to the public as a house museum, tourist information center, colonial arts and crafts maker space, and performing arts venue. While the restoration and construction work are going on, the Historical Society has hosted thousands of students on annual history tours on the grounds.

The Historical Society is actively seeking volunteers and donations to support this significant project. For more information, please visit:

https://isaacpearson.org and https://nj.gov/dca/njht/funded/sitedetails/IsaacPearsonHouse.shtml