October 17 , 2007 - Bedminster/Pluckemin -

Record numbers of visitors tour the JVH House Somerset County's Journey Through the Past weekend Oct. 13 and 14 (2007) brought more than 250 visitors to the historic Jacobus Vanderveer House in Bedminster Township.. Many were first-time guests who had either read about the house or who were following a tour of 23 historic sites and treasures within Somerset County that were open to the public during the special weekend.

The event was sponsored by the Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission, which issued printed guides and maps to tour properties. The Friends of the Jacobus Vanderveer House engaged colonial craftsmen and women to appear at the house throughout the weekend, among them basket weavers, caners, beekeepers, and dressmakers. Lady Ellen Ruck of Colony Farm Antiques in Chester lectured on 18th century fashions from bum rolls to ball gowns.

Archaeologist Ian Burrow of Hunter Research in Trenton and historic preservation consultant Dennis Bertland of Port Murray lectured on the house's new Historic Landscape Report. This is a detailed study and archaeological analysis of the site, including maps, sketches of a 19th century barn found on site, and outlines of long destroyed buildings such as hay barracks, privies, fences, gardens, and walls.

There were bushels of apples for refreshments, and Revolutionary War music was provided by mandolinist and guitarist Travis Wertzel. "We were thrilled with the turnout," said event chair Jeanne Galbraith, a member of the board of Friends of the Jacobus Vanderveer House. "We couldn't believe how many visitors came -- enthusiastic visitors!"

JVH House is looking forward to 2008, when Journey Through the Past will be held Oct. 18-19.

(Above) Susan Miniman, an interior designer and member of the Friends of JVH board presented women’s clothing, “From Bum Roll to Ball gown.” There was an exhibit/sale of colonial clothing, from her Colony Farm Antiques (Chester) collection.

(Below) The recently painted Jacobus Vanderveer House and the new expansion were dressed and ready for the big Journey through the Past weekend.

Seat weaving by Fawn Macnab Seat Weaving of Stewartsville, New Jersey
(908) 859-6254

Beatrice Tassot from Tassot Apiaries of Califon displays some of her candle making and beekeeping at the JVH. They currently maintain over 200 bee boxes. (see above).