A historic treasure in Hamilton Township has gained national attention. The Isaac and Abigail Pearson Mansion was officially documented by the Historic American Buildings Survey and added to the Library of Congress archives.
Built in 1773, the Pearson Mansion stands on its original site on Hobson Avenue. It was preserved from demolition through efforts by Hamilton Township and the Historical Society of Hamilton Township. The house is listed on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
“This national recognition in the Historic American Building Survey is a momentous occasion,” said Michael Skelly, director of the Isaac Pearson Mansion for the Historical Society of Hamilton Township.
He added: “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.”
Isaac Pearson, for whom the mansion was named, was an influential colonial figure, serving as a Township Committee member, tax collector, justice of the peace, and judge of the county court.
His 1,350-acre property—including a critical drawbridge over Crosswicks Creek—played a key role during the Ten Crucial Days of the American Revolution, when American, British, and Hessian troops moved between Bordentown, Trenton, and Princeton.
During that pivotal week between December 25, 1776, and January 3, 1777, Pearson was murdered under circumstances that remain a part of the region’s lore.
The Historic American Buildings Survey, established in 1933, is the nation’s first federal preservation program.
The program produces measured architectural drawings, large-format photography, detailed descriptions, and historical research that are archived in the Library of Congress. Buildings must meet strict criteria, including association with historic people or events and possessing architectural significance.
The Pearson Mansion met all criteria for inclusion in the HABS program, marking the culmination of years of dedicated preservation efforts.
“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.
The project was funded by donations and grants secured by the Historical Society of Hamilton Township, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Support came from Hamilton Township, Mercer County, the New Jersey Historic Trust, and numerous donors and volunteers.
Professional documentation work was completed by Janet Sheridan of Down Jersey Heritage Research and Westfield Architects & Preservation Consultants.
Ongoing restoration efforts aim to fully renovate the mansion and eventually open it to the public as a house museum, tourist information center, colonial crafts maker space, and performing arts venue.
In the meantime, the Historical Society continues to welcome thousands of students each year for educational history tours on the property.
The Historical Society is seeking additional volunteers and donations to continue the project. For more information, visit isaacpearson.org or New Jersey Historic Trust.
