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We’re back! Don't
Miss Out!
Join us on Saturday, October 19th
and step into the elegance of a bygone era with guided tours of
Rutherfurd Hall, one of New Jersey’s architectural treasures. Nestled
on the scenic shores of Allamuchy Pond and Allamuchy Mountain State
Park, this historic mansion was once the grand estate of the Rutherfurd
family, offering a unique glimpse into the Gilded Age.
As you explore, you'll uncover stories of the mansion’s
past—from its rich ties to local and national history to its
architectural significance. This is more than just a building—it’s a
journey through time.
Tour Date and Times:
· Saturday, October 19, 2024
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Tours start at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m
Space is limited, so be sure to reserve
your spot by contacting Joan Salvas at jsalvas@aes.k12.nj.us.
Suggested Donation: $10 – All proceeds
support the preservation and educational programs of Rutherfurd Hall.
What to Expect
During Your Tour:
The Rutherfurd Crest and Entry Hall
As you approach
Rutherfurd Hall, look up. Carved in limestone you will see the
Rutherfurd family crest, which proudly displays the Latin motto, “Nec
sorte nec facto”—“Not by chance nor fate.” This emblem serves as a
reminder of the family’s deep roots in American history, stretching
back to the mid-18th century when Walter Rutherfurd first arrived from
Scotland. The entryway itself is a stunning example of Tudor architecture,
with rich wood paneling, detailed carvings, and original window
hardware.
The Parlor
The tour will take
you through the elegant Parlor, where many high-profile gatherings took
place. Here, Lucy Mercer Rutherfurd once entertained guests, including
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who visited the estate during the
1940s. The room is adorned with ceiling strapwork and original
chevroned floors.
The Dining Room
Imagine grand
dinners hosted in the expansive Dining Room, where the Rutherfurd
family entertained European royalty, a U.S. President, and business
magnates of the era. Look for the ornate fireplace as well as
original family portraits and blueprints of the home.
Historical Exhibits and Rare Artifacts
The first-floor tour
includes exhibits featuring rare artifacts from the estate’s heyday,
including photographs by Lewis Morris Rutherfurd, a renowned astronomer
who was the first to photograph the moon through a telescope. Don’t
miss the collection of postcards from 1906, offering a glimpse into
life on the estate during its prime.
A Day of History and Nature
In addition to exploring the mansion, visitors are
encouraged to enjoy the expansive grounds surrounding the estate.
Stroll along the scenic paths that weave through Allamuchy Mountain
State Park and marvel at the same picturesque landscapes designed by the
Olmsted Brothers, who also designed Central Park in New York City.
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Rutherfurd Hall | 1686 Route
517 | Allamuchy, NJ 07820 US
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